The beauty of Fredericksburg comes not only from its German heritage, culture, wine, and food but also from its small-town Texas feel, which has expanded over the years. First-time visitors can’t get enough of the town, while seasoned visitors always return to cross off things to do from their bucket lists.

Did you know the renovated Vereins Kirche is one of Fredericksburg’s most treasured pieces of German immigrant history? It’s located in the Markplatz and served as a community gathering place, church, school, and fort during its early years in the mid-19th century. A visit to the Vereins Kirche is just one of the many things to do in Fredericksburg, TX, during your stay in this little piece of Texas Hill Country.

For those searching for high-end luxury vacation rentals, Cozi Vacation Rental is just one click away, with homes conveniently located within a short distance of all the things to do in Gillespie County. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning, we prepared this list to showcase how you can spend your time in town.

1. Eat German Food and Drink German Bier

You’ll find that Fredericksburg’s culinary scene has been deeply influenced by its German heritage. Many German-inspired bakeries, bistros, cafes, and restaurants offer Bavarian traditional dishes, including schnitzel, sausages, and apple strudel.

It’s not just about eating the food; it’s also about the vibe and atmosphere of the Biergarten, which has its choices of craft beer and snacks you get to eat and drink while listening to live music on weekends.

2. Explore the Texas Wine Country

Did you know the Texas Wine Country is one of the top wine regions in the USA? It covers an expansive area from the west of Austin to the north of San Antonio, making a stay in Fredericksburg a central spot to allow you to explore the area.

The Hill Country region has a growing number of vineyards and wineries producing some of the best-known wine varietals, including Tempranillo, with well-regarded wineries, including Becker Vineyards and Pedernales Cellars.

Plan a day to explore and visit the wine-tasting rooms through Wine Road 290, even up to the vineyards at Stonewall and Driftwood, to learn about the wine-making process. Don’t forget to visit the distilleries and breweries too, including Altstadt Brewery.

3. Attend a Grape Stomp Event at Grapetown Vineyard

• Address: 8142 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: grapetownvineyard.com/grape-stomp

Now that you’ve explored and tasted the Texas Hill Country wine, why not take part in it and embrace your inner winemaker? Grapetown Vineyards has a fun activity where you can grape-stomp to your heart’s content and feel the grapes juice burst from between your toes. It’s a weird sensation that makes for a hilarious afternoon.

The vineyard also offers a Safari Wine tour where you get to see zebras, kangaroos, and camels – all while wine tasting, of course.

4. Take a Dive into the Local German Heritage and History

• National Museum of the Pacific War: 311 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX
• Pioneer Museum: 325 W Main Street, Fredericksburg, TX

Visiting the National Museum of the Pacific War will not only give you a glimpse into history, but it’s also one of the top things to do in Fredericksburg. You’ll dive into the history and impact of World War II, learn about Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, see impressive exhibits and artifacts about Pearl Harbor, and explore the Japanese Garden of Peace.

For a little bit more of the local German heritage and history, you can dive into the Pioneer Museum operated by the Gillespie County Historical Society and the renovated Vereins Kirche Museum. It’s a structure that follows the German style “Carolingian octagon” filled with artifacts and paintings of the building’s history. Don’t forget to do a self-guided tour at the Fort Martin Scott.

5. Venture into the Open Air and Outdoor Activities

Those who can’t get enough of the open air and outdoors will find an endless list of things to do in Fredericksburg, TX.

From exploring the lavender fields, playing golf, finding treasure at Fredericksburg Trade Days, picking peaches at Das Peach Haus, watching the bat emergence at the Old Tunnel State Park, hiking to the top of the dome at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, to hunting for wildflowers at Wildseed Farms, there’s plenty to keep you occupied.

Gillespie County also has a 120-mile scenic biking trail for active cyclists who want a route filled with historic school stops.

6. Wear a Dirndl or Lederhosen on Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a beloved annual event that perfectly merges the German heritage with a Texas twist. The festival grounds are filled with the aromas of bratwurst and sauerkraut from the food stalls, and you’ll get to taste a variety of German and locally brewed beers and wines. It’s the perfect opportunity to wear the traditional Dirndl and Lederhosen!

