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

By chance rather than planning, my late October visit aligned with James Madison University’s Homecoming, a week-long festivity that welcomes new students, returning alumni, and visitors like myself. I was greeted by a sea of purple JMU T-shirts as I headed to the historic downtown, where the lively excitement of locals and students was contagious. They celebrated their football team, alumni reunions, and the joy of being in the state’s most welcoming 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 destination was the Hardesty-Higgins House Visitor Center on Main Street. Built in 1848, friendly staff welcomed me, and I appreciated their professionalism and enthusiasm as they shared details about my next stop, Court Square. Surrounded by charming historic buildings reflecting Harrisonburg’s growth, the existing Rockingham County Courthouse, built in 1940, replaced earlier courthouses—the first of which was constructed soon after Thomas Harrison donated the land 1779.

After visiting the aptly named Friendly Fermenter, a small brewery where I sampled a tasting flight (don't miss their Hometown Hefeweizen and Rocktown IPA), I continued my walk past buildings like the 1930s-era Asbury United Methodist Church, an attractive red-brick structure with a bell tower, on my way back to the university for more 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.

As I passed crowds celebrating the Dukes’ homecoming football game at Bridgeforth Stadium—where even the police kindly stop traffic to let myself and others in purple cross—I made my way to the university’s Edith J. Carrier Arboretum, a 125-acre woodland refuge and one of the campus’s top attractions. The park features paved walking trails, stunningly landscaped gardens, and, lucky for me, a perfect display of fall foliage.

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.