A Guide to Dog-Friendly Alexandria, VA

Did you know, Alexandria is home to the United States’ first president, George Washington? But we’re not here to talk about politics today, we’re here to discuss dogs and all the dog-friendly places, Alexandria, Virginia, has to offer. From doggy days out, to opportunities to do dog sitting in Alexandria, or if you fancy some time away from your pup to explore, find a local Alexandria pet sitter. Let’s find out more…

Dog parks in Alexandria

Simpson Stadium Dog Park

A well-maintained, fully fenced dog run with plenty of friendly locals. There’s a separate area for small dogs, and water is usually available.

Location: 609 E Monroe Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301, United States

Montgomery Park Dog Run

Tucked in the heart of Old Town, this small but lively off-leash area is a favorite for neighborhood pups.

Location: 901 N Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Founders Park

A peaceful, waterfront park with open green space, shaded walking paths, and stunning views of the Potomac. Dogs are welcome on-leash—perfect for a sunset stroll.

Location: 351 N Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Monticello Park

This is the spot during spring migration for bird watchers, but it's also a favorite for dog walkers. A woodsy trail and a small creek make it feel like a hidden oasis.

Location: 320 Beverley Dr, Alexandria, VA 22305, United States

Fort Hunt Park

Just south of Alexandria, this National Park has wide-open fields and trails to explore. Dogs are welcome on leash—and there’s plenty of space to play fetch.

Location: 8999 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22308, United States

Potomac Yard Park

A modern, clean space with paved trails and nearby green areas. Great for a more urban-style walk with your pup.

Location: 2501 Potomac Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301, United States

Dog-friendly restaurants in Alexandria

Vola’s Dockside Grill & Hi-Tide Lounge

Dogs are welcome on the patio, which sits right on the water. Great seafood, great views, and water bowls for your furry date.

Location: 101 N Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

South Block Juice Co.

A healthy treat for you (smoothies, açaí bowls) and a water bowl waiting outside for your dog. Perfect for a post-walk refresh.

Location: 2121 N Westmoreland St b, Arlington, VA 22213, United States

Virtue Feed & Grain

A trendy spot with a spacious dog-friendly patio. They even offer a dog menu featuring bacon and peanut butter treats!

Location: 106 S Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Fun dog-friendly activities in Alexandria

The Dog Park Boutique

This boutique pet store in Old Town offers high-quality toys, treats, and gear—and of course, dogs are welcome to browse with you!

Cost: Free entry

Date and time: Mondays to Saturdays: 10 am - 7 pm, Sundays 10 am - 6 pm

Location: 705 King St Suite 100, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Old Town Alexandria Boutiques

Many of the stores along King Street allow dogs inside (look for water bowls or signs on the door), and most shop owners are super friendly to four-legged visitors.

Cost: Free entry

Date and time: Various

Location: Alexandria, VA, USA

Dog-friendly walking trails in Alexandria

Potomac River Heritage Trail

Walk along the scenic Potomac River, with plenty of shaded benches and water bowls outside shops and restaurants. It’s perfect for golden hour photos, with plenty of open space and relaxed vibes for you and your pup, as well as miles of walking for hiking lovers.

Location: 101 Seneca Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066, United States

Length: 710 milesi (1140 km)

Mount Vernon Trail

A beautiful riverside path great for long walks, jogging, or biking with your leashed dog.

Location: United States

Length: 18 miles (29 km)

Dog-friendly cafes in Alexandria

Misha’s Coffee

Locally loved coffee shop with outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. Great place for a chill morning with a latte and your pup.

Location: 6 Prince St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Fontaine Caffe & Creperie

Cozy European-style café with a charming patio where dogs are welcome. Known for sweet and savory crêpes.

Location: 119 S Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub

A friendly neighborhood hangout with a large outdoor area—perfect for people-watching with your pup in tow.

