When you want to do something special with your beloved dog, here’s some great date spots you and your best buddy can go. Here’s DCs best dog parks, dog happy hours and pooch designed treats to make them feel right at home.
Dog Parks
There are plenty of dog parks in D.C. to give your dog some exercise, socialize and dig a nice hole. Here are the top contenders:
S Street Dog Park
S St. at 17th St. NW
Located a stone’s throw from Embassy Row and Dupont Circle is this cozy estate. Covered with antimicrobial turf to promote cleanliness and prevent digging, while also providing plenty of fountains for thirsty dogs, is this healthy option for both pets and adults. There are plenty of benches under the trees for dog parents to relax. It also provides a small area for off-leash roam.
FDR Museum
1850 West Basin Dr SW, Washington, DC 20242
Take your beloved pooch for a walk to say hello to Fala, FDR’s constant companion.
Shirlington Park
2601 S. Arlington Mill Dr. in South Arlington
Mix nature walks, water play and socialization with this popular spot. The park has a stream where dogs and dog parents can cool off and spots to walk in the woods where dogs can explore freely. There’s even a section for puppies and small dogs for a more intimate setting with picnic tables for parents. After the fun is done, DIY dog baths are available.
Shaw Dog Park
1651 11th St. NW, between N Q St. and N R St.
One of the largest dog spots in D.C., this safe and secured spot has plenty of bags, trash cans, water and water bowls for dogs. You can even bring your pup at night; the park has lights, and has a designated area for small dogs. Expect plenty of trees and benches for dog parents, too.
Dog Happy Hours & Snacks in DC
Feel like going for a drink or some food, but don’t want to leave your best friend hanging? These food joints offer special happy hours and snacks just for your pup.
Jackson 20
470 King St., Alexandria
Doggy Happy Hour is held Tuesdays at 5 p.m. with complementary dog treats and water bowls.
Cantina Marina
600 Water St. SW
Looking for a dog? Every Monday, rescue groups will be here, accepting donations and showcasing adoptable dogs. Your pet gets a dog biscuit buffet, and servers will bring dog water bowls and treats. Dog parents can enjoy happy hour specials as well.
Helix Lounge
1430 Rhode Island Ave., NW
It doesn’t matter what day it is; this spot really loves dogs. Expect doggy happy hour daily from 5 to 6 p.m. Wine specials are made for the adults.
Stetson’s
1610 U St. NW
Mondays are “Puppy Patio” night, with drink specials and half-priced burgers outdoors.
Town
2009 Eighth St. NW
‘Yappy Hour’ is every Tuesday at 6 p.m. on the patio. Specials for adults include $3 drinks and drafts.
Art and Soul
415 New Jersey Ave. NW
This Captiol Hill restaurant boasts a “Pooch Patio” menu, where you can spoil your dog with a $10 sliced steak or $8 browser beer, a non-alcoholic brew made of chicken broth and malt extract.
Dairy Godmother
2310 Mount Vernon Ave. Alexandria
If your pup has more of a sweet tooth, take him or her to Dairy Godmother; they’ll get a “puppy pop,” a frozen yogurt Popsicle, with banana and pumpkin flavors, $1.39 a piece. They can also get a “squirrel” treat made of malted barley. A bag of six is $3.50.
Shake Shack
Get your dog the “Pooch-ini” – a custard with dog biscuits (only intended for large dogs) or some Shake Shack-branded artisanal dog treats.