Attractions & Resources

‘GoFred’ with native and imported wildlife

The week of Thanksgiving brings the annual return of ice skating to Fredericksburg. The yearly Eisbahn, run by Heritage School volunteers, is set for Marktplatz and will open on Saturday, Nov. 18.

Gillespie County breweries keep the air of gemütlichkeit — an environment with a sense of warmth and friendliness.

Nationally celebrated artists such as Sol LeWitt and Nancy Bush are shown in Fredericksburg, as well as widely collected Hill Country artists, such as Charles Beckendorf and G. Harvey. Fredericksburg is filled with Western and Native American art.

While diving into the history of Gillespie County and Fredericksburg, one stop history buffs must make is one of the many Gillespie County country schools.

Not only is the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site at Stonewall a must-see destination, it is also an adventure. It’s a place where historians, naturalists, recreationalists, wildlife viewers, political enthusiasts, wildflower lovers, walkers, anglers and more can find something of interest.

The Vereins Kirche is a unique landmark in the center of downtown Fredericksburg. The octagonal building is owned and managed by the Gillespie County Historical Society.

Amateur historians can immerse themselves in the past lives of Fredericksburg by exploring the structures, photographs and artifacts at Pioneer Museum, owned and operated by the Gillespie County Historical Society.

Hill Country travelers frequent the attractions Luckenbach has to offer, much like Willie, Waylon and the boys did in 1977.

World-class art might be Fredericksburg’s most understated treasure. While many of Fredericksburg’s visitors are aware of options for shopping, wine and German culture, many are unaware that some of the nation’s most celebrated artists are shown in Fredericksburg galleries.

Wineries have become a cornerstone in the consumer and visitor industry in the Hill Country over the past two decades.

Visitors to Old Tunnel State Park, located 11 miles south of Fredericksburg on the Old San Antonio Road, can get one of nature’s best shows around between May and October.

Just three miles from downtown attractions, the 150-acre Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park is the crown jewel of the City of Fredericksburg’s parks system and provides a recreational getaway for locals and visitors, alike. There is no admission charge for entering the park located southwest of town on Texas 16 South.

While the majestic, pink granite dome brings visitors to the Enchanted Rock State National Area, it’s the site’s expansive views and native wildlife that keep visitors coming back for more.

Keeping in line with Fredericksburg’s dedication to historic preservation, the Texas Rangers Heritage Center brings the story of the state’s famous lawmen to life.

Fredericksburg is one of the most historic cities in Texas, with its rich German traditions still prominent today. With that history comes some souls still sticking around, and Haunted Fredericksburg Ghost Walk is there to introduce you to those souls.

Wildseed Farms in Fredericksburg has over 35 years of wildflower seed production experience. Founded in 1983, Wildseed Farms was created with the intention to make beautiful wildflowers more accessible at a cheaper rate for businesses and the residents of Fredericksburg.

Keeping German traditions and heritage alive are two local choirs — the Arion Men’s Choir and the Hermann Sons Mixed Choir. The choirs meet weekly for fellowship and singing. Membership is voluntary and adults who enjoy singing are invited to join in and participate any time.

Colorful wildflowers, juicy peaches, delectable wines and a whole lot of Gemütlichkeit (warmth and friendliness). These are a part of what makes Gillespie County and Fredericksburg such an appealing place for more than 1.5 million visitors each year. People come to experience all of the above, plus the National Museum of the Pacific War (a Smithsonian affiliate and first-class museum), art galleries, Main Street shops, burgeoning restaurant scene and Luckenbach’s legendary, laid-back environment.

Achance to help students while enjoying an evening of fun, fellowship and prizes will be offered at the 27th annual Scholarship Fest on Saturday, Sept. 23, at the Gillespie County Fair Grounds.

Cross Mountain, located just north of Fredericksburg, has been topped with crosses since before Fredericksburg’s founding in 1846.