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Mount Vernon

Plan Your Visit

The Estate

George Washington

Preservation

Education

Washington Library

Bring Your Dog to Mount Vernon

The Washington family loved dogs, and we encourage you to visit the estate with your own furry friend!

Dogs are welcome during regular daytime hours.

What to Bring

To prepare for your visit to Mount Vernon, please bring:

A leash; dogs must be leashed at all times
Plastic bags and other equipment needed to pick up and dispose of dog waste
Extra water for warm days; water bowls are available at the main gate and at the entrance to the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center
Dog treats, if desired

If your dog has a tricorn hat or other favorite costume or accessory, we encourage you to bring that as well.

Sites to See with Your Dog

Smell the Flowers in the Four Gardens

George Washington's design for his estate included four separate gardens covering more than six acres.

explore the gardens

Pioneer Farm

Some dogs enjoy visiting the animals in our Pioneer Farm and seeing squirrels and other wildlife throughout the grounds.

Walk by the Potomac River

Leashed dogs can access all outdoor spaces that are open to the public, including the Wharf.

Visit Lambs, Pigs, Cows, and More

Dogs are welcome to view the livestock areas, providing that they do not frighten the animals.

The Animals at Mount Vernon

George Washington's Hunting and Working Dogs

Learn more about some of the historic dogs who actually worked at Mount Vernon in Washington's time.

Specialty Tours

All the Presidents Pups

All the Presidents Pups

Offered on select days, a special dog tour of the estate provides insight on the Washington family dogs. This tour takes you and your dog to special areas not open to the public, including the West Gate.

Upcoming Events

Horses & Hounds

Horses & Hounds

Hear the echo of hunting horns and the thunder of horses' hooves as Mount Vernon pays tribute to the greatest horseman of his age, George Washington!

Plan Your Visit

Walk Your Dog at Mount Vernon Every Day

Mount Vernon members receive free admission to the estate for one year.

Become a Member

Around the Estate

Accessing the Historic Area

To access and exit the historic area, dogs may pass through the lobby of the Ford Orientation Center and the lobby of the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center.

AREAS NOT OPEN TO DOGS

Indoors, with the exception of service dogs
the distillery and gristmill

Touring the Mansion & Other Indoor Spaces

If you plan to tour the Mansion or other indoor spaces, please note that your dog must remain outside with supervision.

Most pet owners and their companions take turns touring – one person tours the Mansion and the other remains outside with the dog until their companion returns.

To coordinate your Mansion tour, please speak to a staff member stationed at the Mansion tour line. Our staff will help to minimize your wait time, so that you and your guests do not wait in line twice.

Dining Options

Outdoor seating is available outside of the Mount Vernon Inn complex.

Pre-packaged food may be purchased at the Mount Vernon Food Court Pavilion. The Mount Vernon Inn can also provide takeout meals during lunch hours.

Additional Information

For additional information about bringing your dog to Mount Vernon, please read our dog visitation policy.