Fodor's Expert Review Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center

In an 1816 building once used as a market and town hall, this museum's six permanent exhibits tell the story of the area from prehistoric times through the Revolutionary and Civil wars to the present. The museum acquired the historic bank building and added seven permanent exhibitions in the new space, as well as a learning center. The bank annex is home to an exhibit titled "Fredericksburg at War," which details the area's history from the Revolutionary War to World War II. The Civil War exhibits emphasize the civilian experience, although attention is also paid to the soldier. Military items on display include a Henry rifle, a sword with "CSA" carved into the basket, and a Confederate officer's coat. Most weapons and accessories were found on local battlefields. Other displays include dinosaur footprints from a nearby quarry, Native American artifacts, and an 18th-century plantation account book with an inventory of slaves. The first and third floors have changing exhibits.