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UPDATE: The three-day weekend is about to kick off, but it's not too late for you to get outta town — luckily we've got a guide for that. This story was originally published on January 11.
As D.C.'s food, art, and style scenes continuously evolve, it can be easy to forget its storied past — but here at R29, we love the fact that our capital city has played such a crucial role in American history. And when we discover a town with a similar spirit, our ears perk up. Enter Fredericksburg, Virginia. Once home to George Washington (and the scene of some serious Civil War action), it's a place where patriotic pride and small-town charm are complimentary forces. But it's a college town, too, which means there are plenty of vintage boutiques, coffee shops, and foodie-friendly cafes along the main drags of Caroline and William streets.
When traffic cooperates, it's roughly an hour's drive from the District (though the train is also a super-convenient way to get there), and we consider it a pretty perfect destination, especially if you're in the mood to for a day of Civil War nostalgia and some slow-food eats. So, whether you're a history buff, a vintage lover, or just an avid day-tripper, Fredericksburg gets our vote for the ideal out-of-town adventure.
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