The weather is warming, and the leaden skies of winter are departing. That means it's time to get out and enjoy the fresh air. And there's no better way to take in the sunshine than on a stroll with your dog. So bring your furry family to Occoquan this summer and enjoy the historic town atmosphere while perusing these dog-friendly businesses and restaurants.
The weather is warming, and the leaden skies of winter are departing. That means it's time to get out and enjoy the fresh air. And there's no better way to take in the sunshine than on a stroll with your dog. So bring your furry family to Occoquan this summer and enjoy the historic town atmosphere while perusing these dog-friendly businesses and restaurants.
DOG-FRIENDLY BUSINESSES
Many of Occoquan's shops are dog-friendly spaces. So feel free to visit these town favorites while exploring with your furry family.
ASM CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS
Taking the dog for a walk is one of the healthiest daily practices you can adopt. It helps both body and mind, just like a healthy neuro-spinal system. And at ASM Chiropractic & Wellness, you can take care of both in one visit by bringing your dog to your appointment.
GIFT & GATHER
At Gift & Gather, you can find heartfelt gifts for everyone on your list. They offer an assortment of bath and body products, jewelry and accessories, clothing and appeal, and so much more. They even carry gifts for your furry family members.
GLORY BE
Home is where the heart is, and Glory Be is full of heart. This homey shop on Mill Street carries antiques, home decor, art, figurines, candles, pottery, and jewelry. So if it warms the heart and home, you can probably find it at Glory Be.
HITCHCOCK PAPER CO.
Sometimes finding precisely the right words to express yourself is difficult, but never at Hitchcock Paper Co. Their enormous assortment of stationery and paper products makes finding the words for any occasion as easy as asking the staff. You can even bring your pup inside to help you choose.
JERRY’S OCCOQUAN JEWELERS
Jerry's Occoquan Jewelers carries an ever-evolving selection of unique and traditional pieces certain to impress even the most discriminating buyer. It's a place to take your time and find what speaks to you. No need to leave your dog waiting outside. Bring them in with you while you choose.
LEAF & PETAL
Leaf & Petal is Occoquan's favorite tea and remedy shop. In addition to over 120 varieties of loose-leaf tea, they carry teapots, mugs, accessories, and more.
LOCAL COLOUR
Local Colour is one of Occoquan's most vibrant galleries. They specialize in unique works from local artists. Their art spans many mediums, including painting, photography, jewelry, and home decor pieces. They also love dogs. Be sure to stop by for a complimentary treat.
NORMA FAYAK PHOTOGRAPHY
Norma Fayak is a local photographer of rare talent and vision. Her portraits capture the visual story of your family. She specializes in maternity, fine art maternity, newborns, babies, and birth. And furry family members.
OCCOQUAN OPTICAL
A fresh pair of frames can reframe your life. And Occoquan Optical has glasses for every face and style. In fact, they've been voted Best of Prince William County each year since 2019. And even dogs who don't need glasses are welcome.
ORGANIC ALLURE
Organic Allure offers a wide variety of all-natural personal care products and services. This includes crystals, reiki, essential oils, and much more. Canine loved ones are always welcome in this energetically healing space.
PUZZLE PALOOZA ETC
Puzzle Palooza Etc is one of only a few dedicated puzzle shops on the East Coast. There you'll find jigsaw puzzles and games for everyone in your family, regardless of age. Like all the stores on this list, they welcome dogs inside but ask that four-legged visitors remain on short leashes.
DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS
BALLYWHACK SHACK
Ballywhack Shack serves gourmet sandwiches, hot dogs, and more right from their stand on Mill Street. Doggy visitors are not only accepted but encouraged. In fact, Ballywhack shack offers dog treats and water for furry family members.
BOTTLE STOP
Bottle Stop is Occoquan's premier wine bar. In addition to a curated selection of delicious wines, craft beers, and tasty spirits, they also serve a full menu of satisfying culinary delights. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor dining areas.
COCK AND BOWL
Cock and Bowl is the go-to spot for mouth-watering Belgian cuisine. They welcome dogs in their outdoor dining area.
MADIGAN’S WATERFRONT
Madigan's is an Occoquan institution seated on the water. They offer a full bar, indoor dining, event space, and a riverside tiki bar. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor tiki bar area, accessible from the boardwalk.
THE SPOT ON MILL STREET
The Spot is an Occoquan favorite. Their menu has something for everyone, including bistro cuisine and a fine selection of beer, wine, and bourbon. Dogs are welcome in both their indoor and outdoor dining areas. This a great stop on your walk, no matter the weather.
ZORBA’S GRILL
Zorba's is the place to go if you are in the mood for Greek cuisine. Their menu features an assortment of Greek, Italian, and American favorites for dine-in or takeout. Dogs are welcome to beat the heat by lounging in the shade of their dining area.
DOG-FRIENDLY TO THE BONE
Of course, these are only a few of the canine-friendly facilities that make Historic Occoquan so puppy-positive. In fact, most shops and businesses in town welcome your furry family. However, if you want to visit one of the businesses or restaurants not on the list, be sure to poke your head in and ask if your dog can join you inside. So why not make a visit to Historic Occoquan part of your weekly walking routine? Visit today to experience everything this dog-friendly town has to offer.
WRITTEN BY ROBERT CURRER
Editors note: Businesses listed in this article include those who responded by the time of publishing. We recommend contacting businesses to confirm their current policies.