All of the restaurants and other business listed below are locally owned. Of course, we have lots of chains here in Harrisonburg as well, but you can find them on your own. These are some of our favorites - we encourage you to support our local entrepreneurs and see sights that are unique to the Shenandoah Valley!
These are some of our favorite locally owned restaurants for everyday tasty meals.
Mr. J's Bagel & Deli
Serving a wide variety of authentic NY style bagels, Mr. J's is a great place to go for breakfast or lunch. They've got a full sandwich menu, as well as tasty bagel bites and muffins! They have three locations in Harrisonburg - Store 3 is the closest.
A Bowl of Good
ABOG is very close by - just down the hill on Mt Clinton Pike. They use locally sourced ingredients and their menu includes a number of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options.
Bella Luna Wood-Fired Pizza
This pizza isn't anything like what you get at the chains! Unique flavors, crafted by hand and baked in true wood-fired ovens make this some of the best pizza you'll find. They also have gluten free options, pastas, salads, and sandwiches on the menu. The ambiance of their dining room is hard to beat, located in a historic building downtown that can open onto the street on nice days.
The Little Grill Collective
This little hole in the wall is a fantastic place to go for breakfast or brunch. They've got an eclectic menu that features favorites like eggs, pancakes, sausage, and home fries, as well as lots of vegetarian and vegan options.
Magpie Diner
This is one of the newest restaurants on the list, and serves breakfast and lunch. Their menu includes diner-inspired fare including breakfast classics, soups, salads, sandwiches, and baked goods.
Rocktown Kitchen
A self-described "intimate, farm-to-table restaurant", their menu changes seasonally as they source local ingredients. Their food quality and service are some of the best around. They are located at a really cool spot near the downtown area, right across the street from the farmer's market pavilion.
Bar-B-Q Ranch
This little restaurant harkens back to the drive-in days. You've never seen so many pig trinkets in your life, and this is some of the best barbecue you'll ever taste too. Be sure to get extra coleslaw - theirs is chopped fine and sweetened just right to complement their tangy sandwiches. The fried pickles are also highly recommended!
Ruby's Arcade Wood Fired Pizza and BBQ
Ruby's is a unique experience of duck pin bowling, billiards, table tennis, darts, and lots of other games to enjoy. They have bingo and trivia nights and gaming tournaments. They also have fantastic pizza!
Hank's Grille & Catering
This involves a bit of a drive (30 minutes), but it's well worth it, and the drive itself is beautiful, winding your way east of town toward Massanutten Mountain. Hank's smokes all of their meat daily. Once the meat enters the smoker, it stays hot until it is served! Much of their meat is sourced from GlenDor Farms - the farm that your guest suite overlooks!
Harrisonburg is home to people from many different ethnic backgrounds. We also have a plethora of restaurants with foods from different cultures. Here are some that we recommend, owned by folks who know how to make the authentic food!
A&A Kabob Grill
Tell the owner, Ahmad, that Mike sent you. He's a very friendly Kurdish man who makes wonderful authentic Middle Eastern foods including kabobs, rice, falafel, and amazing bread. Be sure to ask for extra hummus - you won't be sorry!
Cuban Burger
My favorite is the El Jefe or the Cuban Chop-Chop, but I've never heard of someone ordering something that they didn't like. They also have incredible gluten free buns.
J-Petal
The first time I had one of their Japanese sweet crepes, I felt like there was a party in my mouth! They also serve savory crepes and Thai ice cream (an interesting process to watch as they make it).
La Morena
This is just down the street on Chicago Avenue. It looks like a convenience store (because it is), but they also serve delicious authentic Mexican cuisine - tacos, pupusas, tortas, burritos, and quesadillas, to name a few. Be sure to try an aqua fresca while you're there.
Mashita
Mashita started as a food truck, but became so popular it turned into a dine-in restaurant. From the owner and chef: "Mashita embraces many French influences, whether through technique or process, blended with Korean flavors for a more refined and inspired experience." I highly recommend the steamed buns and caramelized kimchi fries!
