Since the university's founding in 1908, the Quad's welcoming atmosphere has remained much the same.

Farmland, mountains, the wide sky full of stars are what make the Shenandoah Valley, and JMU's home in it, so unique and so beautiful.

There are ski slopes, trails for biking, rivers for fishing, forests for camping -- on any given evening you can choose between home-cooked southern-fried chicken, an edgy coffee shop, live music in a bar or ethnic cuisine. Throw out the stereotypes and choose between country roads or downtown nightlife, farmers' markets or vintage thrift shops, live Shakespeare or live jazz.

While you're arranging your schedule, be sure to save plenty of time for your visit to James Madison University. The heart of our institution is our students - more than 17,000 strong. Sporting purple and gold most days, they drive the activity of our vibrant campus.

Visitors are always welcome at JMU!

Whether you have a few minutes or a few weeks, we know you will enjoy your time on campus. View the campus map, get directions, check out parking services.

What's cool in and around the 'Burg? The great outdoors, a piece of history, high art and plenty of fun destinations downtown and around Harrisonburg — it's all here.

Need accommodations? Looking for a place to eat and relax? Review the listing of local hotels, motels and restaurants to find what suits you.

Where do I buy tickets, Warren or the Convo? Can I check out a library book on campus? When is the astronomy park open? Who do I contact to find JMU student volunteers? Can I take courses at JMU? Where do I park for a softball game?

The JMU online community resource directory is available to answer these and many more questions from community members, JMU parents and campus visitors.

The online resource also features information about campus construction projects like the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts, East Campus Library, Centennial Hall and the athletics facility expansions and renovations. Community resource users can also learn more about Greater Madison, a nonprofit organization established in 1971 to advance a mutually beneficial relationship between the university and the local community.