Central Avenue Home for Rent

Central Avenue in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is a neighborhood just south of James Madison University, known for its tree-lined streets and early-to-mid 20th-century homes. The area has a relaxed atmosphere, with many professors residing there, despite its proximity to the bustling university. The neighborhood features a variety of home styles, including ranches, Colonial Revivals, and Cape Cods, with well-maintained yards and concrete walkways. Residents enjoy local dining options such as Grilled Cheese Mania and El Charro, and downtown Harrisonburg, just a 10-minute drive away, offers a diverse array of restaurants, shops, and breweries. Popular spots include Billy Jack’s Shack and Rocktown Kitchen, with 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. Grocery shopping is convenient with Food Lion a mile southeast and larger stores like Aldi, Martin’s, and Kroger along East Market Street, 3 miles east. The neighborhood is primarily residential, with single-family homes and minimal student housing, contributing to its quiet environment. 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. Central Avenue is car-dependent, with limited sidewalks, but bus stops along South Main Street provide public transportation when JMU is in session. Interstate 81 runs along the eastern edge, offering easy access to Staunton, Charlottesville, and Washington, D.C.