Texas has a rich history of German immigrants dating back to the 1830’s, first settling in Austin, Colorado, Fayette, and Washington counties. Right in the middle of the Texas Hill Country is Fredericksburg, the seat of Gillespie County. The town was founded by Baron Otfried Hans von Meusebach in 1846 and named after Prince Frederick of Prussia.
Joyce and I have been to Fredericksburg twice and have really enjoyed our day trips there. We have shopped in the stores on Main Street, ate great German food and even did a “Tour of Homes” during our visits.
Fredericksburg is the hometown of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, Commander in Chief, United States Pacific Fleet during World War II. Here you will find the National Museum of the Pacific War houses Admiral Nimitz’s Museum as well as the George H. W. Bush Gallery, the Japanese Garden of Peace and a Memorial Courtyard. This is a “must see” during any trip to Fredericksburg.
Do you need to get your “shopping fix” while in Fredericksburg? No worries, there are plenty of shops to check out. Here are just a small sample:
Fredericksburg General Store: Ya want it, this store probably has it. From candy you might have ate as a kid to cowboy hats and boots.
The Grasshopper and Wild Honey: German beer steins, nutcrackers and other collectibles.
Texian Leathers: Guys, get your lady a new purse with Texan bling here.
Here is a great way to spend an afternoon. Grab some great smoked meat at Opas Smoked Meats and some cheese at the Dutchman’s Market, then head out to one or two of the many wineries around Fredericksburg. Check this page out for a map and directions to all the wineries. If you just want to try some wines, there are several shops on Main St.
Dining in Fredericksburg can range from a fast food place or the corner market all the way up to a five star restaurant. There’s something for everyone here but the focus in Fredericksburg is on German food. Joyce and I have eaten at two German eatery’s so we’ll mention those but there are certainly other’s for you to try.
The Der Lindenbaum Restaurant: We had lunch here with friends who were visiting from Dripping Springs and thoroughly enjoyed the food. Selections include several types or Schnitzels, Schweinekotelett (pork chop), Sauerbraten and other mouth watering selections.
Fredericksburg Brewery |
The Auslander Biergarten and Restaurant: Not only can you get some great German grub here, ya gotta check out the beer list! This eatery has beer’s from Belgium, Ireland, Mexico, Germany and from all over Texas. They also have live music almost every weekend.
Although Joyce and I have not been to the Fredericksburg Brewing Company, Teri has told us that it is a great place to visit..."try the Reuben Sandwich and the home brewed beer sampler." You can rest assured that we’ll check it out on our next visit to Fredericksburg.
The Old Keidel Hospital |
Web links for Fredericksburg and the local area:
To get to Fredericksburg from Hidden Valley RV Park, take I-10 to exit 523, turn right on US 87 and head north. Turn left on US 290 which is E. Main St. Driving distance is 82 miles.
So, if you are looking for a great way to spend a day or maybe more while you're here at Hidden Valley RV Park, head up to Fredericksburg. Viel Spass! That’s “have fun” in German.
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