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Best Dog Parks in Washington D.C.

There simply is not a city in the world like Washington D.C., and that is as true for our four-legged family members as it is for anyone else. Whether you are just passing through or staying for a while, Red Roof® has put together this guide to the best dog parks in D.C. so you know exactly where to let those playful paws scamper during your visit.

From gated dog parks near the city's most celebrated neighborhoods to a swanky indoor dog park bar and a beautiful waterfall park, the dog parks in Washington DC on this list offer a great experience for dogs and their owners alike. Many are located close to some of the best food, drink, and entertainment in the city.

Red Roof® is proud to be a pet-friendly hotel brand. Your first pet always stays free, and a second pet is just $15 per night. Book your stay at redroof.com.

A woman holding a dog on a road
A dog sitting in a field
A boy hugging a dog

D.C.'s Most Popular Dog Parks

A woman holding a dog

Shirlington Park

One of the most popular dog parks in D.C. among both locals and visitors, Shirlington Park features a specialized enclosed area for nervous or small dogs alongside wide open green spaces where larger and more confident dogs can really cut loose. A beautiful stream running through the park provides the perfect cool-down spot after a good run, making it one of the most complete and naturally beautiful dog parks Shirlington experiences in the D.C. area.

A dog running on grass

Barkhaus

One of the most popular dog-friendly bars in the entire city, Barkhaus has been designed from the ground up to cater to four-legged guests in a swanky yet affordable indoor environment. Pour a cold drink and let your dog loose in one of the best indoor dog parks D.C. has to offer, and take advantage of the on-site daycare service if you need to leave your pet in good hands while you explore the city.

A group of dogs standing in a park

Shaw Dog Park

One of the largest dog parks in the D.C. area, Shaw Dog Park is entirely run by dedicated volunteers who bring a genuine sense of community to every visit. Secure gates keep dogs safely contained, water bowls are spread throughout, and plentiful trees and shady seating areas ensure there is as much rest as there is running around to be enjoyed.

A dog running on grass with a person running

Stanton Park

A popular gathering spot for hobbyist athletes and family playdates, Stanton Park is also a fantastic place for dogs and their owners to meet and mingle. Well-kept grass and shady trees give the park a natural, understated beauty that makes it a hidden gem among the dog parks in D.C.

A dog with its tongue out

S Street Dog Park

Spacious yet safely enclosed, S Street Dog Park is one of the best gated dog parks near Washington DC for owners who want the peace of mind of a secure space while giving their dog room for recall training or energetic play. Benches beneath the trees give owners a comfortable spot to sit back and relax while their dogs tire themselves out.

A dog running in water

Glencarlyn Park

A beautiful and popular park that is not enclosed like many other dog parks in D.C., Glencarlyn Park features a pretty waterfall and crystal clear stream on site that make it one of the most visually stunning natural dog-friendly spaces in the area. It is a park well worth visiting for its scenery alone.

A man playing with a dog in a park

Lincoln Park

No guide to dog parks in D.C. is complete without a mention of Lincoln Park. The lush greenery and lengthy dirt running track give the park a pleasing variety of terrain, making it a wonderful space for dogs who love to run alongside owners who enjoy a peaceful stroll through one of Washington D.C.'s most beloved neighborhood green spaces.

A dog holding a leash in its mouth

Langdon Dog Park

Langdon Dog Park mixes concrete and grassy areas to great effect, with refreshing water bowls spread throughout and consistently high standards of cleanliness and maintenance across its generous footprint. Even the most rambunctious pooches will find plenty of room to run, play fetch, and burn off energy at one of the most reliably well-kept dog parks in D.C.