Planning a visit to James Madison University? While staying immediately next to campus may seem like the obvious choice, JMU visitors have several nearby areas to consider. Communities throughout the Shenandoah Valley offer vacation homes, cabins, condos and townhomes within a convenient drive of campus, giving families the flexibility to choose a stay that fits their plans.
Here are a few areas to consider when looking for lodging near JMU.
Elkton offers small-town charm with a quaint downtown that's easy to explore. Visitors can browse local businesses, grab a bite to eat, or stop in at one of the area's breweries. The town's relaxed atmosphere makes it a nice place to slow down after a busy day on the JMU campus.
Elkton is approximately a 20-minute drive from JMU and also puts visitors within easy reach of Shenandoah National Park. It's a convenient option for adding hiking, scenic drives and other outdoor adventures to a JMU visit.
Along the backside of Massanutten Mountain, Keezletown offers a scenic rural setting surrounded by farmland, mountain views and open space. The area is also close to mountain biking trails at Massanutten Resort and other outdoor recreation, making it a great choice for visitors who want to spend time outside during their JMU trip.
JMU is approximately a 20-minute drive away, providing a quieter Shenandoah Valley experience without being far from campus. It's a particularly appealing option for visitors who would rather wake up to mountain scenery and farmland than stay in a busier area.
For visitors who want to turn a JMU trip into a full-scale getaway, Massanutten Resort offers plenty to do without having to go far. The four-season resort features activities and attractions for a variety of interests, including skiing and snow tubing in winter, the Massanutten WaterPark year-round, golf, restaurants, and other recreational activities.
About a 20-minute drive from JMU, Massanutten lets you build your trip around the resort experience. Spend the day on campus, then head back to the mountain for dinner, recreation or some downtime. It's an especially appealing option for families who want activities everyone can enjoy before or after their JMU plans. TripForth guests even receive FREE access to resort recreation centers!
Peaceful, scenic and rich in history, New Market offers a unique Shenandoah Valley experience surrounded by rolling farmland, mountain scenery and beautiful Valley views. It's a great option for visitors who want to slow down and enjoy the scenery while still being within driving distance of JMU.
About 20 to 25 minutes from campus, New Market also has a fascinating connection to Virginia's Civil War history. Visitors can explore New Market Battlefield State Historical Park, site of the 1864 Battle of New Market, along with the historic character of the town itself.
Explore New Market, VA Accommodations
Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, Luray offers a scenic change of pace for JMU visitors. About 40 minutes from campus, its quaint downtown features locally owned shops, restaurants and other small businesses, giving visitors plenty to explore when they're not on campus.
Luray is perhaps best known for Luray Caverns, one of the area's most popular attractions. The town also sits near the Shenandoah River, Shenandoah National Park, and other outdoor destinations, making it easy to build a JMU visit around both campus plans and time spent exploring the Valley.
The surrounding Page Valley is known as the Cabin Capital of Virginia, with cabins and other unique places to stay tucked throughout the mountains and along the river.
Explore Luray, VA Accommodations
For visitors looking to get away from the busier areas, Stanardsville offers a peaceful blend of small-town character and mountain seclusion. Roughly 45 minutes from JMU, the historic town center provides local businesses and a glimpse into the area's past, while the surrounding countryside quickly gives way to a more secluded Blue Ridge setting.
Stanardsville is also close to Shenandoah National Park and the Swift Run Gap area, making it a convenient base for visitors who want to spend time hiking, sightseeing or taking in the mountain scenery. The combination of a small-town center and nearby mountain seclusion gives visitors a quieter way to experience the region beyond JMU.
Explore Stanardsville, VA Accommodations
Ready to start planning your visit? TripForth offers vacation homes, cabins, condos and townhomes in all of these communities near JMU, making it easier to find accommodations that fit your group and your plans.
Whether you're visiting for Family Weekend, a football game, graduation, move-in, orientation or simply a weekend with your JMU student, explore our JMU vacation rentals and find a place to make your next campus visit feel a little more like a getaway. Click below to learn more about the benefits of booking a vacation rental home, and take advantage of our parent's discount!
