In 1699, Williamsburg was founded as the capital of the Virginia colony and became one of America’s first planned cities. Today, this historic settlement still stands as the premier center for preservation and interpretation of American colonial history.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for an interesting place to visit with your dog, I cannot recommend this quaint and fascinating town enough. In fact, this is probably one the most dog-friendly destinations Lady and I have visited yet!

Read on to learn more about the pet-friendly Williamsburg, VA and the most fun things to do here with your pooch.

Quick Overview of Williamsburg

Since its founding in the late 1600s, Williamsburg has played an integral role in American history.

The College of William and Mary in Williamsburg produced several famous political leaders, including President Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe. In 1781, General George Washington assembled the Continental Army in Williamsburg for the siege in nearby Yorktown, the very event that ended the Revolutionary War.

Even though the capital of Virginia was relocated to Richmond in 1780, Williamsburg’s loss of capital city status may have been a blessing in disguise since many of the original 18th-century buildings survived well into the 20th-century.

John D. Rockefeller Jr. led the massive reconstruction of Williamsburg in 1926 with the goal of creating a beautiful tourist town that retained most of the settlement’s original charm. The project was a booming success, so much so that Williamsburg has been recognized as one of the Top 15 Cities in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure.

Today, you can wander the streets of Colonial Williamsburg to experience for yourself what life was like for the settlers during the 18th-century, dine in the city’s renowned culinary scene, shop for unique products you won’t find anywhere else, and much more.

Pet-Friendly Williamsburg: The Most Fun Things to Do With Your Dog

From the moment Lady and I arrived in Williamsburg, I was amazed at how many dogs we saw just wandering the streets with their owners. Once we got to exploring, I finally understood why! There is an abundance of dog-friendly places in Williamsburg, VA.

From fascinating tours through the colonial town to inviting outdoor restaurants, the options for experiencing Williamsburg with your pup are nearly limitless.

1. Look for Liberty

Liberty the Briard is Colonial Williamsburg’s first official mascot! According to the history books, Thomas Jefferson himself was the proud owner of a Briard named Buzzy.

Liberty likes to get out and visit with her fans, so be sure to download Colonial Williamsburg Explorer app upon your arrival. The app will let you know when Liberty is out and about and where in town you can find her. She’ll be happy to greet you and your furry friend and take some photos with you.

2. Tour the Historic Colonial City

There’s no better way to see the world’s largest living history museum than exploring it on foot!

Pups are allowed to walk through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg alongside you, with the exception of the buildings. The best part? It’s completely cost-free to tour the outdoor areas of the city!

Many landmarks have signs or plaques that describe the history and significance of the building. That way, you’ll never miss out on any of the historical facts that you’d get during a tour.

If you’re not sure where to start, the Visitors Center offers pre-planned itineraries that you can use and/or customize to fit your own interests and needs.

3. Visit the Jamestowne Settlement

We all know the story of Pocahontas, John Smith, and America’s first permanent English settlement. The site where all of those historic events took place can be found just 20 minutes from Williamsburg!

This is your chance to step back in time, follow in the footsteps of some of America’s most significant characters, and learn more about America’s birthplace. Your fur babies are welcome to join you at Jamestowne’s Historic Site and Island Loop Drive. The only places they won’t be able to enter are the Visitor’s Center and museums.

Whether you’re interested in the history of the settlement or its archaeological excavation, there is a guided Jamestowne tour that you and your pooch can enjoy together. There are also many naturally beautiful areas that are perfect for viewing the local wildlife and scenery.  

4. Grab a Brew at DoG Street Pub

This American gastropub is one of the most dog-friendly restaurants in Williamsburg, VA! In addition to its wide selection of local and regional craft beers, DoG Street Pub is known for European-inspired dishes at an affordable price.

The spacious front patio is filled with dog-friendly tables, and its ideal location right in Merchant’s Square makes it a great spot to relax, unwind with an ice cold beer, and people watch.

5. Share a Treat From The Cheese Shop

Also located in Merchant’s Square, The Cheese Shop is every foodie’s paradise!

They have an array of delicious treats from sandwiches, wine, beer, coffee, tea, honey, and olive oils. However, their main specialty is, you guessed it, cheese!

The shop offers nearly every kind of artisan cheese you can think of. They’ll even help you create a sample cheese board that you can pair with your favorite wines and/or beers. There are many outdoor tables right outside the shop that provide an excellent space for you and Fido is rest and enjoy your lunch together! While I sip on wine and nibble on my favorite cheeses, I give Lady a homemade dog treat to snack on.

Need a place to stay during your Williamsburg getaway? Westgate Resorts provides pet-friendly lodging right in the historic district. The rooms are designed to resemble the area’s Colonial charm and offer a wide range of amenities for both their human and canine guests.

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Colonial Williamsburg is a pet-friendly destination that immerses visitors right into the story of our nation’s birth. If you’re looking for a quiet, restful, and fascinating place to get away from it all with your furry best friend, you’ve found it!

The significant amount of dog-friendly places in Williamsburg, VA make it one of my favorite places to take Lady, and I’m sure you and your pup will enjoy it just as much as we do!

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