Introduction
Harrisonburg, also known as “The Friendly City,” is situated in the Shenandoah Valley two hours south of Washington, D.C. During the school year, Harrisonburg is a college town, but doesn’t lose its charming small-town atmosphere. James Madison University, Eastern Mennonite University and Blue Ridge Community College are all within miles of one another.
Because of it’s location in the Shenandoah Valley, hiking, caving, biking and other outdoor activities are very popular. Farmer’s markets are not uncommon and there is a little something for everyone in the friendly city.
History
Harrisonburg is named after Thomas Harrison, a son of English settlers. Harrison delegated land for the public’s need and for the formation of a courthouse- that land is now downtown Harrisonburg. Formerly called Rocktown, Harrisonburg is home civil war memorials, like the Turner Ashby Monument on Turner Ashby Lane.
Know Before You Go
Restaurants in the downtown area of Harrisonburg are definitely worth a trip, but be prepared for one-way streets and difficult parking. Some restaurants have their own parking lots but most of the parking is parallel or hard to find.
Attractions
Edith J. Carrier Aboretum
Reddish Knob
Purcell Park
Massanutten Ski Resort
Restaurants
Dave’s Taverna--Crowded almost every night of the week, Dave’s Taverna serves primarily Greek and Mediterranean food. When the weather is warmer, patrons can sit on the roof with a view of Court Square. The restaurant and bar is also popular for the cheap pitchers during happy hour. Don’t miss out on the Gyros or chips at Dave’s.
Kline’s--A local favorite, Kline’s Dairy Bar has been selling homemade ice cream since 1943. Vanilla and chocolate are available everyday, but a new flavor, like pumpkin or peanut butter chocolate, is introduced each week. There are two locations: one on South Main Street and one Downtown.
Clementine Café--Clementine is known for its music scene, basement lounge with guitar hero tournaments and delicious menu. There are two bars in the restaurant. One is upstairs next to the stage and tables, while the other is located in the lounge downstairs.\\
Jess’s Quick Lunch--Another local favorite, Jess’s serves up hot dogs, hamburgers and fries. One is located on Route 33 while the other is located downtown near Court Square. The hot dog with everything (chili and onions) is a must-try and the menu is very reasonably priced.
Cuchi Guidos--One of the newest restaurants just to open in Harrisonburg, Cuchi Guidos gives off a New Jersey pizzeria vibe. The main items on the menu include steak and cheeses, pizza and panzarottis (similar to small calzones). The seating is limited but the food and atmosphere is different from other restauants in Harrisonburg.
Jack Browns--While this restaurant is a chain, the location and size makes this bar and burger place stand out. Located across the street from Dave’s Taverna, Jack Brown’s serves multiple types of beer and challenges customers to try them all. Each day of the week, a burger with a different theme is served with fries and special dipping sauce for the fries. The Harrisonburg location is very small- there is one bar with about a dozen bar stools, one table inside and a capacity of about 50 people. The fried Oreos are worth the trip to Jack Brown’s (along with the burgers) and are best served in threes!
Mr. J’s Bagels--A local chain with two locations and third on the way, Mr. J’s serves bagels and bagel sandwiches, pastries and coffee in a New York City atmosphere. The bagels are made fresh each day and there are endless toppings to choose from when creating a custom sandwich.
Dona Rosa--A small but authentic restaurant located on Route 33, Dona Rosa is popular among college students for their margaritas, and especially the fishbowl sized ones. The Mexican food is authentic and comes in large, but delicious, portions- especially the endless chips and salsa.
El Charro's--Also popular for it margaritas and authentic cuisine, El Charros is a hot also because of its proximity to one of the bars on South Main Street. The chips and guacamole are appetizing and the atmosphere is fun.
Lodging
Days Inn--Within walking distance to James Madison, the Days Inn is pet-friendly and affordable. Fans of the JMU Dukes football team will stay here and walk to the football stadium.
Courtyard Marriot--The Courtyard Marriot is located on Evelyn Byrd Avenue and I-81 and is ideal for walking.
Residence Inn Marriot--Newly built and pet friendly, the Residence Inn Marriott is popular among parents visiting their children and tourists visiting the city.
