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A picturesque town in Texas Hill Country has caught National Geographic's attention.Fredericksburg, Texas, earned a spot on National Geographic's list of the "17 most charming small towns in the U.S.," with the publication encouraging travelers to plan a visit."Intrepid travelers and explorers are always looking for new places to visit and explore beyond the big cities in the United States," the article stated, ahead of listing the top spots.Fredericksburg, located between San Antonio and Austin, was chosen because of its "evolving food culture with German roots."Founded by German immigrants in 1846, Fredericksburg embodies a surprising duality between Texan and German cultures," National Geographic states. "On the thoroughfare, you’ll find the Pioneer Museum, which tells the story of the German farmers who originally settled the town. Many of these settlers’ descendants still live in Fredericksburg."Other towns that made the ranking include Garden City, Utah, Salida, Colorado, Solvang, California and Bisbee, Arizona.Fredericksburg is also known for its wineriesIn addition to its German heritage, the destination is known for its award-winning wineries, thriving culinary scene, scenic beauty and a historic Main Street.The Fredericksburg area and Gillespie County are now home to over 75 wineries, vineyards and tasting rooms, while the Texas Hill Country boasts over 100 and the state of Texas features over 400, according to the town's tourism department.Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on X, natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma on Facebook'