Location: 529 Montgomery St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Chewish Deli

Known for fresh bagels and deli sandwiches. Dogs are welcome at outdoor tables and will usually get a little love from the staff.

Location: 807 Pendleton St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Swing’s Coffee Roasters

A historic Alexandria roaster with solid coffee and outdoor benches. Great for a quick caffeine fix with your furry friend.

Location: 501 E Monroe Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301, United States

Annual dog events in Alexandria

Paws in the Park

Celebrate fall with your pup at this annual brewery bash. This event at Oronoco Bay Park brings together shopping, live music, food and drink, and adoptable animals. There will also be a silent auction, Family Fun Tent, and dog and human costume contest! What’s more, the event’s proceeds benefit the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA).

Cost: Free

Date and time: Sunday, October 12, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m

Location: Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

The best dog-friendly bars in Alexandria

Lost Boy Cider

Trendy urban cidery with a dog-friendly taproom and outdoor space. Staff are super dog-loving, and water bowls are always out.

Location: 317 Hooffs Run Dr, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Port City Brewing Company

Award-winning craft brewery that welcomes dogs on the outdoor patio. Food trucks often on-site and live music on weekends.

Location: 3950 Wheeler Ave, Alexandria, VA 22304, United States

Aslin Beer Co.

Sleek brewery with a spacious outdoor area where dogs are welcome. Tons of unique beer options and a chill, laid-back crowd.

Location: 847 S Pickett St, Alexandria, VA 22304, United States

Evening Star Café (Front Porch Bar)

In Del Ray, this cozy neighborhood bar has a festive outdoor porch that welcomes dogs—and often features live music.

Location: 2000 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301, United States

Dog-friendly wineries near Alexandria

District Winery

A stylish urban winery on the waterfront at The Yards. Dogs are allowed on the outdoor patio with views of the Anacostia River—perfect for sipping rosé with your pup by your side.

Location: 385 Water St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

The Winery at Bull Run

Rustic and scenic, this Civil War-era winery is super dog-friendly outside. Plenty of open space, picnic tables, and trails nearby for walks between sips.

Location: 15950 Lee Hwy, Centreville, VA 20120, United States

Paradise Springs Winery

Nestled in the woods, this picturesque spot allows leashed dogs outdoors. Bring a blanket and relax in the grassy picnic area.

Location: 13219 Yates Ford Rd, Clifton, VA 20124, United States

Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Alexandria from dog owners and pet sitters

Tips for pet parents

Double-check dog-friendly policies

Most outdoor patios in Alexandria are dog-friendly, but it’s always good to call ahead.

Protect pups by keeping them on-leash in town

Keep your dog on a leash when walking around Old Town—there’s a lot of foot traffic (and squirrels).

Help keep the city clean

Bring poop bags! Alexandria is super clean and expects the same from its visitors.

Plan ahead for your vacation

Now that you’re in the know on where you can take your canine pal for a day out in the city, why not get ahead and plan your pet care for your next vacation? As vets agree pets are more content at home, it’s worth considering an in-home, verified pet sitter to look after your canine pal. Find a pet sitter in Alexandria or click below to find out more.

How to connect with pet sitters in Alexandria

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Ask for pet parent recommendations

When it comes to where to take a dog in Alexandria, pet parents are the experts! Ask where their pup is comfortable going in the city, and if there are any dog-friendly hangouts you could try together.

Explore local dog parks

There are so many dog-friendly parks in Alexandria, so it’s well worth making the most of them. Head to a nearby dog park - they’re often fully fenced and so can be a safer place to let dogs off the leash, if pet parents permit.

Follow dog park restrictions

That being said, if you do decide to allow your new pup pal to bounce around a local park, remember to keep your pooch safe by following park rules, as many are complete with a fenced area for smaller dogs.

Experience Alexandria through house sitting

So, want to get to know the city with a four-pawed pal by your side? Exchange in-home pet care for a place to stay by house sitting in Alexandria - click below to find out more.

How to find house sits in Alexandria