One night. One fun adventure. One unforgettable launch to our new season of life.
Now that Don and I are both officially retired (finally!), it’s time to put our motto into action: Seldom a dull moment. We’re embracing spontaneous escapes, meaningful experiences, and as much family time as we can get.
So we kicked off our "Retired Rahns" tour with an easy overnight trip to Fredericksburg, Virginia, a town full of history, heart, and a whole lot of flavor. Bonus? We got to spend it with Carleigh and Elisabeth, spending time with them in their happy place is always an added bonus!!
🏨 Where We Stayed: The Publisher Hotel
This beautiful hotel blends modern luxury with historic roots—and we were smitten from the start. The Publisher sits on the old site of The Free Lance–Star newspaper, and the building itself is part tribute to Fredericksburg’s legacy and part boutique retreat. Think: marble bathrooms with rainfall showers, cozy sitting areas, and balconies for morning coffee chats. The location couldn’t be better, right at the edge of downtown and totally walkable.
It felt like the perfect metaphor for where we are in life: honoring the past, leaning into the future, and enjoying the view from a new chapter. The Publisher Hotel
📚 Shopping, Strolling & Scoops
Fredericksburg’s downtown is made for wandering. We let curiosity (and Carleigh) guide the afternoon. https://fxbg.com/ Some of our stops included:
Riverby Books – A cozy shop filled with vintage titles, literary treasures, and the perfect used-bookstore vibe.
🦪 Dinner at The Port: Oysteria & Brewery
Dinner at The Port Oysteria & Brewery was the perfect way to wind down and escape the heat. It’s Fredericksburg’s first modern raw bar and brewery combo, and it totally delivered. Fresh oysters, creative small plates, and beer brewed on-site made for a delicious, relaxed meal. Elisabeth joined us for dinner after her workday ended, and we had a great time…lots of laughs, stories and catching up. The Port
🐐 Goats & 🏓 Pickleball (Post-Dinner Shenanigans)
You’d think we’d call it a night after that meal, but not us! Seldom a dull moment, remember?
We walked off dinner and we ran into GOATS.
Yes, actual goats, courtesy of The Good Steward Farm, working their magic at Old Mill Trail. These little landscapers were on a mission, clearing invasive brush from steep hillsides the eco-friendly way. It’s part of Fredericksburg’s eco-friendly landscaping initiative, and honestly? It was equal parts adorable and impressive. Who knew goat-powered lawn care could be so fascinating?
From there, we headed to Kenmore Park for some impromptu pickleball. Nothing fancy, just a few paddles, a lot of laughter, and some wildly inconsistent serves. But playing under the evening sky, together, made it one of our favorite moments of the trip.
.
🍦 A Carl’s Classic
Our night ended the way all great Fredericksburg nights should, with a stop at Carl’s Frozen Custard. This family-run favorite has been scooping since 1947. We pulled up just in time to grab shakes and ice cream before they closed, and stood under the iconic neon sign like locals. Classic. Creamy. Worth the wait. Carl's
🍳 Breakfast at FOODE
The next morning we headed to FOODE, a Fredericksburg favorite known for bold flavors and an even bigger heart. Housed in the historic National Bank Building, this farm-to-table spot is all about community and comfort. From the coffee to the omelets and breakfast sandwiches, it was all delicious. Foode
🏛 Final Stop: Chatham Manor
Before heading home, we made one more stop: Chatham Manor, a peaceful spot overlooking the Rappahannock River with deep historical roots. This is one of Carleigh and Elisabeth’s favorite spots for “golden hour” with beautiful views and lots of opportunity for solitude and nature.
Built in 1771 by enslaved laborers under William Fitzhugh, Chatham has stood through centuries of American history, hosting George Washington, serving as a Civil War hospital, and later being restored during the Colonial Revival movement of the 1920s. Chatham Manor
Why We Loved It
This trip wasn’t about going far. It was about going deep, into connection, conversation, laughter, and history. One night was all it took to spark stories, make memories, and remind ourselves why we travel in the first place. This overnight adventure had been a Christmas present from Carleigh and Elisabeth, and we are grateful for the time we spent in their hometown!
Let’s Be Honest…
Sometimes a one-night escape is all it takes. You don’t have to plan a big trip to make big memories.
.png)
