A Dog's Day Out in D.C.

Summer is a great time to get out and do things outdoors. And with so many things to do in and around the District, why should you leave your four-legged family member at home? I've been trying to find as many things as possible that I can bring Starla to in the city, and there's been a lot we've found to do. 

Other than just walking around the National Mall here are some of my favorite things to do with Starla.

Go to the Shirlington Dog Park. If you haven't been here you're missing out. The park is huge and even has a river that your dog can cool off in. It's Starla's favorite place to go. It's kind of tricky to find, but there's parking off of Four Mile Run Drive. 

Grab a drink at Hotel Monaco in Alexandria. They host a doggy “Yappy Hour” in the hotel’s courtyard every Tuesday and Thursday evenings from April through October. You can enjoy a refreshing drink while your dog can enjoy some social time, doggy treats, and fresh water. 

I also just discovered, Cantina Marina on the Southwest waterfront. The whole downstairs is an open air bar that you can bring your pup in. When I was there, we met three other doggy friends. Careful, their margaritas are strong!

Wineries are also great options. I haven't yet been to a winery that doesn't allow dogs. My favorite one to go to with Starla is 868 Winery in Purcellville, about an hour out of the city.

Take a evening cruise with your canine. Sailing out from Alexandria, the cruise is an hour long and free for your dog. $15 for you. Enjoy seeing all the sights of the city with your pup. 

Of course, there's always Pups in the Park at Nationals Park. What a better thing to do than enjoy America's favorite past time with man's best friend? You're out in section 143 in the outfield and is $26 for you and $10 for your pup. Their $10 ticket goes to the Washington Humane Society.

Barktober Fest is coming up in October for it's second annual beer festival. It's $35 for general admission (free for your pup) and it includes unlimited beer tastings and a tasting glass. There's also food trucks, a doggy costume contest, an agility park for your dog and much more.

And for all your drinking fun with your dog, you definitely do not want to be driving. Red Top Cab of Arlington and Diamond Cab in DC happily take dogs in their cabs usually for an additional $1 surcharge. I'm sure there are more cabs that will take dogs, but these are the two that I've found so far. 

Lastly, dogs are great running partners. You can take your pup along Mt. Vernon trail or even the W&OD trail, but keep make sure it's not too hot for your dog and that you keep them hydrated!

What are your favorite places to take your pup? What should Starla and I do next next?

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