Top Rated Attractions in Fredericksburg

Admiral Nimitz Gallery is located within The National Museum of the Pacific War complex. Situated in the old Nimitz Hotel building, the museum traces the life and times of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, who served as the Commander in Chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and Pacific Ocean Areas. The museum features old artifacts, photos, memorabilia, and interactive videos that narrate the story of the admirals life, family, and career in the United States Navy. Renovated with state-of-the-art exhibits in 2020, Admiral Nimitz Gallery is a must-visit museum to learn about the history of the Pacific War.

Fredericksburg Historic District is a historic landmark in Fredericksburg. Comprising many historic commercial and residential buildings, the district exemplifies the rich heritage that this town is endowed with. The town's visitor information center provides a comprehensive map for visitors. Embark on a self-guided tour and explore the region while soaking in its quaint, historic atmosphere. Some of the most notable buildings in the district include the Nimitz Hotel, Vereins Kirche, the White Elephant Saloon, and the Priess Building. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Fredericksburg Historic District is an unmissable attraction in the town.

The National Museum of the Pacific War is an ode to those who were part of the Pacific War. Established in 1968, it is now among the top military museums in the country. Spread across six acres (2.43 hectares), it consists of the Admiral Nimitz, Plaza of Presidents, George Bush Gallery, Pacific Combat Zone, Japanese Garden of Peace, Nimitz Education and Research Center, and Pacific Combat Zone. Located in the childhood home of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, this museum gives a rare insight to the Pacific War through its various exhibits and how it impacted a nation.

The legendary Fredericksburg and Northern Railway finally closed its doors in 1942, abandoning this railroad tunnel. Today, Old Tunnel State Park is centered around this mysterious tunnel, offering hiking trails, picnic spots and a very unique sight each sunset. Home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats, the winged creatures come out in massive groups as the sun starts to set, an incredible sight that can be witnessed from a distance. Due to the bats and the unique ecology, people are advised to not go too near the tunnel. All that being said, witnessing millions of bats taking to the sky is well worth visiting this state park.

St. Mary's Catholic Church is located in downtown Fredericksburg. The currently standing structure was built in 1863, replacing its 1848 log house predecessor. Since 1906, the building has been used for several purposes, including a schoolhouse. The splendid structures features many Gothic elements, including magnificent arches, huge pillars, trefoil motifs, and a corner tower. Its interiors are adorned with beautiful murals and frescoes. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, St. Mary's Catholic Church is a must-visit architectural marvel in the town.

Take a step back in time and witness the old German life in Texas with a visit to the Pioneer Museum. Encompassing an area of 3.5 acres (1.41 hectares), the museum features a set of historic German buildings, including homesteads, a log cabin, a classic one-room schoolhouse, a barn, a bath house, and a Sunday House. The beautifully restored buildings were donated by the first-generation German families of Gillespie County to preserve the fascinating heritage. Take an immersive tour of the complex to soak in the history and culture of this unique city. Surrounded by towering pecan trees and a quaint, pleasant atmosphere, Pioneer Museum and its exhibits are a must-visit attraction in Fredericksburg.