Fredericksburg is the gem of Texas Hill Country, which is known for its picturesque rolling hills, but also dramatic rock formations, lakes and rivers, and transformative blankets of wildflowers that bloom every spring. Founded by German immigrants, Fredericksburg is proud of its heritage, and is home to a robust brewpub culture and a rollicking three-day-long Oktoberfest. Its charming main street is lined with German signage, historic structures, and wine-tasting rooms fed by surrounding vineyards. The town is also known for a bustling local food scene, and is especially famous for its delicious peaches, first planted by a high school science teacher in 1921.

Fredericksburg enjoys warm weather nearly all year long. The winter is mild, with temperatures in the mid-50 degrees Fahrenheit from November to February, and the low 60s in March. During summer, the temperature can spike into the 100s, but typically hovers in the upper 70s and low 80s. April through May and September through October offer balmy temperatures in the high 60s through low 80s. It’s not uncommon to get caught in a rain shower, especially from April through June, so it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella.

National Historic District

You can’t throw a bratwurst without hitting a historic building in Fredericksburg. The town’s historic district encompasses 40 blocks of architecturally significant structures, many made in classic Germanic timber framing style, with heavy posts and beams and whitewashed limestone. The Pioneer Museum, operated by the local historical society, offers a two-hour evening walking tour for a fee, or you can simply stroll along Main Street, which is lined with lovingly cared-for examples of 19th-century architecture.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

The star of this park, located 17 miles from downtown Fredericksburg, is its namesake, a 425-foot-high pink granite dome that towers over the landscape like a giant piece of cotton candy. A steep climb to the top rewards hikers with jaw-dropping views. Enchanted Rock is also an International Dark Sky Park, where you can spot the Milky Way on inky-black nights.

Wild Seed Farms

Texas Hill Country is famous for its annual explosion of wildflower blooms, and Fredericksburg is home to the nation’s largest wildflower farm. Visitors to Wild Seed Farm can traverse trails in the more than 200 acres of flower fields — which include vibrant red corn poppies, bobbing sunflowers, and bright azure Texas bluebonnets — which bloom March through October. Admission is free, although you will probably be tempted to open your wallet at the Brewbonnet Biergarten, or spring for a glass of wine made from grapes grown on site.