6 Fun and Quirky Fredericksburg Attractions

Several new establishments are popping up in Fredericksburg, and they’re putting a quirky twist on the usual, whether it’s a bookstore, taphouse, gift shop, café, or hotel.

Tales and Tails

This independent bookstore is going to the dogs — in a good way. At Tales and Tails, browse the usual genres among dog-themed décor. In the section dedicated to all things canine, you’ll find dog astrology, a cookbook with recipes Fido will love, and stories like Marley & Me and Because of Winn-Dixie. Reader’s best friend can hang out on the patio, and the staff can take your coffee, snack or book order. 1010 Charles St., Fredericksburg

The Barking Barley

The bright yellow door at the Barking Barley beckons you inside, but your pooch will want to hang out in the sizable fenced-in dog park parallel to this recently opened taphouse. For their human patrons, they host trivia night every Thursday and offer hot dog combo meal deals on Wiener Wednesday. Check the rules for entry, and grab a $10 day pass or consider a membership. 1515 Olde William St., Fredericksburg

Possum-bilities

The possibilities for unique gifts, delightful local art, and possum sightings are endless at Possum-bilities. Many come to this two-story gift shop and gallery to visit the Awesome Possumz Ambassadors. Under a bundle of blankets, staff will reveal a dozing possum (they’re nocturnal) for gentle petting. Once you’ve gotten your fill of the real deal, find possums adorning nearly every greeting card, tote bag, notebook, and more. 211 William St., Second Floor, Fredericksburg

Mug Exchange

Just like a Little Free Library, this mug exchange in front of Sophia Street Studios is open to anyone wishing to swap one cherished mug for another. Fredericksburg’s installation joins many inspired by the first in Portland, Oregon. Bring a mug to share, select one to take home, replace your own with a neighbor’s or simply come to admire the artistic and community spirit. 1104 Sophia St., Fredericksburg

Smugglers Cafe

Step out of the street and out of this world at Smugglers Cafe. Once inside the spaceship, you’ll be greeted with a hearty “Welcome, travelers!” and plenty of talk of smuggled cargo. The cargo you’ll want to make off with, of course, is half-pound cookies. Flavors include cookies and cream, M&M ,and coffee cake. 604 Caroline St., Fredericksburg

The Publisher

The former site of The Free Lance-Star, Fredericksburg’s daily newspaper, The Publisher has embraced its history. The lobby, hallways, and rooms are decorated with art from Fredericksburg’s past: aerial views of the city, old-timey photographs of the city’s streets, and artistic renderings of folks reading newspapers. 711 William St., Fredericksburg

Feature image courtesy Visit Fredericksburg