See the capital's monuments as you’ve never seen them before on a guided SUP or kayak paddle tour with Boating in DC. You and your dog can take a plunge in the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers for a refreshing trip around Theodore Roosevelt Island and past iconic locations like Watergate, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Kennedy Center. Fido should be comfortable in the water, but no previous kayaking experience is required. If you are visiting in the spring, don’t miss the Cherry Blossom tours around the Georgetown waterfront. The company also rents stand-up paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks from several local marinas. Fido floats for free, and doggy life jackets are provided for no extra charge.

Following a busy day of touring, treat your pup to a Bowser Beer or a Peanut-Banana Pupsicle from the dog menu at Art and Soul. The restaurant features an inventive, Southern-inspired menu and modern cocktails with pet-friendly patio seating.

After a morning constitutional with Fido, sit back, relax and enjoy the view of the White House and Capitol on a pet-friendly pedicab ride with Adventure DC Tricycle Tours. Choose from one of the classic tour options, like the Monuments and Memorials Tour, or let your guide know where you’d like to go. These fully narrated tours are completely customizable, so you and your furry running mate can choose the places you’d like to visit. Plan on spending at least two hours circling the loop around the National Mall. Each pedicab seats up to three adults, and tours can be arranged for any time of day. To see the nation’s capital at its creepiest, take an evening tour with DC Ghosts. The hour-long walking tour includes eight stops at locations of political and paranormal importance.

The Jefferson hotel is the perfect spot for your canine companion to rest his tired paws after a long day of touring Washington DC. Located just a few blocks from the White House, the hotel features elegant rooms, delectable dining, and an impressive private collection of antique furnishings, period artwork, and historical documents. Pet amenities include bedding, food dishes, and a tasty treat provided at check-in.

Stop and smell the roses at the United States National Arboretum, where leashed pets are welcome to join you as you explore 446 acres of gardens. Be sure to snap a pic (and #bringfido) next to the National Capitol Columns on permanent display! Pups aren’t allowed on tram tours, but you can drive or walk with them through the grounds. Admission is free.

You can live the capital life just steps from the arboretum at this posh Ivy Suite. The newly built duplex has three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms.

Ready for a Road Trip?

If this Ruff Guide to DC preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code WASHDC to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!