Top Dog-Friendly Spots in Virginia: Parks, Attractions and Restaurants

Hello, and welcome to our best dog-friendly ideas and locations for your vacation in Virginia. We’ll start with pet-friendly Richmond and then move on to other areas. Please check the map below to find a specific location using the attached number.

So, let’s start.

1. Richmond

Don’t skip spending at least one day in pet-friendly Richmond. It is Virginia’s capital but also a city steeped in history, brimming with culture, and exuding Southern charm. Richmond offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication along the James River banks. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this city so unique.

Richmond was pivotal during the American Revolutionary War and Civil War, leaving many historic sites and landmarks behind. Explore the iconic Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, or walk the cobbled streets of Shockoe Slip, once a bustling trading hub in the 19th century.

Hollywood Cemetary

Visit Hollywood Cemetery, one of Richmond’s most serene, pet-friendly places. It is named for the abundance of holly trees on the property and is often visited as a national cemetery. Locals frequently walk or jog the paved paths for exercise and sightseeing, while history buffs come to see the famous grave sites of presidents and noteworthy Americans.

Hollywood Cemetery is home to the final resting places of President James Monroe, President John Tyler, and President of the Confederacy Jefferson Davis. A vast stone pyramid is a monument to dead Confederate soldiers. The tomb of W. W. Poole is associated with the legend of the Richmond Vampire.

One of the most well-known monuments in Hollywood Cemetery is a cast-iron Newfoundland dog. The statue stands guard over the grave of a little girl who died in 1862. 

There are many stories about how the Iron Dog came to be in Hollywood Cemetery, including the most popular version that was moved there to keep it from being melted down into bullets during the Civil War.

However, don’t miss an opportunity to hike around the beautiful hill with a view of the James River and take a picture of your pup with Iron Dog.

James River

Richmond’s most fantastic and pet-friendly part is the James River. Flowing gracefully through the city’s heart, the James River enhances the city’s beauty and offers endless outdoor recreation and relaxation opportunities. With its scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and captivating history, the James River holds a special place in the hearts of Richmonders and visitors alike.

The most popular are North Bank Trail, Buttermilk Trail, and Pony Pasture Loop Trail. An interactive trail map and information about all trails are available HERE.

However, our recommendation is Belle Isle Loop Trail.

You can access it from the south bank (JRPS 22^nd parking), follow the short trail on the right side, then pass the railway using the footbridge, continue right following the water or railroad, and cross the bridge.

You can also access it from the north bank (Belle Isle Parking) and across the suspended bridge underneath the US1 James River crossing (Lee Bridge). Stretching approximately 1,625 feet, the Belle Isle Footbridge is an impressive structure that offers stunning views of the James River and its surroundings. As you step onto the bridge, you’ll be greeted by the gentle sway and rhythmic sounds of the river flowing beneath your feet, creating a sense of exhilaration and anticipation for the adventure that awaits.

Belle Isle is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The Belle Isle Loop Trail is a scenic route around the island. It is about 2.6 miles long and offers a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and river views, including Hollywood waterfalls with a view of Hollywood Cemetary. It is a relatively easy hike suitable for all skill levels.

Dining

Richmond offers plenty of dining opportunities with great patios or other pet-friendly areas. West Carry and West Broad Street are the heart of the downtown street, where you can find many small restaurants.

Besides that, this is the list of great restaurants in Richmond:

1. Legend Brewing Co. is Virginia’s oldest Brewery pub, with a great view of the river and a dog-friendly deck. It is an award-winning pub restaurant and brewery with one of the few craft breweries producing lagers and ales in this region.
2. Sine Irish Pub and Restaurant offers traditional Irish eats and American favorites in Richmond’s historic Shockoe Slip district. They have an outside area and a covered patio, both pet-friendly, so it is a good option for a rainy day.
3. Lunch. Supper! is a modern eatery in historic Scott’s Addition that offers good food and gracious hospitality at a fair price. It also has a covered outdoor area where dogs are welcome.
4. Little Nickel is a neighborhood restaurant. The cuisine combines Mediterranean flair and mid-century American classics alongside thoughtful & funky cocktails.
5. Tommie’s Patio at River City Roll is a 1,800 sq ft outdoor patio dedicated to a dog named Tommie, who died from horrific abuse. A local artist has created a featured mural in honor of Tommie, and dogs are always welcome on the patio.
6. Brambly Park is an urban oasis in the heart of Richmond, situated on two acres of green space nestled in Scott’s Addition. It is open six days a week and houses a winery, restaurant, private park, and event space.

Breweries

Virginia is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries scattered throughout the state, so don’t miss an opportunity to visit one during your dog vacation. The list is vast. Our recommendation in Richmond is Isley Brewing Company, a Micro Craft brewery. You and your pup can enjoy the beers on the outdoor patio or in the tasting room; of course, be sure your pet feels comfortable around crowds and other dogs.