Sakura #10
This Japanese Steak House & Sushi Restaurant is in the shopping district across town (about a 15 minute drive), and one of our favorites when we hunger for authentic Asian food. We usually get the hibachi with chicken (or filet, or a combination of the two), and it easily feeds two people (or is wonderful left over). If you're looking for delicious Asian take-out, this is the place!
Taj of India
This little Indian restaurant is nestled in the heart of the downtown area, in Court Square. Parking might be a little tricky during the lunch or dinner rush, but it'll be worth it when you taste their delicious authentic dishes.
Taste of Thai
Be prepared for enough food for several meals - this place heaps it on! They also have a selection of delectable desserts you won't want to miss.
Vito's Italian Kitchen & Market
Vito and his family serve delicious pizza and other Italian cuisine in a casual dining environment. Their menu also includes gluten free options. While you're there, be sure to check out the attached market, which has imported Italian wines, meats, cheeses, and other goodies you won't find anywhere else in the area!
Want something fancier? These locally owned higher-end restaurants won't disappoint! Their service, atmosphere, and food quality surpass the usual.
Joshua Wilton House
This Victorian style mansion is both an inn and a find dining restaurant. Their service is impeccable, the meals delectable, and the atmosphere refined.
Local Chop and Grill House
There are two sides to this award winning establishment - a fine dining side and a bar side. Both serve wonderful food. The bar side has a different menu and more casual atmosphere, but still has sit-down dining. The fine dining side is more upscale with a fuller menu, including high quality steaks.
What's a college town without coffee shops, ice cream parlors, and corner bakeries?
Bella Gelato & Pastries
Owned by the same family as Bella Luna, their tasty light gelato is the perfect end to an evening of dining and shopping downtown. Their gelato is hand-made on site using milk locally sourced from the Mount Crawford Creamery.
BMC Bakes (Gluten-free Bakery)
This new local bakery was started by a recent JMU graduate with a gluten allergy, and specializes in gluten-free baked goods. She sells doughnuts at Merge Coffee Company (see below), cookies at Coffee Hound just off the square, and other baked goods out of her storefront in downtown Harrisonburg, as well as at the Downtown Farmer's Market on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Heritage Bakery & Cafe
Not just a bakery! Heritage serves breakfast (all day) and lunch, including gluten free options. Check out their Facebook or Instagram for info on their pastries.
Kline's Dairy Bar
Kline's has the best soft serve ice cream you will ever eat (they make it fresh every morning)! They offer chocolate, vanilla, and a flavor of the week (check their website for the current flavor), as well as shakes and sundaes. Be prepared to stand in line, especially evenings during warmer months while JMU is in session. They also offer bulk take-home containers.
Merge Coffee Company
Coffees sustainably sourced from around the world are roasted here in Harrisonburg and served with community relationships in mind. They also offer pastries baked by a friend of mine, just getting started building her own small business.
Shirley's Gourmet Popcorn
Shirley's was founded at a small theater in Bluffton, Ohio. This is the only store in Virginia (and only one of two outside of Ohio). Their many varieties of popcorn are packed with flavor - from sweet to savory to spicy! Grab some to eat as you stroll around downtown or get a bag or tin to take back home.
If you want to do some of your own cooking, we have a number of unique options, in addition to the regular grocery stores.
Food Lion
First, the closest option for your standard grocery needs. Food Lion is just a 5 minute drive away at 1751 Virginia Ave.
Food Maxx International Market
Food Maxx has a HUGE selection of international foods from all over the world. If you're into preparing your own international cuisine, this is definitely your best bet to find whatever you're looking for. They also have really great international snacks.
Friendly City Food Co-op
If you're looking to shop for organic, natural, whole food, or locally sourced groceries and snacks, the Friendly City Food Co-op won't disappoint!
Harrisonburg Farmers Market
If you're around Tuesdays and Saturdays (April-November) or Saturdays only (December-March), be sure to stop by the Harrisonburg Farmer's Market, which has an eclectic mix of local vendors offering produce, meats & cheeses, baked goods, coffee, handcrafts, and other local goods.
Harrisonburg and the surrounding area has lots of unique little shops to explore. Here are some of our favorites.
