Dog-friendly Chicago: Things to do in Chicago with a dog

With an ever-growing list of dog-friendly places in Chicago, the Windy City has plenty to occupy pups and their people. From splash zones at the beach to patios where furry friends are treated like regulars, there’s no shortage of dog-friendly Chicago adventures to enjoy together.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top dog-friendly parks, cafes, trails, and more. Plus, we’ll show you how to enjoy a unique stay through house sitting in Chicago – and how to find a trusted pet sitter in Chicago to keep your dog happy at home while you’re away.

Best dog parks in Chicago

These off-leash parks are amazing places to do all kinds of fun dog-friendly activities in Chicago:

The West Loop 569

Opened in 2014, this park offers tree-shaded walkways, rockery, lush turf, canopy sun shades, water features, and seating areas, providing a safe and enjoyable off-leash environment for pups and their pawrents.

Location: 1358 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60607

Wiggly Field Dog Park

A Lincoln Park legend, this fully fenced gem is great for social pups. As one of the oldest dog parks in the city, it’s just as iconic as its name.

Location: 2645 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Portage Park

On the Northwest Side, this local favorite offers plenty of shade and space to sniff around. It’s quiet, well-kept, and ideal for a chill afternoon.

Location: 4100 N Long Ave, Chicago, IL 60641

Dog-friendly restaurants in Chicago

Chicago is famous for its deep dish pizzas, and there are also loads of dog-friendly restaurants in Chicago to drool over.

The Perch Kitchen and Tap

This trendy grill eatery offers a pet-friendly patio and seasonal craft beers. They often have dog treats on hand, too – just ask.

Location: 1932 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622

The Spoke & Bird (South Loop)

Fuel up on fresh brunch and coffee at this leafy outdoor restaurant, which also offers shaded seating and water bowls for dogs.

Location: 205 E 18th St, Chicago, IL 60616

Recess

If your pooch pal loves a lively scene, Recess brings the pawty with its traditional American fare, quirky cocktails, board games, and a huge dog-friendly area.

Location: 838 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60642

The best dog-friendly cafes in Chicago

Because caffeine and canines just go together, right? Here are the dog-friendly cafes in Chicago that should be on your destination list:

Hexe Coffee Co.

A chill, dog-friendly coffee shop in Chicago serving specialty coffee, cocktails, sandwiches, pastries, and a pooch-welcoming patio.

Location: Foyle Way, Chicago BN20 7XL

Ritual Coffeehouse

With pup treats and sidewalk seating, this laid-back cafe serves espresso drinks, baked goods, and sandwiches. Don’t miss the chai – it’s a local fave.

Location: 19-25 Carlisle Rd, Chicago BN21 4BT

Ludlow Charlingtons Coffee Shop

This treasure in the Lincoln Park neighborhood serves up strong coffee and serious dog-loving energy. Ask about their secret 'puppuccino' menu.

Location: 15 Station Parade, Chicago BN21 1BE

Fun dog-friendly activities in Chicago

There are dozens of dog-friendly things to do in Chicago, and here’s a glimpse of the best:

Playing, shopping, & socializing at Navy Pier

Famous for its gigantic Ferris wheel, Navy Pier is a Windy City icon. Stroll, snap pics, browse the shops, and enjoy pup-friendly patio dining at this fantastic 50-acre waterfront destination.

Cost: Free

Date and time: Open year-round

Location: Illinois, USA

Traveling the river on a boat tour

Hop on one of the dog-friendly cruises and enjoy shoreline sightseeing tours along the Chicago River or Lake Michigan. Pups are allowed on many river/lake cruises – just don’t forget the leash (and the Insta filter).

Cost: Varies depending on the boat agency (starts at $30 per adult)

Date and time: Varies

Location: Illinois, USA

Drive-in movie date at ChiTown Movies

ChiTown Movies is one of the best outdoor movie theaters to watch films under the starry night sky. Your furry friend is welcome to call shotgun and tag along for the ride.

Cost: Single $35, double $44, triple $50

Date and time: Thursday to Sunday, 6 PM - 12 AM

Location: 2343 S Throop St, Chicago, IL 60608

Fun dog-friendly museums in Chicago

Who says our canine companions can’t be cultured? Here are a few dog-friendly museums in Chicago, complete with designated dog-friendly areas. 

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

Pooch pals aren’t allowed inside, but they can still have a stroll around the grounds. Plus, the museum hosts dog-friendly events like science fests and summer nights.

Cost: Adult $25.95, child (3-11) $14.95

Date and time: Open daily 9.30 AM - 4 PM

Location: 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637

Museum of Illusions Chicago

Small leashed dogs are welcome to explore the mind-bending exhibits with you. It’s trippy, Insta-worthy, and surprisingly pooch-positive.

Cost: Adult $39.30, child (5-12) $29.79, senior (60-99) $34.55, military $34.55

Date and time: Sunday to Thursday 10 AM - 8 PM, Friday & Saturday 10 AM - 9 PM

Location: 25 E Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602

Best dog-friendly walking trails in Chicago

Stretch those legs on one of these refreshing dog-friendly trails in Chicago. Great for weekend hikes or casual strolls:

Bloomingdale Trail Park

Also known as The 606, this elevated trail runs through Logan Square and Bucktown with city views and plenty of rest stops.

Location: 1802 W Bloomingdale Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Length: 4.3 km

Chicago Lakefront Trail

This iconic trail hugs the lake, letting you and your pup stroll past beaches, parks, and stunning skyline views.

