A Dog's Day Downtown: Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Spots in Norfolk

Your dog is part of the family, and a day of exploring is always better when they can tag along! Here in Downtown Norfolk, you don’t have to leave your best friend behind. With beautiful open spaces, welcoming patios, and fun community events, our city is ready to welcome you and your pup with open paws. This is your guide to planning the perfect dog's day out in Downtown Norfolk.

Outdoor Spaces & Trails: Sniff, Stroll, and Explore

Let your pup lead the way through these fantastic, leashed-dog-friendly parks and paths that offer new sights, sounds, and smells around every corner.

• Downtown Norfolk Dog Walk: Located next to Assembly at 400 Granby Street, this fenced-in mini dog park is perfect for Downtown pups. With room to run, water on site, and sunrise-to-sunset access, it's a go-to spot for quick play, fresh air, and wagging tails.
• Elizabeth River Trail: This is the ultimate downtown dog walk. The 10.5-mile trail offers plenty of wide-open space and scenic waterfront paths for a fantastic walk, run, or jog with your leashed companion. With grassy areas for sniffing and benches for water breaks, it’s a go-to for local dog owners.
• The Pagoda & Oriental Garden: Looking for a more tranquil stroll? The serene paths and lush lawns of the Pagoda & Oriental Garden are perfect for a leashed walk. Pack a picnic and a portable water bowl, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon together in this beautiful waterfront oasis.
• NEON District Art Tour: Explore the city’s creative side together! A walk through the NEON District is a feast for your eyes and a world of new smells for your dog's nose. Leashed pups are welcome to join you as you discover the dozens of vibrant, larger-than-life murals that make this neighborhood an open-air art gallery.
• Town Point Park: When it’s not hosting a ticketed festival, the sprawling green lawn of Town Point Park is a fantastic place to stretch your legs. Play a game of fetch (always being mindful of others) or simply relax on the grass and watch the ships go by in the Elizabeth River.

Dog-Friendly Patios: Pints & Pups

After a good walk, you both deserve a break. These downtown restaurants feature welcoming outdoor patios where your well-behaved, leashed pup can relax by your side. (Pro-Tip: Policies can change, so we always recommend calling ahead to confirm before you go!)

• Grace O’Malley’s: With its large, bustling patio on Granby Street, Grace O'Malley's is a great spot to enjoy a pint and some fantastic Irish fare with your furry friend in tow.
• Tap it Local: Known for its craft beer selection and lively atmosphere, Tap it Local offers a spacious and welcoming patio. It’s a popular spot for people and their pups to relax and enjoy the vibrant downtown energy.
• Hair of the Dog: The name says it all! This fun, eclectic spot loves canine customers. Their fantastic, dog-friendly patio is the perfect place to enjoy a creative brunch or one of their famous Crushes.
• Benny’s Damato's: Craving a gigantic slice of pizza? The patio at Benny’s is a great, casual spot to hang out with your pup and enjoy some of the best people-watching on Granby Street.
• Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint: For a no-fuss, delicious meal, head to Jack Brown's. Their patio is a laid-back spot to enjoy a fantastic burger and a craft beer with your best four-legged pal by your side.

Events & Activities: Socialize with the Pack

Looking for a more organized adventure? These community events are often open to leashed, friendly dogs.

• First Fridays Block Parties: Returning this August and September, Downtown’s outdoor block party is a great place for social dogs. With live music, food trucks, and a friendly crowd, it's a fun way for both of you to get out and mingle.
• NEON Festival: Held every fall in Norfolk’s creative arts district, the NEON Festival lights up the neighborhood with art, performance, and street life. Many portions of the festival are dog-friendly, especially the outdoor activations and mural tours. It’s a sensory adventure for both nose and eyes.
• Social Cycling NFK Bike Rides: Does your dog love to ride? For smaller pups who can comfortably and safely ride in a bike basket or trailer, the casual group rides with Social Cycling Norfolk can be a fun and breezy adventure for you both.
• Pop-Up Markets & Outdoor Events: Downtown’s calendar is packed year-round with outdoor happenings—many of which are dog-friendly. From vendor markets to waterfront concerts, there’s always something going on. Keep an eye on Downtown Norfolk’s events calendar to find the next adventure for you and your pup.

Tips for a Paws-itively Perfect Day

• Paw Check! On hot summer days, pavement can get scorching hot and burn your dog's paws. Test the ground with the back of your hand; if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for them. Plan walks for cooler mornings or evenings.
• Stay Hydrated: Always carry a portable water bowl and fresh water for your dog. Many patios will offer water, but it's always best to have your own.
• Keep it Clean: Be a good neighbor! Always carry waste bags and clean up after your pet immediately.
• Know Your Pup: Downtown can be a busy place with lots of sounds. Make sure your dog is comfortable with crowds and noise before bringing them to a busy patio or event.

Now you’re all set! Grab the leash, pack some treats, and get ready to enjoy a fantastic, dog-friendly day exploring Downtown Norfolk together.