27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Harrisonburg, VA
Looking for unique activities in Harrisonburg, Virginia? Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, this guide highlights the 27 best and most exciting things to do to fully embrace the charm of this vibrant city.
Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich historical tapestry. A key part of Virginia’s scenic landscape, Harrisonburg offers a refreshing mix of outdoor adventure, cultural landmarks, and innovative local businesses, all within a close-knit, welcoming community.
As the home of James Madison University, this dynamic city seamlessly blends youthful energy with deep-rooted traditions. From exploring the art-filled streets of its downtown district to hiking the stunning trails of the Massanutten Storybook Trail, Harrisonburg is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation, education, and adventure.
27 Best And Fun Things To Do In Harrisonburg, VA (2024)
1. Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center
Start exploring Harrisonburg at Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center, a notable house converted into a visitor center to facilitate educational things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for visitors.
The visitor center possesses exhibits about Harrisonburg’s past and the nearby area, together with a gift shop vending local merchandise.
Going to the Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center allows visitors to learn about the region’s history, survey the significant houses, and buy special keepsakes.
Address: 212 S Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
2. Artworks Gallery
Art lovers seeking unique activities in Harrisonburg, VA, for the weekend, can stop by Artworks Gallery, a lively and high-spirited art area.
The gallery boasts a changing array of modern art, displaying the works of gifted, emerging, and established artists, as impressive exhibitions and events are organized to provide chances to unite with the local art community.
Get absorbed in the world of art, find new and compelling works, and pledge support for the booming art scene in Harrisonburg.
Address: 131 W. Grace Street, 131 Chesapeake Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, United States.
3. Court Square Theater
Catching a view of live performances and movies at Court Square Theater, a performing arts attraction in a notable 1920s -1970s building is among the most entertaining things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, at night.
The theater boasts a blend of live shows, including theater, music, comedy, and dance, with independent, documentaries, and distinguished movies.
Paying a visit to Court Square Theater offers the option to enjoy a plethora of artistic adventures in a private and noteworthy setting.
Address: 41-F Court Square, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
4. James Madison University
Visiting James Madison University, a general research university offering undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields, is one of the educational things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for all ages.
The school prides itself on a beautiful campus within the Shenandoah Valley, strong academic programs, and a lively student life with many clubs and organizations.
Explore the campus, learn about the school’s history, indulge in a lecture or sporting event, or share in the warm and vibrant ambiance.
Address: 800 S Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, United States.
5. Virginia Quilt Museum
Art lovers seeking unique things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, this week can browse exhibits and honor the art and cultural history of quilting at the Virginia Quilt Museum.
The 1995-established museum has changing exhibits displaying heirlooms, and modern, and art bedcovers with diverse styles and methods.
Address: 2328 Silver Lake Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States
6. Massanutten Regional Library
Massanutten Regional Library is a public library system serving Harrisonburg City, Rockingham, and Page Counties.
To promote a plethora of educational things to do near Massanutten, VA, for all ages, the library houses books, ebooks, computers, internet access, audiobooks, and magazines, with programs and events.
Visiting Massanutten Regional Library allows you to borrow books and other resources, attend free events, utilize general computers, and go through an inviting community space.
Address: 174 S Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
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7. Lakeside Golf Club
Booking a tee time at Lakeside Golf Club, a semi-private golf course where people can play rounds of golf is one of the exciting things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, this weekend.
With 9 holes, 3,179 yards, 128 slopes, and par 36, the golf club has a clubhouse with a restaurant, a pro shop, and practice facilities like a driving range and putting green.
A weekend at Lakeside Golf Club presents an opportunity to enjoy a round of golf on a panoramic course, hone your skills, mingle with other golfers, and grab a bite to eat.
Address: 4101 Shen Lake Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
8. A Dream Come True Playground
Spend time at A Dream Come True Playground, a free playground offering fun things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for kids.
The playground has different play areas for younger and older children, with special facilities like a rock wall, rainbow arches, a hammock swing, and a “Liberty Swing” for disabled children.
At A Dream Come True Playground, kids can enjoy an immersive, safe, and fun environment where they can play, explore, and mingle with other children.
Address: 1050 Neff Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States
9. Massanutten Storybook Trail
One of the fun things to do in Harrisonburg, VA is to visit the Massanutten Storybook Trail and get the chance to connect with natural beauty and explore other outdoor recreational activities.
