Virginia, with its diverse landscapes ranging from sandy beaches to lush forests, offers a plethora of dog-friendly adventures. Whether you're seeking coastal escapades or woodland hikes, the Old Dominion has something special for every dog and their human.
🏖️ Dog-Friendly Beaches in Virginia
First Landing State Park – Virginia Beach
This park is a pet-friendly natural landmark where your leashed pup is welcome to tag along. Fido will have a blast running in the water and exploring any of the 20 miles of trails.
Kiptopeke State Park – Cape Charles
Kiptopeke State Park is a pet-friendly beach with a designated dog beach on the left side of the park. It's a great spot 30 minutes from Virginia Beach and includes a trail to take your leashed furry friend on.
Jamestown Beach Event Park – Williamsburg
This scenic dog-friendly spot attracts locals and visitors to the waterfront. Open from 8am until sunset, the park features shaded picnic areas, charcoal grills, a designated fishing area, observation station, paddle craft launch area, and concession stand. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 8 feet while in the park but are permitted to swim freely if under voice control of their owner.
🌲 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Virginia
Shenandoah National Park – Luray
Shenandoah National Park is a pet-friendly destination where you can travel along the Skyline Drive National Scenic Byway and enjoy over 500 trails. Out of all the trails, less than 20 do not allow your furry friend.
Bull Run Occoquan Trail – Centreville
This natural surface path roams through creekside woods, allowing your dog to explore the forest and perhaps enjoy a little water play on Cub Run and Bull Run. Bridges span tributary streams, and the trail traverses several NOVA Parks.
Mill Mountain Star Trail – Roanoke
Bring Fido to hike the pet-friendly Mill Mountain Star Trail, which starts at the base of the mountain and climbs up to the iconic Roanoke Star. There are 500 acres of parkland atop Mill Mountain, featuring picnic areas, overlooks that provide 20-60 mile vistas, access to additional hiking trails, the Mill Mountain Zoo, and much more.
🍽️ Dog-Friendly Dining in Virginia
Bald Top Brewing Co. – Madison
Bald Top Brewing Co. is a pet-friendly establishment where Fido is welcome to join you at a table inside their taproom or on their outdoor patio. Your pup will be lavished with attention here, with water bowls and dog treats spread throughout the property. You can pair one of their craft beers, ciders, or wines with wood-fired pizza and sweets.
Seven Arrows Brewing Company and Nobos Kitchen – Waynesboro
This dog-friendly brewery and eatery welcomes your leashed pup at a table inside the taproom or on the outdoor patio. Seven Arrows Brewing Company creates a relaxed, social, and enjoyable environment that provides high-quality and true-to-style beers paired with great locally sourced food from Nobos restaurant.
Berret's Seafood Restaurant & Taphouse Grill – Williamsburg
Berret's Seafood Restaurant & Taphouse Grill is a dog-friendly restaurant where Fido can join you at an outdoor table on the sidewalk terrace. They even have a dog menu and water bowls. Their human menu features fresh seafood and shellfish, steaks, chops, and chicken entrees, a full bar with an extensive wine list and local microbrews.
From the sandy shores of Virginia Beach to the scenic trails of Shenandoah National Park, Virginia offers countless adventures for you and your canine companion. Embrace the diverse experiences the Old Dominion has to offer and create unforgettable memories with your furry friend.
