Washington, DC is unique in its dog-friendliness. The warm summers and ample patio seating means that most bars and restaurants have plenty of space for you and your dog. From fine-dining to pub-crawling, here are a few of the most pet-friendly places in DC.
1. Other Half Brewing
A lot of breweries in the Greater D.C area are dog-friendly, but Other Half Brewing is by far my favorite. At most breweries, there’s an outdoor patio area where your dog is allowed, but the inside is off-limits. This can restrict you to a relatively small space and means that your brewery trip is dependent upon good weather.
At Other Half, not only can you bring your dog inside, but there is also plentiful seating available. This place is huge. Plus, most seating areas are covered, with fans and heaters so you don’t have to worry about rain or uncomfortable temperatures. What I love about the large space is that you don’t have to worry about your dog being bothered or distracted by another dog sitting right next to you. The space allows you to spread out and relax. And they always bring your dog a bowl for water. All you need to do is ask.
2. The Line Hotel
The Line in Adams Morgan is not some kitschy dog-themed establishment. From the decor to the drinks, it is sublime—and it just so happens to be dog friendly. Dogs and cats are allowed, and you can bring up to three pets total at no extra charge. Book a stay and enjoy the unique architecture of this converted 110-year-old church. The interior design will be sure to inspire you to make some changes in your own home.
Stop in for some of the best cocktails in D.C at their restaurant, No Goodbyes. You can enjoy happy hour beer from breweries like Aslin Beer Company for $5, or a cocktail for $10, all with your pup curled at your feet. Stay for dinner if you have time—I’m sure your dog will be begging for a bite of the deep-fried bratwurst “hush doggie.”
3. National Monuments
Everywhere you look in Washington you’ll find a monument or memorial. The Washington Monument stands proud on the horizon, towering over every building in the city. You simply can’t avoid history when you’re in a place like this, so if you’re visiting, might as well soak it up, and bring your dog with you. The monuments are a great because you can walk freely from the Washington Monument, down to the reflecting pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial, and around the tidal basin, where you’ll find tributes to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., President Franklin D. Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, and President Thomas Jefferson.
There’s plenty of shade, drinking fountains for you and your animal companion, and usually a few food trucks to refuel at. Be warned though, the park officials at the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials likely won’t let your dog inside the monument. That’s ok though, you can see most of what you came for at the top of the steps.
4. Theodore Roosevelt Island and Memorial
Tucked away on a forested island that feels like a nature preserve is one of my favorite monuments, and one that most people miss. The Theodore Roosevelt Island National Memorial is found on Roosevelt Island, a beautiful natural wonder containing 2.5-miles of trails through woods, marsh, and swamp just off of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The island is a green respite from the hum of the city. You’ll forget where you are. It’s a great place to bird watch, and you may even see some deer. Keep your dog on leash but let them enjoy the sounds and smells of this park, and take in a little history while you're at it.
5. Yours Truly Hotel
This last location is a 3-in-1 jackpot: a beautiful hotel, exquisite dining, and DC’s most raved-about bagel shop. First, book your stay at Yours Truly, where dogs up to 70 lbs. can stay the night for no additional fee. They even have beer just for dogs. The rooms are colorful, with an emphasis placed on sustainability. Then, grab breakfast at the attached bagel shop, Call Your Mother, one of Washington’s best delis. The bagels are always fresh, and the sandwiches are creative, while still loyal to traditional deli options.
Then, end your day with drinks and dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Mercy Me, a South American cafe, restaurant, and bar. The atmosphere is relaxing, making it really feel like home with your dog snoozing under the table.
