35 Things to Do in Harrisonburg

Harrisonburg offers a delightful combination of history, culture, and natural beauty that attracts travelers of all interests. With a welcoming downtown, scenic trails, and educational landmarks, the city provides diverse opportunities for exploration.

Harrisonburg’s charm lies in its seamless balance between lively urban spaces and tranquil landscapes. It’s a destination that promises memorable moments for everyone who comes to explore.

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is a beautiful escape into the natural world. It features a 125-acre hardwood forest and two miles of mostly shaded walking paths, offering a serene experience for visitors. This botanical garden provides a setting for students and locals alike to unwind and explore the various plant species thriving within.

This arboretum is not just for quiet reflection; it’s perfect for photography, birdwatching, and leisurely strolls. It’s a gentle reminder of nature’s beauty nestled within the campus’s energy, providing a unique blend of academic activity and peaceful retreat.

Explore More Discovery Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Explore More Discovery Museum is a space for young learners. Children can dive into hands-on experiences that foster creativity and adventure. From constructing elaborate creations in the maker space to exploring the world of science and technology, there’s never a dull moment.

The museum conducts various workshops and educational programs, enabling children to learn in a fun environment. Each exhibit is designed to stimulate young imaginations and encourage experiential learning through play. This non-profit organization is dedicated to enriching the minds of young visitors, making it a must-visit for families seeking an engaging day out.

James Madison University

Our Rating: 9.1/10

James Madison University is known for its stimulating art scene, with the artWorks Gallery exhibiting works by both graduate and undergraduate students. This gallery provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the creativity and skill of emerging artists in a vibrant educational environment.

With over 400 student clubs and organizations, JMU showcases its diverse and inclusive community. Visitors can engage with a multicultural tapestry of events and performances that provide a glimpse into the vibrant student life on campus.

Harrisonburg Farmers Market

Our Rating: 9.0/10

The Harrisonburg Farmers Market has a lively scene where visitors can explore a diverse selection of fresh produce and artisanal crafts. Shoppers can engage directly with local farmers and artisans, discovering organic vegetables, homemade jams, and intricately crafted items.

The market serves as a meeting place, fostering a connection between the community and its agricultural roots. It’s a delightful stop for anyone keen on supporting local businesses while enjoying a great, open-air market atmosphere.

Shenandoah National Park

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Visitors to Shenandoah National Park can go on the iconic Skyline Drive, offering over 100 miles of stunning views and opportunities to spot deer or black bears. Old Rag Mountain is another popular destination, featuring a challenging trail with rock scrambles. This hike rewards adventurers with panoramic vistas from its summit, making the effort worth every step.

Hawksbill Mountain stands as the park’s highest peak at over 4,000 feet. A trek along the Upper Hawksbill Trail offers a relatively short 2.2-mile round trip hike to its summit. The trail provides striking views, especially vivid during the fall months when the foliage transforms into brilliant colors.

Massanutten Resort

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Massanutten Resort has a diverse range of activities within its sprawling 6,000-acre grounds. Families enjoy the indoor/outdoor water park, complete with slides and wave pools, making it a year-round favorite. Golf enthusiasts can play on two 18-hole courses that cater to all skill levels, boasting beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

In winter, the resort transforms into a skiing destination, featuring slopes for beginners and advanced skiers. Visitors seeking relaxation can unwind at the day spa, which offers various treatments and massages designed to refresh and rejuvenate.

Heritage Bakery & Café

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Heritage Bakery & Café is known for its homemade pastries, breakfast, and lunch selections. Guests can indulge in treats crafted with passion by a mother-daughter duo. The café operates in a cozy space within the Hardesty-Higgins House Visitors Center, adding to the quaint atmosphere.

Visitors enjoy delicious gluten-free and dairy-free options, ensuring everyone finds something to savor. Heritage Bakery & Café provides an inviting space with a clean, green patio, perfect for sipping coffee.

Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Situated in one of the city’s oldest buildings, visitors can immerse themselves in various attractions. It includes the Valley Turnpike Museum, which presents captivating stories about the transformation of the local transportation corridor. The house hosts the Rocktown Gift Shoppe, a must-visit for unique souvenirs.

Inside, the atmosphere is welcoming, with experienced travel specialists ready to provide advice and tips for your journey. For those interested in Civil War history, the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Civil War Orientation Center within the building offers insightful perspectives on the region’s past.

Virginia Quilt Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Virginia Quilt Museum is a gem for anyone interested in textiles and history. This museum offers a peek into Virginia’s rich quilting heritage with its rotating exhibits of both antique and contemporary quilts.

