7 Unforgettable Pet-Friendly Trips for the Holiday Season in Virginia
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Virginia is a great place for pet lovers. From pet-friendly wineries and cruises to historical landmarks and shopping malls, there are a lot of places to visit with your pet this holiday season. Whether you’re exploring Charlottesville or beyond, Virginia’s diverse attractions provide endless opportunities for fun with your four-legged friend. Read on and create unforgettable memories with your pet.
Alexandria’s Footsteps of The Past Walking Tours
- Discover Alexandria’s rich history along with your pet on a Footsteps of the Past walking tour. You’ll hear stories from skilled guides and learn about over 200 years of local history, including notable figures like George Washington and Robert E. Lee.
After the tour, treat yourself to a meal at Chadwicks, a pet-friendly facility that welcomes you and your pet for a delicious dining experience.
Daisey’s Island Cruises on Chincoteague Island
- Experience the beauty of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands with your pet on Daisey’s Island Cruises. These pet-friendly charter cruises welcome dogs as you explore scenic waterways, spot the iconic Chincoteague ponies, dolphins, and diverse birdlife, and admire stunning sunsets from comfortable pontoon boats. After your adventure, you can enjoy a flavorful meal at Saigon Village, a pet-friendly Vietnamese restaurant in Chincoteague.
Front Royal Canoe Company
- Take an unforgettable river adventure with your pet at Front Royal Canoe Company this holiday season. Located on the South Fork of the Shenandoah River, these pet-friendly canoe and kayak trips flow gently between Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest. The waters are ideal for beginners and intermediate paddlers, making them perfect for exploring with your dog.
Sandy Bottom Nature Park, Hampton
- Enjoy the great outdoors with your leashed pup at Sandy Bottom Nature Park in Hampton. This serene park has a fenced off-leash area and offers activities like fishing, boating, camping, and hiking its extensive trail system.Â
After a day of fun, enjoy a picnic with your furry friend or head to Joe’s Crab Shack for seafood on their pet-friendly patio.
Stony Point Fashion Park, Richmond
- Spend a day at Richmond’s pet-friendly Stony Point Fashion Park, where your dog can join you for a shopping spree. Many stores welcome pets, look for the dog-friendly sticker in the window, and Three Dog Bakery offers delicious treats for your pet. Pet rest areas with water and clean-up bags are also available.
Shenandoah National Park, Luray
- Shenandoah National Park is a haven for pet lovers, offering over 500 miles of trails, including a segment of the Appalachian Trail, where dogs on a 6-foot leash are welcome. Enter through the Luray entrance to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoy picnicking with your pup amidst lush forests and abundant wildlife. If you’re craving a sit-down meal, head to Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint in Harrisonburg, where pets are welcome.
Petersburg National Battlefield, Petersburg
- Explore the Civil War history with your pet at Petersburg National Battlefield, where you can learn about the nine-and-a-half-month siege of Petersburg. The park features a 33-mile route with 13 unique sites to explore, and throughout the year, live history demonstrations bring the past to life, perfect for you and your furry companion. After a day of exploration, head to Richmond and enjoy a meal at a pet-friendly restaurant like Acacia.
If your holiday plans require an extended stay or if traveling with your pet isn’t feasible, Autumn Trails Veterinary Center provides veterinarian-supervised, safe, convenient, and affordable pet boarding. With a warm and attentive staff, your pet will have love, comfort, and care while you enjoy your travels worry-free. Let us take care of your pet while you enjoy your vacation. Call us at (434) 971-9800 to learn more and plan your pet’s stay today.
