Pet Friendly Travel Options in Fairfax County
We here in Fairfax County love our pets. And it's always been that way. Pet-friendly accommodations, things to do, parks and more await you and your best friend for your dog-friendly DC getaway or pet-friendly Capital Region vacation. Here are some fascinating tidbits and helpful information to know while planning your pet-friendly trip to Northern Virginia.
Pet-Friendly Travel Accommodations
Welcome to the pet paradise of Fairfax County, Virginia! This is the place where tails wag with excitement and meows of joy fill the air. Fairfax County offers a wide array of pet-friendly accommodation options that will make you and your furry friends feel right at home. Whether you're looking for a cozy bed at a hotel or an outdoor adventure, Fairfax County has got you covered. So pack up your pet's favorite toys, grab their leash, and get ready for a tail-wagging adventure in Fairfax County.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants
Fairfax County, Virginia is the perfect spot for pet owners who love to dine out with their furry friends. When warm weather is upon us, there are many restaurants with pet-friendly outdoor patios where you can sit and enjoy a meal with your pup by your side. These patios offer a great atmosphere to relax and enjoy some fresh air while chowing down on delicious food. And don't worry, many of these patios are shaded to keep you and your pup cool on hot summer days. For more options check out our pet-friendly travel blog post.
Dog-Friendly Breweries
When it comes to pet-friendly places in Fairfax County, our breweries and wineries are some of the best options outside of our parks. While some breweries with restaurants may restrict pets to outdoor areas, almost all of them have dog-friendly outdoor spaces. And if you're looking for a spot for all-weather fun with your furry friend, Fair Winds allows dogs inside their taphouse. Before you go, it's a good idea to call ahead and make sure the patio areas are open and ready for your pet. Keep in mind that pets must be leashed, well-behaved, and safe at all times. So, bring your pup along and enjoy a fun day out in Fairfax County's pet-friendly breweries and wineries. For a more extensive list of dog-friendly breweries and wineries check out our pet-friendly travel blog post.
Picnics With Your Pooch
When it comes to finding the perfect spot for a picnic with your furry friend in Fairfax County, the options are endless! There are plenty of pet-friendly parks and natural areas with designated picnic areas where you can lay out a blanket and enjoy a meal with your pup by your side. Some popular options include Lake Accotink Park, which features plenty of grassy areas and a picturesque lake, and Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, which offers a tranquil setting for a relaxing picnic. For a more adventurous picnic experience, head to one of Fairfax County's hiking trails, such as the scenic Great Falls Park or the challenging Billy Goat Trail. If you're looking for something closer to town, try the Mosaic District or Old Town Fairfax, both of which offer plenty of outdoor space and pet-friendly restaurants where you can pick up some food to go. Just remember to pack plenty of water and snacks for your furry friend, and be sure to clean up after them before you leave. So, grab a picnic basket, a frisbee, and your favorite furry companion, and head out to one of Fairfax County's many pet-friendly picnic spots for a fun day out!
Dog-Friendly Activities in Northern Virginia
From burning off a little energy to exploring unique spaces, check out some of the activities below that will leave both fido and their owner feeling good.
Dog Parks
Are you a dog owner looking for a fun, off-leash play area for your furry companion? Look no further than the many dog parks in Fairfax County, Virginia! These parks are the perfect spot for dogs to run, play, and socialize with other pups, all while enjoying some fresh air and exercise. From small, neighborhood parks to large, sprawling off-leash areas, Fairfax County has plenty of options to choose from. Some parks even offer amenities like doggy pools, agility courses, and shaded areas to keep your pet comfortable. So, pack a ball, some treats, and your furry friend, and head out to one of Fairfax County's many dog parks for a tail-wagging good time!
History With Your Pet
If you're a history lover and a dog owner, Fairfax County offers plenty of options for you and your furry friend to explore together. Here are a few ideas:
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Visit the George Washington's Mount Vernon: This historic site was the home of George Washington and is now a museum that offers tours of the mansion and surrounding grounds. Dogs are allowed on the estate's walking trails and in the parking lot, but are not allowed in the mansion or other buildings. Click here for more information.
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Tour nearby Old Town Alexandria: This charming city, once a part of Fairfax County, offers a variety of historic walking tours that are pet-friendly, including tours of Old Town and the waterfront.
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Explore Civil War Sites: Fairfax County was the site of several significant Civil War battles, and there are many historical markers and sites to explore. Some of the most notable include the Manassas National Battlefield Park, Ox Hill Battlefield Park, and the dozens of Civil War Trails sites in the area.
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Attend Living History Events: Throughout the year, Fairfax County hosts a variety of living history events that allow visitors to experience life as it was during different time periods. Many of these events are pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along to learn about history together.
No matter which historic sites you choose to explore with your furry friend, be sure to check in advance to confirm any pet policies and to keep your dog leashed and under control at all times.
Pet-Friendly Events Year Round
If you're a pet owner in Fairfax County, Virginia, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of events held throughout the year that you can attend with your furry friend. Fall is a particularly popular time for pet-friendly events, with many pet-friendly fall festivals, fairs, and Halloween events allowing leashed pets to participate in the fun. From pumpkin patches to corn mazes to haunted houses, there's no shortage of fall activities that you and your pet can enjoy together. And if you're a music lover, don't miss the many outdoor music events that are held in Fairfax County throughout the year, many of which are pet-friendly. So, grab a leash, some treats, and your favorite four-legged friend, and head out to one of Fairfax County's many pet-friendly events for a fun day out!
Find Your Pet-Friendly Place to Visit
What is Dog-Friendly Travel?
The term "dog-friendly" generally refers to places, activities, or products that are suitable for dogs and their owners. This can include things like public spaces, restaurants, hotels, and events that welcome dogs and provide amenities and accommodations for them. For example, a dog-friendly restaurant may have a special outdoor seating area where dogs are allowed to sit with their owners, or a dog-friendly hotel may have designated rooms that are equipped with features like dog beds, food and water bowls, and pet-friendly amenities. Being dog-friendly usually means that a business or organization is open and welcoming to dogs and their owners, recognizing them as valued members of the community.
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