Agora Downtown Market
From their website: "...a unique shopping experience that gives you a taste of our amazing downtown. When you visit, you'll see more than a half-dozen small businesses offering a variety of high-quality goods, including handmade and fair-trade items, zero-waste products, vintage finds, clothing, fiber arts, toys, locally roasted coffee, gifts, and more!"
Gift & Thrift
If thrifting is your thing, be sure to check out Gift & Thrift, just down the hill on Mt Clinton Pike. This store supports the Mennonite Central Committee, an international relief organization operated by the Mennonite Church. They've got books, clothing, furniture, and lots of other treasures!
Green Valley Book Fair
A 20-minute drive away, GVBF is a huge multi-level climate-controlled warehouse with LOTS of new books (their website says over half million) at deeply discounted prices. They're open Tues-Sat 8am-5pm. If you enjoy books, this is a must visit!
Harrisonburg Downtown Farmer's Market
A bustling outdoor market in Turner Pavilion downtown, this market showcases many local food producers, bakers, artisans, and farmers (including the one in our backyard!). It's only open on Thursdays and Saturdays (rain or shine), so plan to stop by if you're around on one of those days!
The Dayton Market
A 15 minute drive south in the town of Dayton, this market (formerly called the Dayton Farmer's Market) has a multitude of small shops under one roof, including kitchen wares, toys, art, leather, cheeses & meats, and much more. There is also a food court with some of the best bbq and jerky in the valley.
Shenandoah Heritage Market
Similar to the Dayton Market, this is a collection of shops under one roof, including antiques, toys, kitchen wares, fabrics, and more.
Factory Antique Mall
If you are at all into antiquing, be sure to check this out - the largest antique mall in America (over 150,000 square feet)! It is about a half-hour drive from Summit Escape. They have a wide variety of merchandise, including signs, books, collectibles, glassware, tools, vintage clothing, and much MUCH more.
We have several really nice vineyards within 20-30 minutes drive, as well as several craft breweries downtown (5 minute drive).
CrossKeys Vineyards
Offering wine tastings, tours, live events, and dining, CrossKeys Vineyards won't disappoint if you're looking for a fun or relaxing evening. Reservations are definitely recommended, and check out their events calendar to see if there will be live music or tasting specials!
Bluestone Vineyard
Bluestone Vineyard has fewer events than some others in the area, but their tasting room is fantastic, and they have curbside pickup, as well as in-person and virtual tasting options. They also offer periodic wine seminars.
Brix & Columns Vineyards
Brix & Columns makes a broad range of wines, and they have regularly scheduled events, including Yoga & Wine every Wednesday & Saturday (bring your own mat), Class & a Glass every Thursday, and live music most Fridays.
Brothers Craft Brewing
Brothers was founded by three Harrisonburg natives, siblings who "used their collective experience to execute a singular vision: brew exciting, unique craft beers that emphasize and support our community." They offer curbside and patio service from their taproom. They also host tours every Saturday.
Pale Fire Brewing Company
Part of the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail and the Shenandoah Spirits Trail, Pale Fire distributes beer all over Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland. Their tap room is open afternoons daily, and they frequently host trivia nights and live music events.
The Friendly Fermenter
TFF has a fully stocked homebrew supply shop, a small commercial nanobrewery, and brew-your-own services. They often have live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail
All of the participating breweries are within a scenic 1 hour drive and are separated into 3 zones. Zone A is closest to Summit Escape, and includes 8 of the 17 breweries on the trail. If you collect stamps from eight participating breweries, you'll get a free commemorative T-shirt!
The Shenandoah Valley is known for its scenic trails and views from the mountain ranges. There are LOTS of hiking opportunities, but here are some local favorites. Let me know if there are specific features you would like to see or experience, and I can make some more specific recommendations.
Shenandoah National Park
The two closest entrances to SNP are each about 45 minutes away (one to the north and one to the southeast of our location). There is a $35/vehicle access fee to SNP if you don’t have a NP pass.
Bearfence Mountain - Located along Skyline Drive, this is a fairly short hike with a quick rock scramble and great 360 degree views.
