Travelers looking to take their Shenandoah Valley getaway to the next level of customized fun will find plenty of options to plan with insight and current information at the Hardesty Higgins House Visitor Center. Located at 212 S Main Street in Harrisonburg, this multi-use information center is open daily to the public between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm with closings exclusively on holidays. Learn more about these Harrisonburg attractions below!
House History
This unique and welcoming visitor center is located within a home that first belonged to Isaac Hardesty, the first mayor of Harrisonburg. Construction on the home began in 1848 and was finally completed in 1853. Isaac, his wife Ann, and their two children lived in the residence while Hardesty worked as a successful merchant, and businessman in addition to his political endeavors. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Valley Turnpike Company. When the Civil War broke out, Hardesty and his family moved north away from Harrisonburg in support of Union efforts. The home then served as an inn and subsequently a craftsman shop between the 1920s and 1980s.
The home was purchased by the city in May 2001 and renovations began. Today, the home hosts the city’s visitor center and is operated by the Harrisonburg tourism and Visitor Services. Stepping inside this center offers up an abundance of information on attractions in Harrisburg Virginia that’s useful while simultaneously giving guests the opportunity to step within the walls of Harrisonburg history itself!
What Visitors Will Find Inside These Harrisonburg Attractions
Crafting a one-of-a-kind Harrisonburg and Shenandoah Valley itinerary is made simple when you visit the Hardesty Higgins House Visitor Center. This building is a state-certified visitor center that hosts a number of experienced travel specialists ready to help guests plan an amazing adventure. Additionally, those who drop by can enjoy time in the Virginia Craftsmen showroom as well as browsing exhibits at the Valley Turnpike Museum. The Hardesty Higgins House Visitor Center also hosts the Heritage Bakery and Café as well as the Rocktown Gift Shoppe. One of the five Civil War Orientation Centers in the area is also located on-site at this visitor center. Stop by to pick up maps and brochures for local attractions or enjoy accessing the center’s virtual destination guide online in advance of your arrival.
Book Your Virginia Getaway Today
There’s never been a better time to enjoy a getaway to Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley and the various attractions in Harrisburg Virginia. Reach out to the team at Vacation Properties Made Simple when you’re looking for luxurious and welcoming accommodations to top off your trip in style. We look forward to seeing you soon!