Fun Fall Activities to Do With Your Dog in Virginia Beach

Derek Johnston
Sep 23
2 min read

1. Stroll the Virginia Beach Boardwalk After Labor Day

shiba inu standing on the sandy Virginia Beach boardwalk shoreline, wet from the ocean waves.

One of the best perks of fall in Virginia Beach is that dogs are welcome back on the Boardwalk and public beaches after Labor Day. Your pup will love the cooler sand, salty breezes, and extra space to run. It’s a great way to enjoy the oceanfront without the summer crowds.

2. Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin picking is a fall tradition, and many Virginia Beach farms welcome dogs on leash. A few local favorites:

Hunt Club Farm – pumpkins, hayrides, and fall festivals.
Cullipher Farm – pumpkins, apples, and seasonal produce.
Vaughan Farms’ Produce – family‑friendly and dog‑friendly.

Bring your pup along for festive photos and let them explore the sights and smells of the farm.

3. Hike Among the Fall Colors

Virginia Beach has some beautiful trails that shine in autumn. A few dog‑friendly spots include:

First Landing State Park – 20 miles of trails through cypress swamps and forests.
West Neck Creek Natural Area – peaceful trails with plenty of shade.
Stumpy Lake Natural Area – scenic views and quiet paths.

Cooler temps make fall the perfect time for longer hikes with your pup.

4. Enjoy Fall Festivals & Outdoor Events

Virginia Beach hosts plenty of fall events where dogs are welcome outdoors. From the Neptune Festival to local brewery events, there’s always something happening. Many breweries like Back Bay’s Farmhouse Brewing Co. are dog‑friendly and release seasonal pumpkin ales and stouts this time of year — perfect for a crisp afternoon outing with your pup by your side.

5. Share the Flavors of Fall

Pumpkin, apples, and sweet potatoes aren’t just for us — they’re safe (in moderation) for dogs too. You can:

Pick up seasonal dog treats at local shops.
Bake simple homemade pumpkin or apple dog biscuits.
Share small bites of fresh apple (no seeds) or cooked sweet potato.

It’s a tasty way to celebrate the season together.

Why Calm, One‑on‑One Care Matters

In my Virginia Beach dog sitting and dog boarding practice, I provide a quiet, secure home where pups can enjoy the season stress‑free. Whether it’s a fall hike, a pumpkin patch visit, or cozy indoor play on a chilly day, dogs thrive when they’re cared for with consistency and attention.

If you’re looking for dog sitting, dog walking, pet sitting, or dog boarding in Virginia Beach, I’d be happy to help.