Springtime. The days become longer, the temperature rises, tiny buds pop up and the world awakens in vibrant color. Spring comes more quickly in southern places, and one of the most beautiful cities to visit for an early spring getaway isn’t a city, exactly… It is a district. The capital of The United States of America. Washington, DC.
DC is known for many things. It is the home of the US Government, crawling with politicians and political-enthusiasts. It is beautiful; with its sweeping, Parisian-inspired boulevards and London-esque low-rise skyline and colorful row houses. And, it is home to a spectacular array of foliage; as we speak, cherry blossoms are preparing to burst into bloom, signaling the arrival of spring.
Washington, DC is steeped in American history, with endless opportunities to learn. There are swanky, hip hotels, delicious food and drink options for every budget, and a plethora of free activities for humans and their four-legged companions. With its many green spaces and easy-walkability, DC is an awesome place to visit with your pup.
Image courtesy of WIHN
Where to Stay with Your Pup
Our Pick:
Just because you’re traveling with your pup doesn’t mean you can’t stay in style. The Viceroy will satisfy those looking for a fresh, design-forward accommodation, while also having all your pet-parent bases covered. This hotel is extremely accommodating to guests traveling with up to two pets. Yes, they welcome dogs and cats, and the hotel even has a dog-friendly rooftop restaurant and bar called Radiator.
Image courtesy Viceroy
The Runner-ups:
Where to Eat with Your Pup
Our Dog-friendly Pick:
This soulful, award-winning, American fusion restaurant is a crowd pleaser that puts an emphasis on fresh ingredients from local Chesapeake Bay producers. Art & Soul features a spacious patio where you can eat your heart out with your travel buddy at your side, and we recommend booking a table there for brunch during your stay in DC. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday.
Image courtesy of Art & Soul
The Dog-friendly Runner-ups:
Where to Eat without Your Pup
Our Pick:
Right in the heart of Foggy Bottom, just blocks from the White House, is Founding Farmers, an award-winning, all-American restaurant serving a modern twist on classic, flavor-packed comfort food dishes. It has been a staple of the DC dining scene since it opened in 2008, and they are open everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We highly recommend their mouthwatering Chicken and Waffles.
Image courtesy of Founding Farmers
The Runner-ups:
What to Do with Your Pup
Our Dog-friendly Pick:
Visit the Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom
DC is a place everyone should visit at least once, and this spring you and your pack don’t want to miss The National Cherry Blossom Festival, which is happening from March 20th to April 17. Your eyes will be filled with wonder gazing at the cherry trees’ snowy pink blossoms throughout the city. The blossoms are set to be in full bloom at the end of March. Plan accordingly!
The Tidal Basin at Jefferson Memorial - Image courtesy of Country Living
The Dog-friendly Runner-ups:
Take a tour with Nonpartisan Pedicab
Explore the National Mall and its Monuments
Stroll down M Street and explore Georgetown
Rent a kayak from Key Bridge Boathouse
What to Do without Your Pup
Our Pick:
Immerse yourself in American history at DC’s free-entrance Museums
Thanks to American taxpayers, DC has an amazing array of free-admission museums, many of which are located around The National Mall. This makes for a great day of free learning, and there’s no doubt that you will get your fill of American history, art, science, and culture while visiting DC.
National Air and Space Museum - Image courtesy of USA Today
The Runner-ups:
Hop-on and hop-off with the DC Big Bus Tour
Visit The National Geographic Museum
Grab a drink at one of DC’s top rooftop bars
Services for Your Pup
Sometimes Fido needs a little relief and pampering… and you may need some time to experience the sights and museums on your own. We have all the bases covered for your pup’s particular needs and emergencies while staying in DC.
Image courtesy of Metro Weekly
Key Bridge, Georgetown - Image courtesy of USA Guided Tours
So load up your Out-of-Office Carry-All and Out-of-Office Pet Food Travel Kit, zip your pooch in their matching Out-of-Office Pet Carrier, and make your way to Washington, DC where you can feast your eyes and taste buds on world-class experiences and exercise your intellect–as well as your paws–all day long.
P.S. Remember to tag @roverlund in your pack's cherry blossom photos from The District!
