Fredericksburg, Virginia is known for a lot of things and if you’ve lived here for a long time, you are bound to experience the following; however, if you’re just in town for a few days, you’ll want to check these out!

1. The Battlefields: This is probably what Fredericksburg is most known for – there are battlefields sprinkled throughout this old town and if you’re a history lover, this is most definitely the place for you. It seems as though everywhere you turn there is a sign for a battlefield. A few are: Chancellorsville Battlefield, Fredericksburg Battlefield, and Spotsylvania Battlefield.

2. Carl's: If you’re an ice cream lover this is a MUST! Specializing in three flavors, Carl’s is an old fashion, family-oriented site that is only open from the months of February to mid-November. It is a town favorite and a great snack on a hot, summer day.

3. Alum Springs: After you get your ice cream, head on over to Alum Springs, a unique, local park. This hidden gem is tucked away in the corner of Fredericksburg, but a great place for families to come and play in the river and have a nice picnic.

4. Tubing down the Rappahannock: Speaking of playing in the river, tubing down the Rappahannock is a great way to spend a summer day in Fredericksburg. Start at any point on the river and enjoy a nice, refreshing float down the Rappahannock.

5. Shop downtown Fredericksburg: If you love to shop, downtown is where you can spend a full day’s worth of your time. From boutiques to bookshops to antique stores to small town diners – downtown Fredericksburg is a quaint area to spend a day of shopping and eating.

6. Trolley tour of Old Fredericksburg:

Surprisingly, a lot of locals haven’t taken the trolley tour of Fredericksburg, but I definitely recommend it. This hour-long tour gives a detailed history of the streets of downtown from as far back as the Civil War days. Without the tour, you’re missing out on tons of history that Fredericksburg holds.

7. Celebrate Virginia Live: If you’re a music lover, you must visit the grand outdoor facility that hosts big name music artists. If you’re a tourist in Fredericksburg meeting locals, you are bound to hear them say that they have been to one or more live music concerts at this facility.

8. Marine Corps Historic Half: Love to exercise? This 13.1 mile run attracts people nationwide. The run takes participants through historic downtown Fredericksburg, passing many significant sites unique to Fredericksburg.

If you've never been to this unique, historic town, it is time to make a road trip. From a simple ice cream trip to a day on the river, you will not be disappointed with what Fredericksburg has to offer!