2. Pocahontas State Park

Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield County, approximately 20 miles south of Richmond. is one of the pet-friendly places to visit. Also, it is one of Virginia’s largest state parks, covering around 7,950 acres. Like all Virginia State Par, it is dog-friendly and offers various recreational activities and amenities for visitors of all ages.

Pocahontas State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features over 64 miles of trails, including hiking, mountain biking, and multi-use trails. There are options for all skill levels, from strolls to challenging hikes or bike rides. The park also has a large lake, Swift Creek Lake, where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming during summer.

Dogs are welcome on all trails, but they must primarily be leashed.

For the trail map, click HERE.

Pocahontas State Park offers various camping options and overnight stays. For more information, please click HERE.

If you plan to visit more state parks in Virginia, you can consider buying an annual pass for all Virginia State Parks—$85. It includes parking and admission for 12 months to all State Parks. (Annual Passes have access for up to 4 persons at Natural Bridge and Southwest Virginia Museum state parks.)

3. Henricus Historical Park

Henricus Historical Park is a living historical place in Chester, Virginia, and it is very dog-friendly. It recreates the early English settlement of Henricus, founded in 1611 as one of North America’s first successful English settlements. It provides visitors with an immersive living history experience, showcasing the daily life and activities of the English settlers who lived in Henricus in the early 17th century. Visitors can interact with historical interpreters, participate in hands-on activities, and learn about the challenges and triumphs of the early settlers.

The park features reconstructed buildings and structures that depict different aspects of life in the settlement, such as a re-creation of the original Citie of Henricus fort, a colonist’s house, a tobacco barn, and a Native American longhouse. These structures offer a glimpse into the architecture and lifestyle of the time.

4. Haven Beach

Haven Beach is a small, secluded beach situated along the Chesapeake Bay. It is located in Mathews County, on the eastern coast of Virginia. It offers beautiful views, soft sand, and calm waters, making it a serene spot for beachgoers. Additionally, the beach is very peaceful and has natural beauty.

You won’t find much information about this beach, nor many people there. What makes the beach so unique, and this information so valuable for dog owners, is that the beach has no summertime restrictions for dogs nor the leash rule. Of course, remember that you have to control your dog and respect other people and pets.

Nearby Mathews does not offer many dining options during weekdays. However, if you have plenty of time, drive to Yorktown, Virginia, where you can find more dog-friendly restaurants. One is Water Street Grille, which offers seafood, tapas, and an outstanding craft beer selection. It allows dogs both inside and outside.

5. Jamestowne

Besides Williamsburg and Yorktown, Jamestowne is the third historical place you can visit. It was the beginning of British America. On May 14, 1607, the Virginia Company settlers landed on Jamestown Island to establish an English colony 60 miles from the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. The discovery of the exact location of the first fort indicates that its site was in a secure place, where Spanish ships could not fire point blanks into the fort. Within days of landing, the colonists were attacked by Powhatan Indians. The newcomers spent the next few weeks working to “beare and plant palisadoes” for a wooden fort. It was inside this fort that England’s first permanent colony in North America took hold, and the seeds for the United States of America grew.

You can walk around the area and snack at Dale House Cafe. However, dogs are prohibited inside the Visitor Center or in Jamestown Settlement (an open-area museum), so don’t waste your time stopping there.

6. Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum and historic district that offers visitors a glimpse into America’s colonial past. An adult ticket costs $50, but it is one of the most popular and well-known destinations for history enthusiasts in the United States.

Colonial Williamsburg was founded as the capital of the Virginia Colony in the late 17th century. It was the colony’s political, cultural, and educational center until Richmond became the new one in 1780. After that, Williamsburg gradually declined in importance until the early 20th century, when efforts to restore and preserve the historic area began.

Today, Colonial Williamsburg spans over 300 acres and includes more than 88 original buildings.

When you visit Colonial Williamsburg, you return to the 18th century. The historic area is bustling with costumed interpreters who portray colonial residents’ daily lives, trades, and activities.

There are also numerous trade shops where you can watch craftsmen and artisans at work. Blacksmiths, wigmakers, shoemakers, printers, and many other skilled workers practiced their trades using authentic tools and techniques.

Since buildings and restaurants in Colonial Williamsburg are not dog-friendly, I recommend a short stop in Williamsburg Downtown and have lunch at probably one of the most dog-friendly restaurants, The Hound’s Tale, with more than delicious food. Dogs are allowed inside and outside.

Wineries

Virginia is known for its thriving wine industry and is home to numerous wineries throughout the state. Whether you’re in the central region, Northern Virginia, or the Eastern Shore, you’ll find a variety of wineries with unique offerings and beautiful settings to explore and enjoy.

Saude Creek Vineyards is an excellent stop on your vacation in the eastern part of Virginia, a beautiful dog-friendly place that offers exceptional Chardonnay and other wines.

7. Virginia Beach

For information about Virginia Beach, please continue East Coast Road Trip.

For more Virginia ideas, please continue with Road Trip Virginia (Part 2).