By: Rebecca Riddell
Social distancing has taken a toll on many of us as it has forced us to be apart from the ones we love and denied us the joy of face-to-face interaction. Though we have been missing out on human companionship, our furry friends have stayed by our sides, blissfully unaware of recommended guidelines, and continued to offer love, cuddles, and friendship during these trying times.
Now that restrictions are lifting and summer is upon us, it’s the perfect time to plan a day date with your doggy. In the Northern Neck, there are a plethora of places you can take your furry buddies for a full day of safe and enjoyable fun. Whether you prefer picnics in the park or long walks on the beach, there’s something for everyone!
Planning a date in Lancaster County? Scottie Yard Dog Park is a great place to start your day with your doggy. This fenced-in, open-air park is located within the Kilmarnock Center Towne Park and is the perfect place for your dog to let loose and run around freely. Grab a frisbee or some tennis balls and give your doggy the chance to burn some energy and stretch their legs. A leash is not required and there are separate sections for small and large dogs to ensure your pets safety. Don’t forget to be courteous and clean up after your furry pal. The park is open from dawn to dusk and has parking at the entrance. A full listing of rules and regulations can be found at https://www.kilmarnockva.com/parks/town-centre-park/#dog
Once you finish frolicking with doggy, head over to Stevie’s Ice Cream for a refreshing treat. Stevie’s offers a variety of frozen delights for humans and you can grab a ‘Pup Cup’ for your beloved pup. Sit back and relax in their outdoor seating area. Stevie’s is open seasonally from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
If you’re looking for more of a meal, Terrie’s Place is just across the parking lot and offers a full menu with a wide variety of food items from which to choose. They offer a large outdoor seating area with plenty of shade for your dining comfort. Terrie’s is open seasonally from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Both Stevie’s and Terrie’s are located on Main Street in front of the Gordman’s shopping center.
After filling your bellies, walk it off with a stroll down Main Street for some shopping. Many of the stores welcome smaller furry friends if you ask nicely! Stop in and visit the Animal Welfare League Thrift Store and shop around to support furry friends in need or drop off some donations. The Thrift Store is currently open Thursday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Finish off your evening with a ride over to Belle Isle State Park. Take a sunset walk on the beach and splash around in the river. You can rent a canoe or kayak and paddle out with your pal. There is also plenty of grassy space and a picnic pavilion if you plan to pack a picnic dinner. Be sure to keep your doggy leashed and be courteous to clean up any messes. The Park is open from dawn to dusk. For directions and details, visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/belle-isle
Warsaw in Richmond County also provides plenty of dog-friendly fun. Stop by ‘Central Bark,’ located on Main Street within Warsaw Town Park. Give your pup a chance to run around and explore the large grassy fenced area. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the shade of the large gazebo area and picnic benches. Be mindful of other visitors and take care of any pet messes.
After some fun in the park, head across the street to Bubba B’s Ice Cream Shop for a treat for yourself and for doggy. Bubba’s features a patio area and serves a variety of frozen concoctions for you and your precious pooch.
Make your way over to Menokin for a unique historical experience. This pup-friendly historical property was once home to Francis Lightfoot Lee, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and his wife Rebecca Tayloe. The plantation has fallen into disrepair over the years, but plans are being made and funds raised for a massive restoration project. Explore the property with your doggy and take a walk along the various trails connected to the property. There is also a kayak/canoe launch available. The property is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information about Menokin and directions, visit menokin.org.
Visiting the Northumberland area? Stop by Heathsville and take a walk around the historic heart of town. The historic Rice’s Hotel/ Hughlett’s Tavern lies in the center of the town square and is the last surviving 1700s structure of its kind in Virginia’s Northern Neck. Drop into the café to grab a bite and enjoy sitting on the large porch. Make sure to check the Tavern’s schedule so you can catch their monthly Farmer’s Market. The market is typically on the 3rd Saturday of every month and features a variety of vendors displaying crafts and homemade/homegrown delights. The property also houses a working blacksmith forge where members can create metal artworks and visitors can view their work and process. Visit www.rhhtfoundationinc.org for a full schedule of events and more information.
Just a short drive away is the Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve. Take the opportunity to explore these rich wetlands and appreciate the abundant population of birds, insects, and other wildlife that claim the preserve as their home. The preserve features a network of walking trails and wildlife-viewing platforms. Explore the untouched sandy beaches and the dense foliage of the forest. Be respectful of the area and mindful of cleanliness and noise levels so as not to disturb the wildlife and their habitat. More information about the preserve can be found at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural-heritage/natural-area-preserves/hughlett.
Across the Northern Neck is the town of Montross in Westmoreland County. In recent years, Montross has commissioned numerous artworks that are certainly worth visiting when out and about with your pup. Home to 11 unique murals, each located on a different building, the town has been referred to as the ‘mural capital of Virginia.’ Explore the town and stop in at one of the many local eateries featuring outdoor seating areas.
After exploring the heart of town, head over to Westmoreland State Park where you can explore various hiking trails and take a walk along the beach. Dip your toes and paws in the water or spend time searching for shark’s teeth. Enjoy a picnic with your furry pal or even go for a kayak paddle. The park consists of 1,321 acres with plentiful space to play with your pup. Be mindful of other visitors and keep your dog leashed for their safety. Stay for a day or make it in overnight trip and take advantage of the available campground and cabin rentals. More information about the park can be found at www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/westmoreland
Dogs are truly man’s best friend and are certain to bring you joy in the midst of trying times. Make the most of the time you have with your pup. Give them plenty of love and you will in turn be rewarded with plenty of loving licks and tail wags. Plan your doggy day date today and enjoy all that the Northern Neck has to offer!