7. Marvel at the German Christmas Pyramid

There’s nothing like experiencing a Christmas Market, making it one of the top things to do in Fredericksburg during the winter. It’s also where you get to see the 26-foot German Christmas Pyramid with rotating tiers and candle holders – making an example of the phrase ‘Everything’s bigger in Texas.’

8. Detour to Luckenbach for the Live Music Events

• Address: 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: luckenbachtexas.com

In the 1970s, John “Hondo” Crouch, a local legend, and a few partners pooled their resources to purchase Luckenbach, a small town near Fredericksburg. They transformed it into an iconic country music hall where artists such as Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett have played on stage.

Keeping up with tradition, this music and dance hall still performs live music events and festivals, making it a must-visit for those looking to move their bodies.

9. Shop till you Drop on Main Street

Without a doubt, one of the top things to do in Fredericksburg is to walk up and down Main Street. You’ll find some of the best boutique shops and art galleries to meet every taste and palate. From home decor antiques and unique bohemian and Texas-style women’s clothes to a special treat for your pet, you’ll shop till you drop! Don’t worry; your chosen Cozi Rental Home will be the perfect resting spot.

10. Discover the Rhinos and Elephants of Fredericksburg

• The Preserve: 650 Doublehorn Rd, Fredericksburg, TX
• Rhinory: 13112 US-290, Fredericksburg, TX

The Elephant Preserve and Rhinory are two hidden things to do in Fredericksburg, where you can have an intimate experience with wildlife. The Preserve’s mission is implied in its name as its dedication to building awareness and expanding on elephant education to help with conservation efforts.

You’ll get to see elephants and even get your hands dirty (or clean, in this case) as you give a bath to an elephant and a little grooming. At the rhino reserve, you get to have a wine tasting while enjoying the natural beauty and habitat of the rhinos, knowing it’ll help with rhino conversation efforts in the US and internationally.

11. Visit the Texas White House

• Address: 1048 Park Road #49, Stonewall, TX
• Website: nps.gov/lyjo/index.htm

A short drive to Stonewall takes you to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, also known as the Texas White House. As the 36th president of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson hailed from central Texas, and this historical site is dedicated to commemorating his life in Stonewall and Johnson City.

A visit will grant you public access to various landmarks, including the LBJ Ranch and House, LBJ’s birthplace, the family cemetery, the old Junction School, and the ranch show barn.

12. Visit the Weekly Farmers’ Market

As many of our guests love to cook during the stay, we highly recommend getting your locally grown and produced goods at the weekly Fredericksburg Farmer’s Market. You’ll have a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and eggs, among other things, from the local vendors.

It’s held every Thursday from 4 pm to 4 pm during the spring and summer months on Main Street. During the fall, it’s held at the Pioneer Museum. Visit the market dates so you don’t miss out!

13. Go on a Horseback Ride

• Address: 619 French Dahlstrom Rd. Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: gftrailrides.com

There’s nothing quite like exploring the Texas Hill Country on horseback. Between the amazing Hill Country view and wildlife (you might see some whitetail deers, wild hogs, coyotes, and jackrabbits), you can sit and steer your gentle horse along the trail following your guide.

We highly recommend GF Trail Rides – a family-owned business where you get to tour the family ranch that was originally part of the German Land Grants.

14. Pick out Wildflowers at the Wildflower Farm

• Address: 100 Legacy Drive, Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: wildseedfarms.com

During the springtime, the Texas Hill Country becomes colorful with all the blues of the Texas bluebonnets, the yellow, pink, and reds of zinnias, and the pretty purples of Coneflowers. You can add these to your garden with a quick shop visit to Wildseed Farms. The farm covers 200 acres of wildflowers and vineyards and a short trail with the perfect spring backdrop for your photos.

15. Have the Kids Participate in a Scavenger Hunt

For families wondering about the best things to do with kids in Fredericksburg, we have you covered! As you explore downtown Fredericksburg, the little ones can participate in a sort of scavenger hunt by keeping track and taking notes using this brochure.

