Morning: Depart Brooklyn early and drive south on I‑95, crossing into New Jersey and then Maryland. The scenic route takes about 4‑5 hours, allowing a few short breaks for your pet to stretch.
Afternoon: Arrive in Richmond, VA and check‑in at the Residence Inn by Marriott Richmond Downtown, a pet‑friendly hotel that welcomes dogs up to 50 lb with no extra fee. After settling in, take a leisurely walk along the James River Park System where leashed pets are welcome.
Evening: Dine at Dog Friendly Café (formerly known as the BrewDog Café) on Main Street, offering a relaxed patio for pets. Return to the hotel for a comfortable night’s rest.
Find HotelsMorning: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before hitting the road. The drive from Richmond to Arden is roughly 3 hours via I‑64 W and I‑95 S, with scenic countryside views.
Afternoon: Arrive in Arden and explore the charming downtown area. Stop by the Arden Historic District, where leashed pets can accompany you while you admire the restored 19th‑century buildings.
Evening: Unwind at the pet‑friendly Stone Bridge Tavern, which features a spacious patio and a menu of local craft beers. Conclude the day with a relaxing stroll through the nearby Lake Raven trails before checking into your final accommodation.
Find HotelsIf you have more time, consider adding a day in Richmond to visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the historic St. John’s Church. Conversely, you can shorten the trip by staying only one night in Richmond and heading straight to Arden after lunch, cutting the overall travel time by a few hours.