Region: Hill Country
Settled by immigrant families from Germany in 1846, led by John O. Meusebach. Although settlement was on Comanche frontier, the Meusebach-Comanche Treaty of following year established lasting peace. Many older buildings retain traditional German and frontier styles with more than 700 historical structures in the historic district and many a part of the National Register of Historic Places. German is still spoken occasionally, and old customs are regularly observed: Schuetzenfests (marksmanship tournaments), Oktoberfest, Zweite Weihnachten, and Kinderfest. Visitors attracted by scenic beauty, European atmosphere, historic landmarks, excellent fall and winter hunting, and famous bread and pastries. Birthplace of Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz, Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific Fleet during World War II.
Fredericksburg offers outstanding opportunities for sportsmen to hunt native and exotic species of animals. Hunting leases are available on ranches throughout the area.
Fredericksburg Trade Days, held the third weekend every month, features more than 300 vendors offering antiques, collectibles, tools, crafts, food, entertainment and more. Open Fri.–Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. On U.S. Hwy. 290 East, across from Wildseed Farms. Parking fee. 830/990-4900.
Approximately 40 percent of all Texas peaches are grown in Fredericksburg and surrounding Gillespie County, with more than 1,400 acres of commercial production located within the county. Peach season typically runs mid to late May–early August.
The new agri-tourism stars for Fredericksburg and Gillespie County are grape growing and wine production. Nine wineries now call Gillespie County home, with many open seven days of the week. A wine-tasting trail, based out of Fredericksburg, is made easy since most are located on or near U.S. 290. For information on peaches, wine or area cuisine: www.FredTexFlavors.com.
The city was also home to the first volkssporting event ever held in the U.S. in 1976, and the city's Pilgrimage Routes consist of three different sanctioned routes that can be walked year-round.
For nearby points of interest, see Kerrville, Luckenbach, Stonewall and Johnson City.