Getting out and about with your dog is an essential part of bonding with your pet and enhancing their quality of life. Rather than going on the same walk every day, switch it up and give your dog a bit of excitement!
We’ve put together a list of some of Charlotte’s best pet-friendly restaurants and activities so you can get outdoors and enjoy a bite with your pup.
Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Patios in Charlotte
Cabo Fish Taco
After an outing to Ballantyne's Backyard (see more below), walk right down the road and check out the patio at Cabo Fish Taco for a local lunch or dinner with your pup.
Zapata’s Mexican Restaurant
Zapata’s is a casual, laidback spot with amazing Mexican food and an outdoor patio that’s perfect for bringing along your dog. Plus, it’s located in Ballantyne Village Shopping Center so you can take a relaxing stroll and window shop after your meal.
Carolina Farm House Butcher & Beer Garden
Right over the border from Ballantyne in Indian Land, SC, the "Farm Haus" has a great back patio with full food service, firepits, cornhole, live music, and plenty of space for kids and pets.
Zada Jane’s Corner Cafe
If you're heading to Plaza Midwood, Zada Jane’s has a giant patio, and breakfast is served all day. What more could you want? The only warning: they’re only open during the day and are closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Bonus: they have a shuffleboard!
VBGB Beer Hall and Garden
VBGB is Uptown Charlotte’s largest patio and offers a wide selection of local and international beers. Not only is it dog-friendly, but it’s kid-friendly too, so feel free to bring the whole family for an evening of fun. Plus, they’ve got a DJ spinning tunes on the patio on weekends!
Charlotte Dog-Friendly Parks and Care Services
Davie Dog Park
Located in William R. Davie District Park on Pineville-Matthews Road, there's plenty to keep the whole family occupied, while your pet socializes in the shady dog play area.
Ballantyne's Backyard
Built on the former golf course of the Ballantyne Hotel, this new community green space off of Community House Road has 100 acres of trails, green lawns and ponds. Plus keep an ear out for their seasonal events and festivals.
The Four Mile Creek Greenway
The Four Mile Creek Greenway is a great place to get some exercise with your dog, whether you’re walking, hiking, or biking. You also might catch a glimpse of deer, beavers, and different types of bird species. Make sure your pup is leashed — it’s a requirement on the trail. With parking at Piper Glen, and Toringdon Circle Shopping Center, you can wind all through South Charlotte.
The U.S. National Whitewater Center
At the Whitewater Center, you can get a full spectrum of outdoor experiences with your dog. There are plenty of trails, dog-friendly paddleboarding, and relaxing views of the river. Plus, the center often hosts outdoor events perfect for bringing your pet along. While you’re there, check out the dog-friendly River’s Edge Bar & Grill for a great selection of beer and food.
Skiptown
Skiptown in SouthEnd offers doggy daycare, boarding, and grooming and has its own dog bar and park. They even have 25 beers on tap, liquor, and a specialty “beer” for dogs (don’t worry — it’s made from beef stock!).
Lucky Dog Bark & Brew
Lucky Dog Bark & Brew is the original West Charlotte dog bar (and also in Steele Creek) that offers dog grooming, boarding, and daycare. They have a huge patio for you and your pup to enjoy with a safe, clean space and daily specials.
Sweets for the Dogs
Canine Cafe
Canine Cafe in SouthEnd is a dog-centered bakery offering yummy, handmade doggy treats, including tarts, cannolis, brownies, and even doggie daiquiris! They also have a supply store, so you can re-up on what you need while your pup gets a well-deserved treat.
Two Scoops Creamery
Two Scoops Creamery is a locally owned ice cream shop with over homemade 100 flavors — and a dog-friendly patio. They’ve been featured on The Today Show and Food Network Magazine and for good reason: their ice cream is ridiculously good. With locations in Plaza Midwood, SouthEnd, and Rock Hill, the whole family can go out for ice cream.
Yappy Hour
Yappy Hour is a food truck specifically for dog treats. They offer fresh-baked treats, ice cream, and dog toys. They’re always traveling to new spots in town, so check their website for locations and dates.
Bark in the Ballpark
Cheer on the Charlotte Knights with your dog by your side! Bark in the Ballpark hosts designated nights where spectators can bring their dogs for an evening of fun. They often have pet-themed giveaways, games, and contests.
Only the Best for Your Dog
Remember that part of a wellness routine for your dog includes plenty of exercise and outings to keep them happy and mentally alert. This list gives you spots to truly enjoy both what Charlotte has to offer and bonding time with your pet.
Keep in mind that most Charlotte patios and outdoor spaces do allow dogs, but some require up-to-date shots as well as keeping your dog on a leash. We recommend calling up the spot you have in mind beforehand as some require that you register your dog prior to going along with proof of being up-to-date on vaccines and fecal/deworming as well.
If your dog needs an update on their shots or just a checkup, contact us to schedule an appointment. Our compassionate team will help ensure your pup is healthy, happy, and ready for their next adventure.
