Ultimate Weekend Travel Guide to Fredericksburg, TX

Just about 1.5 hours from Austin, and 4 hours from Dallas, tucked away in the rolling Texas Hill Country, lies the charming town of Fredericksburg.

At first, it may feel like you’re driving through the middle of “nowhere.” The long stretches of golden pastures, wildflower fields, and limestone hills stretch endlessly on the horizon—reminding you why this area is called Hill Country. But don’t be fooled—this small town has a big story. Founded in 1846 by German immigrants, the town still reflects its German heritage in its architecture, food, and culture—giving you a taste of Europe right in the heart of Texas.

Of course, Fredericksburg is not only known for its history—it’s also the wine capital of Texas. With more than 100 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms (plus a handful of craft breweries and distilleries), it’s a destination for anyone looking to sip, savor, and unwind. Add in the breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and genuine hospitality, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a weekend escape.

If you’re looking for a place that offers rich history, stunning views, delicious bites, and unforgettable sips, Fredericksburg is your next getaway. To help you plan, here’s my detailed 3-day weekend travel guide through Texas Hill Country.

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Where to Stay: Odonata Escape

Before we jump into the fun, let’s talk about where to stay. In Fredericksburg, you’ll find charming bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, and plenty of unique Airbnbs—but one of my favorite spots is Odonata Escape, an unforgettable shipping-container vacation retreat just minutes from Main Street.

Odonata Escape sits on a quiet road surrounded by nature at 186 Grasshopper Lane (fittingly named for the dragonflies and grasshoppers that flutter through the fields). It features eight uniquely themed suites, each with its own personality—like “The Lone Star,” a western-inspired suite, or “Shangri-La,” with its Far East decor.

We stayed in The Groovy Room, a mid-century modern dream filled with bold colors, playful patterns, and cozy touches. Each suite comes with a private porch perfect for sipping morning coffee, a king-size bed, a coffee nook, and a modern bathroom. And yes—Odonata Escape is dog-friendly! Your pup will love the open hayfield behind the property, perfect for playtime or late-night stargazing.

In the evenings, gather around the fire pit for s’mores and great conversation with fellow travelers—or swap stories with the sweetest hosts, JD and Mary Susan Gilmer. They go above and beyond to make your stay feel like home and are always ready with the best insider tips on where to eat, sip, and explore.

Trust me—once you stay here, Odonata Escape will feel like your home away from home. Whether you’re on a solo trip, a romantic getaway, or a fun weekend with friends, this is the spot you’ll want to return to again and again.

👉 Book your stay at odonataescape.com

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Day 1: Rise and Drink!

1. Enchanted Rock State Park

Kick off your trip with an early morning hike at Enchanted Rock, one of Texas’s most iconic natural landmarks. The giant pink granite dome rises 425 feet above the ground and offers sweeping panoramic views of the Hill Country. The hike up is about an hour, but you can also explore the trails around the base (great if you have dogs with you). Pro tip: arrive early and book your pass online since the park has a daily visitor limit. Sunrise here is pure magic.

2. Old German Bakery

After conquering your hike, reward yourself at the Old German Bakery on Main Street. Known for its massive portions and authentic German pastries, this spot is a Fredericksburg staple. Order a flaky apple strudel or a giant cinnamon roll—you’ll thank me later. It’s hearty, cozy, and the kind of place that feels like breakfast at grandma’s house.

3. Kaffee Haus

Need a caffeine boost? Stop by Kaffee Haus, a charming little café where the coffee is strong and the pastries are fresh. The cozy vibe makes it a great spot to slow down, sip a latte, and soak in the small-town atmosphere.

4. Altstadt Brewery

For lunch, head to Altstadt Brewery, a German-inspired brewery that feels like you’ve stepped into a Bavarian beer hall. They brew their beer in-house following traditional German purity laws, so you know it’s the real deal. Pair a crisp pilsner or hefeweizen with schnitzel or bratwurst, and you’ve got yourself a perfect midday feast. Bonus—it’s dog-friendly!

5. Barons Creek Vineyards

Time for wine! Start your afternoon tastings at Barons Creek Vineyards, one of the most charming wineries in Fredericksburg. The European-style courtyard makes you feel like you’ve escaped to Tuscany. Their guided tastings showcase a variety of wines, making it the perfect introduction to Hill Country vino.

