Living in Viera, Florida, with your furry best friend is pretty awesome. You’ve got sunshine, palm trees, and endless opportunities for adventure with and without your dog. But let’s face it, sometimes that same old walk around the block can get old for you and your pup, and a change of scenery is in order! So, buckle up as we cruise along on a cool car ride through Viera, looking for fun and exciting new adventures to surprise your favorite four-legged co-pilot!
Wetlands, Parks, and Pups: Unleashing Fun in Viera!
Viera Wetlands
Brevard County Dog Parks
First stop, playtime!
Viera is blessed with fantastic dog parks where your pup can socialize, run free, and burn off some energy. Strap on their leash and head to one of Central Brevard County’s great dog parks. From separate areas for large and small dogs, agility equipment, and even water features to refresh doggos on hot days, these dog parks have it all. Imagine the zoomies your pup will have chasing squirrels and making new furry friends!
Take a Ride to Ritch Grisson Memorial Wetlands
Dogs are allowed in the newly reopened Viera Wetlands but must be kept on a short leash. The wetlands are open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM, but admission is prohibited after 6:30 PM. The trails are free, but a donation box is near the entrance. To reach the Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands, continue on Charlie Corbeil Way to the main entrance, bypassing the restricted access gates to the treatment facility.
Pro Tip: Pack some poop bags, fresh water, and a portable water bowl to keep your pup hydrated during playtime.
Hit the Beach near Viera for a Tail-Wagging Time!
Brevard County beach access
Viera might be a bit inland, but a short car ride unlocks the magic of the Atlantic Coast.
A day at the beach is a must for any Viera pup. Feel the sand between your toes (and your pup’s paws!) at iconic Cocoa Beach. Let your dog chase the waves at Canova Beach (safely, of course!), dig for buried treasures (tennis balls?), and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze.
Remember, most beaches have dog restrictions, so check the rules and regulations before you go.
Pro Tip: Bring along a beach umbrella or canopy for shade, some dog-safe sunscreen (especially for light-colored pups), and plenty of water to keep your pup cool and hydrated.
Java for You, Pup Cup for Your Dog!
Take your dog for a sweet treat in Viera!
After all that playtime, you and your pup might feel parched. Luckily, plenty of Starbucks locations in the Viera area feature their famous complimentary Pup Cups.
A swirl of whipped cream in a small paper cup might not be a gourmet meal, but it’s a sweet treat your pup will surely appreciate. Grab a Venti Iced Latte for yourself, sip it back while your dog enjoys their pup cup, and watch the world go by.
It’s the perfect little rest stop on your Viera adventure.
Pro Tip: Not all Starbucks locations are created equal! While most will happily offer your pup a complimentary Pup Cup, it’s a good idea to call ahead or check with the barista to confirm their Pup Cup policy. If they’re out of whipped cream, you can sometimes ask for a small cup with a dollop of plain yogurt (unsweetened, of course!) as a substitute.
Walk on the Wild Side (Brevard Zoo Style!).
Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, FL
Looking for a unique car ride destination? Take your pup on a wild adventure to The Brevard Zoo Linear Trail.
While your furry friend might not be able to join you inside the zoo exhibits (it’s for their safety and the safety of the animals), this 3.1-mile multi-use boardwalk and asphalt trail offers a fantastic alternative. It runs from the Brevard Zoo, east along I-95 through wetlands and oak hammocks, under the Pineda Overpass, and ends at Turtle Mound.
It’s a great way to exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and allow your pup to sniff out interesting new smells.
Pro Tip: Enhance your pup’s experience by bringing along some enriching toys! Stuff a Kong toy with peanut butter or dog-safe treats, or bring a snuffle mat. Engaging your pup’s sense of smell will add extra fun and mental stimulation to the walk.
Spoil Your Dog in Viera with a Self-Wash Spa Day!
Viera Petworks at the Avenues
Sometimes, all that beach fun and park play can leave your pup a little… well, smelly. Fear not; Viera has several fantastic self-wash pet spas where you can become your pup’s groomer for the day.
Businesses like PetSmart and Viera Petworks offer DIY dog wash stations with professional-grade shampoos, conditioners, and dryers.
It’s a fun bonding experience; you’ll both feel refreshed and squeaky clean!
Pro Tip: Bring along a high-quality dog shampoo formulated for your pup’s fur type, along with brushes, towels, and treats to keep them occupied during the wash.
Tails at the Barkery: Sweet Treats and Social Gatherings in Cocoa Village
Historic Cocoa Village is extremely dog-friendly.
No Viera adventure is complete without a visit to Tails at the Barkery in Cocoa Village, right next to Rockledge.
This charming dog bakery is a short car ride from Viera and offers a drool-worthy selection of homemade dog treats, from pupcakes to bone-shaped cookies. Let your pup pick out a special treat while you browse their selection of adorable dog accessories.
Pro Tip: Check out Tails at the Barkery Facebook page for special events, where pups can socialize and enjoy special discounts on treats!
Bonus Adventure: Explore the Eau Gallie River
Sunset on the Eau Gallie Causeway
A trip to the Eau Gallie River is a must for the more adventurous duo. This stunning natural area offers miles of hiking trails perfect for you and your pup. Enjoy a scenic walk across the Eau Gallie bridge and back.
Remember to always keep your pup leashed, be aware of your surroundings, and watch out for wildlife. The Eau Gallie River is a haven for kayakers and paddleboarders, so you might want to consider renting some equipment and enjoying a scenic paddle down the river with your pup by your side, but don’t forget to bring a doggie life jacket.
Pro Tip: Check the weather conditions beforehand and choose a route appropriate for your pup’s fitness level.
Beyond Viera: Expanding Your Horizons
Cape Canaveral Exploration Tower
While Viera offers a wealth of dog-friendly adventures, sometimes you might want to venture further away in Brevard County, Florida.
Here are a couple of ideas for day trips from Viera:
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Even though your pup can’t join you inside the complex, they’ll indeed be fascinated by the sight of rockets and space shuttles. There are plenty of grassy areas and public park access around the visitor complex, where you can take a walk and burn off some post-car ride energy.
- Canaveral National Seashore: This barrier island paradise boasts pristine beaches, hiking trails, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. Just remember that some areas may have leash laws, so be sure to check regulations before you go.
Viera, Florida Awaits You and Your Dog
With some planning and preparation, you and your pup can embark on a cool car ride around Viera and beyond. So, buckle up, turn up the awesome tunes, and hit the road! Viera awaits, and your pup will surely have a tail-wagging good time!
Happy exploring!
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