Just a short 30 minute drive from Harrisonburg, Shenandoah National Park is one of our favorite places to visit! There is so much to do there, such as hike the trails, visit the falls, and go horseback riding, and the views are amazing! There is a $30 entrance fee per car, but it's definitely worth it!
The James Madison University Mineral Museum features over 600 crystal and gemstone specimens from around the world! It is located inside the Festival Conference Center and it is open for public viewing. It is such a fantastic collection of minerals that you don't have to be a rock hound to enjoy it. Just make sure to ask for a visitors pass from JMU parking services and you're good to go.
We definitely recommend a visit to Kline's while you are in Harrisonburg! They offer chocolate and vanilla ice cream as well as one special flavor a week. They also have a variety of milkshake flavors. I personally recommend getting a double scoop of chocolate on a cake cone, simple yet delicious!
If you're hungry and looking for a quick bite to eat, look no further! Benny's is a favorite of ours and offers the best slice of pizza in town. Be warned, the slices are as big as your head!
The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is located right next to JMU's East Campus. It offers great walking trails, a wide variety of plants to look at (as well as great information in case you want to learn more about them), and a big pond filled with ducks. Whether you feel like sitting by the pond, feeding the ducks, or walking around the herb garden, there is something here for everyone!
James Madison University is where we attended college and it has such a beautiful campus! We urge you to walk around campus and enjoy all the things it has to offer. If you do plan on visiting, make sure to contact parking services for a guest parking pass.