The out-and-back dog-friendly trail features a spanning size of 7 miles, 43 feet elevation gain, a paved terrain, and a duration of 30-45 minutes for hiking enthusiasts.
Visitors to the attraction are offered eye-catching sights of large and interesting rocks for you to scramble up, on, over, and around, and booming views of the trails making it worth a stop.
Address: Virginia 22835, United States.
10. Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
One of the most unique things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for nature enthusiasts is to tour Edith J. Carrier Arboretum, a botanical garden with a myriad array of plants and a beautiful natural environment.
This attraction boasts diverse gardens such as a rose garden, a woodland garden, and a pollinator garden; walking trails, a pond, and educational presentations.
Get the chance to dig into the beauty of nature, discover more about various plant species, and relish a relaxed outdoor adventure.
Address: 780 University Blvd, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, United States.
11. Explore More Discovery Museum
Families seeking fun things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for kids can stop by Explore More Discovery Museum, an interactive science museum with a fun and educational venture.
The museum prides itself on assorted practical displays, such as a water play area, a dinosaur exhibition, a giant bubble machine, and a planetarium.
At Explore More Discovery Museum, you can explore the marvels of science and technology, scintillate your child’s fantasy, and make endless memories together.
Address: 150 S Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
12. Shenandoah Heritage Market
Browsing the Shenandoah Heritage Market, a shopping attraction with a variety of local sellers retailing handcrafted works, antiques, and fresh produce, is one of the cheap things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, today.
The heritage commercial hub lets shoppers support local businesses, discover amazing gifts, and share in the energetic way of life of the Shenandoah Valley.
Address: 121 Carpenter Lane, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
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13. Harrisonburg Farmers Market
Experience unique things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, this week at Harrisonburg Farmers Market, a bustling weekly market where local farmers and retailers sell fresh produce, handmade goods, and other local commodities.
At the market, a vast array of items, including fruits, fresh vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and artisanal crafts.
Visitors to the market can sustain local businesses, savor tasty and fresh food, and partake in the high-spirited community environment.
Address: 228 S Liberty Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
14. Brethren & Mennonite Heritage Center
Dropping by Brethren & Mennonite Heritage Center, a classical and cultural hub should make your checklist of must-do things in Harrisonburg, VA, for history lovers
The center shelters exhibits, artifacts, and hands-on arrays displaying the history and traditions of the Brethren and Mennonite neighborhood.
Learn about the wealthy heritage of these religious groups, examine their contributions to society, and acquire a more in-depth understanding of their significance and ideas.
Address: 1921 Heritage Center Way, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
15. Rolling Hills Antique Mall
Shopping at Rolling Hills Antique Mall, a famous terminus for antique lovers and collectors is one of the cheapest things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, this weekend.
The mall houses antique and vintage commodities, such as furniture, collectibles, jewelry, and home decor.
Survey a treasure trove of special and award-winning items, find hidden treasures, and immerse yourself in the history and charm of the past.
Address: 779 E Market Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States
16. White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple WOLF Vineyard
Adults seeking exciting things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, with friends can spend time at White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple WOLF Vineyard, a scenic destination with a special experience.
The vineyard has a lavender farm, a vineyard, a gift shop, and a tasting room, giving a chance to enjoy lavender-infused products, wine tastings, and panoramic walks through the lavender fields.
White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple WOLF Vineyard allows adults to absorb the beauty of nature, learn about lavender and winemaking, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Address: 2644 Cross Keys Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
17. Beards & Broads Harrisonburg – Pizzeria & Axe Throwing
As one of the fun things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for adults, Beards & Broads Harrisonburg is a special destination providing a blend of tasty pizza and thrilling axe throwing.
With a cozy atmosphere, various pizza toppings, and committed axe-throwing lanes, individuals and groups can savor tasty pizza, challenge their friends to an axe-throwing competition, and unwind in a warm environment.
Address: 1971 Evelyn Byrd Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
18. Ruby’s Arcade
Family-friendly things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, with kids, await you at Ruby’s Arcade, a widely-recognized family-friendly entertainment destination.
The game hub houses an array of arcade games, including standard favorites and contemporary hits, as well as redemption games where you can win tickets to trade for rewards.