You can find physical copies at the visitor center while there; don’t miss the free 10-minute video about Fredericksburg. Parents can also take a break at the Markplatz while kids spend their energy on the playground.

Another activity the whole family will enjoy is a visit to the Jenschek Orchards where everyone can harvest what’s in season, including strawberries, peaches, blackberries, and pumpkins.

Stay in Fredericksburg, TX

Come stay with us! Book your getaway with Cozi Vacation Rental and take part in all the amazing things Fredericksburg offers!

Looking for the best thrift stores in Fredericksburg, TX? What if we told you that you have to look no further than our hill country town in Fredericksburg? Fredericksburg has an amazing scene for thrift stores offering an array of treasures.

Whether you’re on the hunt for furniture to refurbish, interest in consignment pieces, unique home decor, or vintage clothing, you’ll find many of the thrift stores in town cater to every taste and budget.

As a Cozi Vacation Rental guest, you’re not just staying in a luxurious accommodation, but you’ll also be able to immerse yourself in the heart of a community that values a helping hand. We prepared this list of thrift stores in Fredericksburg and a few outside of town that are worth visiting for a day of thrifting.

1. St. Vincent de Paul Society

• Address: 610 W Live Oak St, Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: svdpfbgtx.org/store
• Store hours: Monday through Friday, 9 am – 3 pm; closed on Wednesdays; Saturday 10 am – 1 pm

The St. Vincent de Paul thrift store is one that resales goods to help with their year-round programs providing low-cost and no-cost goods to people who have suffered loss. As such, you’ll find a variety of items, including furniture, books, toys, children’s clothes, and home decor. For those who like to refurbish, you’ll be able to find pieces ready for a makeover.

2. Create Healthy Thrift & Boutique

• Address: 520 Granite Ave, Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: createhealthy.org/thrift-shop
• Store hours: Monday: 10 am – 6 pm; Wednesday through Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm

Create Healthy Thrift and Boutique is a nonprofit shop and every purchase made there contributes directly to the Create Healthy program. The program emphasizes fitness and wellness initiatives for the community. As such, all items available for resale are generously donated. You’ll find the shop filled with chic apparel, estate sale furniture pieces, music, and books.

3. Goodwill Central Texas – Fredericksburg

• Address: 1420 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: goodwillcentraltexas.org
• Store hours: Monday through Sunday: 10 am – 8 pm

The Goodwill store is one of the best or most known thrift shops in the US. You can find clothing for all ages, including trendy secondhand women’s fashion pieces and even some vintage attire if you have an idea of what to search for. In addition, there’s a selection of furniture to furnish your home, such as sofas and tables to beds and chairs. You might even stumble upon collectibles, antiques, and artwork.

4. Schatze House Resale Boutique

• Address: 712 W Main St Ste B, Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: thegracecenterfbg.org/schatze-haus
• Store hours: Tuesday through Friday: 10 am – 5 pm; Saturday: 10 am – 3 pm

Located on Main Street, the Schatze House helps the Grace Center of Fredericksburg – its mission is to help and raise awareness to end violence against women. This resale boutique and consignment store offers beautiful women’s fashion outfits. It’s been known feature great finds from Lafayette 148 and Kobi Halperin dresses to heritage furniture pieces and custom-made sofas from Hill Country Interiors.

5. The Shops on Llano

• Address: 305 North Llano St, Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: shopsonllanofbg.com
• Store hours: Thursday through Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm

Located on North Llano Street, the Shops on Llano is a beautiful women’s clothing store where you’ll find upscale resale of high-quality clothing, jewelry, and footwear as well as re-purposed furniture and art pieces.

You’ll love browsing through the store and seeing must-have pieces, including new products. These include scented candles, diffusers, lotions, handbags, pillows, and even some Texas Hill Country jewelry made by local artists.

6. The Attic

• Address: 112 N Orange St, Fredericksburg, TX
• Website: facebook.com/theatticfbg
• Store hours: Wednesday through Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm

The Attic is a consignment and resale store perfect for treasure hunting and those searching for vintage and antique items.

There’s a little bit of everything, from linens, jewelry, and collectibles, and an extensive inventory of matching serving pieces and dishes to start (or add!) to your dining collection. Fair warning: you’ll truly have to do a treasure hunt as the store has lots and lots of inventory in a space that’s quite small.

