Howdy, y’all, and welcome to Fredericksburg!
With strong German influences (it was founded by the Germans after all), this town may be smallish but it’s certainly packed with adventures!
Oodles of history await, with delicious eats on just about every corner. Since Fredericksburg lies at the very heart of the Texas Hill Country, you’ll find plenty of vineyards and wineries where you can sample some of the best local wines.
The town’s picturesque terrain also lends itself well to outdoor pursuits, with numerous hiking trails and even cave systems to explore.
When it comes to travelling, your choice of accommodation can easily make or break your trip- and that’s exactly why I put together a guide to help you find something that matches both your budget and expectations.
So, allow me to guide you precisely on where to stay in Fredericksburg!
Top 3 Recommendations for Where to Stay in Fredericksburg
If you’re backpacking around the USA, it won’t take you long to realize that there are heaps of fun things to do in and around Fredericksburg. But before you plan your trip, check out my recommendations for where to stay!
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Super 8 by Wyndham Fredericksburg | Best Motel in Fredericksburg
Located right on Highway 290, this motel offers a grab-and-go breakfast each morning.
Families can always opt for the motel’s Queen Room, fitted with a microwave and a fridge.
There are two large double beds to accommodate up to four guests. Other onsite amenities include a launderette and BBQ facilities.
Best of all, you’ll be able to take in plenty of that Texan nightlife at nearby venues like The Club at Barons CreekSide.
Fredericksburg Inn and Suites | Best Hotel in Fredericksburg
I loved waking up to a complimentary breakfast every day at the Fredericksburg Inn and Suites!
One of the best places to stay in Fredericksburg, this hotel is just a quick stroll from the downtown area.
Heaps of activities await nearby, including Market Square. Also, you’ll be close to Chase’s Place Cocktails and the House Wine restaurant.
Back at the hotel, you can always relax on the stone gazebo with a fireplace or take a dip in the outdoor hot tub before retiring to your room for the night.
Charming 3-Bedroom House | Best Airbnb in Fredericksburg
Commanding an excellent location close to the Downtown Area, this 3-bedroom house features three bedrooms for up to six guests.
This space features all the comforts of home, including a modern, well-equipped kitchen. But with some of Fredericksburg’s best eateries practically on your doorstep, why even bother cooking, right?
When you feel like exploring, you can always check out the nearby Enchanted Rock and Marketplatz.
Fredericksburg Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Fredericksburg
Wine Road 290
Just landed and not sure where to stay? Well, I would say that the Wine Road 290 area is always a safe bet! Not only will you enjoy some respite from the downtown area’s notorious crowds,
Downtown District
If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Fredericksburg for the nightlife, there’s no better destination than the downtown area!
Cedar Hills
If you’re looking for affordable places to stay in the city, be sure to check out the Cedar Hills neighbourhood. And if you’re wondering how this neighbourhood got its name, that’s because it offers incredible views of the surrounding hills.
Main Street
It won’t take you long to realize that there are plenty of cool neighbourhoods in Fredericksburg- and the Main Street area is just one of them!
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Travellers looking for places to stay in Fredericksburg may wish to check out the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, located on the outskirts of the city.
One of the (many) great things about Fredericksburg is that it’s on the smaller side. You’ll get to jump from one neighborhood to the next easily. Everything’s pretty close together, but some areas tend to offer more activities.
Additionally, its proximity to other Texan destinations makes it the best starting point for some cool Texan road trips across the State.
For example, if you’re interested in the local nightlife, there’s no better place to stay than in the historic Downtown Area. It’s a colourful neighborhood that’s especially famous for its Marktplatz Town Square.
Wine Road 290, on the other hand, is surrounded by rolling hills and verdant vineyards. Perfect for first-time visitors, this area lies on the popular Highway 290, perfect for day trips.
On the flip side, if it’s something laidback and inexpensive that you’re after, you can always consider staying in Cedar Hills. It’s a quiet residential neighborhood that offers the ideal setting for disconnecting from the daily grind.
For something seriously cool, you can always consider dropping anchor in Main Street. While this area technically lies in Downtown Fredericksburg, it’s got its own vibe and has plenty of venues to keep you entertained!
Heaps of family-friendly fun await at the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. It’s a state park that’s especially known for its ‘enchanted’ rock formation. Camping opportunities abound! But if you don’t want to rough it up, you can always check out one of the numerous accommodation options in the vicinity.
5 Best Areas to Stay in Fredericksburg
So, are you ready to rumble yet? Then, let’s check out the five best neighborhoods in this lively Texan city!
1. Downtown District – Where to Stay in Fredericksburg for Nightlife
If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Fredericksburg for the nightlife, there’s no better destination than the downtown area!
This neighborhood is the fun hub. It encompasses Main Street, Carnegie Hill, Sunset Village, and the Market Square, a historic area filled with colourful buildings.
While the Downtown Area isn’t exactly known for its budget-friendly hotels, it’s the ideal spot for sampling the best that Fredericksburg has to offer. History and culture beckon at the museums and galleries, and scrumptious Tex-Mex eats await at just about every corner!
The highlight of the downtown area is no doubt Marktplatz, which is something of a social hub for locals and tourists alike.
Over there, you’ll find a gazebo surrounded by plenty of greenery. This spot hosts an assortment of various events, including a weekly farmer’s market and the annual Oktoberfest. The Markplatz additionally houses a statue signifying Fredericksburg’s peace treaty with the Native Americans.
Sunset Inn and Suites | Best Motel in the Downtown District
Located just two miles from the Wine Trail Tours of Texas, Sunset Inn and Suite offers numerous room configurations to accommodate one to three guests.
All rooms feature a refrigerator and microwave-perfect for those late-night snacks! The property also features vending machines and a self-service laundry centre.
There’s plenty to do nearby, including Old Fair Park, Fort Martin Scott, and Oak Crest Park. You’ll also be close to restaurants like La Tequila Jalisco.
Fredericksburg Inn and Suites | Best Hotel in the Downtown District
Wake up to a complimentary breakfast every day at the Fredericksburg Inn and Suites!
One of the best places to stay in Fredericksburg, this hotel is just a quick stroll from the downtown area.
Heaps of activities await nearby, including the Market Square. You’ll also be close to Chase’s Place Cocktails and the House Wine restaurant.
Back at the hotel, you can always relax in the stone gazebo with a fireplace. Oh, don’t forget to take a dip in the outdoor hot tub before retiring to your room for the night.
Charming 3-Bedroom House | Best Airbnb in the Downtown District
Commanding an excellent location close to the Downtown Area, this 3-bedroom house features 3 bedrooms for up to 6 guests.
This space features all the comforts of home, including a modern, well-equipped kitchen. But with some of Fredericksburg’s best eateries practically on your doorstep, why even bother cooking, right?
When you feel like exploring, you can always check out the nearby Enchanted Rock and Marketplatz.
Things to do in the Downtown District
Photo: QuesterMark (Flickr)
- Take a trolley ride through the historic Downtown area.
- Stroll the Market Square, a lively area that often plays host to outdoor concerts, festivals, and ice skating sessions.
- Enjoy a live performance at the Hard Times Café.
- Mosey around the Fredericksburg Art Gallery.
- Sing your heart out at the Velvet Lounge.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Wine Road 290 – Where to Stay in Fredericksburg for First-Timers
Photo: Larry D. Moore (WikiCommns)
Just landed and not sure where to stay? Well, I would say that the Wine Road 290 area is always a safe bet! I assure you that you’ll have the best break from the downtown area’s notorious crowds. You’ll also be aptly located to hit the wine trail, mosey around peach farms, and fuel up with hearty Tex-Mex dishes.
Wine Road 290 is an area of unparalleled beauty. It lies just a quick drive from some of the most coveted spots in Fredericksburg, including Main Street, Old Tunnel State Park, and Enchanted Rock. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even drive over to Austin, located just 1.30 hours away!
Wine Road 290 basically refers to the exceptionally scenic Highway 290, known for its many tasting rooms and farms.
It’s no secret that Fredericksburg has quite a prominent wine scene going on. After all, the city’s fertile soil and gorgeous climate are perfect for growing grapes, so wine aficionados will have plenty of wineries to explore.
Super 8 by Wyndham Fredericksburg | Best Motel in Wine Road 290
Located right on Highway 290, this motel offers a grab-and-go breakfast each morning.
Families can always opt for the motel’s Queen Room, fitted with a microwave, fridge, and two large double beds to accommodate up to four guests. Other onsite amenities include a launderette and BBQ facilities.
Best of all, you’ll be able to take in plenty of that Texan nightlife at nearby venues like THE CLUB at Barons CreekSide.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Fredericksburg | Best Hotel in Wine Road 290
One of the best places to stay in Fredericksburg, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, offers casual rooms to accommodate up to four guests.
All rooms feature a refrigerator, a microwave, and a dining area, so you can enjoy in-room meals on those evenings when you don’t feel like going out!