George Washington National Forest
There are also numerous trails in GWNF to the west of us, which are accessible for free.
Fridley Gap - Beautiful 4.5 hour (6.2 mile) hike along a stream, with a grand overlook at the end. In warmer months plan to stop in a the swimming hole!
Hidden Rocks Trail - In an area of GWNF known as Hone Quarry, which has many trails, this hike is a little over 3 miles, and there are a number of stream crossings, so you might get your feet wet.
Other recommended hikes
Reddish Knob - Hike to one of the highest points in Virginia. There is great hiking and mountain biking in the area, or just drive to the summit and park to watch the sunset!
Old Rag Mountain - Old Rag is a favorite local hike for those who are looking for a more challenging experience. It is around 9 miles and includes a rock scramble and significant elevation changes. The ranger station is a beautiful 80 minute drive from Summit Escape.
High Knob Fire Tower - This is about a 2 hour hike, and the trailhead is located about a half hour from Harrisonburg. At the end you're rewarded with a fantastic view from the top of the tower!
Natural Chimneys - Not really a "hike" per se, but this natural feature is one to witness in person. Located in a public campground about 30 minutes from Summit Escape, these rock formations are incredibly interesting to explore. Take a picnic lunch to eat in the field over which these giants stand!
Blue Ridge Tunnel - This 4.6 mile round trip trail takes you through the historic former train tunnel also known as the "Claudius Crozet Tunnel". The 1850's era tunnel is 4,273 feet long and unlit (so bring flashlights or headlamps). The trailhead is about a 45 minute drive from the guest suite, but is only about 10 minutes from an entrance to SNP and Skyline Drive, so it would be a nice add-on if you're headed there anyway.
Caverns
Luray Caverns
Explore the extensive underground caverns in Luray (pronounced LOO-ray by the locals). This is the largest and most visited caverns in Eastern America!
Shenandoah Caverns
Though not as big and well-known as Luray Caverns, Shenandoah Caverns is just as breathtaking and interesting as its neighbor. There are two museums on site as well, one (American Celebration) featuring floats from parades and presidential inaugurals, and the other (Main Street of Yesteryear) with antique department store window displays from the 1940s and '50s.
Melrose Caverns
This little-known gem just north of Harrisonburg is different than the other caverns in the area. It is not open for tours all day like Luray or Shenandoah Caverns. Rather, there are specific tours scheduled once or twice a day, and you can also book an individual tour if you'd like. This cave is rich with Cival War history, so if you're a cave enthusiast or a history buff, be sure to check this out!
Harrisonburg-Rockingham Trail Guide
This is a new resource (Fall 2022) put together by the Harrisonburg Tourism Bureau, and contains information about lots of hiking, biking, and walking trails in the area!
Biking Trails
A friend of mind has created a Google Doc with information about various bike trails in the area, linked here: http://bit.ly/bikevirginia (fair warning - this document is LONG!)
If you're bringing kids along, here are some places they might particularly enjoy!
Ruby's Arcade Wood Fired Pizza and BBQ
Ruby's is a unique experience of duck pin bowling, billiards, table tennis, darts, and lots of other games to enjoy. They have bingo and trivia nights and gaming tournaments. They also have fantastic pizza!
Massanutten Indoor Waterpark
Massanutten Resort has a year-round indoor water park that is a great way to spend a day with the kids! It's about a 30 minute drive from Summit Escape.
Explore More Discovery Museum
If you have young children, check out this children's museum! There are lots of hands-on exhibits and guided workshops for kids to enjoy! They are part of the ACM Reciprocal Network.
Green Valley Book Fair
A 20-minute drive away, GVBF is a huge multi-level climate-controlled warehouse with LOTS of new books, including a large kid's section. They also have games, puzzles, and toys. They're open Tues-Sat 8am-5pm.
New Market Battlefield
The park has a museum, a battlefield trail, and a variety of interpretive programs and activities that teach about the battle and the people who fought in it. The Battle of New Market was significant in the Civil War because it helped to delay the capture of Staunton, which was a major Confederate supply depot. Aside from the historic significance, the park is also a great place to go for a hike, a picnic, or just to enjoy the scenery!