Staunton’s Pawsome Dog-Friendly Locales

You’ve been snuggling up with your dog more than ever lately, and all this together time makes it hard to leave them home. Fortunately, at least while the weather’s nice, you don’t have to. Here’s a list of “pawsome” Staunton public places that welcome your pet.

Homes Away from Home

Putting your dog in the kennel when you travel can be sad for everyone. Fortunately, some Staunton inns and hotels include luxury accommodations for humans and dogs. Hotel 24 South was a pioneer in Staunton’s dog-friendly accommodations and The Blackburn Inn opens select rooms to dogs. Hotels may apply additional fees for guests who travel with pets.

Restaurants

Staunton has several dining spots that welcome your four-legged friends.  

If you’re feeling like eating Mexican, take your pooch to Mi Rancho’s outdoor dining space where you can get “a kick-ass Margarita that is extreme.” The patio at Thai Staunton Restaurant is dog friendly. The Pampered Palate and Cranberry’s Grocery & Eatery both allow dogs at their sidewalk seating.  Also, the patio at Byer’s Street Bistro welcomes dogs. Spend your lunch hour dining with Rex and watching the bustle of downtown. If you’re lucky, you can grab a spot at the Peck’s Bar-B-Que’s dog-friendly picnic table. Dessert lovers will enjoy sharing their ice cream with their dogs at one of the two dog-friendly picnic tables at Klines Dairy Bar. 

Breweries

Want to spend an evening out having beers with your best fur buddy? Raise a glass because many of Staunton’s breweries are dog friendly. Redbeard Brewing allows well behaved dogs on the patio, and Queen City Brewing actually welcome dogs inside.

Staunton City Parks

The Gypsy Hill Bark Park is the jewel of Staunton’s dog-friendly venues. Divided into separate spacious runs for small and large dogs, it gives Fidos a chance to sniff each other out while their owners make small talk. The enclosures include training ladders, tunnels, “fire hydrants,” and benches for humans to sit. On the other side of the park, the 1.3 mile “play street,” is a great loop for Fido to stretch those legs. Other city parks are stocked with doggy-bag stations and open to well-behaved dogs on leashes. Dog owners who like to take serious hikes with their dogs might enjoy the Betsy Bell Wilderness Area and the trails at Montgomery Hall Park. 

National Parks and Forests

Shenandoah National Park is one of only a few national parks allowing pets on the majority of hiking trails provided that they are leashed and owners act responsibly. For day-trippers and campers, George Washington and Jefferson National Forest stipulates that dogs must be leashed on hiking trails (but may go off leash in undeveloped areas). Make sure you pack plenty of water for your furry friend and check them for parasites after your outing.

Other Staunton Venues that Welcome Dogs

Your pet, too can receive pampering in Staunton at the Well Balanced Paw Pet Wellness Shoppe and Barkery. Specializing in nutrient-rich pet nutrition and relaxing small-animal massage, this downtown destination will keep your pet balanced and healthy for years to come.

While your dog might not be allowed inside the supermarket, you’ll still be able to take him while you shop for dinner at the Staunton Farmers Market.

If you don’t currently have a dog but are looking for a new family member, check out Augusta Dog Adoptions.

Always make sure your dog is leashed, well-behaved, vaccinated, and licensed when you take it in public.