Ten Things to Experience in Harrisonburg
See Our List for 2025
VMRC is a destination hub inside an exciting city brimming with experiences. From delightful dining and outdoor adventures to great music and theatrical performances, Harrisonburg offers something to enjoy for everyone.
Here are ten activities to experience when visiting the Harrisonburg area:
1. Court Square Theater- From concerts and movies, to improv and theatrical performances, Court Square Theater entertains patrons of the arts like you! This year is the 25th anniversary of the Arts Council of the Valley, the parent organization of Court Square Theater.
2. Pickleball Complexes- It’s still the hot new sport everyone is enjoying! Harrisonburg offers two courses for enthusiasts to use on a first-come-first-serve basis. Enthusiasts can even join the social group Pickleball H’burg!
3. Oasis Fine Art & Crafts- If you love the visual arts, Oasis is a prime destination for taking in the works of talented artists and artisans from around the local area. Many of the artists have also been featured in VMRC’s Annual National Juried Art Exhibition!
4. Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance- This virtual destination (it’s a website) will tell you all you need to know to make your way around downtown Harrisonburg! You can also order downtown dollars to give as gifts to those with whom you want to share the Harrisonburg experience.
5. Virginia Quilt Museum- If quilting is your passion, the Virginia Quilt Museum is a must-see destination. This resource center for the study of quilts is designated as the Official Quilt Museum of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
6. John C. Wells Planetarium- If you like sky-watching, you must schedule a trip to JMU’s state-of-the-art planetarium. You can learn about our universe and extrasolar worlds. When the planetarium is closed, don’t worry. A handy sky-watching guide helps you determine the best nights to check out the stars outdoors.
7. James Madison’s Montpelier- Perhaps you’re a history buff interested in the nation’s 4th president of the United States. Visit Montpelier to experience various tours and educational experiences at the home of James and Dolly Madison.
8. Forbes Center for Performing Arts- JMU’s premier music, dance, theater and visual arts destination offers high-quality performances and talent-filled student showcases. Check out the season’s offerings and get your ticket to see some of the area’s best entertainment.
9. Middle River Outfitters- Do you enjoy fly fishing? Let Middle River Outfitters organize your experience. Whether in the South Fork of the Shenandoah River or Mossy Creek, Middle River Outfitters can help you feel the thrill of the catch.
10. Shenandoah Heritage Market - This market is a collection of locally-owned shops, both indoors and outdoors. Items you can buy include memorabilia, hand-crafted goods and various foods. Visit, shop and leave with some “Old Fashioned Valley Goodness!
”This list of amazing things only scratches the surface. Visit us here at VMRC and then dive deeper into the features that make Harrisonburg a great place to live and play!