Friday, February 26, 2016

9 Pet-Friendly Places in Floyd, VA

dog-friendly places

Whether you call Floyd home or you’re planning a visit to or through the beautiful state of Virginia, we know that if you’re a dog owner, your plans naturally tend to revolve around places that allow dogs. As pet-lovers ourselves, we understand the dilemma of having plans foiled by the dreaded “No Pets Allowed” sign, which is why we’ve thought to compile a comprehensive list of the most dog-friendly places in Floyd, VA.

1.    Dogtown Roadhouse

As the name already suggests, Dogtown Roadhouse is one pet-friendly place. With plenty of outside seating, it’s the perfect place to take your pooch if you’re craving an authentic slice of pizza and a cold pint. Dogtown is known around Floyd for their lively atmosphere and great live music, and residents insist that you don’t miss out on either even if you’re traveling with a canine companion. If you’d rather sit inside with your dog, you’re free to do so, giving Dogtown the number one spot on our list of dog-friendly restaurants for Floyd, VA.


2.    The Floyd Country Store
 

It doesn’t matter if you live in Floyd or you’re just passing through, the Floyd Country Store is a must-stop place for a truly authentic Appalachian experience. The store serves up good food, good music and everything you might need in between nearly every day of the week, and has a great selection of outdoor seating that’ll accommodate you along with your canine friend. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or you’re staying late for the Friday Night Jamboree, the Floyd Country Store is one of our favorite places to go with dogs.


3.    Bootleg BBQ


Bootleg BBQ isn’t your traditional sit-down restaurant, but if you’ve been searching for the best ribs for hundreds of miles in any direction, we encourage you to stop by. The owners of Bootleg BBQ have been perfecting their recipes for over 30 years and will welcome just about any species. They don’t have much seating, but we can assure you that you and your pooch will enjoy the walk there and back almost as much as you’ll enjoy their ribs. Because these guys are cooking out of a trailer, we recommend that you check out their Facebook page for weather closures and venue changes.


4. Woodberry Inn


We love the Woodberry Inn for its gorgeous surroundings as much as its affordable pet accommodations. The inn features three pet-friendly rooms and is just yards away from many hiking opportunities on the Blue Ridge Parkway. If a relaxed stroll is more your speed, the grounds feature a small lake and several small trails that allow for comfortable morning or evening walks. Because the inn is so conveniently located, staying here will allow you to explore a variety of attractions in the Floyd area even without your dog.


5. Ambrosia Farm Bed & Breakfast

Located just 5 miles from the heart of Floyd, Ambrosia Farm is a perfect little getaway that’s as quaint as it is pet-friendly. With plenty of hiking trails nearby, working fireplaces in every room and a gorgeous porch to relax on, your pooch won’t be able to stop wagging his tail. And we know you won’t be able to stop your excitement either. Whether you’re looking to spend time relaxing, hiking, wine tasting or horseback riding, Ambrosia Farm has it all and more!


6. Bent Mountain Lodge Bed & Breakfast

Located just 3 miles from Floyd, the Bent Mountain Lodge Bed & Breakfast is the perfect stay for anyone looking for a room with a view and great pet accommodations. Bent Mountain is home to several of its own dogs and cats and overlooks the Blue Ridge Parkway for a spectacular view you won’t soon forget. The 15,000 sq. ft. lodge features several decks and sunrooms for lounging, access to walking trails and a small leash-free area for your pooch to enjoy unrestricted. You and your canine companion are guaranteed to love it.


7. Buffalo Mountain Natural Preserve

We know that a big part of owning a dog is knowing that when you’re ready to hit the trail, you’ve got a companion by your side. If there’s one thing there’s no shortage of in and around Floyd, VA, it’s the opportunity for a hike at every turn. Buffalo Mountain is located about 13 miles southwest of downtown Floyd and features a steep 1-mile hike to the summit. Dogs are always welcome here, but because this area is a preserve they must remain on a leash at all times.


8. Rocky Knob Recreational Area
 

The Rocky Knob Recreational Area covers over 4,000 acres of lush landscape that offers you and your canine friend ample opportunity for walking, hiking, running and camping. The area features several walking and hiking trails at varying lengths, and these range from easy to strenuous. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure near Floyd, we can’t imagine a more perfect place. Located about 11 miles from downtown Floyd, Rocky Knob is the perfect place for anything from an afternoon stroll to a week-long camping expedition.


9. The Blue Ridge Parkway
 

The Blue Ridge Parkway is nearly 500 miles long and covers 146 square miles of scenic country that extends through 29 Virginia and North Carolina counties. Roughly 40 miles of the Blue Ridge Highway runs alongside the southern border of Floyd County. This section includes the Rocky Knob and Smart View Recreational Areas, Rock Castle Gorge National Recreational Area, and Mabry Mill. Whether you’re looking to stay close to Floyd or you and your canine are ready to explore the vast and beautiful expanse of the Virginia countryside, we guarantee you’ll love every stop you make along the Blue Ridge Park Highway.


Turns out, Floyd is one pet-friendly city. From a variety of beautiful pet-friendly hotels to restaurants and hiking opportunities, we’re excited to try them all. If you’re thinking of visiting or have any locations to add to this list, we’d love to hear from you. Simply comment below!

And remember to keep Floyd and Virginia beautiful by cleaning up after your pet.