Visitors can explore the intricate patterns and expertly crafted designs, each quilt telling its own unique story. The museum provides an educational experience, emphasizing the cultural and social significance of quilting in Virginia.

The Joshua Wilton House

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Joshua Wilton House gives a blend of elegance and history. This Victorian home doubles as a fine dining restaurant and a charming bed and breakfast. Guests can enjoy exquisite meals crafted by skilled chefs, featuring local ingredients. Each of the five historic inn rooms provides a unique stay with antique furnishings and modern comforts.

Its proximity to James Madison University and downtown Harrisonburg adds to its appeal. Tourists and local visitors often explore the lush Chef’s Garden and frequent the Wilton Art Gallery inside. The venue is also a sought-after location for weddings and private events, providing a picturesque backdrop for any occasion.

Kline’s Dairy Bar

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Since 1943, Kline’s Dairy Bar has been known for its custard-style ice cream, made fresh daily. Visitors can enjoy classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, along with a rotating weekly special.

The rich, creamy texture of the ice cream is a highlight for many. Beyond the ice cream, Kline’s menu features a variety of treats, including milkshakes, sundaes, and banana splits. Each location crafts its ice cream daily, ensuring freshness.

The Golden Pony

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Golden Pony is known for its eclectic mix of dining and entertainment. Patrons can indulge in scratch-made American dishes, featuring pizza, burgers, and inspired cocktails. With pinball machines and an inviting outdoor patio, there is plenty to enjoy.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the gallery space, while music lovers can revel in live performances on a professional sound stage. The venue hosts a variety of musical events, including live bands during the week and DJs on weekends.

Magpie Diner

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Magpie Diner is a standout spot where culinary tradition meets community gathering. Housed in a former 1950s tire service station, the diner radiates a historical charm while offering a contemporary dining experience. Visitors can indulge in hearty breakfasts and lunches crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Their weekend brunch attracts a lively crowd, making it an ideal place for a relaxed yet bustling morning.

Happiness is a plate of their signature dishes, like fluffy pancakes or crispy fried chicken on a fluffy biscuit, paired with a warm cup of freshly brewed coffee. The diner’s warm and inviting ambiance makes it a great spot for catching up with friends or simply enjoying some quiet time with a book.

Bluestone Vineyard

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Bluestone Vineyard is a noteworthy destination for wine lovers. This vineyard offers a setting as captivating as its wines. Visitors can explore a variety of wines that the vineyard is nationally recognized for. The tasting room provides a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a meticulously crafted glass of wine while soaking in the surrounding natural beauty.

Events and tours are often available, offering educational insights into the winemaking process for curious visitors. Bluestone Vineyard is a place where wine enthusiasts and casual tourists alike can savor award-winning flavors amid a serene landscape.

Brothers Craft Brewing

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Brothers Craft Brewing is an inviting destination for craft beer enthusiasts. Known for its creative range of brews, the brewery offers both production scale and smaller experimental batches. The taproom is a cozy spot where visitors can enjoy a pint or a flight, making it perfect for a laid-back afternoon or an evening with friends.

The brewery actively participates in community events, such as the “Casks for a Cause,” which partners with local non-profits. This adds an impactful social element to the fun of sampling well-crafted beers.

Rocktown Kitchen

Our rating: 9.2/10

Rocktown Kitchen emphasizes a farm-to-table approach, sourcing fresh, local ingredients to craft its American cuisine. The menu features a range of dishes, from hearty entrees to lighter fare, all prepared with an emphasis on quality and flavor.

The restaurant’s interior offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, with rustic-chic decor that complements its culinary philosophy. Patrons often praise the attentive service and the thoughtfully curated wine and craft beer selections.

Clementine

Our rating: 8.8/10

Clementine has a diverse menu that blends American and international flavors, catering to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

The restaurant is housed in a historic building that once served as the Strand Theater, adding a unique charm to its ambiance. Beyond its culinary offerings, Clementine is a cultural hub, hosting live music, trivia nights, and art exhibitions, making it a spot for both dining and entertainment.

You Made It! Pottery

Our Rating: 8.7/10

You Made It! Pottery is an inviting and creative space located in the historic downtown district of Harrisonburg, Virginia. This studio offers a hands-on opportunity for everyone to engage in painting pottery, fusing glass, and working with clay. The family-owned venue provides helpful guidance and tips, ensuring a satisfying artistic experience.

