360-degree view, worth the effort. Start early to avoid the heat of day.

Lodging choices in Fredericksburg include more than 350 B&Bs, which can be booked through a service that matches guests' needs and interests with the offerings and policies of each establishment. Many are child- and pet-friendly, as are some of the hotels.

I spent four days in and around historic Fredericksburg and honestly didn't have enough time to take it all in. The charming place still makes a wonderful weekend getaway... just know you will not be able to see everything on your list.

This town is truly Fahrvergnügen, a term many of us remember from older Volkswagen ad campaigns. It means "driving pleasure." And das ist gut.

Sidebar: Detour to Luckenbach

If you love music in a relaxed, informal setting, take a 10-minute excursion to Luckenbach, the place made famous by Waylon Jennings' and Willie Nelson's 1976 country music hit. Folks come in, buy a few beers, and listen to free live music every day. Once an actual town, the 10-acre complex features a 1908 dance hall, general store, bar, and outside stage. Everybody's somebody in Luckenbach, and the bare bones setting is one of those places you have to experience for yourself.