Before we had our son (who's now 7-years-old), our travels were well-planned and chock-full of things to do and see.
We visited multiple countries in Europe, spent a week in California's Napa and Sonoma Valleys, trekked to an all-inclusive in Costa Rica, and went many other places.
You just don't realize how easy it is to travel pre-kids – until you try to travel post-kids.
For us, we didn't want to have to sacrifice traveling to fun places, so that meant figuring him into the equation. So most places that we go to nowadays involve a little bit of research on what to do that would be fun for the whole family.
If you' and your family are making your way to Fredericksburg and you aren't sure what to do with everyone in tow, let us shed some light for you. Most attractions in Fredericksburg are family-friendly, so rest assured, you shouldn't hear "I'm bored" while you're in this fun little town.
Here are some of our top suggestions:
Marktplatz: Marktplatz in Fredericksburg has been a social hub for centuries. The unique green space in the heart of the Fredericksburg Historic District is home to the Vereins Kirche Museum as well as three open-air pavilions that host a variety of events including the annual Oktoberfest, the weekly Fredericksburg Farmers Market and informal gatherings of friends and family. The grounds of Marktplatz also include public restrooms, a statue commemorating the town's peace treaty with Native Americans as well as the Marktplatz Playground. The playground is AH-mazing. There are two parts to this expansive playground; one section is for little littles, and another part is for the bigger kids. It's covered and isn't located directly on Main Street, so there's less traffic to contend with.
The Preserve: The Preserve opens a door to life-enriching experiences, not only for the animals but for the community - for people who simply love and appreciate elephants and future conservationists. The Preserve provides intimate, meaningful experiences between people and animals that generate a level of caring that cannot be achieved any other way. The Preserve's mission is to preserve all animals by building awareness through contact and education in partnership with our animal ambassadors. Tickets available online. www.visitthepreserve.com
Old Tunnel State Park Bat Cave: Enjoy hiking, bird-watching and general wildlife viewing on the half-mile nature trail at Old Tunnel State Park. It is an abandoned railroad tunnel that is home to millions of Mexican free-tailed bats seasonally. Located 10.5 miles south of Highway 290 on the Old San Antonio Road. From November to April, the park requires reservations to enter after 5 p.m. Visit https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/old-tunnel for more information.
GF Ranch Trail Rides: GF Ranch is offering horseback trail rides in the heart of the Texas Hill Country near Fredericksburg. Enjoy spectacular views, historical sites and an abundance of wildlife. They welcome families, groups of friends, bachelorette groups, and couples for daytime or sunset rides with hill top views, including a campfire and hot dog roast at the end of the evening. They can also help create the perfect marriage proposal location. Open seven days a week by appointment only. www.gftrailrides.com
LBJ National Historical Park: Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park tells the story of our 36th President beginning with his ancestors until his final resting place on his beloved LBJ Ranch. This entire "circle of life" gives the visitor a unique perspective into one of America's most noteworthy citizens by providing the most complete picture of any American president.
Pioneer Museum: Experience the rich German heritage of Gillespie County. This 3.5-acre museum complex contains superb examples of early German structures and artifacts. Several times a year, the Pioneer Museum will hold events staffed by docents in period dress that are fun for the whole family including storytelling, rope making, soap making, sheep shearing and more. Prior arrangements required for special tours of other historic homes and sites owned by the Gillespie County Historical Society.
Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm: Visit a living history farmstead and learn about seasonal activities such as sausage making, sheep shearing, and canning at the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site. Free Admission.
Fort Martin Scott Historic Site: Take a self-guided walk at the site of a pre-Civil War (1848) military outpost to learn about one of the first frontier Army forts in Texas. Enter through the Fort's gate or through the Former Texas Rangers site. Owned and operated by the City of Fredericksburg. A new nature trail has been built and begins on the north side of Fort Martin Scott and winds along Baron's Creek for about half a mile where you can see wildlife and wildflowers. With the loop trail at the Fort, the total trail length is approximately one mile long.
And, when you're done with all of this, you can come back to the Blue Door Haus and relax! Our kid-friendly house has plenty of board games, Smart TVs, and a large playscape in the backyard!
We hope you enjoy your visit! Book here: https://bit.ly/BlueDoorHaus