Top 10 dog-friendly places in Charlotte, North Carolina

by Team The Vets

Dec 1, 2023

Updated: Nov 28, 23

Charlotte, North Carolina, known as the Queen City, is an urban paradise for dogs and their owners. With so many places and activities catered to spending quality time with your dog, it was difficult to narrow it down to the top 10 in this list. Whether you enjoy being active on a nature trail, socializing at the local dog-friendly bar, or having your dog meet new fur friends, there is something for everyone. Many of these places require your dog to be up to date on their vaccinations, but don’t worry. Mobile veterinarians make it easy to cater to your schedule and keep your dog healthy and vaccinated so they can enjoy all these wonderful places throughout Charlotte. If you’re in need of a mobile veterinarian near you, The Vets located in Charlotte has plenty of experienced professionals who would love to pay your pup a visit. Now, onto the best dog-friendly places throughout the Queen City.

1. Freedom Park:

Freedom Park, located near Uptown Charlotte, is a dog-friendly paradise. This 98-acre park features peaceful walking trails, open fields, and a scenic lake. You and your dog can enjoy a leisurely walk, play fetch, or simply relax by the water. It’s an ideal spot for some quality outdoor time.

2. Reedy Creek Park:

Reedy Creek Park is another wonderful destination for dogs and their owners. With numerous walking trails and green spaces, this park provides plenty of opportunities for you and your pup to explore. The serene surroundings make it a perfect place for you and your dog to enjoy some beneficial time in nature. If you’re looking for some socialization, Reedy Creek Park is also home to Barkingham Dog Park where your pup can make new friends and enjoy some off-leash playtime.

3. Frazier Park:

Frazier Park, located in Uptown Charlotte, offers an urban escape for you and your dog. This dog-friendly park features paved walking paths and grassy areas, making it a convenient spot for a quick outing. You can enjoy a relaxing walk or a game of fetch while taking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

4. Whitewater Center:

The U.S. National Whitewater Center is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs. While dogs are not allowed in the whitewater activities, there are plenty of dog-friendly trails and green spaces to explore. The city announced a new 70-acre dog park, featuring beachfront access, a beer garden, and a 3-mile lake-loop trail, which is set to open in November 2023.

5. Lucky Dog Bark & Brew:

Lucky Dog Bark & Brew offers a unique experience for dogs and their owners. This indoor/outdoor dog bar and park is a great place to relax while your dog gets some exercise. Enjoy a cold beverage while watching your pup play with other dogs in the park. This facility also offers boarding, daycare, and grooming services.

6. UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens:

Bring your pup along and enjoy the stunning gardens and flowers at UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens. This 10-acre property allows your dog to accompany you on a leash to enjoy their vast diversity of plants. The property also includes a greenhouse, where dogs are permitted, but only if they can be carried in your arms.

7. Skiptown:

Charlotte has no shortage of dog-friendly social spots. Skiptown has it all with 24,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor play areas, a dog splash pad, countless beers on tap, and even a dog-friendly bone-broth beer for your pup to enjoy. Guests can even check in on their app so you can see if your dog’s favorite playmate is there before you make the trip.

8. Sleepy Poet Antique Mall:

Take your dog with you (on a leash) to explore this massive 55,000 sq ft antique mall. You’ll be able to search through their 10s of 1000s of antiques while your pup explores new sights and sounds and maybe meet a new friend or 2. The mall includes several grassy areas outside for when your dog needs a bathroom break, as it would be easy to spend all day here.

9. Canine Cafe:

This dog-friendly bakery has been part of the Charlotte community for over 20 years. This cafe features an on-site bakery full of countless, natural treats for your dog to enjoy. Canine Cafe also creates custom birthday cakes for your dog’s special day. Take your dog with you to pick out a new treat, find a new toy, or enjoy their self-serve grooming area.

10. William R Davie Park:

If you’re looking for a spot that the whole family, dog included, can enjoy, William R Davie Park has something for everyone. This 106-acre park features a lake, walking trails, sports fields, volleyball courts, playgrounds, indoor and outdoor shelters, and a massive dog park.

It’s clear that Charlotte has no shortage of pet-friendly destinations for you and your pup to enjoy. As a friendly reminder, utilize leashes where required, clean up after your dog, and stay on top of their wellness checks and vaccinations to keep them and other dogs safe and healthy to continue to enjoy all of what Charlotte has to offer.