Harrisonburg
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Harrisonburg's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the local favorite, The Little Grill Collective, known for its farm-to-table approach. After fueling up, stroll through the charming streets of downtown Harrisonburg, where you can admire the historic architecture. Don't miss the Virginia Quilt Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich quilting history.
For lunch, head to the vibrant Court Square, where you can find various eateries offering local cuisine. Afterward, visit the Explore More Discovery Museum, a fun and interactive space that’s perfect for families. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely walk in the nearby Arts and Cultural District, where you can find galleries and local artisan shops.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at the popular Local Chop and Grill House, celebrated for its locally sourced meats and vegetables. Afterward, catch a live performance at the Court Square Theater, showcasing local talent and traveling acts. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a downtown bar, soaking in the local nightlife.
Begin with an early breakfast at The Cupboard, where hearty meals will prepare you for a day of adventure. Afterward, embark on a short drive to Shenandoah National Park, entering at the nearby Swift Run Gap entrance. Spend the morning hiking one of the park’s scenic trails, like the Stony Man Trail, which offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Enjoy a packed picnic lunch surrounded by nature at one of the park's designated picnic areas. After lunch, continue exploring the park, perhaps by taking a scenic drive along Skyline Drive, stopping at overlooks to capture stunning photographs of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You might also consider a leisurely hike on the Dark Hollow Falls Trail, where a cascading waterfall awaits.
Return to Harrisonburg and treat yourself to dinner at Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint, famous for its gourmet burgers and extensive beer selection. After dinner, take a relaxing evening walk around the scenic downtown area to appreciate its charm and vibrancy. If you're in the mood, check out one of the local breweries for a nightcap.
Kick off your day with a breakfast at The JMU Diner, known for its classic diner fare. Head to the Museum of American Frontier Culture, where you can explore the history of immigrants and settlers in the Shenandoah Valley. Enjoy the interactive outdoor exhibits that showcase traditional crafts and skills.
After a morning of learning, grab lunch at a nearby café and then return to the museum for more exploration. Engage in hands-on activities and demonstrations that highlight the daily lives of early American settlers. Spend time wandering through the museum’s beautiful grounds, taking in the picturesque landscape.
For dinner, try the upscale dining experience at The Urban Grill, famous for its innovative dishes and craft cocktails. After your meal, take an evening stroll through Hillandale Park, where you can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature. End your day with a cozy evening at a local coffee shop, savoring a warm drink.
Start your day at the Harrisonburg Farmers Market, where local farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Enjoy breakfast from one of the food vendors, sampling local specialties while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Take your time browsing the stalls and chatting with the friendly vendors.
After the market, visit a local farm for a tour and perhaps some fruit picking, depending on the season. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at a nearby bistro that emphasizes local ingredients. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby wineries or breweries to sample the area's craft beverages.
Enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant like Local, which focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Spend your evening at a local music venue, where you can enjoy live music, showcasing local artists and bands. Finish off with a nightcap at a craft cocktail bar, enjoying the local nightlife.
Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel or a nearby café before heading to Massanutten Resort. Spend the morning engaging in outdoor activities, such as mountain biking or zip-lining, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Don’t forget to capture the thrill on camera!
After an active morning, refuel with lunch at the resort’s lodge, enjoying hearty meals to keep your energy up. In the afternoon, try your hand at the water park or relax in the spa, soaking in the resort's luxurious amenities. For the adventurous, hiking trails are readily available for those who want to explore more of the natural beauty.
For dinner, enjoy a meal at the resort's on-site restaurant, which offers a cozy setting with great views. After your meal, participate in one of the resort’s evening activities, such as a bonfire with s'mores or stargazing. Wind down your day with a relaxing soak in the hot tub, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Begin your day with breakfast at the Greenberry's Coffee Co., where you can enjoy a light meal and a great cup of coffee. Spend the morning visiting local art galleries, including the Artful Dodger, to appreciate the work of local artists. Engage with the art community and perhaps meet some of the creators behind the pieces.
For lunch, explore a trendy eatery like The Pale Fire Brewing Co., which offers delicious food paired with local craft beer. Afterward, visit the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Historical Society to delve deeper into the local history and culture of the area. You can also check out the local shops for unique souvenirs and art pieces.
Enjoy dinner at the renowned Bella Luna, known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes. After your meal, attend a local theater performance at the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts, featuring everything from musicals to dramatic plays. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk around the historic downtown, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Savor a leisurely breakfast at a local café before heading out to explore the beautiful vineyards surrounding Harrisonburg. Begin your day at one of the local wineries, such as Bluestone Vineyard, which offers stunning views and delightful tastings. Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard to learn about the wine-making process.
After your morning tastings, enjoy a picnic lunch at the vineyard, complete with local cheeses and charcuterie. Spend your afternoon visiting another vineyard, like CrossKeys Vineyards, known for its beautiful outdoor seating and exceptional wines. Participate in a wine tasting, and take in the scenic views of the valley.
For dinner, head to a nearby farm-to-table restaurant that features local ingredients and wine pairings. Enjoy a relaxed evening at a wine bar, sampling local wines and reflecting on your day’s experiences. Consider attending a wine and food pairing event if available, to further immerse yourself in the local wine culture.
Enjoy breakfast at a local diner before heading out to George Washington National Forest for a day of exploration. Spend your morning hiking through the lush trails, taking in the diverse flora and fauna. If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife along the way.
After a morning of hiking, find a scenic spot for a packed lunch amidst the beauty of nature. Spend your afternoon exploring more trails or perhaps try your hand at fishing or birdwatching in the peaceful surroundings. The forest’s tranquility provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation.
Return to Harrisonburg for dinner at a cozy restaurant like The Barbecue Exchange, known for its smoked meats and homemade sides. Spend your evening at a local brewery, sampling craft beers and enjoying the lively atmosphere. End your day with a peaceful stroll through one of the town’s parks, reflecting on the beauty of the outdoors.
Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at a local café before visiting one of the area’s working farms. Participate in a farm tour, where you can learn about sustainable farming practices and meet the animals. Engage in a hands-on experience, such as picking fresh vegetables or fruits, depending on the season.
After your farm visit, enjoy a farm-fresh lunch at a nearby bistro that focuses on local ingredients. Spend the afternoon at an artisan workshop, where you can try your hand at pottery, painting, or other crafts led by local artisans. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the local creative community.
For dinner, indulge in a meal at a local restaurant that emphasizes seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, attend a community event or festival if available, enjoying local music and culture. Conclude your immersive day by visiting a cozy coffee shop to unwind and reflect on your experiences.