It’s that time of year again! Love is in the air, stores are overflowing with teddy bears and heart-shaped candy -- and this time, your pooch might not be your only cuddle buddy for the evening! That doesn’t mean your canine companion should feel left out, though -- there are plenty of ways to spend the day with both your doggo and your date. But where to go that’s both romantic and Fido-friendly in Washington, D.C.? Don’t worry -- if you live in the D.C. area, there are plenty of pawesome pup-inclusive options! We’ve listed ten of the best below.
(And if your date thinks your four-pawed pal is a third wheel, it might be best to call it a night and keep on swiping.)
The charming surroundings of Old Town Alexandria are well worth the 20-minute drive from D.C.! Not only was Old Town Alexandria voted one of the prettiest cities of the South, but the historic town center is brimming with independent, pooch-friendly dining options. You three can also take a romantic walk along the waterfront, or visit in the daytime to check out America’s oldest farmer’s market.
It’s not quite a horse and carriage, but a pedicab tour is a pawtastic date idea for history buffs. Both Discover D.C. Pedicab Tours and the interestingly named Nonpartisan Pedicab will welcome your buddy on board, and their friendly drivers double as knowledgeable guides. Tours also operate at night, so you three will get to see all the monuments lit up. Advance reservation is best.
Farmer’s markets are becoming increasingly paw-pular as a date option, and Glen’s Garden Market is one of the best in D.C. Their renowned Tasting Table provides a different dining experience -- seven courses, each one a surprise. The ecologically conscious among us will be glad to know that this is a guilt-free trip. All the produce is local, and the whole market runs on wind power.
The Southern food at Art and Soul might seem a little no-frills, but this local institution is hard to beat when it comes to dog-friendly dining. Not only does their hospitality extend to all puppers at their outdoor tables -- they even have their own doggy menu! Prices at might be a little high, but the quality is worth paying for, and vegan options are available.