College Town: James Madison University, Eastern Mennonite University, and Bridgewater College are all within a few mile radius of Harrisonburg proper. A lively and innovative community, activity ebbs and flows around an academic schedule, though the Harrisonburg locals keep the community strong even when the students are on break.
The “Friendly City†of Harrisonburg lives up to its nickname, welcoming students and faculty of two higher education institutions, outdoor lovers, foodies, and cultural enthusiasts alike. The county seat and only independent city in Rockingham County, Harrisonburg is a hub of community life for the central Shenandoah Valley area.
Key Features
Vibrant Downtown: Harrisonburg attracts people who are eager to experience the city’s booming cultural scene. Hungry? Downtown was named a “culinary district†(the first one in Virginia) in 2014, recognizing the outstanding quality and variety of Harrisonburg’s restaurants. You can easily walk or bike through the city to satisfy your food cravings or explore breweries, live shows, and more. Don’t miss First Fridays, a monthly celebration of art, retail, and cuisine.
Nest Picks
Harrisonburg Farmers Market
If you’re on the hunt for fresh, local, delicious produce, you’ve come to the right place! Just follow the crowds to the Turner Pavilion on Saturday morning to experience colorful fruits and vegetables, beautiful baked goods, and some of the friendliest people around. Don’t miss the farm fresh eggs and local honey!
Jack Brown's
This is the one that started it all. Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint is a legend in Harrisonburg, where two friends started serving up creative farm to table beef burgers more than a decade ago. Today, the unique, high quality food and welcoming atmosphere of Jack Brown’s can be experienced at locations across the region, but the original still has an appeal all its own.
JMU Football
It’s no exaggeration to say that this town bleeds purple and gold. From their stunning stadium right in the heart of Downtown Harrisonburg, the JMU Dukes have won multiple accolades, including two national championships. The award-winning Marching Royal Dukes band has appeared in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on several occasions, cementing their reputation as “Virginia’s Finest.â€