Founders Park - Alexandria, VA
Founders Park: A Dog-Friendly Gem in Alexandria, VA
Located right along the Potomac River in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, Founders Park is a pet-friendly haven perfect for dog owners looking for wide open spaces and scenic walking trails. This well-maintained park is renowned for its lush landscaping, plentiful benches, shaded areas under mature trees, and beautiful waterfront views. While it is not a fully designated or fenced dog park, dogs are welcome throughout the park, making it an ideal spot for dog-friendly walks and picnics in Alexandria, Virginia.
Visitors enjoy open green spaces, a riverside walkway, a dedicated dog water fountain, and easy access to nearby Old Town attractions. The park is wheelchair accessible and offers picnic areas, making it suitable for both families and pet owners. Limited parking is available, with free parking on Sundays. The park’s tranquil atmosphere, combined with its location near pet-friendly restaurants and antique shops, makes Founders Park a top pick for those seeking a relaxing, dog-friendly outing near Washington, D.C.
FAQ: Founders Park for Dog Owners
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs are welcome but the park is not fenced and does not have a designated off-leash area.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced dog area at Founders Park.
- Are there water fountains or bowls for dogs? Yes, there is a dog fountain available for dogs to replenish themselves.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, many trees throughout the park offer ample shade.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, the park is a popular spot for picnics and enjoying lunch outdoors.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are plenty of benches and seating areas throughout the park.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, there are wheelchair accessible entrances and parking available.
- Where is the best place to park? Limited street parking is available near the park, and it is free on Sundays.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there is a walkway along the riverside perfect for dog-friendly strolls.
- Are there pet-friendly cafes or stores close to the park? Yes, Old Town Alexandria offers many pet-friendly shops and restaurants nearby.
Reviews
When the weather is nice, this is the place I want to be. Living in old town can be a bit noisy but this little park helps me enjoy a bit of nature and it’s a quite a treat too! The landscape is so well kept, there are plenty of benches to sit on, many trees that offer shade when it’s really hot and sunny out, and the “trail” itself is nice to get your exercise on too. It’s kind of a combination of being both a park and a dog park without the actual dog fence in place – I think it would be nice to have an official dog area in place but they do have a dog fountain for dogs to replenish themselves. My boyfriend and I LOVE to picnic at this park and while it does get busy during the nice weather – it doesn’t take away the beauty at all. It’s a very pleasant and hip area where you will find both families and friends of all ages hanging out – even on summer nights! Old town is charming altogether, but this is one of my favorite places to be for sure.
Nice open air expanse, by the riverside. It’s very refreshing to be here!
Nice and relaxing day at the dock and there is a good walk way around the shore line. Parking is free on Sundays but limited to 2 hours Monday through Saturday.
If you are planning to visit Old Town in Alexandria, consider parking close to Founders Park and start your walk from there.
As you stroll along the riverside, you can watch boats sail by. It is not uncommon to see street performance on the waterfront.
There are tons of great restaurants and antique shops as well.
6OCT2024 Lovely spot to hangout, eat lunch on a blanket, and enjoy the view along the Potomac. Beautiful views all around and everyone from everywhere is always out here walking around in historic Alexandria.
This park is well kept and really inviting to be out and about. Parking is free on Sundays but limited to 2 hours Monday through Saturday.