Various other amenities await at the hotel, including a fitness centre and an indoor pool. With a stay at the hotel, you’ll be just a 5-minute drive from both the Fredericksburg Winery and the Lincoln Street Wine & Cigar Bar.
The Bell House | Best Airbnb in Wine Road 290
I enjoyed all the comforts of home with a stay in this lovely 1924 bungalow fitted with modern amenities!
With an open-plan kitchen where you can rustle up easy meals, this space comfortably sleeps four guests in two bedrooms. Additional bedding is available if you need to squeeze in a couple of extra friends.
The Bell House even comes with its very own in-home art gallery, featuring original pieces by local artists. Here, you’ll be just a short distance from the downtown area, as well as the many wineries and vineyards speckled across Highway 290.
Things to Do in Wine Road 290
- Discover the Texas Hill Country vineyards, complete with lunch and tastings.
- Enjoy live music and delicious Texan eats at the Crossroads Saloon & Steakhouse.
- Go peach picking at the famous Jenschke Orchards (May to September).
- Take a dip in the Perdernales River.
- Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War, one of the most popular history museums in the States.
3. Cedar Hills – Where to Stay in Fredericksburg on a Budget
If you’re travelling on a budget and looking for affordable places to stay in the city, check out the Cedar Hills neighborhood. And If you’re curious about the name, it’s due to its incredible views of the surrounding hills.
Since it’s a residential area, there aren’t a lot of touristy activities to do in Cedar Hills. But rest assured! You’ll only be a short drive from attractions like Cross Mountain and Wildseed Farms. Owing to its lush surroundings, this neighborhood also provides easy access to scenic hiking trails.
One of the main advantages of staying in Cedar Hills – other than the affordable prices – is that it offers an excellent jumping point for exploring other Texan destinations like Luckenbach and Shreveport.
Country Inn Motel | Best Motel in Cedar Hills
Offering budget-friendly rooms for two to four guests, the Country Inn Motel lies less than 8 miles from the Rancho Ponte Vineyard.
After a full day of sightseeing, you can always enjoy a soak in the motel’s hot tub or take a dip in the swimming pool. Feeling hungry? Go get a meal at the nearby David’s Old Fashioned Pit BBQ.
Hampton Inn & Suites Fredericksburg | Best Hotel in the Cedar Hills
Not only is this hotel located just a ten-minute drive from Cedar Hills, but it also has several onsite amenities. I really enjoyed the fitness room and outdoor pool with a water slide.
In addition, the hotel is close to the Bird Johnson Golf Course and the Rockbox Theatre.
At the end of the day, enjoy a good night’s rest in warmly decorated rooms fitted with coffee makers and seating areas.
Fox Burrow Guesthouse | Best Airbnb in Cedar Hills
Wondering where to stay in Fredericksburg without breaking the bank? Then, be sure to check out the Fox Burrow Guesthouse, located near Cedar Hills.
With a private deck for Al Fresco dining, this pet-friendly space features a firepit, kitchen, and a bedroom for two guests. You’ll also be just 3 miles from Main Street’s retail and dining opportunities.
There are many more Airbnbs in Texas to check out for cooler experiences!
Things to Do in Cedar Hills
- Hike to the top of nearby Cross Mountain, where you can admire panoramic views of Fredericksburg.
- Grab lunch paired with some of the best Texan wine at the popular Lost Draw Cellars.
- Explore nearby Luckenbach, a tiny but vivacious community with a strong musical heritage.
- Stroll through the Wildseed Farms, one of the largest wildflower farms in the U.S.
- Check out the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a historic building that dates back to the mid-1800s.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Main Street – Coolest Neighborhood in Fredericksburg
It won’t take you long to realize that there are plenty of cool neighborhoods in Fredericksburg, and the Main Street area is just one of them!
Now, this area is actually part of Downtown Fredericksburg, but if you’re short on time, I would totally recommend that you at least check out Main Street.
The epicentre of everything fun and exciting, Main Street is positively laden with just about every type of activity you can think of!
With endless shopping opportunities, this area places you smack in the very heart of the city. Shopping is actually one of the area’s main draws. And the good news is that the stores on Main Street are mostly independently owned. So, you’ll be able to support the local community.
If this is your first visit to Fredericksburg, I would recommend that you make a quick stop by the Convention and Visitor Bureau. You’ll find out more about the exciting events that are usually held on Main Street, like the annual Christmas Parade.
La Quinta by Wyndham Fredericksburg | Best Motel in Main Street
Boasting comfortable rooms to accommodate one to four guests, La Quinta by Wyndham Fredericksburg lies just a stone’s throw from Main Street’s art galleries and boutiques.
