Escape
The Ultimate JMU Visitor's Guide
Where to Eat, Stay & Explore in Harrisonburg, Virginia
There's something special about visiting James Madison University. Maybe you're bringing your future Duke for their first campus tour, or perhaps you're returning to spend a weekend with a student who already calls Harrisonburg home.
Either way, there's more to discover beyond campus. From memorable meals and charming downtown shops to unexpected adventures and local sweet treats, Harrisonburg offers plenty of ways to make your visit worthwhile. Here's where to start.
Welcome to JMU Country
Planning your campus visit
For prospective students and families, a campus tour is one of the best ways to experience JMU firsthand.
The university offers guided tours, information sessions, and additional visit opportunities throughout the year. Start with JMU's official visit page to explore options and register.
Before arriving, review your tour confirmation for parking instructions. Registered admissions visitors may receive specific parking information and a temporary parking code.
Good Eats & Sweet Treats
Because a good visit deserves a good meal. Whether you're catching up with your student over brunch or looking for an easy family dinner, Harrisonburg has plenty of locally loved options.
Magpie Diner
Housed in a former 1950s tire service station, Magpie brings a fresh, neighborhood feel to breakfast and lunch. Seasonal dishes, house-made baked goods, and an inviting atmosphere make it a great place to start your day.
Good to know: Magpie doesn't accept reservations, so allow a little flexibility during busy weekends.
Explore Magpie Diner →
Bella Luna Wood-Fired Pizza
Wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta, seasonal salads, and a cozy setting inside a historic downtown building. Bella Luna is an easy choice when everyone wants something a little different.
Explore Bella Luna →
Black Sheep Coffee
Need caffeine before a tour—or somewhere to recharge afterward? Black Sheep Coffee offers espresso drinks, specialty coffee, tea, and baked treats in downtown Harrisonburg.
Visit Black Sheep Coffee →
Kline's Dairy Bar
A Shenandoah Valley tradition since 1943, Kline's is known for its fresh-made, custard-style ice cream. Flavors rotate, giving you an excellent excuse to stop by whenever you're in town.
Find a Kline's location and current flavors →Don't skip dessert. That's practically a travel rule.
While Your Duke Is Busy
They've got classes, friends, and campus life. You've got a little free time. Lucky you.
One of the best things about visiting a college student is that you don't have to spend every minute together. While your Duke is catching up with friends, heading to class, or enjoying campus life, take some time to explore Harrisonburg at your own pace.
Browse the Shops at Agora
This downtown marketplace brings multiple independent businesses together under one roof. Browse gifts, vintage finds, and locally inspired merchandise without having to plan a full shopping excursion.
Explore Liberty Street Mercantile
A renovated warehouse filled with independent businesses, including boutiques and a bookstore. It's an especially appealing stop if you enjoy discovering distinctive local shops.
Visit OASIS Fine Art & Craft
Prefer art to shopping? Stop into this downtown cooperative gallery to browse work by local artisans and discover something uniquely Shenandoah Valley.
Explore OASIS →Take a Peaceful Walk at the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
Located on JMU's campus, this beautiful outdoor space offers woodland trails, gardens, and a quieter side of university life. The grounds are free to visit and open daily from dawn to dusk.
Plan your arboretum visit →Play, Explore & Discover
A little fun. A little history. Something for everyone. Traveling with siblings, grandparents, or a mix of personalities? These stops add variety to your JMU visit.
Ruby's Arcade
Challenge the family to duckpin bowling, pool, darts, or arcade games at this lively downtown spot. With food available too, it's a convenient option for families looking for something more interactive than another meal out.
Explore Ruby's Arcade →Valley Turnpike Museum
Inside the historic Hardesty-Higgins House, this museum explores the history of the route that helped shape the Shenandoah Valley. Pair it with a visit to the Harrisonburg Visitor Center, located in the same building.
Explore Harrisonburg's museums →
Explore Downtown Harrisonburg
Discover murals, independent galleries, architecture, restaurants, and locally owned shops in Harrisonburg's vibrant downtown district. It's an excellent way to experience the city beyond the university—and you don't need an elaborate schedule to enjoy it.
Discover downtown Harrisonburg →Make the Most of Your Visit
You don't need to plan every minute. A few thoughtful choices can turn a campus visit into a memorable family getaway.
And if your visit includes grandparents, siblings, or extended family, having somewhere comfortable to gather can make the trip feel less rushed. For families who prefer a little more room than a traditional hotel, Cedar Escape offers a private mountain retreat in the Massanutten area—a relaxed home base for spending time together beyond the campus visit.
Stay a Little Longer
Make Room for More Memories
Some of the best parts of a family visit happen after the day's plans are over.
Whether you're reconnecting with your college student, visiting campus for the first time, or exploring the Shenandoah Valley together, Cedar Escape offers a comfortable setting to slow down and enjoy each other's company.
Make the most of your time in JMU Country with a little extra room to relax, reconnect, and explore.
Explore Cedar Escape & Book DirectBooking direct helps guests save on fees.
This guide is part of the Cedar Escape Travel Collection. Restaurant offerings, attraction hours, and university visitor information may change. Check official websites when planning your visit.