Traveling with your dog? Treat your pup to a good time in the nation's capital.
Washington, DC, is full of pet-friendly places that cater to canines. We’ve compiled a list of dog-friendly restaurants, patios, scenic parks, hotels and activities perfect for your four-legged friend.
Restaurants & Cafés
This Georgetown favorite bakes dog treats in flavors like Peanut Butter Krunch, alongside human favorites like fresh bread, pastries, muffins, cookies, quiche and coffee. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly.
Taco Bamba
The “Houndgarten” patio at this popular taqueria's DC locations is equipped with water bowls and free treats. Humans get to enjoy chilaquiles, brunch tacos and fresh coffee.
Indulge in French-inspired cuisine on the chic patio with your pup.
Chef Geoff's (West End & Uptown)
This New American staple caters to all District residents, including those with fur. Chef Geoff's offers a dedicated dog menu, which includes Scooby Snacks and "Bacon!"
At all locations, pups get special guava-peanut butter cookies. At locations with a patio, dogs can sit with their humans as they enjoy Cuban coffee and fare.
Since 1982, this Salvadoran/Mexican staple in Adams Morgan has welcomed DC residents to enjoy a meal on its patio – pups included.
As dog-centric as it gets, Wet Dog has ample space and activities for canine companions. You’ll dig the varied drink menu and burgers while your best bud runs wild.
Breweries & Beer Gardens
Lost Generation Brewing Company
The winner of Washington City Paper's Best Pet-Friendly Bar in DC welcomes your pet(s) both inside the taproom and on the patio. No matter what DC's weather brings, you won't have to worry about leaving your fur baby at home.
This brewery in the Shaw neighborhood welcomes canines with open arms on its open air patio, where you can sip on brews and chow down on bar bites.
In the dog-friendly neighborhood of Capitol Riverfront, pets are always welcome on the large, partially-covered outdoor patio. Baseball fans: it's the perfect pre- or post-game stop.
This popular NoMa & Union Market hangout has all the staples of a German-style beer garden, from lawn games to lounge chairs, and encourages leashed pets to join in on the fun. Don't forget to ask about the puppachino.
With locations in Capitol Riverfront and Shaw neighborhoods, this Bavarian-style spot touts farm-to-table fare and beverages.
Drinks, food and decor are inspired by the venue's changing themes, while dogs drool over the Hook Hall Hounds offerings.
In the heart of Logan Circle, you can set your pup free in the dog garden and enjoy smoothies, coffee or handcrafted cocktails along with any meal of the day, all while hanging with fellow dog lovers. The food and beverage menu is extensive for both canines and humans. (Closed on Mondays.)
Dog-Friendly Parks & Trails
Canines on leash are welcome to join you as you stroll past the monuments and memorials. A visit to the Tidal Basin (especially when the cherry blossom trees are in bloom) is a can't-miss.
Accessible by footbridge from the George Washington Memorial Parkway, the island features two miles of trails along the Potomac River, perfect for an afternoon excursion with your pup.
One of the city’s most popular parks, Meridian Hill features plenty of real estate for dogs to stretch their legs. If your pooch likes rhythms, the park hosts a drum circle on Sundays.
A true urban oasis, DC's largest park offers roughly 1,800 acres of natural beauty, with a robust network of trails.
Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens
Located along the Anacostia River, Kenilworth offers beautiful aquatic gardens to enjoy while taking your dog for a stroll.
Hotels
All DC Kimpton properties welcome dogs for all sizes at no extra charge and even offer special amenities so that your pup can have the best experience possible.
Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown
Pets stay for free at this Georgetown hotel and even get their own handmade treats and V.I.P. (Very Important Puppy) specials at the Courtyard Bar. Human guests can make use of maps to nearby parks and loaner leashes and collars.
Dogs of all sizes are welcomed for no additional fee.
Housed inside a 110-year-old church in Adams Morgan, this hotel welcomes four-legged friends for free. Don’t forget to ask the front desk for courtesy bags, water bowls and treats. Feel free to bring your pet into the lobby café and restaurant.
One of DC’s most historic hotels, the Hay-Adams allows one dog weighing no more than 25 pounds per room for free.
Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C.
Pups that weigh 15 pounds or less can stay at the at no additional charge at this luxury hotel.
Any breed up to 50 pounds are welcome and receive dog bowls, beds, treats and more.
This ultra-hip hotel allows two pets of any size for no additional fee. Both dogs and cats are welcome. Pet beds, food and water bowls are available upon request.
Yours Truly DC
Dogs up to 70 lbs. are welcome for no additional charge, with complimentary treats from Doggy Style Bakery and special Bowser Beer for Dogs available upon check-in.
Two pets (dogs or cats) of any size can stay for no additional fee. The hotel provides treats, bowls, beds, waste bags and pet-in-room door hangers for four-legged guests.
Sofitel Washington, DC Lafayette Square
This hotel allows dogs up to 50 pounds for a refundable $500 deposit.
Tours & Activities
If you select the dog-friendly tour, dogs are welcome in the cabs. Guides can even stay with and walk your dogs while you enter memorials that do not allow them. Free dog-friendly map (and other free maps) of the National Mall are available for download, regardless of whether you use their services.
Pups in the Park at Nats Stadium
On select days during the Washington Nationals season, you can take your pup out to the ball game. Humans require a regular ticket and four-legged friends can gain admission with a special discounted pass.
Get out on the water with Boating in DC
Dogs are allowed on most kayak and paddleboard rentals (except on the Tidal Basin). For some incredible views of DC, take off along the Georgetown Waterfront or from the Ballpark Boathouse. In some locations, doggie life jackets are available, but please bring your own if you have one.
Now that you’ve seen DC’s dog-friendly options, check out free things to do for families.
