Take Your Dog to an Arlington Dog Park

Arlington takes its dogs seriously, and the county’s network of off-leash dog parks is genuinely one of its best quality-of-life features — for owners and pups alike. The county maintains seven dedicated off-leash areas, each with its own personality and regulars. Shirlington Dog Park, adjacent to the parcourse along Four Mile Run, is one of the largest and most beloved, with a big grassy run, a separate small-dog area, and a community vibe that makes weekend mornings feel like a neighborhood block party. Towers Park in Fairlington offers a fenced off-leash area popular with the south Arlington crowd, while Glencarlyn Park’s natural setting along the stream makes it a favorite for dogs who like to get muddy. Fort Bernard Park is also a popular dog park in South Arlington.

Glencarlyn Dog Park

Other off-leash spots include the Benjamin Banneker Park near the East Falls Church Metro, the Utah Street area near Clarendon, the James Hunter Park near Lyon Village, and the Quincy Park off-leash zone near Ballston. Each has its own character, regular crowd, and ideal season. Even if you don’t own a dog, many of these parks are joyful places to simply sit on a bench and watch the chaos of happy dogs doing their thing.

James Hunter Dog Park

For more information on Arlington’s Dog Parks, visit the County Website.