Art enthusiasts and novices alike can enjoy the chance to produce customized jewelry, decorative dishes, and vibrant sun catchers. With no prior art experience necessary, guests can walk in and start creating their masterpieces.

Pale Fire Brewing Co.

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Pale Fire Brewing Co. is a delightful spot for those who appreciate good beer and relaxed atmospheres. This brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, such as Irish and Pale ales, Double IPAs, and American-Belgo-Style Ale.

Their spacious taproom hosts local music events, creating a lively and engaging environment. Visitors can enjoy casual games with friends or unwind on their comfortable patio.

Purcell Park

Our rating: 8.7/10

Purcell Park is a sprawling 67-acre recreational area ideal for families, athletes, and nature lovers. The park boasts three softball fields, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and an expansive playground, making it a hub for outdoor fun.

A 1.5-mile walking trail winds through the park, while the Bluestone Trail connects visitors to additional cycling and walking opportunities. Picnickers can enjoy shaded shelters, while children are captivated by the Kids Castle playground, which is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation to include exciting features like zip lines and tricycle tracks.

Harrisonburg Fire Department Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Harrisonburg Fire Department Museum provides a unique glimpse into the city’s firefighting history. This museum displays a fascinating collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia. Visitors can enjoy exploring exhibits that showcase historical firefighting equipment and clothing, providing insight into the evolution of fire safety.

The museum also features a Wall of Fame honoring local firefighting heroes, adding a personal touch to the visit. It’s a compelling stop for anyone interested in local history or firefighting, offering an informative and engaging experience for all ages.

Ten Thousand Villages

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Ten Thousand Villages is a unique shopping destination that offers a wide array of fair trade, artisan-crafted goods. Visitors can explore a rich variety of home decor, personal accessories, and gift items. Each piece tells a story, crafted by skillful hands from over 30 developing countries. Shoppers can indulge in the rich, global selection of coffee, tea, and chocolate, making it an ideal spot for discovering new flavors.

The store emphasizes ethical shopping, ensuring that every purchase supports sustainable development and empowers artisans around the world. The inviting atmosphere and diverse collection make it a must-visit for those interested in meaningful shopping experiences.

Rocktown Trails

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Rocktown Trails beckons adventurers with a trail system crafted for all skill levels. With pathways designed for mountain biking, running, and hiking, this spot promises something for every outdoor enthusiast. The trails are marked by colors indicating their difficulty, which makes it easy to tailor an experience to personal skills and preferences.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of terrain that challenges even seasoned bikers or offers a gentle escape for those seeking a leisurely walk. The collaborative efforts of volunteers and the International Mountain Bicycling Association ensure that the trails are both sustainable and enjoyable for everyone.

Oasis Fine Art & Craft

Our Rating: 8.8/10

Oasis Fine Art & Craft, located in Harrisonburg’s historic downtown, gives an enchanting experience for art lovers. This artists’ cooperative features creations from around 40 local talents, showcasing a range of visual art and crafts. Visitors can admire and purchase exquisite pieces, each reflecting unique creativity and skill.

The gallery is not just a place to view art; it invites guests to immerse themselves in the region’s cultural heartbeat. Open seven days a week, it provides ample opportunity to engage with the art scene.

Bridgeforth Stadium

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Home to the James Madison Dukes, this stadium provides fans with exciting game days, complete with spirited performances from one of the best college bands around. Tailgating in the adjoining lots creates a lively pre-game atmosphere, bringing together alumni, students, and local residents.

Inside the stadium, spectators enjoy excellent views from all seats, ensuring everyone can catch pivotal plays in detail. The design of the stadium makes it easy to navigate, adding convenience to the excitement. On game days, the energy is infectious, promising an exhilarating experience for all who attend.

Let There Be Rock School

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Let There Be Rock School is a dynamic music lesson facility and gathering place for rock enthusiasts of all ages. Here, individuals from age five to adults can engage in learning various instruments, including guitar, bass, drums, keys, and vocals. The school offers an exciting chance for students to collaborate in band settings, playing iconic rock tracks and crafting original pieces.

With the inclusion of DJ and record engineering courses, it provides a comprehensive rock education, making it a must-visit for those looking to dive into music creation and performance. The school promises a thrilling musical journey, offering opportunities to connect with peers who share similar passions, creating a welcoming and inspiring environment.

Court Square Theater

Our Rating: 8.3/10

As a program of the Arts Council of the Valley, this independent cinema and theater frequently presents a mix of entertaining films and live performances. Visitors can enjoy everything from classic movies to community theater productions, enhancing the cultural scene of downtown Harrisonburg.