A trip to Ruby’s Arcade allows families, friends, and groups to have fun, challenge themselves with thrilling games, and win distinctions to take home.
Address: 165 S Main Street #100b, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
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19. Back Home on the Farm
Unearth many unique things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for visitors and residents at Back Home on the Farm, an alluring bed and breakfast providing a distinctive and tranquil country escape.
This destination makes ready cozy guest rooms with rural decor, a tasty home-prepared breakfast served daily, and a stunning farm environment.
Back Home on the Farm permits you to share in the serenity of pastoral life, dig into the local area, and appreciate the warm friendliness of your hosts.
Address: 2915 Willow Run Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22802, United States
20. Elevation Sports (KnockerBall Harrisonburg)
Get your weekend booming at Elevation Sports, a fun and exciting sports destination providing the most entertaining things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for visitors and residents alike.
The arena features special and thrilling activities like bubble soccer, combat archery, and Nerf wars, thus, allowing people of all ages to have a blast with loved ones, get some exercise, and have memorable events together.
Address: 1925 E Market Street Ste 302, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States
21. Funkys Skate Center
Funkys Skate Center is a well-known indoor skating rink with a vast skating area, arcade games, a snack bar, a DJ playing music, and other fun things to do in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Skaters of all skill levels can have fun skating, playing arcade games, relishing delectable snacks, and moving their bodies to great music.
Address: 100 Miller Circus, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
22. Escapism Escape Rooms
Discover thrilling and interesting things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for families at Escapism Escape Rooms, an exciting escape room adventure ideal for a family time-out or friends gathering.
The escape room attraction presents diverse themed rooms that question players’ ability to solve puzzles and riddles to exit within a set time limit.
Get the chance to put your problem-solving skills to the test, build confidence through teamwork, and share in a fun and absorbing experience.
Address: 29 W Water Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
23. Forbes Center for the Performing Arts
Among the numerous indoor things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, at night is paying a visit to the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts, a recognized performing arts center
The art center possesses a cutting-edge concert auditorium, a theater, and a black box theater, which organizes different performances like concerts, plays, and dance presentations.
At Forbes Center for the Performing Arts, you can encounter distinctive performances, support local artists, and admire a bustling cultural ambiance..
Address: 147 Warsaw Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
24. John C Wells Planetarium
John C Wells Planetarium is a notable educational complex with a state-of-the-art dome theater that holds astronomical shows and exhibitions, and other educational things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, this weekend.
Visitors can learn about the stars, planets, and galaxies through engaging encounters, explore the wonders of the universe, acquire a more in-depth knowledge of astronomy, and appreciate intriguing educational experiences.
Address: 91 E Grace Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, United States.
25. withSimplicity
withSimplicity is a natural beauty and wellness shop featuring an array of handmade skincare and cosmetic products, all made with top-tier, natural ingredients to cater to nice activities in Harrisonburg, VA.
With European-style facials and sugaring services, withSimplicity lets adults find and buy clean, cruelty-free beauty products, engage in comfortable facial therapies, and support a local, endurable business.
Address: 77 E Market Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
26. Brothers Craft Brewing
Explore Brothers Craft Brewing, a family-owned brewery providing fun things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, for adults.
Housed in a transformed Coca-Cola bottling plant, the brewery produces root beers and practical small batches, concentrated on grade and community participation.
Sample their beers in a rural-style taproom, appreciate live music and events, and share in a brewery that prioritizes its products and customers.
Address: 800 N Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22802, United States.
27. Heritage Bakery & Café
Couples seeking romantic things to do in Harrisonburg, VA, at night can drop by Heritage Bakery & Café, a fascinating bakery and café made popular by its appetizing pastries, fresh bread, and coffee.
The bakery and cafe pride itself on providing a comfortable ambiance, sociable staff, and complete menu alternatives, breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea inclusive.
Relish the opportunity to taste the flavors of homemade fares, appreciate a pacifying meal, and partake in the generosity and hospitality of the local district.
Address: 212 S Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, United States.
Plan your visit to Harrisonburg, VA
Harrisonburg, Virginia offers a plethora of experiences ranging from its rich cultural heritage to its diverse scenic parks and welcoming community. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, this charming city has something for everyone.
Plan your visit and discover the unique attractions and vibrant atmosphere that Harrisonburg has to offer. Safe travels!