Location: Illinois, USA

Length: 29 km

Des Plaines River Trail

For that escape-the-city feeling without actually leaving town, this shady river trail is unbeatable. It’s one of the top dog-friendly hikes Chicago offers.

Location: E River Rd, Glenview, IL 60025

Length: 3.9 km

Dog-friendly beaches in Chicago

Sun’s out, tongues out. These dog-friendly beaches in Chicago are excellent for active dogs who love to swim and dig:

Belmont Harbor Dog Beach

A fenced, leash-optional beach where pups can swim in the clear waters of Lake Michigan. Be sure to bring towels – dogs are bound to get muddy!

Location: Chicago, IL 60657

Montrose Dog Beach

This sandy stretch is the biggest dog beach in the city. Four-pawed pals can splash freely and dig to their heart’s content while you soak in those Lake Michigan views.

Location: 4697 Lawrence, W Wilson Dr, Chicago, IL 60640

Moraine Beach

Located in Highland Park, this hidden spot has designated dog swimming hours and nearby trails. It’s a summer fave for suburban pups.

Location: 2501 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035

The best dog-friendly bars in Chicago

From bark-friendly patios to drool-worthy brews, these bars are perfect for a night out with your pup.

The Moonlighter

A Logan Square staple featuring a heated, dog-friendly patio, plus mouthwatering burgers, craft beers, and creative cocktails.

Location: 3204 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

Clark Street Ale House

A beloved River North favorite, known for its impressive selection of nearly 100 beers. Great for casual hangs with a pooch and unfiltered convos (even if one-sided!).

Location: 742 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60610

The Corner Bar

An art deco-style bar with craft beers on tap and daily drink specials, this neighborhood go-to is a place where leashed, well-behaved dogs are always welcome.

Location: 2224 N Leavitt St, Chicago, IL 6064

Dog-friendly wineries in Chicago

Classy sips with your pooch are on the menu at these dog-friendly wineries around Chicago:

Anderson's Winery and Vineyard

Just outside the city, this award-winning winery is worth the drive. Pooch pals are welcome on the patio and the tasting lawn.

Location: 430 E U.S. Hwy 6, Valparaiso, IN 46383

Wild Blossom Meadery and Winery

With more than 30 years of winemaking experience, this meadery offers a unique tasting experience with beers, dogs, and wine all in one place.

Location: 9030 S Hermitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60620

Lynfred Winery

Claimed to be Illinois' oldest winery, this features a gorgeous beer garden where furry friends can join while you enjoy a wine flight or two.

Location: 15 S Roselle Rd, Roselle, IL 60172

Annual dog events in Chicago

Mark your calendar and join the fun at these dog-friendly events in Chicago:

Dog Egg Hunt

An Easter fundraising event where four-legged furries hunt for treat-filled eggs and join the costume parade.

Cost: $20 – $30 per dog

Date and time: Annually in March-April

Location: Horner (Henry) Park

Dog-Friendly Market

Initiated by Chicago Dog Co., this event is filled with food trucks, local vendors, and pup treats.

Cost: Free

Date and time: Typically in May or June

Location: Midwest Coast Brewing Company

Wag & Ride: A Dog Meet-Up & Adoption Event

Held on National Dog Day, this event lets you meet adoptable pups, mingle with fellow dog lovers, and enjoy pet-friendly vendors.

Cost: Free

Date and time: Typically in April

Location: PAWS Chicago Training Center

Tips for pet parents

Chicago is a vibrant and bustling city, full of life, culture, and surprises. Whether you’re settling in long-term or just visiting with your dog, here are some things to keep in mind:

Match your pet’s energy with the city’s pace

Not all pets thrive in a busy, social environment. Some dogs will love the buzz of Wiggly Field Dog Park or the open energy of Montrose Dog Beach, while others might prefer peaceful strolls along the Des Plaines River Trail or quiet pockets of Lincoln Park. Get to know your pooch pal’s social comfort level and plan accordingly.

Know the local pet laws

Chicago has clear pet regulations, including leash laws, dog park permits, and rules for public transport. For example, dogs must be leashed unless in designated dog-friendly areas, and pet waste must always be picked up. You can find up-to-date information on the local council website to avoid any surprises.

Leave your pets in good hands

Whether you’re headed out of town for work or pleasure, it’s important to consider who’ll care for your pet while you’re gone. Leaving them in their own home with a sitter can ease anxiety and keep routines intact. If friends or family aren’t an option, in-home pet sitters can ensure your favorite fluffy gets one-on-one attention in familiar surroundings. Want to learn more? Click below:

Tips for pet sitters

Pet sitting in Chicago is your chance to experience the city in a unique, local way. From Navy Pier to Chicago Riverwalk, there’s plenty to explore while caring for pets. Here are some tips to ensure everything goes as well as possible:

Follow Chicago’s (p)etiquette

Each city has its own rules, and Chicago is no different. Keep leashes short on busy sidewalks, carry waste bags at all times, and use pet carriers when taking public transportation. The city takes pet etiquette seriously — fines can apply — so it’s best to stay informed.

Discover dog-friendly places around town

Chicago has some amazing places to enjoy with your furry companion. Visit Navy Pier for a scenic walk, grab a coffee at one of the many dog-friendly cafes, or catch a drive-in movie at ChiTown Movies. These outings are great for dogs and a fun way to get to know the city.

Explore Chicago through house sitting

Find a place to stay in exchange for pet sitting and experience the city through a local’s lens. While you keep pets happy at home, you can also explore nearby places like Moraine Beach or the Lakefront Trail. Interested in house sitting in Chicago? Click below to learn more: