A wise person mentioned to me recently that they never understood why everyone flocked to the beach in the summer since it was always hot, hot, hot! Most people reserve a mountain escape for the fall when nature puts on its annual show of colors. But think about it: temperatures are usually at least 10 degrees cooler in the mountains in the summer than they are anywhere else. Go ahead and check your weather app if you don't believe me.
One hot July weekend in particular, my family and I found ourselves with no plans. The search for day trips began. As an alumnae of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, I realized I had not visited in quite a while. Going on the off season when the campus would not be busy sounded like a good plan. Area attractions were quick to find and everything fell into place. Using Harrisonburg as a home base, there is so much to do. Here are my recommendations for 48 Hours in Harrisonburg & Luray, Virginia.
Hiking: Massanutten Storybook Trail https://www.virginia.org/listings/OutdoorsAndSports/StorybookTrail/
Harrisonburg lies in the Shenandoah Valley bordered in part by the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains. By nature of location, it is no surprise that hiking trails are abundant here. Nearby hiking for all skill levels can be found in Massanutten, Shenandoah National Park and off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
On this particular trip, we were not ready for any type of strenuous trail or any trail with any dangerous drop offs due to our little one. I found the Massanutten Storybook Trail and knew I had a winner. There is no strenuous climb and the breathtaking view is also bounded by a railing! The trail is only .4 miles long. It is flat and paved - also known as handicap and stroller friendly. Perfect for families with mobility concerns or with young children.
Links to more strenuous area hiking trails found here:
My favorite resource for hiking trails in Virginia
Shenandoah National Park Trails
Massanutten Resort area trails
Blue Ridge Parkway trails
2. Attractions: Luray Caverns
Luray Caverns is one of the most well known caverns in Virginia and the largest in the eastern United States. If you are looking to beat the heat, walking down below the surface of the earth is definitely a way to do it. (In fact, if you visit over the summer, bring another layer!) It is cooler for sure in the caverns and sunscreen is certainly not needed. Tours depart all day and give you an up close and personal look at this natural wonder.
3. Attractions: Edith Carrier Arboretum at James Madison University
As a student at JMU, I can say I don't believe I visited the arboretum more than a few times. In my defense, since my graduation years ago, the arboretum has been expanded quite a bit! You can truly spend either an hour or an entire afternoon exploring this beautiful spot. Beyond the gardens you will find nature trails, wildlife, a meditation maze and an education center that hosts many events and classes. It is definitely worth a stop while visiting the area. Admission is free.
4. Attractions: White Oak Lavender Farm
A summer visit to Harrisonburg will also benefit you in that June and early July are lavender season! White Oak Lavender farm is a one stop destination for all things lavender. Beyond the you-pick season, there is a gift shop with all of their signature lavender gifts, lavender ice cream, farm animals to greet, a mediation maze and even a wine tasting room.
5. Attractions: James Madison University Campus
College campuses are gorgeous places for a walk - even better when classes are not in session when you can avoid crowds of students and traffic. James Madison is known for being one of the most beautiful campuses in the country. There are plenty of areas to explore including: tunnels, a train track, football stadium, rocks for your little ones to climb on, a lake, and the heart of campus found on the quad (found off South Main Street). During the summer, park near the bookstore (211 Bluestone Drive) and explore campus from there. You can follow Bluestone Drive from there to the quad area.
6. Where to Eat: Kline's Dairy Bar
While a student at JMU, this ice cream shop would place a simple ad in the newspaper: just a box with the name of the weekly ice cream flavor listed. And that is all they needed to do. Students and locals alike have visited this valley institution since 1943 in droves. They now have 5 locations in the Shenandoah Valley so no matter where you are, you are not far from your next homemade ice cream fix.
Sample Itinerary:
Friday afternoon arrival:
After checking in to your lodging, visit the JMU campus to walk and stretch your legs. Stop into the bookstore for various goodies. In the summer, the campus is a gorgeous place for a walk without students and traffic. Be sure to go to Kline's for a treat; their downtown Harrisonburg location is close to campus.
Saturday:
Go to the Massanutten Storybook Trail early to beat the heat. Take great pictures and enjoy the trail without many other visitors. From there, it is a quick hop to Luray Caverns. Grab lunch and a nap if needed back in Harrisonburg. In the afternoon, stop by White Oak Lavender. After dinner, visit the Edith Carrier Arboretum at JMU for a magical evening walk.
Sunday:
Check out any places you missed Friday or Saturday. Add in another hike from the links listed above! Check out the visitor info from these areas for additional ideas:
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