There’s more to Northern Virginia than its D.C. suburbs and directly adjacent counties. Explore a little farther south in the region and groups will find even more to do (and additional meeting space).
Fredericksburg is nearly equidistant between Washington, D.C. and Richmond, and sits at the edge of Spotsylvania County near the Stafford County border. The independent city serves as sort of a bedroom community for Washington, D.C., that attracts tourists due to its status as not only George Washington’s hometown and the site of four major Civil War battles, but also due to its vibrant arts scene.
“We talk a lot about a timeless experience in our area,” says Victoria A. Matthews, conference and sales coordinator with the City of Fredericksburg. “Our downtown has a sense of place about it that’s really special, and it’s just a lovely region to visit whether you’re into history or the arts.”
While the area offers a fair selection of modern conference and hotel space for small to midsize meetings, the real charm of Fredericksburg is found outside of the hotel circuit.
Gari Melcher’s Home and Studio overlooks the Rappahannock River and groups can explore its studio and art galleries (Melcher was a successful painter), restored gardens and outdoor trails. Its Studio Pavilion can be used for meetings, with space for up to 150 theater style and 120 banquet style.
The Mary Washington Houseand James Monroe Museum are two additional historic spaces that can host memorable outdoor garden receptions (for smaller groups of around 50 to 100).
Groups can also experience the city’s emerging food and beverage scene, by taking part in a local dine-around with Fredericksburg Food Tours which can accommodate groups of all sizes across three to six different stops, including the acclaimed FOODE restaurant led by Top Chef contestant Joy Crump.
