6 dog-friendly things to do in Charlotte

We’ve got you (and your dog) covered. Here are 6 dog-friendly things to do in Charlotte.

(1) Grab a drink at one of Charlotte’s dog bars.

These doggy daycare facilities are not only a retreat for our furry friends, but also for us humans, too.

• Skiptown has 25 beers on tap, liquor, and even dog beer made from beef stock.
• Lucky Dog offers daily specials like $15 Beer & Bath Night on Tuesdays where you can bathe your dog while you enjoy a beer.
• NoDa Dog Bar is another fun hangout spot for pet parents and non-pet parents alike. They also have an extensive beer, wine, and liquor list and on select nights there are live music performances.

[Related Agenda guide: See inside Skiptown, a 24,000-square-foot dog park and bar, opening Monday in South End]

(2) Spoil your dog at the Canine Cafe.

This dog-focused bakery and supply store has all kinds of delicious doggy treats that are handmade on site. Their daily selection includes petit fours, cannolis, tarts, frozen and chilled Doggie Daiquiris, brownies, and the popular Pawty Cakes for those special occasions.

More: Two Scoops Creamery, King of Pups, Pet Wants, Yappy Hour, and Woof Gang Bakery also have a selection of dog-friendly treats.

(3) Hang out on a dog-friendly patio.

Most Charlotte breweries allow dogs on the patio, but we recommend calling beforehand just to make sure. Here are some of our pup’s other favorite spots:

• Seoul Food Meat Co.– 1400 South Church Street
• 1501 South Mint – You guessed it, 1501 S Mint Street
• Angry Ale’s – 1518 Montford Drive
• The Lodge – 7725 Colony Road
• NoDa Brewing Company – 2921 N Tryon Street
• VBGB Beer Hall & Garden – 920 Hamilton Street

(4) Visit one of Charlotte’s six leash-free dog parks.

I’m not a dog mom (yet), but I recently learned about “dog zoomies” and think it’s one of the funniest things ever. Taking your dog to a dog park is a great way for them to run off any excess energy and have some fun.

Frazier Park is a favorite for those near Uptown, but McAlpine Creek Community Park, William R. Davie District Park, Ramsey Creek Park, Reedy Creek Park, and Shuffletown Park are also great places to take your pup, and they’re all open seven days a week until sunset.

(5) Cheer on the Charlotte Knights at Bark in the Ballpark.

Bark in the Ballpark is a specially designated Knights game where spectators can bring their dogs to join in on the fun. The furry fans get the royal treatment all game long, starting with a pet-themed giveaway, a Doggie Vendor Showcase, and in-game activities and contests.

Availability: Expect Bark in the Ballpark to return in 2021.

(6) Go paddleboarding with your pup.

Head to the U.S. National Whitewater Center for an adventure with your four-legged friend. Dogs are allowed on the hiking trails (on-leash), restaurant patios, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. If you’re looking for an out-of-town adventure, Happy Tails Tours offers several dog-friendly tours like kayaking or stand up paddleboarding. 

Need more dog content? Here are 60 photos of Charlotte pets to brighten your day.