09/30/2026
Coming to Fredericksburg for Parents Weekend? Here’s how we’d spend a fall weekend exploring one of our favorite little cities!
1. Start with coffee. Grab a morning pick-me-up at Agora Downtown, Hyperion Espresso, Anita's, Curitiba Art Cafe or Original Grinds before heading out to explore.
2. Shop your way down Caroline Street. Spend a few hours popping in and out of local shops. Find something for Mom at Monkees Fredericksburg, browse Green Eyed Vines, pick up a new read at Riverby Books, Tales & Tails or Novel, or discover a few new favorites along the way.
3. Make it lunchtime. Settle in for a meal at Renatos, Orofino, Soup And Taco, Brock Riverside Grill or Alpine Chef. There’s plenty to choose from, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a meal you’ll want to linger over.
4. Take a walk by the river. Head down to Riverfront Park and take in the Rappahannock River views. It’s the perfect place to slow down for a little while between Family Weekend activities.
5. Friday night = First Friday! If you’re arriving Friday, head downtown from 5-9 p.m. for First Friday. Browse local galleries, shop late, grab dinner and experience one of Downtown FXBG’s favorite monthly traditions.
6. Create a fun memory and book a class at Libertytown Arts or W**e and Design, make a candle a POUR or Pearlescent or drop in to create some art at the Mess Hall by Whitbys or PONSHOP.
7. End the weekend with brunch. Before heading home, grab brunch at Foode, Five Chophouse or Rebellion, then squeeze in one last downtown stroll.
Save this for UMW Parents Weekend! And while you’re here for the Eagles, make sure you leave a little time to explore everything happening Downtown Fredericksburg.
