One of the best-kept secrets in the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is the home of James Madison University. While it could easily fall into the “college town” mold, Harrisonburg has instead become a leader in supporting local business, outdoor sports, and community ideals. Harrisonburg welcomes visitors to easily explore the city center, with tons of free parking, a walkable downtown area, and boutique shops filled with locally made goods, food, and just about anything else you’re looking for. Follow in our footsteps and spend 72 hours vacationing in the charming town of Harrisonburg!
—TRIP PLANNING OVERVIEW—
—FRIDAY—
Begin your day just down the road from Massanutten Resort at Thunderbird Café
Drive back to Massanutten Resort and spend the morning exploring the mountain.
Once you finish up on the mountain, turn your sights to Ruby’s Arcade & Restaurant.
Walk off that meal with a trip to the Friendly Fermenter, just a few blocks away from Ruby’s.
Visit another brewery upon leaving the Friendly Fermenter, like Pale Fire Brewing Co.
Make a quick stop by the Hugo Kohl Jewelry Shop, just across the walkway from Pale Fire.
If you’ve made reservations, walk right around the corner to Rocktown Kitchen for dinner.
—SATURDAY—
There are few better ways to begin a Saturday than with an incredibly relaxing breakfast, and the best place to do that in Harrisonburg would be Heritage Bakery & Café.
Walk over to the Harrisonburg Farmer’s Market and peruse locally made goods and produce harvested from nearby farms.
Ready for a little excitement? Head over to Shenandoah Bicycle Company and pick up a mountain bike (reserve ahead of time, as they often run out of rentals on weekends) to explore the Rocktown Trails at Hillandale Park.
Return the bikes to Shenandoah Bicycle Company and consider what you’re craving for lunch. If you’re in the mood for Mexican, Magnolia’s Tacos & Tequila Restaurant is where you should be. For a taste of the best fresh flavors sourced from the Shenandoah Valley, consider eating at Food.Bar.Food.
Make a pit stop at White Oak Lavender Farm to sip wine and walk the lavender field.
Grab dinner at the base of Massanutten Resort a tLog Cabin Barbecue.
—SUNDAY—
Eat breakfast at the Campfire Café.
While you might be in the mountains, you can still experience a coastal vibe with a stop in the resort’s indoor water park.
To find more ideas while traveling to Harrisonburg & Rockingham County, head over to Virginia is for Lovers blog.
Source: Click here to read the original story by Patricia Keppel
