Points of Interest between Ashburn, Virginia to Fredericksburg, Virginia

picture of Ashburn, Virginia

Top Five Popular Attractions Between Ashburn and Fredericksburg

Are you seeking a fun and adventurous road trip from Ashburn to Fredericksburg, Virginia? Look no further than our top five popular attractions that offer scenic views, relaxation, and historical landmarks!

The Route and Halfway Point: Springfield, VA

The journey to Fredericksburg from Ashburn spans about an hour and forty minutes, encompassing delightful Virginia towns and captivating countryside. As you travel south on I-95, Springfield is the halfway point, roughly 50 minutes from both destinations. Here, you can explore shopping centers, art galleries, and parks to stretch your legs and break up the trip.

Top Five Places to See List

  1. George Washington's Mount Vernon - A must-see destination for history buffs and Virginia locals, Mount Vernon offers an immersive experience into the life and legacy of the first US president. Visitors can explore the mansion, gardens, and farmsteads and learn about Washington's leadership, governance, and personal life.

  2. Old Town Alexandria - Known for its charming cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and maritime heritage, Old Town Alexandria is an ideal stop for a leisurely stroll or a romantic dinner. It features a variety of shops, galleries, and museums, as well as a scenic waterfront and boat tours.

  3. Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park - If you wish to delve deeper into Virginia's Civil War history, the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park is a comprehensive and moving tribute to the soldiers, battles, and strategic developments of the era. The park covers four major battlefields and several historic sites, and offers guided tours, interpretive programs, and hiking trails.

  4. Lake Anna State Park - For nature enthusiasts and water sports fans, Lake Anna State Park is a picturesque and serene haven. The park encompasses a 13,000-acre lake, various forests, and abundant wildlife, and offers swimming, boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities. Visitors can also rent cabins and enjoy picnicking and birdwatching.

  5. Civil War Museum at the Exchange Hotel - Another immersive and engaging Civil War museum, the Civil War Museum at the Exchange Hotel in Gordonsville showcases the lesser-known aspects of the war, including medical care, civilian life, and African American history. The hotel itself was a prominent Civil War hospital, and visitors can explore the rooms, exhibits, and artifacts that depict the era's hardships and innovations.

Best Route for This Trip

To maximize your experience on this trip, we recommend the following route:

  • From Ashburn, take VA-7 east to Tyson's Corner, then merge onto I-495 south towards Alexandria/Richmond.
  • Take exit 177B towards US-1N in Alexandria, and follow the signs to Old Town Alexandria and the George Washington Masonic Memorial.
  • From Old Town, take I-95 south towards Richmond, and follow the signs to Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, then Lake Anna State Park.
  • Travel along VA-208 east to reach Gordonsville and the Civil War Museum at the Exchange Hotel.
  • Finally, take US-15 south and VA-20 south to reach downtown Fredericksburg and explore its historic district, visitor center, and riverside park.

We hope you enjoy this trip and discover the wonders of Virginia's beauty, culture, and history!