Great Summer Fun Awaits You in Dog-Friendly Washington D.C.

Washington D.C., the seat of America’s government, is a popular destination for tourists. As we head into summer, Pet Hotels of America will highlight a number of cities you and your family may be planning to visit and discuss ways for Rover to join in on the family fun. One of the great things about Washington D.C. is that much of the city can best be viewed from the vantage point of a walking tour, which is ideal for you and your dog! As an added bonus, our nation’s capital has no shortage of dog-friendly hotels that are happy to house your hound while you take in the National Gallery, Smithsonian, or take a tour of the United States’ most famous residence – The White House. Visit our Washington D.C. Travel Guide to see everything there is to do there. You will be amazed at how many places you can take your pet.

The Mall

The famous National Mall is a dog-friendly site as long as you stay outside and your dog is leashed. Wandering around all of the attractions provides an excellent vantage point for taking pictures and enjoying the balmy summer weather in the District of Columbia. The White House, Capital, Washington Monument and many other sites are visible from the Mall. Plus, it’s a wonderful place to throw down a blanket and have a picnic, or just relax and soak up the history that is surrounding you.

The Cruise

Capital River Cruises is a one hour boat tour along the Potomac River that takes guests through the major attractions such as the Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and more. Capital River Cruises is completely dog friendly and a great way to share a special memory with your four-legged friend!

The Monuments

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s love for his Scottish Terrier Fala is well documented, so it should come as no surprise that the FDR Memorial – a park full fountains and monuments to FDR – is dog friendly. There is even a famous statue of FDR and Fala that you and your pup can pose for. That would make a paws-itively awesome souvenir of your time in Washington DC! Did you know that at one time Fala was considered the most famous dog in the world? Fala accompanied the President everywhere. He ate his meals in FDR’s study, slept in a chair at the foot of the President’s bed, and was present in the Oval Office during many important meetings. In fact, during the signing of an important treaty during December of 1941 that the room was completely tense and silent – except for Fala’s contented snoring.

The Hangouts

Ask any dog loving resident of DC where the best park to hang out is, and without a doubt they will all tell you Rock Creek Park. While it is a leashed park only, it extends from D.C. into Maryland with many trails and paths and gorgeous scenery to enjoy. For a bit of official scenery, check out the National Arboretum with your leashed dog.

Vacation Pet Friendly has the largest directory of pet friendly hotels worldwide for every budget. However, we have to give four paws up to the Hotel Helix for their Doggie Happy Hour. Every Wednesday evening from 5p to 8p, people are offered a menu food and libations while dogs enjoy snacks and water on the patio. A portion of the proceeds from each Doggie Happy Hour at the Hotel Helix goes to benefit the Washington DC Humane Society.

Remember, booking early is essential when traveling with pets. See what’s available today so you get the best deals. Start your search for pet friendly hotels in Washington D.C. here. Then sit back and think of all the fun things you can do when you get there!

Make no bones about it, dog-friendly Washington D.C. is a pawsitively cool destination to vacation with your dog!