STAY
RESTAURANTS
WINERIES
DAYCARE
PET SHOPS

-- Insider Tip --

A lot of local businesses host private events that can lead to closure of their outdoor spaces --it's always good to call ahead and double-check!

Where to Stay with Your Pup

Restaurants with Dog-Friendly Outdoor Patios

Whether you’re in the mood for casual dining or gourmet meals, there are plenty of spots in the area that are perfect for enjoying a bite with your dog by your side!

1. Decipher Brewing (1740 Broadway St)

Although Decipher Brewing doesn’t have a kitchen on-site, they more often than not host local food trucks and invite customers to bring in their own food, making this an excellent laidback option. In addition to their outdoor seating, dogs are also allowed inside the building, perfect for hot summer months or cold winter days!

2. Sal’s Caffe Italia (221 E Main St)

For a delightful taste of Italy, Sal’s Caffe Italia’s patio is located right in the heart of Downtown. Enjoy classic Italian dishes while people watching, with the Paramount Theater’s iconic sign glowing nearby. The patio is heated in the winter, making it a perfect spot for any season!

3. Citizen Burger Bar (212 E Main St)

Located right next to Sal’s is Citizen Burger Bar, another fantastic spot in the heart of Downtown. Enjoy delicious burgers made with local, fresh ingredients – this spot is perfect for those craving a casual, yet tasty bite! Plus, Sal’s and Citizen Burger are conveniently close to Pawprints Boutique, so you can grab some treats for your pup before or after your meal.

4. Kardinal Hall (722 Preston Ave #101)

Located between Downtown and the University of Virginia (UVA), Kardinal Hall serves craft beer, cider, and an alpine-inspired menu, including homemade sausages. Their bier garden-covered patio is heated in the colder months.

5. Three Notch'd Craft Kitchen and Brewery (520 2nd St SE)

Head over to IX Art Park to visit this local brewpub, which specializes in beer-infused dishes designed to complement what’s on tap! Their outdoor patio is covered year-round and heated in the winter. They also host “Pups on the Patio” every Sunday afternoon from 4PM-close, which offers dog owners a discount on select menu items! Don’t forget to visit nearby Animal Connections, a pet supply shop that specializes in homemade dog treats!

Dog-Friendly Wineries with Stunning Views

Charlottesville and Albemarle County are renowned for their award-wining wineries, and many of them welcome dogs to join you as you enjoy their wines and beautiful outdoor spaces. There are a ton of vineyards to choose from, but here are a few of our favorites.

1. Keswick Vineyards (1575 Keswick Winery Dr.)

Sitting at the top of our list and located just east of Charlottesville is Keswick Vineyards. Leashed dogs are welcome both inside the tasting room and across all their outdoor seating and lawn areas. They even have a fenced dog park where dogs may play off-leash. With gorgeous mountain views and award-winning wines, you’ll want to make a day of it!

2. King Family Vineyards (6550 Roseland Farm)

Known for its stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains and its beloved polo matches in warmer months, King Family Vineyards in Crozet is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. All of their outdoor areas are pet-friendly (with firepits available in the winter), and there's ample space for your dog to lounge while you enjoy a glass of their award-winning wine. Please note, there are a few winery cats that freely roam the grounds.

3. Cunningham Creek Winery (3304 Ruritan Lake Rd

Located just 20-30 minutes southeast of Charlottesville is beautiful Cunningham Creek Winery, a favorite among local dog owners. Pups are allowed outside and inside (except during special events). They even have a fenced dog park where dogs may play off-leash. Please note, there are a few winery dogs that freely roam the grounds.

4. Eastwood Farm and Winery (2531 Scottsville Rd)

A trip to Charlottesville isn’t complete without a stop at Eastwood Farm and Winery! Open seven days a week, this gorgeous winery offers a relaxed atmosphere with casual food menus and an extensive selection of wine. Dogs are welcome on all their outdoor spaces as well as on their covered patio.

5. Jefferson Vineyards (1353 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy)

Just minutes away from Charlottesville, Jefferson Vineyards welcomes leashed, well-behaved pups at their outdoor seating areas and in their smaller tasting room. There is a covered patio for those hot summer days and staff is always happy to provide water bowls and treats!

Doggy Daycare Options

Headed out for some two-legged fun? These local spots will treat your four-legged friend like royalty while you're away, whether it's for the day or overnight!

1. Dogtopia (315 Rivanna Plaza Drive)

Dogtopia offers cage-free fun for your pup with fun and open play in supervised playgroups. They offer daycare, overnight boarding, and spa services to keep your pup pampered. The best part? Their play areas have live webcams, so owners can sneak a peek at their pup’s fun anytime!

2. Pet Paradise Charlottesville (601 Concord Ave)

Treat your furry friend to a stay at the newly remodeled Pet Paradise! With climate-controlled suites, several amenities, and plenty of space to romp around, your pup will be in good hands. Pet Paradise also offers day camp for pet parents that don’t need overnight care. Perks include synthetic grass play areas, shaded yards with misting fans, and a pet pool!

3. Wakefield Kennel (798 Wakefield Farm)

Looking to pamper your pup? Be sure to check out the Wakefield Kennel aka “the country club for pets.” This unique dog boarding facility is located on over 15 acres of private country club, including walking trails, large grass exercise areas, and individual temperature-controlled kennels.

Souvenirs for Your Traveling Pup

Your pup deserves a little something special too! Check out these local spots for an excellent assortment of treats and toys to bring home.

1. Animal Connection (933 2nd St SE)

Tucked away in IX Art Park, Animal Connection is a must-stop for pet lovers and their pups. They have a large, curated selection of treats, food, and toys, as well as dog treats baked in-house. With a little notice, you can even request a personalized cake that’s as special as your furry friend!

2. Pawprints Boutique (201 E Main St B)

Pawprints Boutique is a locally owned pet supply store conveniently located right on the Downtown Mall. They offer a curated mix of premium pet food, toys, treats, gifts, and even pet-themed apparel. Pets are welcome to shop alongside you, and the staff is always ready to hear the latest pet story!

3. Fluffy's Pet Shop (1107 Emmet St N)

Conveniently located at the Barracks Road Shopping Center, Fluffy’s Pet Shop proudly stocks treats, food, and toys made with only the highest quality ingredients. They also largely focus on product sustainability (like baking treats with sustainable energy) and do a lot of outreach to local charities.

4. Pet Supplies Plus (1240 Seminole Trail)

Owned and operated by a local veterinarian, Pet Supplies Plus has a carefully selected variety of food, treats, toys, and healthcare products for your pups. The store also has a self-pet wash station and a visiting pet care clinic.

Golden retriever in a harness sits on a wooden boardwalk path, panting and looking up to the side, surrounded by green trees.

Plan Your Stay Today

Now that you know your dog will be pampered and welcomed in Charlottesville, start planning your stay today! Check out our places to stay page for dog-friendly lodging options. We also hope you'll check out some of our local parks and trails, like the Rivanna Trail (best start point is Riverview Park), Preddy Creek Park, Darden Towe Park (which has a dog park), or the Saunders-Monticello Trail!