For this year’s Thanksgiving, Kevin and I went back to Washington, DC to see the fam. It’s definitely been awhile! Last year, we spent Thanksgiving in San Diego since I was still on crutches after the first of many knee surgeries. But I’m back on my feet again. And braved LAX with the 2.4 million or so other travelers!
It’s becoming a family tradition to get away for a night. And this year, Kevin’s mom picked Fredericksburg, Virginia, located just an hour South of Washington, DC.
Cute little Fredericksburg – all decked out for the holidays
I lived in DC, and I didn’t even know about Fredericksburg… Though, this was well before the help of TripAdvisor and Yelp. Plus I had made no money working in public media (which is probably the real reason!). The region packs in a lot — historic sights going back to the Revolutionary War, independent stores and coffee shops and lots of restaurants. It’s worth the drive from DC and spending the night (even if Kevin and I have drove further in LA for a coffee shop!). Here are our top picks!
WHERE TO STAY
Located just across the street from the Fredericksburg Visitors Center, the Richard Johnston Inn is housed in a brick row house that was built in 1770 by a signer of the Declaration of Independence. It’s seen it all – surviving both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Before a major preservation effort took over Fredericksburg, the house was actually sold in 1970 for just $27,000 and was being used as a warehouse. Today, room rates range from $165 – $255 a night.
The Richard Johnston Inn, a cute B&B right on the main drag.
Even Santa showed up – visiting Kevin’s nephew and niece.
We loved the Virginian Room
The Virginian Room decorated for Christmas and overlooking Caroline Street, the main drag in town
There are very light snacks in the evening, but the breakfast certainly was filling!
Honey Greek yogurt with Berries
Bourbon and banana caramel French Toast with almonds and polish kielbasa
SHOPPING
You don’t have to twist my arm (or my parents!) when we hear shopping! We checked out many of these little shops – most of which are located on Caroline Street and William Street. The town is compact, which allows you to shop until you almost drop!
Everyone in the family enjoyed Riverby books
Kevin’s mom took us into Du Jardin, where I bought one of these nice soap sets
So where are all these things made?
No trip is complete without some Virginia peanuts! Bought one as a gift and I ate them all… so had to get another!
EATING
We didn’t go hungry in Fredericksburg, that’s for sure! In fact, the first day I think we pretty much ate the entire time! But Kevin and I were in hibernation mode so it worked for us. Plus, we’ve been doing pilates so figured we burned off enough calories to splurge. The town had everything from sit down restaurants you’d expect to find in a city the size of DC to casual Italian joints.
Everyone loved the french onion soup at La Petite Auberge… So much that I think I just got one spoonful!
Cork and Table located on Caroline can seat a big crowd – all the family at the big table!
I had no idea that the pizza at Castiglia’s would be this big. I’m glad I just ordered one!
We’ll be sad to leave Fredericksburg – the family enjoys the feast!
HISTORY:
There is so much history here – it’s hard to prioritize. If you’re short on time (like us!), hop on the Trolley Tour taking you all over the city ($18 per adult or $8 for children). It’s also a good idea if you don’t want to walk everywhere and it’s freezing. Clearly, I didn’t bring enough layers! The apothecary located in town looks like it was worth the visit. There are costume characters that give the tour and even show off some live leeches that were used to cure ailments. Guess there is always next time!
All aboard! Kevin with my parents about to join the trolley tour.
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