Things to Do With Kids in Harrisonburg
Updated October 2026 · 9 places · Harrisonburg
These year-round Harrisonburg options include hands-on museums, a planetarium, library programs, historic exhibits, outdoor spaces, and family entertainment. Check each venue’s current schedule before visiting; some operate only on certain days, and the playground may close in freezing conditions.
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Our Picks
Explore More Discovery Museum
150 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Explore More is a children’s discovery museum with interactive exhibits, including a play kitchen, makerspace, and full-size airplane. It is known for learning-through-play exhibits designed for children and families.
John C. Wells Planetarium
91 E Grace St, Miller Hall, Room 1103, Harrisonburg, VA 22807
The John C. Wells Planetarium at James Madison University presents public shows using a full-dome projection system. Its family shows are designed with young children in mind, and the university lists public admission as free.
Larry W. Shifflett Fire Museum
101 N Main St, 3rd Floor, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
The Larry W. Shifflett Fire Museum is located in the city’s Public Safety Building and presents information about the Harrisonburg Fire Department. The city lists it as open Tuesday through Friday and provides free admission.
Massanutten Regional Library – Central Library
174 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Massanutten Regional Library’s Central Library offers children’s storytimes, after-school activities, and access to books and other library resources. Its children’s programs include activities such as Lego Club, crafts, and science sessions.
Brethren & Mennonite Heritage Center
1921 Heritage Center Way, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
The Brethren & Mennonite Heritage Center is an outdoor historic site with buildings and exhibits about local Brethren and Mennonite life. Its site describes features including a log house, blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, and transportation exhibits.
Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Botanical Garden
780 University Blvd, Harrisonburg, VA 22807
The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is a woodland preserve and botanical garden on the James Madison University campus, with more than three miles of trails. It is known for trails through a 125-acre preserve and plant collections; the arboretum is open to the public year-round.
A Dream Come True Playground
1050 Neff Ave, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
A Dream Come True Playground is a city playground with separate equipment areas for ages 2–5 and 5–12. It is known for accessible features including a wheelchair-accessible swing, hammock swing, rainbow arches, and draw wall.
Ruby’s Arcade
165 S Main St, #100b, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Ruby’s Arcade is a downtown entertainment venue with duckpin bowling, arcade games, pool, and other games. Visit Harrisonburg describes its basement space as offering four duckpin lanes along with ping pong, foosball, darts, and shuffleboard.
Valley Lanes
3106 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Valley Lanes is a family-owned bowling center that has operated in Harrisonburg since 1960. Local tourism coverage describes it as a 24-lane center for bowling.