6. Signor Vineyards

Next, stop by Signor Vineyards. With its dreamy oak trees, rolling vineyard views, and rustic-chic tasting barn, this is one of the prettiest estates in town. Their wines pair beautifully with a picnic, so grab a charcuterie board and settle in for live music on the lawn.

7. Slate Theory Winery

My personal favorite—Slate Theory. This boutique winery is unlike anything else in Fredericksburg. The tasting room is underground, carved into a rock cellar that gives it a modern, edgy vibe. Beyond the cool setting, Slate Theory is known for bold, unconventional blends and wine labels featuring PET scans, highlighting their advocacy for mental health. It’s a tasting with a story.

8. Hill & Vine

End the day with dinner at Hill & Vine, a modern farm-to-table restaurant right on Main Street. Their menu highlights locally sourced ingredients with Texas flair—think smoked meats, fresh produce, and their famous Texas Cheeseburger. The patio is gorgeous at night, strung with lights and buzzing with energy.

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Day 2: Gardens, Peaches & More Wine

1. Otto’s German Bistro

Start the morning at Otto’s, a cozy bistro serving elevated German cuisine with a Texas twist. Their duck confit hash is legendary, but honestly, everything here is worth trying. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and refinement.

2. Das Peach Haus

No trip to Fredericksburg is complete without Das Peach Haus. Originally a peach orchard, this spot is now a local favorite for jams, sauces, and—you guessed it—peach wine. Wander the shop, then grab a glass of wine and sit by the serene pond out back. On weekends, they often have live music—making it one of the most relaxing places in town.

3. Kalasi Cellars

Recommended by our Odonata hosts, Kalasi Cellars is a woman-led winery that focuses on boutique, small-batch wines. The vibe is welcoming and laid-back, and the owners are passionate about every pour. It’s a great hidden gem off the beaten path.

4. Wildseed Farms

This is the largest working wildflower farm in the U.S.—and it’s absolutely breathtaking in bloom. Wildseed Farms is perfect for a leisurely stroll through rows of wildflowers and their butterfly gardens. Don’t leave without picking up a bag of wildflower seeds to take a piece of Fredericksburg home with you.

5. Safari Winery

For something unique, visit Safari Winery, which brings a taste of Africa to Texas. They offer a selection of bold reds and crisp whites you won’t find anywhere else in Fredericksburg.

6. Ausländer Restaurant

Wrap up Day 2 with dinner at Ausländer, one of the town’s oldest German restaurants. Here, it’s all about bratwurst, schnitzel, sauerkraut, and beer steins as big as your head. It’s lively, hearty, and the perfect way to close out your day.

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Day 3: Shopping, Strolling & One Last Toast

1. Silver Creek Restaurant

Fuel up with brunch at Silver Creek, where you can enjoy live music on the patio while digging into southern comfort food. Their huge Reuben sandwich is a local favorite, but the people-watching on Main Street might be the best part.

2. Downtown Fredericksburg Shops

Spend the morning strolling Main Street, where boutique shops and galleries line the street. From handmade candles to Hill Country art, there’s something here for everyone.

3. Vaudeville

Step into Vaudeville for an upscale shopping experience. This beautifully curated shop features luxury home goods, artisan gifts, and even a gourmet café downstairs. It’s one of the most stylish stops in town.

4. Buddy Love, Dogologie & Fritztown Mercantile

Pop into these local favorites for fashion, pet goodies, and Hill Country-inspired gifts. Dogologie is especially fun if you’re traveling with pups—they have everything your furry friend could want.

5. 290 Wine Castle at Chateau de Chase

End your trip on a royal note with a visit to the 290 Wine Castle. This castle-inspired winery sits high on a hill, overlooking the countryside. Sip their bold reds on the terrace and toast to a weekend well spent—it’s the perfect grand finale.

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As your weekend in Fredericksburg comes to a close, you’ll find yourself completely charmed by its mix of German heritage, Texas hospitality, and Hill Country beauty. Whether you came for the wine, the food, the shopping, or just the peaceful scenery, Fredericksburg has a way of pulling you back again and again.

So pack your bags, follow this guide, and get ready to experience one of Texas’s most enchanting weekend getaways. For more adventures, visit thedailysash.com and follow me on Instagram & TikTok at @sashazavala or on Facebook at The Daily Sash.