Fredericksburg in a Flash: Your Day Trip Quick Facts
Pressed for time? Here’s everything you need to know at a glance before you start planning your 2025 getaway from the capital to this historic Virginia gem.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from D.C. | Approximately 55 miles south |
| Travel Time | 1 to 2.5 hours by car; ~1 hour 10 minutes by train |
| Estimated Cost (per person) | $50 (Budget) – $150 (Mid-Range) |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring (April-May) & Fall (September-October) |
| Known For | Civil War History, George Washington’s Childhood, Charming Historic Downtown |
How to Get to Fredericksburg from Washington, D.C.
Escaping the D.C. hustle for Fredericksburg is easier than you think, but choosing the right transport can make or break your day. From a classic road trip down I-95 to a relaxing train ride, you have options. The key is to pick the one that best fits your budget, schedule, and tolerance for traffic!
| Mode | Average Cost (One-Way) | Travel Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | Gas + Wear & Tear | 1 – 2.5+ hours | Flexibility, control your own schedule. | Extreme I-95 traffic is highly likely. |
| Amtrak | $15 – $50+ | ~1 hour 10 minutes | Stress-free, reliable, downtown station. | Must book in advance for best prices. |
| VRE | ~$12.70 | ~1 hour 20 minutes | Affordable. | Weekday-only commuter schedule is not viable for a typical day trip. |
| Rideshare | $100 – $175+ | 1 – 2.5+ hours | No driving required. | Extremely expensive; not cost-effective. |
By Car: The Classic Road Trip
Taking your own car offers the most freedom. The route is simple: hop on I-95 S and drive for about 55 miles. However, you must be strategic. I-95 between D.C. and Fredericksburg is one of the most congested highways in the United States.
- Traffic Tip: To avoid the worst of it, plan to travel outside of peak rush hours. Aim to leave D.C. before 7:00 AM or after 10:00 AM, and plan your return trip before 3:00 PM or after 7:00 PM.
- Parking: Once you arrive, don’t circle for street parking (which often has 2-3 hour limits). Head directly to the large, free public parking garage on Sophia Street. It’s the best and most convenient option for day-trippers.
By Train: The Relaxing & Reliable Choice
For a truly stress-free journey, the train is your best bet. You can read a book, enjoy the scenery, and arrive refreshed. The Fredericksburg station (FXB) is conveniently located at the edge of the historic downtown, putting you within easy walking distance of everything you want to see.
Amtrak
The Northeast Regional line connects Washington, D.C.’s Union Station (WAS) to Fredericksburg. The trip is a pleasant 70 minutes. One-way tickets can range from as low as $15 to over $50, so we highly recommend booking your tickets several weeks in advance to secure the best fare.
VRE (Virginia Railway Express)
While VRE is an affordable commuter rail option, it’s important to understand its schedule. VRE is designed to bring commuters into D.C. in the morning and take them home to Fredericksburg in the evening on weekdays only. This “reverse commute” schedule makes it very difficult to use for a standard day trip, and it does not run on weekends.
By Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
We’re including this for completeness, but it is not a recommended option. An Uber or Lyft from the D.C. area (like DCA airport) to Fredericksburg can easily cost $100 to $175+ one-way, depending on traffic and demand. For a day trip, the train is significantly more cost-effective.
How to Spend a Day in Fredericksburg: Top 5 Attractions
Fredericksburg is packed with American history, from the nation’s founding to the Civil War. Here’s a prioritized list to help you make the most of your day.
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Walk Through History in the Historic Downtown District
The heart of your trip is the stunning 40-block National Historic District. Spend time wandering along Caroline Street, ducking into unique antique shops, independent bookstores, and art galleries. The architecture alone is worth the trip.
- Cost: Free to explore
- Don’t Miss: Step back in time at Goolrick’s Modern Pharmacy, the oldest continuously operating soda fountain in the United States. Order a classic milkshake or a grilled cheese.
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Step onto the Battlefield at Fredericksburg National Military Park
This is a must-see for any history enthusiast. The city was the site of four major Civil War battles. For a day trip, focus on the most accessible and impactful sites: the Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center and the infamous Sunken Road at the base of Marye’s Heights, a key site from the brutal 1862 battle.
- Cost: Free
- Don’t Miss: Take a quiet walk along the stone wall of the Sunken Road. It’s a powerful and somber experience to stand on such hallowed ground.
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Visit George Washington’s Family Homes
Long before the Civil War, Fredericksburg was the boyhood home of George Washington. You can visit two beautifully preserved properties: Kenmore Plantation, the elegant home of his sister Betty Washington Lewis, and George Washington’s Ferry Farm, located just across the Rappahannock River where he grew up.
- Cost: Approx. $14 for Kenmore, $12 for Ferry Farm. Check out the “Pick 4” Washington Heritage Museums Pass (~$22) for the best value.
- Don’t Miss: The ornate and incredibly detailed plasterwork ceilings at Kenmore are considered some of the finest in colonial America.
