The quaint city of Smithfield in eastern Virginia is a place of true hospitality with the allure of a small town. Tiny neighborhoods and small streets will lead you to the downtown area with its majestic, historic architecture and small-town charm. According to Best of the Bay 2013 Awards from Chesapeake Bay Magazine, Smithfield is recognized as the fifth best dog-friendly town in the area! No wonder almost all the cafes, restaurants and shops are happy to see your pooch every time you come by. And, if your furry friend is in need of some medical help, you'll find an animal hospital in the center of the city.
The first place you must visit in Smithfield is Windsor Castle Park, which has a designated dog park on-site. The dog park features two separate areas for running and exercising, benches, shade, and even pools! Registration (which involves paying a small fee) is required for all visitors.
Chesapeake Bay Magazine also considered Smithfield to be the number one town for food, and this award is truly well-deserved! There are so many places to eat here that it's almost impossible to choose one! You should definitely stop by Smithfield Gourmet Café and Bakery on Main Street, which offers fresh homemade pastries and dog-friendly outdoor tables.
Dunbar is a neighborhood located at the very tip of south Newport News, offering relaxing marina views and a waterfront area to the east. But the views aren't the only reason you should stop by with your pooch! This neighborhood also features a middle-sized recreation area along the shore of the Hampton Harbor with a natural beach, playgrounds, a picnic area and fishing pier. Pooches are not allowed to swim in the public areas, but are welcome to sniff and explore walking trails and the shore. Your mutt can join you at all outdoor activities, but must be kept on a leash and supervised at all times.
North Main Street stretches far beyond downtown, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have plenty of things to do! Both sides of the street are full of different shopping amenities, convenience stores, restaurants and drive-in cafes. Once you have passed this foodie heaven, you will spot Holly Lawn Cemetery to the east, and Lake Meade Dog Park right behind it. This is the first and only dog park in Suffolk, featuring two fenced areas for small and large pooches, benches, picnic tables, shade and water facilities. Be sure to register your pooch before visiting this park.