The theater also hosts special events that feature local and regional acts, contributing to its lineup. These performances often include concerts, stand-up comedy shows, and theatrical performances, giving an eclectic mix and ensuring there is something for everyone.

Hillandale Park

Our Rating: 8.8/10

Hillandale Park in Harrisonburg offers a delightful urban escape with a variety of activities. Visitors can explore the extensive network of paved, gravel, and dirt trails, perfect for hiking, walking, or mountain biking.

The park’s renowned Rocktown Trails offer unique challenges for cyclists, thanks to a design in collaboration with the IMBA and SVBC. Families will enjoy the spacious picnic areas and playgrounds, ideal for a leisurely day out.

JMU Mineral Museum

Our Rating: 8.4/10

The JMU Mineral Museum houses over 600 crystals and gemstones from around the world. Each exhibit is accompanied by detailed descriptions that explain the geological significance and unique properties of the minerals on display.

Visitors can marvel at colorful gems and learn about their formation processes. The museum is educational and visually captivating, making it an ideal stop for geology enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

A Dream Come True Playground

Our Rating: 8.7/10

A Dream Come True Playground is a standout destination for families seeking fun and inclusivity. This playground caters to children of all abilities. It features specialized equipment for two age groups: 2-5 years and 5-12 years, ensuring age-appropriate exploration and enjoyment. Rainbow arches and a rock climbing structure promise endless adventure for kids.

The Liberty Swing is a notable feature, offering wheelchair-accessible play. Safety is prioritized with a cushy surface that reduces the impact of falls. The playground also provides shaded areas, pathways, a pavilion, and family comfort stations, making it an ideal place for extended play sessions.

Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint

Our rating: 9.0/10

Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint is renowned for its unique take on the classic American burger. Specializing in 100% American Wagyu beef burgers, the menu features creative options like the “Greg Brady,” topped with mac n’ cheese and Martin’s BBQ potato chips, and the “Elvis,” adorned with peanut butter, mayo, applewood smoked bacon, and American cheese.

The establishment also offers an extensive selection of craft beers, with over 100 varieties available. The casual, laid-back atmosphere, complemented by friendly staff, makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Gift & Thrift

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Gift & Thrift in Harrisonburg is a place full of secondhand finds that cater to every taste and need. Visitors can explore a dynamic selection of gently used clothing, furniture, and unique collectibles. Their inventory changes frequently, providing a fresh shopping experience with every visit.

The store is part of the MCC Thrift Network, supporting various charitable initiatives. Shoppers can feel good knowing their purchases contribute to important causes. This spot is a must-visit for those who enjoy the thrill of discovering hidden gems and one-of-a-kind items at bargain prices.

Green Valley Book Fair

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Green Valley Book Fair is a must-visit destination for book lovers in Harrisonburg. Set in a massive building, it offers over 500,000 books, ranging from classic literature to contemporary bestsellers. Shoppers can enjoy discounts of up to 90% off retail prices, making it an enticing spot for both casual readers and avid collectors.

Visitors can browse through a diverse selection of over 30,000 titles across more than 60 categories, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Open several times throughout the year, the fair creates a lively atmosphere that invites explorers to spend hours discovering new stories.

Friendly City Food Co-op

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Friendly City Food Co-op is a community-owned store that showcases the best of local and organic products. Shoppers can engage in a culinary experience, from selecting fresh produce and bulk spices to enjoying deli offerings and grab-and-go meals. The co-op also hosts community events and classes in its café, providing a full calendar of activities that range from culinary workshops to arts and crafts sessions like wreath-making.

Participating in these events offers a unique opportunity to connect with locals while enhancing your skills. They pride themselves on their partnerships with local farmers, ensuring that the shelves are stocked with the freshest and most sustainable products available.

White Oak Lavender Farm

Our Rating: 8.5/10

White Oak Lavender Farm offers an enchanting experience for those visiting. Guests can enjoy a guided tour of the farm, which provides insights into growing and processing lavender. Visitors are invited to wander through endless rows of fragrant lavender fields, which makes for a relaxing and visually stunning outing.

The farm also features a Discovery Area, a walking labyrinth, and a pond for visitors to explore. Additionally, the Purple WOLF Vineyard offers wine tastings in a modern tasting room, providing a delightful complement to the fragrant lavender experience.

Harrisonburg provides a variety of memorable experiences to all visiting guests. The city’s charm and welcoming spirit leave a lasting impression on all who explore it. Harrisonburg invites travelers to return and discover even more of its unique appeal.