This Is The Friendliest Small Town In Virginia

I recently had the good fortune to explore what is undoubtedly the friendliest place to visit in Virginia, and it didn’t take me long to figure out why people call Harrisonburg “The Friendly City.” This lofty title, I soon learned, is definitely well-deserved, and stems largely from the warm welcome the town and its residents extend to travelers, newcomers… and one another. I certainly found this to be true during my visit, with everyone from local business owners to college students upholding this tradition of southern hospitality.

Located in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley and only 130 miles southwest of the American capital, Harrisonburg serves as the seat of Rockingham County in an area that was first settled by settlers of European descent in the 1730s. This charming college town began to take shape in 1779 when Thomas Harrison deeded land for the construction of a courthouse. Officially named Harrisonburg in 1780, the community continued to grow around what is now Court Square, a beautiful pedestrian-friendly landmark that dominates the town center.

Much of the town’s early development revolved around agriculture and trade, a focus that attracted diverse groups of people who contributed distinct customs and ideas to the ever-evolving town. Over time, these influences helped forge a close-knit community based on civic cooperation and mutual respect. Today, Harrisonburg’s dedication to making visitors feel at ease is very much in evidence, from its cultural events, its well-kept public spaces, as well as local institutions offering friendly guidance to those who, like me, are looking to learn more about the town and the surrounding region.

Community-Based Festivals And Public Spaces

More by luck than judgment, my late October visit coincided with James Madison University’s Homecoming, a week-long celebration that sees the town rolling out the red carpet for new and returning students, as well as visitors like me. A sea of purple JMU t-shirts greeted me as I made my way first to the historic downtown area, the excitement and enthusiasm of locals and students alike proving infectious as they celebrated everything from their college football team to returning alumni and, of course, being back in the state’s friendliest town.

While the JMU campus is around a 40-minute walk from the town center, I’m glad I tackled it as I encountered not just swarms of students, but also numerous local businesses who’d set up tables to display their wares to eager shoppers. I also met many friendly volunteers, too, all eager to assist visitors and students alike with directions, sightseeing advice, or a drink of water to keep them hydrated.

My first planned stop was the Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center on Main Street. Built in 1848, friendly staff greeted me, and I was impressed by their professionalism (and enthusiasm) as they provided information about my next stop, Court Square. Lined with attractive old buildings that tell the story of Harrisonburg’s development, the current Rockingham County Courthouse dates back to 1940 and replaced earlier courthouses, the first of which was built shortly after Thomas Harrison donated the land in 1779.

After a visit to the aptly named Friendly Fermenter, a small brewery where I sampled a tasting flight (be sure to try their Hometown Hefeweizen and Rocktown IPA), I carried on my stroll past buildings like the 1930s-era Asbury United Methodist Church, an attractive red-brick structure with a bell tower, as I made my way back to the university for a little further exploration.

James Madison University

Founded in 1908 as the State Normal and Industrial School for Women at Harrisonburg, JMU has since expanded across more than 700 acres centered around The Quad, a delightful green space surrounded by original limestone buildings dating from the early 1900s and a very photo-worthy spot.

A highlight for me, though, was the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts directly across the road from The Quad. Lured by the sound of trumpets, I followed a crowd through the underpass to the venue’s forecourt, where talented students put their instruments through their paces, making for one of those unexpected magic moments that make travel so worthwhile.

Passing crowds celebrating the Dukes’ homecoming football game at Bridgeforth Stadium (and yes, even the police are friendly here, stopping traffic to let myself and a swarm of purple cross the road), I headed to the university’s Edith J. Carrier Arboretum, a 125-acre woodland sanctuary and one of the most popular on-campus attractions. Highlights of this lovely park include paved walking paths, beautifully landscaped gardens, and, because I somehow timed it right, a magical display of fall colors.

Tips And Tactics

To help you make the most of a visit to Virginia’s friendliest town, here are a few tips and tactics to guarantee a great experience:

Parking: While there are tons of parking spots on campus, don’t even think about it on game day. Instead, head downtown where street parking is not only plentiful and free, there’s a very generous maximum 10-hour limit. Multi-story parking is also available (for a fee) behind the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts (it’s free for performance ticket holders, however).

Where To Eat and Drink: In addition to the first-rate Friendly Fermenter, Kline’s Dairy Bar has been serving up sweet treats since 1943 with friendly staff eager to share suggestions from their weekly rotation of ice cream flavors. Bella Luna Wood-Fired Pizza offers a menu of gourmet pizzas and fresh pasta in a repurposed old hardware store.

Other Notable Events: Harrisonburg hosts several annual festivals worth planning a visit around, including the Harrisonburg International Festival in late September with its food and cultural experiences from across the globe; the Skeleton Festival, a family-friendly Halloween event held in the downtown core; and for grown-ups, the Rocktown Beer & Music Festival in April features live bands and craft breweries offering tastings.

Harrisonburg Loves Kids: If you’re traveling with children, you’re in luck, as Harrisonburg has plenty of fun things for families to do. Head to parks like Purcell Park which, in addition to softball fields and tennis courts, has a great playground known locally as the “Kids Castle.” Then there’s the Explore More Discovery Museum, a downtown attraction featuring fun hands-on displays and activities for kids.

Where To Stay: Just a few miles outside of town, the sprawling Massanutten Resort is a great choice. I not only enjoyed spectacular fall colors on the slopes of the Appalachians but the tremendously helpful (and friendly) staff from check-in to dining at the Campfire Grill.

Learn More: For further ideas about what to do and see in this friendliest of towns, check out the Visit Harrisonburg website. The Visit Virginia website is another great source for tips and tactics for a memorable Harrisonburg getaway.