After getting your fill of shopping, return to the motel to relax in the outdoor pool and maybe even squeeze in a workout in the fitness centre.
Guests are treated to a complimentary breakfast with unlimited coffee and juice every morning.
A Barn At The Quarry | Best Hotel in Main Street
A Barn At The Quarry is another great accommodation option in Main Street. It’s a freshly renovated property with numerous room configurations for couples and families. All rooms provide a private kitchenette.
Tucked away in a serene setting away from city noises, the property boasts numerous on-site facilities. They offer complimentary breakfast, a sun terrace, an outdoor fireplace, and a barbecue.
Pet-Friendly Cabin for Two | Best Airbnb in Main Street
Just a half mile away from Main Street, this cozy, pet-friendly cabin easily sleeps two in a well-appointed bedroom.
The space is furnished with basic kitchen facilities, including a microwave, Keurig coffee machine, and mini fridge.
The Marketplatz and the Vereins Kirche Museum lie just a short distance from the cabin.
Just imagine waking up in a secluded woodland cabin or a treehouse in Texas! Sounds cool, huh?
Things to Do in Main Street
- Relax at the Japanese Garden of Peace, a lush oasis smack in the middle of the city!
- Shop for Texan whiskey, moonshine, and gin at Elk Store Winery & Distillery.
- Delve into the local sports culture at the Texas Rangers Heritage Center.
- Check out ancient artifacts and interactive exhibits at the Admiral Nimitz Gallery.
- Savour unique chocolates filled with fruit nectar, coffee, wine, and premium liquor at Quintessential Chocolates.
5. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area – Where to Stay in Fredericksburg for Families
Travellers looking for places to stay in Fredericksburg may wish to check out the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, located on the outskirts of the city.
Now, this area may be part of the Texan park system, but it’s also surrounded by many family-friendly venues. You have to visit the Willow City Loop, famous for its Texan Blue Bonnets. Parents and kids alike will both enjoy proximity to LBJ State Park and Fort Martin Scott.
I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is an absolute playground for outdoor fans. There are heaps of scenic trails, wildlife, and cave exploration.
If you would rather stay in the park, rest assured that camping opportunities are available, but you do need to book ahead of time. Travellers who don’t want to rough it up will be glad to learn that there are a few hotels and Airbnbs nearby.
Wine Country Inn | Best Motel in the Enchanted Rock Area
A quaint retreat located just 25 minutes from the Enchanted Rock area, this motel offers King and Queen rooms to sleep up to four.
In addition, the motel offers laundry facilities, a 24-hour front desk, and a vending machine for your snacks.
Various attractions lie nearby, including the Lady Bird Johnson Park and Golf Course, as well as the Museum of the Pacific War.
Oh, and did I mention that you’ll be treated to a continental breakfast every morning?
Barons CreekSide Resort | Best Hotel in the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Here’s another great place to stay in Fredericksburg for families who want to be near the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area!
Spend a day exploring nearby attractions like the Peach Jamboree Fairgrounds, then return to the hotel to enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.
When it’s time to turn in, retire to one of the resort’s two-bedroom chalets for four.
Das Enchanted Cottage | Best Airbnb in the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
A cozy retreat for families visiting Fredericksburg, the Das Enchanted Cottage easily sleeps six in three bedrooms.
You’ll be far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but still close enough to pop into the park whenever you want. The space features a kitchen, which is perfect for parents travelling with fussy kids.
The property is surrounded by 135 acres of lush land, so you can easily plan a hike or hop on an ATV to the nearby Titanic Point.
Things to Do in the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
- Explore an ancient railroad tunnel with the kids at the Old Tunnel State Park.
- Be awed by Enchanted Rock Park, an area of unparalleled beauty that’s famous for its unique granite formation.
- Visit LBJ State Park, home to the former president’s birthplace.
- Enjoy a family picnic at the Fredericksburg Nature Center.
- Step back in time at Fort Martin Scott.
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Hide Yo’ Money!What To Pack For Fredericksburg
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Fredericksburg
Before you set off, getting travel insurance for the USA is essential. You hope you don’t need it, but it’s not worth the risk.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Fredericksburg
There’s no denying that, despite its compact size, Fredericksburg does have something for everyone! If you’re still having trouble deciding where to stay, though, I recommend the Downtown Area.
As far as accommodations are concerned, Fredericksburg Inn and Suites totally has my vote since it offers plenty of great amenities near some of the best spots in town.
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