Harrisonburg Travel Guide

Harrisonburg is a lovely city in the state of Virginia. Located between multiple state parks and national forests, the area is perfect for outdoor activities. Harrisonburg is home to the a public research university, James Madison University and to the Eastern Mennonite University as well -- meaning there is a large student and academic population here.

Harrisonburg is a very popular place to visit, featuring point of interests, cultural centers, water parks, outdoor activities, and much more.

Things to Do in Harrisonburg

Plenty of amazing activities await visitors in Harrisonburg. The city features not only great outdoor activities but also lots of sights to see. One of the most famous landmarks in Harrisonburg is the White Oak Lavender Farm. The farm attracts many visitors each year and is wonderful when the lavenders are blooming. There's also a vineyard here so you can attend a great wine-tasting tour after wandering around the beautiful gardens.

Elsewhere, visit the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum to be transported into a magical land. Colorful trees, a tiny creek and wild animals are all in the area, making it picturesque to stroll through on a sunny afternoon. Equally beautiful is the Shenandoah National Park which is a portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains and perfect for hiking among the incredible scenery. There are additionally horse back riding tours on offer here.

Alternatively, for a truly unique experience, head to Luray Caverns, a stunning underground cave system where geological formations decorate the surroundings.

Best Places to Stay in Harrisonburg

The best area to stay in Harrisonburg is the north eastern region of the city where there are lots of restaurants, cafes, parks and other amenities available. Whether traveling with family and friends or as a couple, a vacation rental is a great way to establish a new home away from home. Both short term and long term rentals can be booked here, typically coming with a full kitchen, dining and living area, laundry room, and even a hot tub.

Best Time to Visit Harrisonburg

The best time to visit Harrisonburg is in August when you can fully enjoy the outdoors. The average summer temperature is 78 degrees from May until the end of September, while July is the hottest month. Average winter temperatures sit at 49 degrees and there is only a little rain in the area, again mostly in July.