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Explore the Washington Heritage Museums
Beyond the main homes, a collection of smaller museums paints a vivid picture of colonial life. The combo pass often includes the Mary Washington House (George’s mother’s final home), the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop (a fascinating look at 18th-century medicine), and the Rising Sun Tavern (a lively social hub from the 1760s).
- Cost: Approx. $7 each, or included in the museum pass.
- Don’t Miss: The entertaining and educational demonstrations by costumed guides at the Rising Sun Tavern, where you’ll learn about the tavern’s rowdy past.
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Stroll the Rappahannock River Heritage Trail
When you need a break from history, head for the river. This paved, scenic trail is perfect for a relaxing walk. It offers beautiful views of the Rappahannock and is a great way to see a different, more natural side of the city.
- Cost: Free
- Don’t Miss: The view from the pedestrian walkway on the railroad bridge. It’s one of the best photo spots in the city.
Your Perfect One-Day Fredericksburg Itinerary
Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Follow this simple, time-tested schedule for a perfectly balanced day of history, food, and fun.
- 9:00 AM: Depart from D.C. by car or train to beat the traffic and crowds.
- 10:30 AM: Arrive & Caffeinate. Park at the Sophia Street garage or walk from the train station and grab a coffee and pastry from a local favorite like Hyperion Espresso.
- 11:00 AM: Morning of History. Choose one major historic area to explore. We recommend either the Fredericksburg Battlefield (Visitor Center & Sunken Road) or the Washington family sites (Kenmore Plantation).
- 1:00 PM: Lunch in Historic Downtown. You’ve earned it! Enjoy a fantastic meal at an acclaimed spot like Foode (located in a historic bank) or the more casual Soup & Taco.
- 2:30 PM: Afternoon Exploration. Stroll down Caroline Street for some window shopping. Use this time to visit one of the smaller, quicker museums like the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop or the Mary Washington House.
- 4:30 PM: A Sweet Treat. No trip to Fredericksburg is complete without a stop at Carl’s Frozen Custard. This iconic walk-up stand serves delicious frozen custard—a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
- 5:30 PM: Depart for D.C., feeling cultured and well-fed.
Where to Eat & Drink in Fredericksburg
From historic soda fountains to upscale dining, Fredericksburg’s food scene has something for every palate and budget.
For a Quick & Classic Bite ($)
- Goolrick’s Modern Pharmacy: A true slice of Americana. Grab a stool at the counter of the country’s oldest soda fountain for a classic milkshake.
- Carl’s Frozen Custard: A local landmark since 1947. You’ll see the line before you see the building. It’s worth the wait!
For a Memorable Sit-Down Meal ($$)
- Foode: A celebrated farm-to-table restaurant housed in a beautifully renovated 19th-century bank. A must-try for foodies.
- La Petite Auberge: Offering classic French cuisine in a cozy, romantic setting for over 40 years. Perfect for a special lunch.
For a Special Occasion ($$$)
- Fahrenheit 132: A sleek, modern steakhouse known for its perfectly cooked steaks and craft cocktails.
- Orofino: Authentic, upscale Italian food with house-made pasta and an extensive wine list. Reservations are highly recommended.
Sample Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Here’s a look at what you can expect to spend on a day trip from D.C. This will help you plan your 2025 visit.
| Item | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | $30 (Advance Amtrak) | $50 (Last-minute Amtrak / Gas) |
| Food & Drink | $25 (Soda fountain lunch, Carl’s) | $60 (Sit-down lunch, coffee, Carl’s) |
| Attractions | $0 (Battlefield, Downtown) | $22 (Museum Combo Pass) |
| Souvenirs | $0 | $20 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | ~$55 | ~$152 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I get from Washington, DC. to Fredericksburg?
The two best ways are driving via I-95 or taking the Amtrak train from Union Station. The train is highly recommended as it avoids the infamous D.C. traffic and drops you right in downtown Fredericksburg.
How much is Amtrak from Fredericksburg to DC?
One-way Amtrak tickets for this route typically range from $15 to $50. Prices are lowest when you book several weeks or even months in advance.
How much is Uber from DCA to Fredericksburg, VA?
An Uber from Reagan National Airport (DCA) to Fredericksburg can be very expensive, often costing between $100 and $175+ each way. It is not a cost-effective method for a day trip.
How do I spend a day in Fredericksburg, VA?
A perfect day involves exploring American history, enjoying the charming downtown, and eating well. Start with a visit to a major historic site like the Fredericksburg Battlefield or Kenmore Plantation, have lunch at a local restaurant, explore the shops on Caroline Street, and end with a frozen custard from Carl’s. Check our one-day itinerary above for a detailed plan!
TLDR: Your Fredericksburg Day Trip Cheat Sheet
- Go by Train: Take Amtrak to avoid the nightmare traffic on I-95.
- Park Smart: If you drive, use the free Sophia Street parking garage.
- See the History: Prioritize the Historic Downtown and the Sunken Road at the battlefield.
- Save with a Pass: If you’re seeing multiple museums, the Washington Heritage Museums pass is the best deal.
- Eat Local: Don’t leave without trying Carl’s Frozen Custard and having a bite at Foode.
- Wear Comfy Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot on historic brick sidewalks!
