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Over and over again, living in Alexandria VA, ranks high on pet and dog-friendly lists that appear in publications like Rover, Expedia, Tripadvisor, and BringFido. It’s official—dogs are more than welcome in shops, hotels, restaurants, and running through parks throughout the city.
But, here’s the problem, if you can call it that: there are so many options to choose from! So, what exactly should you do with your dog while living in an Alexandria VA zip code?
We have you covered with some of the most fun dog-centric options out there. Grab the leash, water bowl, and maybe a life jacket; you’re taking over Alexandria with dogs in tow.
Alexandria Walking Trails and Play Outings
1. Gravelly Point Park
If you have a pretty chill dog that wouldn’t mind the noise from flyovers from commercial airplanes, try an afternoon at Gravelly Point Park.
Just barely over the line into Arlington, plenty of Alexandrians spend time hanging out with the family, watching planes come and go from Reagan National Airport. Plot a point and relax or walk along the green space under the roar of take-offs and landings. This pastime is one of the most popular things to do in Alexandria VA.
2. Founders Park
Take your pups for picnics in the park on the banks of the Potomac. Founders Park is a popular gathering spot for tourists, families, and their leashed dogs.
If off-leash is more your style, look for the dog park area for free rein. Wide-open spaces sit interwoven with paved paths and benches dotted along the way, so take in the sights. Or, if you and your dog have energy to burn, play a pick-up game of volleyball or toss a frisbee.
3. Waterfront Park
Festivals are common at Waterfront Park, but you don’t need a celebration to take your dog for a walk along the river. If you head down on a whim, you might run into street performers, pop-up shops, food trucks, and others with furry friends by their side.
You won’t be alone if you head down King Street and up to Waterfront Park to take in a few minutes of relaxation and entertainment before driving home.
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4. George Washington Mount Vernon Trail
The jewel of Alexandria, the George Washington Mount Vernon Trail, always welcomes pets and their owners to take long walks through the tree-lined riverbanks. Try a long walk each season, and you’ll find something new to investigate every time. There’s potential to cross into a different Alexandria VA zip code within the 18 miles of the total trail.
Convenient picnic areas and comfort stations provide water in case you forgot the dog’s supplies, and you’ll never be too far from a restroom.
5. Canine Cruise
Are you even a good dog parent if you don’t book a cruise for your pooch on the Potomac? It sounds wild, but boat rides with your dog are a favorite pastime of locals. Tourists get on board just as often.
Try a Canine Cruise, or if you like to DIY on the water, check out Washington Sailing Marina for kayak, canoe, paddleboard, and sailing choices for human and dog duos. Not to worry, doggie life jackets are included.
6. Dedicated Dog Parks
Sometimes, dogs just have to frolic, play, and roughhouse with buddies off-leash. Alexandria is lucky to have several dedicated dog parks. Visit each and pick your favorites.
Photo by jesse orrico on Unsplash
Take Your Dog Shopping
7. Old Town Farmers’ Market
Old Town Alexandria comes to life at Market Square every Saturday morning thanks to the bustling crowds headed to the beloved Old Town Farmers’ Market. It’s an easy place to stroll with your dog or sit and watch people and their dogs. Don’t be surprised to see lots of dog friends coming and going. Some of the vendors might even slip your dog a snack or two.
8. The Dog Park
Now, if you’re specifically shopping for your dog, head to The Dog Park. They have everything you never knew you needed for your dog (and cats, too). Specialty items like artwork, home decor, and pet accessories not found in big box stores are their signature, but you won’t be able to leave the shop without letting your dog taste something just baked, displayed on the cookie counter.
9. Olde Towne School for Dogs
Although Olde Towne School for Dogs is the go-to for grooming, training, and daycare services in Old Town, they also have quite a selection in their shop for your pooch to browse.
Staff can answer any questions you have about specialized diets and supplements designed for your dog’s breed. Plus, toys and treats sit ready for your dog’s approval.
10. More Old Town Shopping
Throughout Old Town's main shopping areas, shops like Red Barn Mercantile and Penny Post welcome well-behaved dogs to visit and shop. But some of the best ways to get to know the city are to wander through the residential side streets. You’ll see neighbors walking and chatting with dogs sniffing as they go.
You’ll also find lots of dog-crazy neighbors who offer treats from Biscuit Barns, Bone Boxes, and Stick Lending Libraries to all dogs as you meander the historic blocks.
11. Torpedo Factory Art Center
Dogs like art too—we think! Show off your pup’s fancy collar or clothes while strolling through the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Humans love window shopping through more than 80 galleries, studios, and workshops on the water. Stop for a quick bite at one of the “pets welcome” eateries nearby, and the day will be a complete success!
12. Del Ray Alexandria
Del Ray is one of Alexandria's most walkable, dog-friendly neighborhoods in the DC area and consistently tops lists of the “best of” for working, playing, and shopping with your dog. Dog owners love access to restaurants that offer their dogs water bowls, dinner menus, and frozen treats. Definitely watch for special events hosted by The Garden, Del Ray Cafe, The Dairy Godmother, and The Neighborhood Pharmacy.
Learn more about living in Del Ray and neighboring zip codes.
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Dog-Friendly Hotels and Apartments
13. Bell Old Town
Bell Old Town’s location is nearly perfect for a dog owner. The property is dog-friendly (some banned-breed restrictions apply) and features a burst of green space for quick potty trips. But, steps away is an opening to the George Washington Mount Vernon Trail with miles of walking and sniffing opportunities. If you want a city view during your walk, the heart of Old Town Alexandria is just a block or two away.
14. Bridgeyard Apartments and Porto Vecchio Condominiums
Just across S. Washington Street from Bell Old Town, Bridgeyard and Port Vecchio provide the same access to trails and Old Town, but are also steps from walking access to the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, which spans the Potomac River into Maryland. High-energy dogs might be tuckered out after walking over eight miles from end to end.
Need a dog park instead of a dog hike? Check out the nearby Westgrove Dog Park or the Dog Run Park at Carlyle on Andrew's Lane.
15. The Heron, Archer Hotel, The Westin, The Alexandrian
Most Alexandria hotels are pet-friendly, meaning they’re welcome to stay for a fee and with some guidelines, but you can count on The Heron, Archer Hotel, The Westin, and The Alexandrian to roll out the welcome mat for your beloved pooch. After arrival, you’ll find dog bowls, dog beds, and treats ready for your dog’s comfort and joy. Nearby Founder’s Park (one of the best things to do in Alexandria, VA) is a walkable greenspace respite in Old Town perfect for meeting other canines and their people.
These outings are just the start of many dog-friendly activities in Alexandria. Stay connected for the heads-up about unique dog-welcome events throughout the city all year long. You can count on a few surprise pop-up events hosted by local businesses tossed in along the way, too.
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