Tucked in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg is the ideal destination for anyone looking to enjoy a break from everyday life. From exploring local history or checking out indoor activities, there’s no shortage of things to do during your Harrisonburg getaway at Hotel Madison. This Virginia town and its surrounding area are also home to an incredible art scene, with galleries, museums, and live music venues.
Whether you’re strolling past colorful murals or catching an intimate concert, there’s always something waiting to be discovered. We’ve put together this guide that highlights some of the must-visit spots that make up Harrisonburg’s local art scene.
Visit Art Galleries & Other Visual Art Spaces
There are a number of places to explore near our hotel in Harrisonburg that showcase local artists. OASIS Fine Art & Craft is a cooperative gallery for artists in the Shenandoah Valley. Here, you can find fine art, crafts, and even community art events. The artWorks Gallery, run by James Madison University, features an array of exhibitions. There are also a number of incredible galleries to visit, including 150 Franklin Street Gallery and Arts Incarnate.
Wander a Museum
A great way to discover different types of art is by visiting local museums. The Virginia Quilt Museum is home to rotating exhibits and educational programs dedicated to quilt art and craft. There’s also the Museum of American Jewelry Design and Manufacturing, which showcases jewelry design history and art.
Catch a Live Performance
A sometimes-forgotten part of a city’s art scene is its live music and performance venues. Places like the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts and Court Square Theater are the perfect places to catch a play or concert. Our own Quills Casual Dining is known for its lineup of entertaining live music.
Support Local Organizations
There are several groups and events that support creative activity. There’s the Harrisonburg Downtown Art Walk, which showcases murals, mosaics, and sculptures throughout downtown. The Arts Council of the Valley is a non-profit organization that supports workshops and artists in the region.
A popular event is First Fridays of the Valley, a monthly art crawl featuring galleries, shops, and other venues hosting exhibits and interactive art activities. In fact, our Harrisonburg hotel is a venue for First Fridays, complete with an artist reception on the mezzanine with live music in the lobby during and after. You can then view the artist’s work along the hallway all month long until the next exhibit.
Unwind in Comfort at Hotel Madison
Whether you’re exploring the local Virginia art scene or hiking in Shenandoah National Park, there’s no shortage of things to do during a Harrisonburg vacation. In order to fully enjoy your trip, you need a place to stay that’s filled with incredible amenities and well-appointed accommodations. Hotel Madison checks both those boxes.
Our Harrisonburg hotel features incredible on-site dining options and thoughtful amenities, like a fitness center and indoor saltwater pool. Our accommodations, which range from guest rooms to extended stay options, are the perfect place to put your feet up and relax. See for yourself why Hotel Madison is one of the best places to stay in Harrisonburg by reserving your stay today. Learn more about our hotel or special offers by calling 833-564-0200.