7. Hill Country Animal League Thrift Store

• Address: 115 W Bandera Rd, Boerne, TX
• Website: thriftstore.hcaltx.org
• Store hours: Monday: 10 am – 5 pm; Wednesday through Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm

For those who wish to visit a thrift shop outside of Fredericksburg, we recommend a visit to the Hill Country Animal League Thrift Store in Boerne. Located 40 minutes south of Main Street Fredericksburg, this thrift shop helps the Hill Country SPCA a nonprofit that helps pets find their forever home, as well as provides low-cost spay/neuter surgeries. You’ll find all types of items here, including shoes, movies, music, purses, furniture, and more.

8. Nell’s Vintage, Antiques, Art & Gifts

• Address: 112 S Live Oak, Mason, TX
• Website: facebook.com/Nellsvintagemasontx
• Store hours: Monday: 9 am – 2 pm; Tuesday through Friday: 9 am – 4 pm; Wednesday: 9 am – 6 pm; Saturday: 9 am – 3 pm

Nell’s Vintage, Antiques, Art & Gifts is another thrift shop outside of Fredericksburg, located in Mason, TX, where we also have vacation rentals available.

It’s about a 40-minute drive north of town and specializes in hand-picked home decor, glassware, vintage jewelry, art, hand-made gifts, outdoor metal decor, and farmhouse and seasonal decor, to mention a few. There are also furniture pieces ready for a new home or for those who love to refurbish with a modern twist.

How Thrift Store Shopping Contributes to the Community

Whether you’re on the hunt for pieces to refurbish or simply enjoy the thrill of treasure hunting, thrift shopping won’t be just about great deals and finds. It’s also a great opportunity to give back to the community!

Many thrift stores receive donations or work on commission, and a portion of their proceeds are donated to charitable causes or community support programs. Thrifters help with that, all while finding unique and one-of-a-kind items that will add character and personality to your home and fashion style. It’s a win-win at the end.

Stay and Shop in Fredericksburg, TX

Don’t miss out on exploring the best thrift stores in Fredericksburg, as they’re filled with unique finds waiting for you. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or just starting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while supporting local businesses and nonprofit organizations.

From vintage clothes, jewelry, furniture ready for a makeover, books, and pieces that add character, you’ll surely find a unique treasure to remind you of your travels!

All that’s left is for you to book your stay with Cozi Vacation Rentals. Some popular properties in town include hot tubs, Hill Country views, and pet-friendly accommodations. So, pack your bags, stay with us, and get ready to hit the thrift stores!

Nestled in the heart of Texas, halfway between Fredericksburg and Comfort, lies a hidden natural marvel that draws visitors from far and wide.

Old Tunnel State Park has more than 100 years of deep Texas history and also serves as home to the Mexican free-tailed bats. For those calling one of our luxurious Cozi Vacation Rentals in Fredericksburg their home away from home, it’s a must add to your itinerary. Seeing this magical population of nocturnal foragers emerge from the tunnel at dusk has to be seen to be believed.

Sitting only a 20-minute car drive from downtown Fredericksburg, guests and visitors can take in the views of the Texas Hill Country as they make their way to the bat viewing areas at the railroad tunnel.

This is your guide to the fascinating history of the park and everything you need to know for your next visit!

About Old Tunnel State Park

• Address: 10619 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
• Texas State Park Information: tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/old-tunnel

The Old Tunnel State Park is a small park named after the original old railroad tunnel built in 1913. Built by the San Antonio, Fredericksburg, and Northern Railway, the main purpose was to allow trains to connect to the city of San Antonio, TX, and serve the agricultural and ranching communities along its route.

As with many things, the old railroad tunnel ceased operations in 1942 and was consequently abandoned. It fell into disrepair until the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department acquired it in 2012, becoming the smallest state park in Texas at 16.1 acres.

Today, the Old Tunnel State Park is home to an estimated three million Mexican free-tailed bats along with other bat species like the cave bats, of which there are about 3000 at the tunnel.

