Explore Dog-Friendly Alexandria | The Ultimate Guide for Pet Parents

Alexandria, VA, is one of the top dog-friendly cities in the region, benefiting pet owners. While the historic charm of Old Town attracts many visitors, the entire area, including the surrounding Fairfax County neighborhoods, offers an abundance of parks, trails, and dining spots where your four-legged friend is not just allowed but truly welcomed.

The complete guide to dog-friendly Alexandria shows all the places that you can visit, including riverside running areas and Potomac dining locations.

Dog-Friendly Parks in Old Town & The City

The City of Alexandria has earned its reputation for walkability through its entire street design and all its public spaces, which include parks. The historic district offers two locations that serve as ideal sites for visitors seeking to explore the area.

Montgomery Park Dog Run

This location serves as a hidden treasure that only local residents of Old Town North know about. The facility provides an enclosed area that allows dogs to run freely and expend their excess energy. The location provides tennis courts and nearby parking facilities, which create an accessible location for visitors.

• Location: 901 N Royal St, Alexandria, VA

Simpson Stadium Dog Park

Located in the Del Ray neighborhood, this is one of the most popular spots in the city. The park features a fully fenced dog run with a dedicated separate area for smaller dogs, ensuring safe play for pups of all sizes.

• Location: 426 E Monroe Ave, Alexandria, VA

Founders Park

Founders Park serves as the perfect place for people who want to walk through natural scenery instead of running through enclosed spaces. The park provides waterfront access together with extensive green areas that allow visitors to enjoy riverside winds. The area serves as a popular location for dog owners who want to watch the sunset while enjoying a picnic with their pets, although dogs need to stay on a leash.

• Location: 351 N Union St, Alexandria, VA

Monticello Park

A hidden gem for nature lovers, Monticello Park is a dense woodland area with trails that feel miles away from the city. It is a popular dog-walking location, especially for birdwatchers during migration season.

• Location: 320 Beverley Dr, Alexandria, VA

How to Explore Parks Beyond Old Town (Fairfax County)

While the city center is fantastic, venturing just outside the historic district into the Fairfax County section of Alexandria reveals some of the best dog parks in Northern Virginia. These spots are worth the short drive for their size and community atmosphere.

Westgrove Park

Widely considered the ultimate pet-friendly destination in the region, Westgrove Park is a standout example of a community-supported dog park. Located off Fort Hunt Road, it features a massive, fully fenced off-leash area where dogs can socialize freely. Managed in partnership with the volunteer group Westgrove P.A.C.K., the park is meticulously maintained and often hosts community events. It is the perfect place for high-energy dogs to run freely in a safe, enclosed environment.

• Location: 6801 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA

Grist Mill Park

Another excellent option in the Fairfax County area of Alexandria, Grist Mill Park offers a spacious off-leash dog area with a crushed dust surface that is easy on paws. It is less crowded than some city parks, offering a more relaxed vibe for you and your pet.

• Location: 4710 Mt Vernon Memorial Hwy, Alexandria, VA

Fort Hunt Park

Managed by the National Park Service, this historic site offers plenty of open space and paved loops. While dogs must be on a leash, the sheer size of the park makes it perfect for long walks and family picnics under the trees.

• Location: 8999 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA

Dog-Friendly Trails & Hiking

The Mount Vernon Trail allows you to walk your dog on a leash while you spend time outside with your friend. The Potomac River Heritage Trail provides a hiking path that welcomes dogs, which you should explore.

The Mount Vernon Trail

This famous 18-mile paved trail stretches from George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate up to Rosslyn. It allows you to walk your dog on a leash while enjoying sweeping views of the Potomac River and the D.C. skyline.

• More Info: Mount Vernon Trail Map

Potomac River Heritage Trail

This hiking path welcomes dogs and offers a more rugged experience compared to the paved city trails. It connects various historical and natural sites along the river, making it a great educational exploration for you and a sensory adventure for your dog.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants

When you want to eat, there are various restaurants that permit dogs to join their owners for dining. The restaurant operators of Virtue Feed & Grain run their business from their location in Alexandria. This popular dining spot provides a special dog menu, which enables customers to dine with their pets. Vola's Dockside Grill Hi-Tide Lounge has a dog-friendly patio that extends over the water.

Virtue Feed & Grain

Located in a historic feed house near the waterfront, Virtue Feed & Grain is a leader in dog-friendly dining. They don't just allow dogs; they cater to them. The restaurant provides a special dog menu, enabling customers to dine alongside their pets with verified dog-safe treats.

• Website: Virtue Feed & Grain

Vola’s Dockside Grill / Hi-Tide Lounge

For the best waterfront views, head to Vola’s. Their large outdoor patio extends right over the water and is completely dog-friendly. Staff will often bring water bowls for your pup while you enjoy fresh seafood and tacos.

• Website: Vola’s Dockside Grill

Dog-Friendly Events

You can attend the yearly Paws in the Park event, which takes place every year. The event takes place at Oronoco Bay Park, where attendees can enjoy food, live music, and participate in a costume contest. The event includes two other activities, which are the ALX Dog Walk & Sustainability Festival and the Del Ray Dog Fest.

ALX Dog Walk & Sustainability Festival

Taking place annually in April (scheduled for April 18, 2026), this event is more than just a walk. Held at Oronoco Bay Park, it features a 2-mile dog walk followed by a sustainability festival with music, plastic-free vendors, and activities for pets.

• Official Site: ALX Dog Walk

Del Ray Dog Fest

Hosted in the trendy Del Ray neighborhood, this festival (typically held in early April) is a massive block party for pups. It includes dog fashion shows, obstacle courses, and local pet vendors.

• Official Site: Visit Del Ray

Paws in the Park

Usually held in October at Oronoco Bay Park, this free event celebrates the love of pets with food, live music, and a popular costume contest that is a highlight of the local calendar.

Dog-Friendly Shops

You can shop with your pet when you go to the store. The Dog Park boutique welcomes both dogs and cats. The boutique pet store offers pet treats, pet toys, and additional products. You may find that some of the other shops on King Street also allow dogs inside.

The Dog Park Boutique

Located on King Street, this boutique is a favorite stop for locals. The Dog Park welcomes both dogs and cats inside and offers premium pet treats, durable toys, and unique accessories you won't find in big-box stores.

• Website: The Dog Park

King Street Shopping

As you stroll down the historic King Street, you will notice water bowls outside many storefronts. A large number of clothing boutiques and gift shops in Old Town allow well-behaved dogs inside, so you can enjoy a full day of retail therapy together.