A Dog-Friendly Weekend in Staunton, VA
Looking for a dog-friendly weekend in Staunton, VA? This charming Shenandoah Valley town blends historic architecture, cozy coffee shops, scenic parks, and welcoming patios — making it an easy getaway with your pups. From pet-friendly hotels to dog-friendly wineries, here’s how we spent a relaxed weekend exploring Staunton with Archie and Saydie.
e drive into the Valley is scenic and straightforward, though I always prepare the dogs ahead of longer trips to keep things smooth. Like our time in Lexington, VA, Staunton makes for a walkable, unhurried weekend — perfectly suited for traveling with dogs.
Old stone railroad structure over the creek in Staunton, part of the town’s 1800s rail era
Dog-Friendly Hotels in Staunton, VA
Staying at The Blackburn Inn (Pet-Friendly Historic Hotel)
There were several great places to stay in Staunton, but BringFido helped narrow the dog-friendly options. We chose The Blackburn Inn. Choosing a historic hotel felt right for this trip — especially compared to vacation rentals.
Where we stayed in Staunton — old walls, quiet night
After walking downtown, we climbed the hill to the inn. From the moment you arrive, you feel the history. The long red-brick buildings, tall windows, and classic symmetry make you pause and take it in.
Inside, the space has been beautifully updated.
Quiet evening inside the Blackburn Inn, with history underfoot.
My room felt airy and calm, and the rain shower was a welcome reward after a day of exploring. Archie and Saydie quickly settled in, sniffing every corner.
Long hallways, soft lighting, and wide wooden floors gave the evening a slower, quieter pace.
Long hallways, soft light, and a slower pace as we retire for the evening.
A Little History of The Blackburn Inn
The Blackburn Inn sits on the grounds of the original Western State Hospital, one of Virginia’s earliest mental health institutions. Designed in the early 1800s by Thomas Blackburn, a protégé of Thomas Jefferson, the campus includes 22 red-brick buildings with tall windows and balanced proportions.
Over time, the property evolved from an asylum to a prison before being carefully restored into the boutique hotel it is today. The renovation preserved original staircases, high ceilings, and architectural details, blending modern comfort with deep history.
The spiral stair at the Blackburn Inn — an original 1832 feature of the old seminary, rising in light and form as it has for nearly two centuries.
Before checking out, we climbed to the cupola. Archie needed to be carried (not a fan of heights), while Saydie bounded up confidently. From the top, the view stretched across the campus and valley — a quiet, memorable moment.
Dog-Friendly Coffee Shops in Staunton
We arrived in Staunton and headed straight to Crucible Coffee. We found a creekside outdoor table where I ordered the seasonal Oh My Yam Latte topped with marshmallow whipped cream. A train passed overhead as we sat there — the sound and setting felt timeless.
Morning light, coffee in hand, and a pastry to start the day. We lingered and let the morning unfold.
Sunday morning began at Magdalena Bake with pastries and coffee in the early light. We lingered before strolling through town.
Early light on the street, shops just opening, one more coffee stop before leaving.
Later, we stopped at Reunion. It was bustling and every outdoor table was full, but the energy felt lively and welcoming.
On our last morning, we discovered By & By Café & Beer Garden. Great coffee and a relaxed, artsy vibe that suits Staunton well. I grabbed a sandwich to bring along for later.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants & Patios in Staunton
For dinner our first night, we ordered takeout from Zynodoa. While waiting, we wandered to Redbeard Brewery for an IPA. Their dog-friendly courtyard, complete with a food truck, made it an easy place to linger.
After a morning at the parks, we stopped at The Frenchman, a cozy café and wine bar with a thoughtful menu. I ordered the salade niçoise and a side of collards — perfect after walking trails with the pups. The dining room sits beside active railroad tracks, a nod to Staunton’s rail history.
Takeout in hand, we paused long enough to admire the dining room — a space shaped by the railroad that still runs just outside.
Before leaving town, we picked up takeout from Latin Soul. Their dog-friendly patio made it easy to enjoy pupusas while the dogs relaxed nearby.
Best Parks for Dogs in Staunton, VA
Staunton offers plenty of space for dogs to stretch their legs.
Montgomery Hall Park
Wooded trails and open meadows made for a peaceful morning walk. After a morning at Montgomery Hall Park, the dogs were ready for a nap — travel really does tire them out differently than walks at home.
Gypsy Hill Park & Dog Park
Part of a beautiful city park with walking paths, open fields, and a scenic lake. Archie and Saydie loved making new friends while I enjoyed the quiet surroundings.
Dog-Friendly Wineries Near Staunton
Like Floyd, Virginia — where we spent an afternoon visiting a few beautiful Blue Ridge wineries — Staunton balances small-town charm with scenic views and unhurried afternoons.
Rows of vines at Barren Ridge Vineyards, resting for winter, with the mountains stretched out beyond
Barren Ridge Vineyards
A highlight of the weekend. Sweeping views, a cozy fireplace, and live bluegrass created the perfect slow afternoon. They welcomed dogs warmly, bringing out a bowl of water while we enjoyed a wine flight. The vines stretched across rolling hills with mountains beyond — a beautiful place to pause.
The dogs lingered with the view while we stood still a moment longer.
Historic Spots & Hidden Gems in Staunton
Downtown Staunton is filled with boutique shops, historic storefronts, and distinctive architecture. The sidewalks are narrow — dog-walking can be a bit of a shuffle — but the charm is undeniable.
We wandered to the Sears Hill Bridge behind The Frenchman, part of the Wharf Historic District and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s a great photo spot connecting the train station and downtown.
Stone railroad arches over a creek in Staunton, built during the late-19th-century rail expansion.
Before heading home, we stopped at The Well Balanced Paw, a charming pet wellness shop and barkery in the Wharf district. They focus on high-quality, whole-food nutrition and even offer small-animal massage — a perfect final stop before hitting the road.
“Key Dog-Friendly Places We Visited in Staunton, VA
Crucible Coffee – Creekside outdoor seating
Downtown Staunton – Boutique shops and historic architecture
The Blackburn Inn – Historic pet-friendly hotel
Redbeard Brewery – Dog-friendly courtyard
Magdalena Bake – Pastries and coffee
Montgomery Hall Park – Trails and open meadows
Gypsy Hill Dog Park – Open space for pups
The Frenchman – Dog-friendly outdoor seating
Barren Ridge Vineyards – Wine flights and bluegrass
Latin Soul – Dog-friendly patio
By & By Café & Beer Garden – Relaxed vibe and sandwiches
Sears Hill Bridge – Historic covered bridge photo spot
The Well Balanced Paw – Pet wellness shop and barkery”
If you’re exploring more of Virginia with your pups, here are a few of our other favorite trips:
• Cape Charles, Virginia — relaxed coastal walks and quiet beaches
• Colonial Beach & Virginia’s Northern Neck — waterfront views and small-town charm
• Lexington, VA — historic streets and Shenandoah Valley scenery