This bat colony is double the number compared to the bat colony on Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin, home to an incredible 1.5 million bats. Thanks to its state park denomination of the old tunnel, Texas Parks maintains and protects this bat colony along with many others located in the Hill Country.

Best Time to See the Bat Emergence

The 920-foot Old Tunnel State Park bat colony fluctuates in number throughout its season. That’s because many of its inhabitants are pregnant or lactating bats; however, pups are not born in the tunnel but rather in the nearby caves and bridges. As such, during June, you may see the colony in smaller numbers when they come out at dusk since the females leave to give birth.

It is by early August that both mom bats and their pups return to the Old Tunnel State Park, making it increase in size. It makes the months between August and September the best time to see the bats emerge at dusk and see the large population fly out. By late October, they start to migrate back to Mexico.

What to Know Before You Go

What to Wear

Located along the Old San Antonio Road, the Old Tunnel State Park’s terrain is mainly rocky limestone. It is best to wear good hiking boots or comfortable running shoes and bring your own drinking water.

Parking and Viewing

You’ll find limited parking lots at the entrance of the state park as well as across from Alamo Road.

The Old Tunnel State Park also has upper and lower viewing areas to allow you to enjoy the bat emergence.

Space is also limited at the Old Tunnel State Park viewing areas, and children under 4 years old are not allowed in the lower viewing area. The best way to stay up to date on the bat emergence is by following the Facebook page or making a call to the following toll-free line: (866) 978-2287.

Seasonal Hours

The Old Tunnel State Park is open year-round from sunrise until 5 pm. However, bat season takes place between May 1 through October 31 with August and September seeing the largest population come out at dusk.

Tickets

Because the state park closes in the evening during bat season when they emerge, everyone needs to have a ticket to allow them to stay in the park past 5 pm. These tickets are not sold on-site, but you can purchase online tickets in advance or you can make phone reservations and show them at the gate (either a printout or email confirmation).

Old Tunnel State Park Ranger Programs

Bat season also brings some educational programs to the Old Tunnel State Park with evening programs offering information about the history and ecology. For those who like to collect passport stamps on their Texas State Park passport, you can get it stamped during the bat season. Check their event page for upcoming activities!

Other Things to Do at Old Tunnel State Park

As this Texas State Park is open year-round, if you happen to visit outside of the bat season, there are a few other things you can enjoy.

• Hiking: There’s a short half-mile hiking trail at the Old Tunnel State Park that’s easy for all levels with an elevation of 134 feet.
• Picnics: Enjoy a picnic with your family and friends and simply relax in nature.
• Wildlife: Watch for wildlife and bird watching.
• Learn: Read the signs about the resident bats and the history of the railroad.

There are also multiple outdoor places to visit in the area that are no more than an hour away from the state park. Here are a few places you can add to your itinerary during your Cozi stay:

• Kerrville: Visit Kerrville, where you can take a walk on the river trail, explore the Riverside Nature Center, and have fun in the water at the Guadalupe River. You can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or river tubing.
• Enchanted Rock: Hike at the natural wonder that is Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a perfect place also to do some stargazing.
• Elephants: See the Elephants of Fredericksburg located at The Preserve with a mission of expanding elephant conservation and education.
• Pedernales Falls State Park: Located in Johnson City this is a great place for swimming, hiking, and horseback riding, and for those who love being in the outdoors, it’s a place that has much to offer.
• Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park: This is where you can stroll along the Live Oak Creek as well as other nature trails.

Stay in Fredericksburg and Discover Old Tunnel State Park

The Texas Hill Country is not only filled with beauty but also wonderful places like the Old Tunnel State Park. Imagine waiting for the sunset and then seeing the three million bats fly out in a steady spiraling pattern to the noise of flapping wings and their squeaks. It is truly a unique experience for the whole family, especially when seeing the expression in the young faces.

You can highlight your experience by staying at one of our luxurious Cozi Vacation Rentals after visiting the state park. Our Fredericksburg properties include homes with pools, jacuzzis, outdoor kitchens, cottages, and more, many of which have picture-perfect Hill Country views.

Don’t let the bat season sneak up on you! Reserve your tickets with the state park and reserve your stay with us today!