As the dog days of summer begin to wind down, what better way to usher in autumn than to have a jaunt on the North Fork with the four-legged member of your family?
Many places welcome a well-behaved Fido. Check out a few of my favorites as even dogs dig the serenity of the North Fork vibe.
Greenport Harbor Brewing Company
42155 Main Road, Peconic
Located in Peconic, Greenport Harbor makes killer craft beer (the original location is in Greenport Village proper, but it is a small, second floor tasting room. I wouldn’t bring my dog to that one). Their expansive lawn allows you to spread out while ensuring the dogs aren’t forced into close proximity. We favor a spot on the periphery where our dog, Harry, is happy to watch people playing cornhole.
One Woman Vineyard
5195 Old North Road, Southold
One of the last wineries you’ll hit as you head east on the North Fork, its ample outside seating allows you to settle in and enjoy their award-winning Gewürztraminer while your pooch chills out under the picnic table. There are plenty of umbrellas so everyone can get some shade and it never gets too hectic so your dog (and you) will not feel overwhelmed.
RELATED: DOG DOCK-DIVING AT GREENPORT HARBOR BREWING CO.
The Blue Inn at North Fork
7850 Main Road, East Marion
Just a stone’s throw east of Greenport, The Blue Inn would make a perfect staging point for a weekend-long detox session for you and your pooch. There’s a large dog run so your pet can get some exercise. And they have kitchenettes if you’re the type who likes to cook while on vacation.
Front Street Station
212 Front Street, Greenport
Solid pub grub at reasonable prices, they also have a decent craft beer selection on tap. Dogs are allowed at their outside tables so plan your visit accordingly (the dead of winter or during a deluge, for example, may not be the wisest time to go). We prefer the rear deck where there’s plenty of shade and not as much activity to get Harry all riled up.
Peconic River Herb Farm
2749 River Road, Calverton
A “specialty plant nursery,” they boast a wide selection of plants as well as many other items and rustic objet d’art for your home and outdoor spaces. Situated on 14 acres hugging the Peconic River, the farm’s expansive property allows you to wander and explore the grounds with your dog (on leash, of course). Scattered picnic tables and varied seating arrangements beg for a meal alfresco.
Remember, your dog should be reasonably well-behaved and always on-leash. Don’t forget to bring your water and a bowl (just in case) and to call ahead just to be sure.
Keep those tips in mind as you head out east. Try out those spots. You’ll find that everyone will have a howling great time.
OTHER RESOURCES:
Hydrant Hotel
845 Raynor Ave., Riverhead, hydranthotel.com
Dogtown
40385 Route 48, Southold, dogtownny.com
Harbor Pet
120 Main St., Greenport, harbor-pet.com
