The Virginia peninsula is a great place to explore with your dog. Taking your dog with you to local parks and attractions is an exciting way to expend your pet’s energy, both mentally and physically. According to Kat Miller, PhD., behaviorist at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). “A tired dog is typically a well-behaved dog, so hiking and other forms of exercise are great outlets for high-energy dogs.”
With an early spring on its way, now is the time to plan some warmer weather exploration on the Virginia peninsula. In addition to several off-leash dog parks, there are local attractions you can enjoy with your furry family members. Before you head out, it’s important to visit your vet. Update all shots and make sure your pup is on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention drugs.
Fun Places to Explore on the Virginia Peninsula with Fido
Endview Plantation
362 Yorktown road
Newport news, VA 23603
This 1769 colonial planation is a dedicated to honoring, preserving, and educating the public. They offer a number of programs, activities, reenactments, and special events. Each of these events revolves around the significant role Endview Plantation had in shaping America’s culture and history. Dogs are allowed throughout the park. However, they are not allowed in the buildings. Dogs must be under the owner’s control, leashed, and cleaned up after at all times.
Mariners Museum
100 Museum drive
Newport news, VA 23606
Dogs are allowed throughout the park. However, they are not allowed in the buildings. Dogs must be under the owner’s control, leashed, and cleaned up after at all times.
Newport News Park
13560 Jefferson Ave
Newport News, VA, US 23603
Dogs are welcome on leash.
King-Lincoln Park
600 Jefferson Ave
Newport News, VA,
Overlooking the waterfront at the east end of Newport News, King-Lincoln Park features picnic areas, playgrounds and a saltwater fishing pier.
Colonial Williamsburg
101 Visitor Center Dr
Williamsburg, VA, US 23185
Explore the nation’s largest living history museum with your leashed pup. Dogs are permitted throughout the public streets of Colonial Williamsburg, but not in any of the buildings. Dogs are even permitted on the shuttle from the Visitor Center.
Hair of the Dog Bottle Shop
401 W Duke of Gloucester St
Williamsburg, VA, US 23185
Located in Colonial Williamsburg, this shop offers craft beer. Try different beers in their tasting room and purchase them on site. Bring your dog with you to cool off.
Discover Teas
Village Shops at Kingsmill Location
1915 Pocahontas Trail
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Port Warwick Location
2170 William Styron Square
Newport News, VA 23606
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome at both locations. Poke your head in first to make sure there’s no one in the shop with any dog allergies. While you’re there, you can pick up some Cuppa Puppy for your canine pal. This special tea blend promotes joint health in addition to being a tasty treat.
Exploring the Virginia Peninsula’s Local Dog Parks
The Virginia Peninsula offers several dog parks for you and your pet to explore. Dog parks are a great way to provide your pal with exercise and socialization. Before heading out, be sure to take your dog’s temperament into consideration. Not all dogs are well suited to dog parks.
While at the park, watch your dog’s demeanor. Make an informed judgement about how happy he or she is to be there. Some dogs will have no desire to play, yet will love to sniff around the bushes and trees. Other dogs will be thrilled to engage with their new dog friends at the park. You might find your pup racing another dog from one end of the lawn the other.
Both of these types of dogs can benefit from going to a dog park. They will just enjoy it in different ways. Here is more information on how to determine if off-leash dog parks are right for you.
Most parks will require you to register and show shot records prior to allowing entrance into the park. Additionally, many will require your dog to be spayed or neutered. Familiarize yourself with the park regulations prior to registering. Also, brush up on your dog park etiquette before your first visit. Here are some dog park courtesy tips from the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.
Fido Field
105 City Farm Road
Newport News, VA 23602
With over 1 acre of open area, Fido Field is a great place for you and your dog to socialize and exercise. Their goal is to provide a safe and well-maintained park for you and your dog to enjoy together. Located behind the Riverview Gymnastics Center, the park is open daily, sunrise to sunset year-round, unless otherwise posted.
Sandy Bottom Bark Park
1255 Big Bethel Road
Hampton, VA 23669
No leashes, just wide-open fun! The Bark Park is definitely the place to be for area canines and their savvy owners. Easily the highlight of the social season, the ¾ acre enclosure offers guests ample space to socialize, sniff around, and leave their own special mark. First time visitors to the park must register with park staff before entering the park.
Waller Mill Dog Park
Airport Rd and Waller Mill Park
Williamsburg, VA, US 23188
Bring your pet for some off-leash socialization at this fenced dog park. It includes a separate small dog area, trees, and benches for owners. Registration required.
