Itinerary for 3 day trip to Virginia

Virginia is a fantastic place for a family getaway, and it’s great that you want to include your furry friend in the adventure! Here’s a fun and family-friendly 3-day itinerary that’s also pet-friendly. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Exploring Richmond

Morning:

Breakfast at : Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this local favorite. They have a great outdoor patio where your pet can join you!
Visit : After breakfast, head over to Maymont, a beautiful 100-acre Victorian estate with gardens, a petting zoo, and nature trails. The park is pet-friendly, so you can stroll through the gardens with your pup while the kids enjoy the animals.

Afternoon:

Lunch at : Pack a picnic or grab some takeout from a nearby café and enjoy lunch at this lovely outdoor amphitheater. There’s plenty of space for the kids to run around and for your pet to relax.
Explore the : This museum is free and has beautiful gardens outside where pets are welcome. The kids can enjoy the art, and you can take turns watching the dog while exploring.

Evening:

Dinner at : Head to this family-friendly brewery with a fantastic view of the James River. They have a pet-friendly patio where you can enjoy a meal while your dog lounges by your feet.
Stroll along the : After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the , where you can enjoy the sunset and let your dog stretch its legs.

Day 2: Adventure

Morning:

Breakfast at a Local Café: Grab breakfast at a local café in Richmond before hitting the road. Make sure to pack some snacks for the day!
Drive to : It’s about a 1.5-hour drive to the park. Once you arrive, stop by the visitor center to get maps and information.

Afternoon:

Hiking with the Family: Choose a family-friendly trail like the , which is only about a mile round trip and offers stunning views. It’s a great way to enjoy nature, and dogs are welcome on leashes!
Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks. There are plenty of spots to set up and let the kids and your pet enjoy the great outdoors.

Evening:

Dinner in Luray: After a day of hiking, head to Luray for dinner. Check out a local restaurant like , which has outdoor seating where pets are welcome.
Explore : If time allows, take a quick visit to the (check their pet policy in advance). If not, just enjoy a leisurely evening stroll around the charming town.

Day 3: Fun

Morning:

Drive to : After breakfast, head to (about a 2.5-hour drive).
Beach Time: Once you arrive, head straight to the beach! is very pet-friendly, especially in the early morning hours. Let your dog run in the sand while the kids splash in the waves.

Afternoon:

Lunch at a Beachfront Café: Grab lunch at a pet-friendly café like , where you can enjoy fresh seafood and a view of the ocean.
Visit the : This is a great family-friendly activity, and they have outdoor areas where pets are allowed. The kids will love the exhibits, and you can take turns watching the dog outside.

Evening:

Dinner at a : Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along the boardwalk. Many have outdoor seating where your pet can join you.
Sunset on the Beach: End your trip with a beautiful sunset on the beach. It’s a perfect way to wrap up your family adventure in Virginia!