The Harrisonburg Downtown Historic District encompasses 164 historically significant buildings that represent nearly every aspect of the city’s development from 1779 to 1955. This timespan offers a view that extends well beyond a single historical episode. Harrisonburg is also located within the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District, connecting the city’s history with the region’s Civil War history.
City and Regional History
The Civil War Orientation Center brings several layers of this regional history to light. A large map of the Shenandoah Valley shows the sites of the region’s most important battles, while a timeline covers the Civil War in the Valley. Photos and quotes add sites and stories from the Civil War in the central Shenandoah Valley. The map, timeline, photos and quotes each offer a different perspective: geographic overview, historical context, and sites and stories.
Another historical thread is the road now known as US Route 11. The Valley Turnpike Company was founded in 1834 and built the road from Winchester to Staunton through the Shenandoah Valley. The Valley Turnpike Museum explores its history and is located in the Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center.
Art and Collections
The Downtown Public Art Tour winds through Harrisonburg’s Arts and Cultural District. It includes public art such as murals, sculptures and LOVEworks signs. The JMU Mineral Museum has minerals from 39 countries and 24 US states. The collection’s geographic range is reflected in its provenance from two perspectives: across international borders and across multiple states within the US.
Shows and Outdoor Trails
The John C. Wells Planetarium offers free public shows on Saturdays from early September through May, except during JMU breaks. Since the seasonal schedule may change, check the current show dates before visiting. The planetarium is available to school and community groups on weekdays by reservation; reservation arrangements may also change.
The Rocktown Trails in Hillandale Park offer three difficulty levels for runners, walkers and cyclists, from beginner to advanced. When choosing a trail, consider both the activity you have planned and the difficulty levels available. This lets you weigh both factors together rather than focusing only on the label “trail.”
Local Produce and Cafés
The Harrisonburg Farmers’ Market offers seasonal local fruits and vegetables, artisan breads, baked goods, cheese and prepared foods. The selection of vendors may vary seasonally. The Harrisonburg Coffee Trail invites you to explore locally owned cafés, each with its own flavor and ambiance. The market and Coffee Trail offer different perspectives on local offerings: seasonal produce and prepared foods on the one hand, and independent cafés on the other.
Explore more destinations: Goochland, Mecklenburg County, Greene County, Nottoway County, Patrick County, Tazewell, Prince William, Culpeper County
For the main travel overview: Virginia.
