In June of 2025, we found ourselves once again in Fredericksburg, Virginia, a town we have visited many times and never seem to grow tired of exploring. Each trip feels like opening a familiar book and discovering a page we somehow missed before. This time, we set our sights on the historic Rising Sun Tavern, eager to finally take the guided tour and learn more about one of the city’s most well-known colonial buildings.

We arrived in the morning right as the tavern opened, hoping to catch the first tour of the day. Unfortunately, that tour was already fully booked, which forced us to adjust our plans a bit. While it was slightly disappointing at first, we’ve learned over the years that moments like this often lead to unexpected discoveries, especially in a place as walkable and historic as Fredericksburg.

With some time to spare before the next tour, we decided to walk down to the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop. The walk took only about ten minutes, and the weather couldn’t have been better for a leisurely stroll through the historic streets. Passing old brick buildings and shaded sidewalks reminded us why this town feels so inviting and layered with history.

When we arrived at the apothecary, we discovered that it too was fully booked for tours. Even so, the walk wasn’t wasted. Standing outside the building and taking in its exterior gave us another appreciation for how preserved and authentic these sites remain. Sometimes just being in the presence of these historic structures is enough to spark curiosity and imagination.

After a short break and some people-watching, we made our way back to the Rising Sun Tavern. By then, it was time to purchase tickets for the second tour of the day. The tavern was beginning to buzz with other visitors, all clearly as eager as we were to step inside and hear the stories tied to the building.

Once the tour began, we were led into the main tavern area, where the guide immediately began sharing the history of the structure and its role in Fredericksburg’s colonial past. Hearing about how the tavern once served travelers, locals, and prominent figures brought the room to life. It was easy to imagine the sound of conversation, clinking mugs, and boots on wooden floors from centuries ago.

The guide explained how the building functioned not just as a tavern but as a social hub and lodging house for those passing through town. Learning about the daily routines, the challenges of travel, and the importance of taverns in early American communities added a lot of depth to the experience. Each detail helped paint a clearer picture of life in 18th-century Fredericksburg.

One of the highlights of the tour was being allowed to go upstairs to see the boarding rooms. Walking up the narrow staircase felt like stepping back in time. The rooms were modest and simple, yet they told powerful stories about the travelers who once rested there, some staying only a night, others for extended periods.

Standing in those upstairs rooms, we couldn’t help but feel a strong sense of atmosphere. The creaking floors, low ceilings, and aged walls carried a quiet presence that invited reflection. Whether you approach the site from a purely historical perspective or with curiosity about possible paranormal claims, the space leaves a lasting impression.

By the time the tour ended, we were glad our original plans had been delayed. The slower pace of the morning allowed us to explore more of Fredericksburg and fully appreciate the Rising Sun Tavern when the time finally came. It was another memorable stop in a town filled with history, and one that reminded us why we keep coming back year after year.