Dog-friendly activities in Hampton

(Photo Credit: Allen Larson, @allenlarson)

We know your furry friends need to get out as much as you do, and we love to see them around Hampton! Check out our list of Hampton spots to explore, events to attend, patios to eat on and places to stay for both you and your pup.

Explore

Bring your dog along to cruise Newmarket Creek on the 2 ¼ mile Waterwalk (and stop to see the aircraft at Air Power Park), explore the woods at Sandy Bottom Nature Park, or enjoy historical, waterfront views along the Fort Monroe Seawall. View the Hampton Golf Course green from the Matteson Trail, or take a lap on the fitness trail around Gosnold’s Hope Park.

Let your four-legged friends get some energy out running off leash with other dogs at Ridgway Bark Park, or the Bark Park at Sandy Bottom Nature Park. Registration is required to let your dog visit either location.

Between Sept.15-May 15 each year, your dogs can enjoy Hampton’s beaches with you! Let them run on the sand, splash in the water or simply walk on the boardwalk at Buckroe Beach or Outlook Beach.

Remember to always keep your pup on a leash unless you’re in a designated off-leash park!

Events

Hampton is a wonderful city for catching outdoor events, festivals and concerts. Here are a few annual events coming up where Fido is welcome:

Crabtown Seafood Festival – Sept. 3 at Mill Point Park

Buckroe Beach Pet Day Market – Sept. 17 at Buckroe Beach, put on by the Buckroe Beach Farmers Market

Eat

Waterside towns are meant for dining al fresco, and a number of Hampton’s neighborhoods have outdoor, pet-friendly dining options.

Next time you’re strolling through downtown, check out the dog-friendly patios at Bull Island Brewing, Brown Chicken Brown Cow or Baked Bistro & Pizza.

While exploring Fort Monroe National Monument, bring your pet to dine outdoors with Chesapeake Bay views at The Deadrise, or bring them to Firehouse Coffee or Oozlefinch Beers & Blending while you grab a drink.

If you find yourself perusing Historic Phoebus with the pooch, Stuft, Fuller’s Raw Bar and Fox Tail Wine Bar have outdoor seating options. You can bring dogs inside the taprooms at Sly Clyde Ciderworks and 1865 Brewing Company.

And after a day spent in the sunshine at Buckroe Beach, stop into Sommer Freeze to grab a pup cup!