As locals know and visitors quickly discover, Harrisonburg is in no short supply of amazing things to see and do. So naturally there is no shortage of places to stay, but why not make your accommodations part of your local adventure?! By the Side of the Road is the place to do just that.
Locally and family owned and operated by Jesse & Anna Bergey, By the Side of the Road Inn offers a unique blend of hotel comfort and the charm of a vacation rental.
Choose from a variety of accommodations, including cozy cottages, stylish studios, and rooms within the main house. Each option provides private living quarters and bathrooms, while multiple common areas offer spaces for gathering and socializing.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, a solo work trip, or a group retreat, By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages is the perfect place to create lasting memories.
We love supporting local businesses and we wanted to know more about By the Side of the Road Inn & Cottages. We had a blast visiting the Inn, chatting with Anna and getting all the deets! Read on to check out our Q&A with Anna.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about the history of your inn and what inspired you to take over this inn in the Shenandoah Valley?
A: By the Side of the Road Inn opened in April of 1999 so it just celebrated its' 25th Anniversary. The previous owners, Dennis and Janice Fitzgerald (my parents) had a history of purchasing older homes and fixing them up. They are entrepreneurs at heart and about a year after purchasing the property, they felt the 1790 Manor House had a Bed & Breakfast "feel" and took the leap to renovate the Manor House turning it into 4 private suites.
The property has a Cottage which was turned into a 5th accommodation—so unique in 1999! It includes a wood-burning fireplace, spiral staircase with bedroom upstairs and the entire first floor features the bathroom with a fireside 110 Gallon whirlpool tub!
What is believed to be the original Summer Kitchen, (called the River Birch Cabin now) dates back to 1840. The River Birch Cabin was so popular, By the Side of the Road expanded to add two more Cottages in 2005. Then, in 2012, Dennis & Janice were able to purchase the property next door where one more building was added with two additional accommodations bring the total to 9.
In 2022, after 23 years, Dennis and Janice were ready to step back from running the business. With Jesse's 18 year career in landscaping and my career in marketing, hospitality and real estate—we knew we could take our knowledge and experience and apply it to running the Inn. That said, Jesse and I decided to purchase the property and continue the business.
Q: Are there any interesting stories about the building or property that guests might not know?
A: The third floor of the Main House was a meeting space for Weaver's Mennonite Church and the Main House served as a Civil War Hospital and also survived the Burning of the Valley.
We do get a lot of questions about the property being haunted and have had paranormal people come and stay in the house to investigate. I believe there may be stories that go around about the house being haunted but nobody shares them with us! 🙂
Q: What makes the Shenandoah Valley such a special place to visit?
A: So many things! The Shenandoah Valley’s unique combination of natural wonders, historical significance, and cultural richness makes it a destination that appeals to adventurers, history buffs, foodies, and those simply seeking a peaceful getaway.
But, in addition to all these reasons, the Colleges in our area (especially JMU) bring visitors to Harrisonburg. We love being able meet so many new people and help them make the most of their time here.
Q: What are your favorite local attractions or activities?
A: My family and I are making it a goal this year to learn the hiking trails and visit more attractions. White Oak Lavender farm is unique to our area and we enjoy visiting there and often send our guests. We like to escape to Three Brothers Brewery too. I don't know that people realize how much shopping we have downtown and the variety of restaurants in Harrisonburg is really unbelievable!
Q: How has your experience as a realtor influenced the way you run and manage the inn?
A: As a Realtor, I think a lot about what improvements we can and should continue to make to protect our investment. With 10 years of helping my clients buy and sell homes, I look at the property through a realtor lens all the time!
Q: What is the typical guest experience like at your inn?
A: Most of our guests are couples that are having a quiet getaway to the Valley. Our Cottages sleep 2 and have a romantic and peaceful feel to them. They can check-in whenever they like (after 3pm) because of our self check-in policy and they do not see anyone unless they are really looking for other people or us.
We personalize a welcome sign upon arrival and try to make them feel welcome and unbothered but we also let them know we are nearby should anything arise during their stay. Couples will typically stay for 2 nights. We leave dining suggestions in the room for when they arrive, but most venture downtown for their dinners our each evening. Some may spend the day antiquing or visiting farmers markets while others may visit our local wineries or the White Oak Lavender Farm.
Q: What is your most popular room or package?
A: Our Three Cottages are by far our most popular accommodations...The River Birch Cabin, The Magnolia Cottage or The Clover Cottage. We offer a Romance package which includes dinner out at Bella Luna, Champagne in your Cottage Fridge upon arrival, chocolate covered strawberries and rose petals on the bed...that is quite popular!
Q: Do you have a favorite room or spot on the property, and why?
A: In the warm weather, we love hanging out by the pond. The Spring Fed pond is kept up by Jesse and is a refreshing spot to swim in the Summer for our kids and their friends. Guests can fish in the pond if they wish to 'catch and release'. We have many memories by that pond and look forward to many more! I also especially love the Main Floor of the Main house. The bay window is relaxing to lounge in and enjoy the view.
Q: What are some tips for planning a stay at your inn?
A: Visit our website and watch the virtual tours of each accommodation before choosing one. We have so many options that we feel confident we can find the best fit for each guest. If a guest can't do stairs, then we would encourage them to book a Cottage or one of our Studio Suites. If they enjoy old buildings and all the character that comes along with them, they may enjoy the Main House Suites or the River Birch Cabin the best. All of our accommodations have private bathrooms and the Main House is especially beautiful now with our most recent renovations.
Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a tranquil retreat, By the Side of the Road Inn offers a warm welcome and a unique Shenandoah Valley experience. With its blend of comfort, charm, and local hospitality, this inn is the perfect base for exploring all that the region has to offer. Plan your stay today and discover the magic of the Shenandoah Valley!
Address: 491 Garbers Church Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Phone: 540.801.0430 | Email: [email protected]
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