Harrisonburg lies in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley noted for its deep agrarian roots, vistas, many caverns and prime fishing waters. The cave nearest town is Endless Caverns in New Market, 11 miles north on US 11. The Shenandoah River, Lake Shenandoah and Silver Lake are known for their trout and bass fishing. Developed recreational areas of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests are nearby.
Things to do in Harrisonburg
Endless Caverns
No end has been discovered to these caverns, which include an impressive array of stalactites, stalagmites, giant columns, flowstone and limestone pendants, and such chambers as Snowdrift, Fairyland and Grand Canyon. Call (540) 896-2283 for more information.
1800 Endless Caverns Rd., New Market, VA 22801
Grand Caverns Regional Park
Grand Caverns Regional Park is off I-81 exit 235, then 6 mi. e. on SR 256. One of the country's oldest show caverns, the Grottoes cave was discovered in 1804 and opened to the public 2 years later. At different times both Union and “Stonewall” Jackson's Confederate troops visited the Great Cathedral Hall and Grand Ballroom. Signatures of soldiers from both armies are visible on cave walls. Unusual cave formations include calcite shields. Nature trails, picnicking, tennis, swimming and miniature golf are offered. Call (540) 249-5705 for more information.
5 Grand Cavern Blvd., Grottoes, VA 22801
Harrisonburg Rockingham Historical Society
Documents and artifacts of the Shenandoah Valley include a permanent exhibit titled Invincible Spirit: History in the Heart of the Shenandoah. The museum also focuses on one of the area's major historical events, Gen. “Stonewall” Jackson's Valley Campaign of 1862. Displays include Civil War artifacts, documents and photographs as well as folk art encompassing works in ceramics, textiles, wood and metals. Call (540) 879-2681 for more information.
382 High St., Dayton, VA 22801
Reuel B. Pritchett Museum
Reuel B. Pritchett Museum is in Cole Hall on the Bridgewater College campus on E. College St. The Rev. Pritchett, a farmer and minister of the Church of the Brethren, devoted his life to collecting historic articles. Highlights of his collection include a land deed signed by Thomas Jefferson, some 1,000 bottles and glassware, foreign currency and antique weapons. Call (540) 828-5462 for more information.
402 E. College St., Bridgewater, VA 22801
Virginia Quilt Museum
Antique and contemporary quilts are displayed in the 1856 Warren-Sipe House. Guided tours are available. Call (540) 433-3818 for more information.
301 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801