20 Dog-Friendly Activities in Charlotte
Just like people, dogs often enjoy a change of pace. So, what should you do rather than head to the same old dog park yet again? Mix it up! Below we’ve got lots of great suggestions for dog-friendly parks, restaurants, retail shops, and attractions.
Dog Parks
Freedom Park
This popular Charlotte park offers a 7-acre lake, athletic fields, picnic shelters, concessions, and paved trails. While there’s no designated dog park area, there’s plenty of room for your dog to explore. Just make sure to keep them leashed and under your control.
Frazier Dog Park
Frazier Dog Park is another popular spot with dog owners. The park boasts walking trails, fenced runs, and separate play areas for large and small dogs. As for pet parents, they’ll especially appreciate the benches they can rest on while their dogs play, as well as the ample water available for pets.
William R. Davie Dog Park
This is one of the largest dog parks and is perfect if you have a high-energy dog. With large open spaces, trees for shade, and agility equipment, your dog will have tons to do. This space also offers separate fenced areas to keep small and large dogs safe, as well as comfortable.
Carmel Road Park
Typically a quiet environment perfect for relaxation, this park is ideal for dogs who thrive with less distractions. You can practice recalling through the trees and work on building confidence via the playground equipment, as well as play fetch in the large field.
Lucky Dog Bark
Lucky Dog Bark and Brew is a park that offers both outdoor and indoor play areas, so your dog can get plenty of exercise no matter the weather.
Restaurants and Breweries
Many local-area restaurants and breweries offer outdoor patio seating where dogs are welcome. Below, we’ve noted just a couple of these dog-friendly places.
Boudreaux’s Louisiana Kitchen
If you enjoy classic Cajun food, this is the place to go in Charlotte. And bring your dog along, too, of course! Visit Boudreaux’s if you want to sit on its outdoor patio with your pup in tow, feasting on yummy food like jambalaya, fried chicken, and BBQ ribs.
NoDa Brewing Company
This great little brewery is located in Charlotte’s North Davidson neighborhood, and it has the ideal patio to visit when you just want to chill with your dog while enjoying a beer. You’ll be in good company with their brew dog/employee Leland on the scene.
Café and Coffee Shops
Coffee runs are even better when your pup can tag along. Charlotte has plenty of coffee shops and dog-friendly cafés where you can sip your favorite drink while your dog enjoys the fresh air, so be sure to check them out!
Mugs
Mugs Coffee offers a spacious and dog-friendly café in Charlotte. They have outdoor seating which allows both of you to hang out on a nice day and enjoy a coffee or pastry.
Not Just Coffee
If you’re a lover of espresso, this is a must-visit spot! It’s perfect for those looking to get a caffeine fix with their furry friend!
Sumaq Coffee
Dogs are welcome inside this coffee shop so if you’re looking for fresh pastries, sandwiches, or craft coffees, this is one to add to your list.
Sweet Treats
Everyone deserves a little something sweet. In Charlotte, you’ll find plenty of spots where you can treat both yourself and your dog.
Jeni’s Ice Cream
Stop into Jeni’s ice cream to treat yourself and your dog, as they offer a bone-shaped treat for the pups that visit!
Two Scoops Creamery
Two Scoops offers over 100 homemade flavors as well as seasonal specials so you’ll be sure to find something you’ll love. They also serve up a frozen puree that your pet can enjoy!
Golden Cow Creamery
Charlotte’s original craft ice cream company provides Puppy Pops for your furry friend to enjoy. Made with just two simple ingredients, peanut butter and water, your dog will be sure to enjoy a cool, refreshing treat.
Retail Shops
Sleepy Poet Antique Mall
Suspect that your dog has more refined tastes? Take him to Sleepy Poet Antique Mall. Enjoy strolling through over 60,000 square feet of antique furniture, vintage clothing, costume jewelry, and more.
Canine Café
Canine Café is a great place for picking up dog food and supplies. However, what you’ll probably love even more than that is its on-site bakery! At the bakery, you’ll find a huge variety of handmade, all-natural dog treats that are baked fresh daily.
Camp North End
This massive space has a ton to offer, from local shops to outdoor markets and plenty of room to stroll with your dog. Many of the businesses also have pet-friendly patios, so you can relax and enjoy the space with your furry friend.
Attractions
Carolina History & Haunts
Got a thing for ghosts? Grab your dog and head for a 75-minute eerie walking tour of uptown Charlotte. On the way, you’ll hear fascinating ghost stories and get the opportunity to explore a number of Charlotte’s very own haunts.
Happy Tails Canine Adventure Tours
Happy Tails Tours understands your love for your dog. For that reason, they offer plenty of unique adventures that your dog can accompany you on, like wine tasting, hiking, and kayaking tours.
Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is a dog-friendly museum that allows leashed dogs inside, making it a great indoor option when you want to get your pup out of the house, no matter the weather. With interactive exhibits and mind-bending optical illusions, it offers a fun and unexpected way to spend the day together.
And, of Course, Pet Palace!
Pet Palace Resort is the perfect place for helping your dog get some playtime! We’re pleased to offer dog day care at our Charlotte locations to keep your dog entertained when you’re too busy to play the millionth game of fetch. We also offer boarding and grooming services for your furry friend. Reach out to us today to book a time!
Categories: Community Involvement, Tips for Your Pets