Planning a day for the whole family in Northern Virginia can be a real challenge. Between taking care of the kids and keeping an eye on the dog, it’s easy to see why many parents often opt to stay home.
Rather than another night in, why not try one of NoVA’s family-friendly breweries? Each stop offers a welcoming environment for the kids and the pups — not to mention gorgeous views, delicious food, and space for your family to enjoy the day at their speed.
While furry friends are welcome at these establishments, by Virginia law, dogs are not allowed indoors unless expressly stated or if they are service dogs with a vest to indicate.
2 Silos Brewing Company
The campus at this family-friendly Manassas brewery offers plenty of opportunities for fun. Kids and dogs are welcome on the lawn, where guests will frequently find live music, food trucks, and other exciting happenings. It’s adjacent to The Yard music venue, the upscale eatery The Black Sheep, and 2nd Stop for coffee and ice cream. You’ll find a variety of libations, including wine, craft beers, and cocktails (many of which are made with whiskey from nearby MurLarkey Distilled Spirits). 9925 Discovery Blvd., Manassas
Bear Chase Brewing Company
Spread across 33 acres in western Loudoun County, Bear Chase Brewing Company offers far more than just beer. The expansive property includes an inviting taproom, onsite lodging, and an event space. Hot dogs and pizza are featured as kids’ favorites on the menu, and the outdoor seating area welcomes leashed dogs. Try the German-style Koelsch, which won a gold medal at the 2023 Great American Beer Festival. Bear Chase also keeps designated drivers and teetotalers in mind with several non-alcoholic beers. 33665 Bear Chase Ln., Bluemont
Bluemont Station Brewery
Expansive outdoor seating and elegant interiors define this Bluemont brewery and winery, making it a convenient location for a family day out or a puppy play date with friends. The outdoor seating areas include games for children and picnic tables, although no outside food is allowed. The kitchen at Bluemont regularly hosts special tasting events. For rosé fans, the brewery offers several wine slushies on rotation, along with various brews and wines. 18301 Whitehall Estate Ln., Bluemont
Harpers Ferry Brewing
This family-friendly brewery offers spacious outdoor seating with chairs throughout the grounds, or patrons can bring their own. Furry friends are welcome in the outdoor section, provided they are leashed and supervised at all times. Children are also welcome; the food menu includes kid-friendly favorites like pizza. For adults, Harpers Ferry Brewing features 24 brews on tap, including hard seltzers and ciders. IPA enthusiasts can try the Screaming Jenny, an IPA brewed with sorghum instead of malt for a crisp and hoppy beer with a pleasantly bitter finish. 37412 Adventure Center Ln., Purcellville
Settle Down Easy Brewing
Try this Falls Church classic for a relaxing afternoon outing with your pup or a cheeky Sunday pint. At Settle Down Easy, dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio as long as they are leashed, and an adult must supervise children at all times. The brewery offers a slew of board games for entertainment and delicious Mexican food supplied by El Tio Tex-Mex. For an out-of-the-box beer experience, try the Sweet Scoville Sting, a red ale brewed with fresh jalapeño and honey. There is a second location in Oakton, but dogs are only allowed at the Falls Church site. 2822 Fallfax Dr., Falls Church; 2952 Chain Bridge Rd., Oakton
Editor’s Note: This story was edited on November 22, 2024, to remove Bark Social, which abruptly closed.
Feature image courtesy Bear Chase Brewing Company
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