Real Estate & Homes for Sale in Central Avenue, Harrisonburg

Central Avenue is a neighborhood just south of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Although close to the university, this area has a relaxed atmosphere, with professors and faculty residing in the community. The neighborhood has tree-lined streets and early-to-mid 20th-century homes. Styles include ranches, Colonial Revivals and Cape Cods, with well-maintained yards and concrete walkways. Local dining options include Grilled Cheese Mania and El Charro, and downtown Harrisonburg, just a 10-minute drive away, has a diverse array of restaurants, shops and breweries. Popular spots downtown include Billy Jack’s Shack and Rocktown Kitchen, plus more student-oriented venues like Urgie’s and Ruby’s Lounge.

Central Avenue is home to Purcell Park, a large public green space with a playground, ball fields and the Bluestone Trail, a 1-mile path connecting to JMU. The neighborhood also has Funky’s roller skating rink for indoor activities. Food Lion is a mile southeast and larger stores like Aldi, Martin’s and Kroger are along East Market Street, 3 miles east.

Schools in the area include Keister Elementary, Thomas Harrison Middle and the highly rated Harrisonburg High. The Harrisonburg City Schools Governor’s STEM Academy offers specialized programs in healthcare and engineering.

Bus stops along South Main Street provide public transportation when JMU is in session. Interstate 81 runs along the eastern edge of the neighborhood, offering easy access to Staunton, Charlottesville and Washington, D.C.