Found in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a charming town known for its scenic Main Street and wealth of adventure. It’s also one of the top German cities in Texas. For anyone planning a getaway with Inn on Barons Creek, there are countless ways to experience the culture and history that helped shape Fredericksburg into what it is today.
What to Know about Fredericksburg’s German History
On May 8, 1846, a group of German immigrants founded Fredericksburg under the Society for the Protection of German Immigrants. This was the second of the Society’s colonies, and it was originally called Friedrichsburg in honor of Prince Frederick of Prussia. The town grew to 754 residents by 1850, and within two years of its establishment, the first road from Austin to Fredericksburg was laid out.
What to Do During Your Visit
This Texas Hill Country town became one of the most popular layover cities for people traveling further west. Today, it’s still home to a thriving tourism industry that pays tribute to its German roots. To help you make the most of your vacation, we’ve compiled a list of several popular places to visit or dine.
Fascinating Museums
One of the best ways to learn about those who settled in Fredericksburg is at a local museum. There are four different options to visit, each filled with memorabilia and artifacts that tell the story of the past.
- The Pioneer Museum is a 3.5-acre complex featuring examples of early German structures and artifacts.
- Go for a walk at Fort Martin Scott Historic Site, a pre-Civil War outpost, and learn about one of the first frontier Army forts in the state.
- Found in the center of Marktplatz is the Vereins Kirche Museum. The well-known landmark houses a collection of photos, artifacts, and paintings depicting the building’s history.
- If spending time at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site, be sure to visit the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. The living history farmstead gives you a look at what life was like in the late 1800s.
German Restaurants in Fredericksburg
No stay at our Fredericksburg spa resort is complete dining out at one of the delicious German restaurants in town. We are one of the best Texas Hill Country cities for tasty German cuisine. Sip on a German-style beer at Altstadt Brewery or the Fredericksburg Brewing Company. Enjoy traditional fare at Old German Bakery & Restaurant or The Auslander.
Oktoberfest
One of the most popular times to visit Fredericksburg is during Oktoberfest. The three-day festival celebrates all things German, including live polka music, beer, delicious food, crafts, games, and more.