Your dog is an important part of your family, and it’s only natural that you want to find fun activities to share with them. Arlington is a fairly dog-friendly city as it is, but some places are a little more welcoming to you and your pooch than others. Try these dog friendly activities in Arlington on for size the next time you and your furry family member are in the mood for a fun day out.
Dog parks in Arlington, VA
For social dogs, dog parks are always a hit, and Arlington is home to many, including the already-mentioned Shirlington Dog Park. One of the first recognized dog parks in the area, Shirlington Dog Park was established more than three decades ago. It covers about two acres and features an accessible trail with separate areas for small dogs. Shirlington is widely considered one of the area’s best dog parks.
Glencarlyn Park is also popular with dogs and their people. The park also features a nature center, bike paths, a rain garden, nature trails, and playgrounds. Another fun dog park is the James Hunter Dog Park, which features a pool and waterfall for the pups to enjoy and tables and benches where owners can chat. Find your new favorite dog park here.
Pedicab Tours
Whether you are new to the area or have been here a while, sightseeing via a pedicab tour can be a fun way to pass the time. Pedicab tours offer an up-close-and-personal peek at not just Arlington but also downtown D.C. You could go on your own, but why would you want to when you can take your pup along for a memorable day of adventuring? You can check out all the sights, explore at your speed, and kick back and relax as you enjoy a day of fun. Several pedicab companies offer these tours, and most are dog-friendly.
Private walking tours are also available through DC by Foot. You can check out Historic Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Tidal Basin, and the National Mall with your leashed pup on a private walking tour, but you will need a reservation.
Key Bridge Boating
Does your dog enjoy a day on the water? At Key Bridge Boating, you and your pup can rent a canoe, kayak, or another vessel along with a doggie life jacket and spend time doing what you both love best. Prices start at just $20 an hour and you can spend up to an entire day on the water if you’d like.
Torpedo Factory Art Center
Your dog doesn’t have to be an art lover to enjoy the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria. This dog-friendly art studio is filled with working artists, and both of you can meet the artists and watch them create everything from paintings and ceramics to stained glass and fiber art.
Breweries in Arlington and Surroundings
Kicking back with a craft beer and a friend or two is a great way to while away an afternoon, and as it turns out, plenty of dogs enjoy breweries, too. Check out the Port City Brewing Company, the New District Brewing Company, or one of the other dog-friendly brewing companies in the area. Be sure to check the rules of each brewery before visiting to determine if you will need to pay a fee for your pup.
After a full day of activity, you and your pup are likely to be a bit hungry. Luckily, we have plenty of dog friendly restaurants in Arlington, too, including:
- Northside Social Coffee & Wine, where you can enjoy coffee, tea, hot chocolate, quiches, sandwiches, salads, quiches, and more from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Ambar Restaurant, with a Balkan-inspired menu that includes quinoa, salads, soups, sliders, omelets, pies, and more
- The Union Restaurant for casual dining with paninis, burgers, and ancient grain bowls, all made with fresh, wholesome ingredients
- Tupelo Honey, a fusion of Southern food and modern sensibilities coming together to create vibrant flavors and brilliant textures
- Farmers Fishers Bakers, fresh, wholesome fare made from scratch, including salad, soups, sides, entrees, and desserts
For those times your dog cannot be with you, check out our brand-new dog daycare in Arlington. Playful Pack offers cage-free indoor and outdoor activities to keep your pup engaged, active, and mentally and physically stimulated in a healthy, positive environment. We offer constant staff engagement in a clean, safe and comfortable atmosphere. Visit us today for a temperament evaluation and enjoy a free day of daycare!