Yorktown is one of three Historic Triangle sites, including Jamestown and Williamsburg. It's known for its beautiful waterfront and famous battles. Rich in history, Yorktown is also a city many call home, where we live, thrive, and raise our families. With the hustle and bustle of life, it's hard to get out and tour the sites. Today, we'd like to highlight spots in Yorktown that welcome our canine companions. We hope this post encourages you to visit dog-friendly Yorktown to enjoy our area's richness and national significance with your pup(s.)
Colonial National Historical Park
Colonial National Historical Park houses Historic Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America in 1607. It's also home to Yorktown Battlefield, the site where, on October 19, 1781, American and French troops defeated the British in the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War.
Leashed dogs are welcome in the park and on the battlefield. Because the area is sprawling and shaded in many spots, it's a great place to walk and explore US history with friends, family, and pets. While leashed pets, cats included, are welcome on the grounds, they are not allowed in the cemetery. Also, only service animals are allowed inside buildings.
Heat and humidity can be a problem for visitors therefore, hydration, shade, and breaks are essential to everyone's enjoyment. Once everyone has had enough exploring by foot, the Colonial Parkway is a 23-mile stretch that connects our remarkable history, views, and the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle - yours.
NPS1001 Beach & Picnic Area
Located between Watermen’s Museum and American Revolution Museum and across from Mathews Street, NPS1001 Beach is the only dog-friendly beach in Yorktown. The beach and picnic area are owned by the National Park Service but maintained and managed by York County.
While rules at this beach are strict and include no amplified music, no alcohol, and no overnight camping, the beach and picnic area allow visitors to set up tents for shade during the day, making the area a great place to visit with dogs.
When enjoying a beach day with your dog(s), please take the necessary precautions. Always supervise pets near water and keep pets on a leash per park rules. Take breaks from the sun and water, have fresh drinking water handy, and call it a day before your dog has had too much. It's easy to get comfortable on a day at the beach and then realize our dogs are not as comfortable as we are. Learn more about dog water and beach safety here.
Riverwalk Landing
In addition to the local history, Yorktown offers visitors and locals lots of delicious dining, memorable shopping, and beautiful vistas from Riverwalk Landing. Leashed dogs can join families to explore this charming area beside the York River. They are also welcome in some stores therefore, please ask before entering retail locations with your pets.
While visiting Riverwalk Landing, stop by Gangster Dog to pick up one of their awesome eco-friendly toys, homemade treats, and more. They have everything you can imagine and add inventory every time we visit. I highly recommend discussing your dog's nutritional needs with them while you're there. They know their stuff!
Best Leashes for Yorktown Dogs
No matter where your adventures take you in Yorktown, we recommend bringing a standard nylon or leather six-foot leash to explore historic and crowded areas. We do not recommend retractable leashes. Keeping your pet leashed and close by ensures that your pet and other visitors remain at a safe distance.
Tick Prevention for Yorktown Dogs
Tick season is in full swing therefore, only bring your pets out for Yorktown adventures if they are on flea and tick treatments. Consider adding a topical spray to the mix to add an extra layer of protection. Topical sprays from manufacturers like Wondercide or Cedarcide prevent you and your dogs from picking up nasty critters while exploring. We recently shared about the dangers of ticks and Lyme Disease and encourage you to do your due diligence for your whole family by following our prevention tips.
Pet Care for Yorktown Dogs
When exploring with your pets is not an option, count on us to care for your pets in your home. Hearts at Home has a heart for dogs, cats, and small mammals. We provide dog walking, pet sitting, cat sitting, and puppy care. Our team is highly trained, professional, flexible, and dedicated to your peace of mind and your pet's wellness.
To learn more about our in-home pet care services in the Tabb, Grafton, and Seaford areas of Yorktown and Poquoson, Virginia, please contact us by email at Hello@HeartsAtHomePetSitting.com or by phone at 757-745-9868.