Harrisonburg is considered by many to be the shopping hub of the Shenandoah Valley. You can, of course, visit all of your favorite national retailers, but be sure to head into the historic downtown area to find great thrift stores, antique shops, and storefront boutiques, filled with one-of-a-kind items.
Start your shopping expedition south of town at the Green Valley Book Fair in Mt. Crawford. There are thousands of books on topics ranging from gardening to careers to baking. And the best part is they are all 60-90% off! Then drive into Harrisonburg from Mt. Crawford on US 11—it’s the scenic route.
In the market for furniture? Suter’s Handcrafted Furniture is a local enterprise, producing gorgeous hardwood furniture with exquisite detailing, now for six generations of the Suter family—since 1839. This sought after furniture is made by fine craftspeople, using traditional patterns and techniques.
Continue on US 11, and eventually you’ll wander into downtown. The first stop for any visitor is the Hardesty-Higgins House, home to Harrisonburg Tourism and Visitor Services, Mrs. Hardesty’s Tea Room, the Valley Turnpike Museum, and the Jamestown 2007 Heritage Room. So when you stop by, you’ll be able to pick up brochures, have a spot of tea, take a grand tour of the house, and learn a little bit about the history of Harrisonburg.
North of downtown on US 11 is Harper’s Statuary and Water Gardens. You won’t have any problem figuring out which business it is! What began as a hobby has become a 40-year-old family business that now attracts tour buses. Beautiful garden fountains, stepping stones, and ponds lead you through the building and lots, where thousands of concrete garden creations are manufactured and displayed.
Further north of Harrisonburg (still on US 11) in Rockingham County are The Shoppes at Mauzy, a destination in its own right. The main building (an old stagecoach inn) has been a stopping point for travelers for more than 150 years. You’ll be thrilled with the eclectic blend of antiques, collectibles, giftware, and ‘purposeful clutter’ that fills the inn and various outbuildings today.
Another fabulous Rockingham County destination for the entire family is Massanutten Resort, about ten miles east of Harrisonburg, off US 33. It’s truly a four-season resort, with over 125 things to do—one of which is the ever-popular Massanutten Indoor/Outdoor WaterPark.
Massanutten is a timesharing resort, but also has condo rental options that provide breathtaking views. Some popular activities are the arts and crafts classes, winter tubing sessions, two golf courses, a spa, fine dining and nightlife establishments, and special concert events.