Living in Colorado’s capital with a canine companion and after things to do with your favorite furry friend? Look no further, fellow pet lover. Here we explore everything you need to know about taking your pooch out in Denver, from the dog-friendly restaurants Denver CO has to offer, to dog parks, activities, bars, cafes, shops, walking trails, meet-ups and more. So without any further ado, let’s explore dog-friendly Denver.
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Dog-friendly restaurants Denver CO
Denver is a city where there really is no need to leave your dog at home if you fancy dining out. With heaps of dog-friendly restaurants in Denver CO boasting cozy dog-friendly patios, you can explore your local eateries in the company of your four-legged friend almost anywhere.
And naturally, before turning up, be sure to double check with the current restaurant owners that dogs are still welcome - rules change and so does your dog’s permission to enter.
The Pig & The Sprout
This dog-friendly restaurant in Denver boasts classics like steaks, salads, and sandwiches, and is perfect for both meat lovers and vegetarians, with a handy split menu for both dietary preferences. And naturally, it’s home to one of Denver’s dog-friendly patios, so your furry buddy is welcome, too.
Location: 1900 Chestnut Pl, Denver, CO 80202
Cozy Cottage
If you’re after a dog-friendly breakfast in Denver, Cozy Cottage serves up both Mexican and American fare for breakfast and lunch in homey surroundings. Plus, dogs are allowed on the front patio, which is open in the warmer months.
Location: 4363 Tennyson St, Denver, CO 80212
Colorado Campfire
Like many dog-friendly restaurants in Denver, Colorado Campfire has a dog-friendly patio, so you can choose from this upmarket pub’s 70 local draft beers and pub fare in the company of your canine companion.
Location: 400 E 19th Ave, Denver, CO 80203
Postino LoHi
If rustic-chic decor is your thing, this dog-friendly restaurant in Denver will be up your street. Choose from a selection of wines and Italian dinner options in the company of your doggo on the restaurant’s dog-friendly patio.
Location: 2715 17th St, Denver, CO 80211
Culinary Dropout
Like many of the best dog friendly restaurants Denver has to offer, Culinary Dropout boasts over 1,000 reviews and serves up American classics along with house-made cocktails and craft beers.
Location: 4141 E 9th Ave, Denver, CO 80220
City O' City
Not a meat eater but want to dine out with your canine companion? Like many of Denver’s dog-friendly restaurants, City O’ City boasts a dog-friendly patio over the summer months, where you can choose from a variety of vegetarian dishes.
Location: 206 E 13th Ave, Denver, CO 80203
The Patio at Sloans
The Patio at Sloans has to be one of the most scenic dog-friendly restaurants Denver CO has to offer. Sit with your doggo, choose from American classics and soak up the view of the Sloan river which the restaurant overlooks.
Location: 4032 W 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80204
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
This dog-friendly restaurant Denver boasts over 3,000 reviews and welcomes dogs on the ground level, which is street-accessible. Choose from a range of cocktails and hearty classics, like mac and cheese and tacos.
Location: 1650 Wewatta St #104, Denver, CO 80202
Lucile's Creole Café
If you’re after a dog-friendly brunch in Denver, Lucile’s Creole Café showcases Cajun-Creole cuisine in homey surrounds.
Location: 275 S Logan St, Denver, CO 80209
Denver dog parks
When exploring dog-friendly Denver, dog parks are plentiful - you’ll never be short of dog off-leash areas (DOLA) and fenced parks where your canine companion can run free. To help you plan the perfect day out with your dog, explore some of the best dog parks Denver has to offer with our list below.
Cherry Creek Dog Off Leash Area (DOLA)
Located in Cherry Creek State Park, Cherry Creek dog park Denver is the ideal way to experience the iconic recreation ground in the company of your doggo. The dog park is a fenced area and off-leash zone with over 100 acres for dog walkers to explore. And if you’re after Denver dog parks with water, you’ll love this DOLA as there is water access for your pooch to have a swim. Bear in mind that to enter the dog park, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee, or pay for an annual membership if you’re a local.
Location: S Entrance Rd, Aurora, CO 80015
Greenway Off Leash Dog Park
This off-leash dog park in Denver CO is a fully enclosed, sandy area where dogs can safely run free. Plus you’ll find a water fountain and handy bag supplies.
Location: 2002 Spruce St, Denver, CO 80238
Fuller Dog Park
Fuller dog park Denver CO is ideal if you’ve got a particularly small or large dog breed, as the park has two separated areas for your dog’s safety, and your peace of mind. Like many Denver dog parks, Fuller is sandy and is equipped with benches and a water supply.
Location: E 29th Ave &, Franklin St, Denver, CO
Westminster Hills Open Area Dog Park
Just a 25 minute drive from central Denver, Westminster dog park, Denver boasts over 400 acres of off-leash land for dog walkers. Beware, some areas are unfenced, so only let your dog off the leash in areas you’re permitted to, and make sure you’re confident with your dog’s recall.
Location: 10499 Simms St, Westminster, CO 80005
Carla Madison Dog Park
This neighborhood dog park in Denver CO is popular with locals - it’s compact but does the job for a quick spout of off-leash exercise.
Location: 2405 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206, United States
Berkeley Dog Park
Located in Berkeley, this dog park is a graveled area with separated sections for both high and low energy dogs.
Location: CO-95, Denver, CO 80212, United States
RailYard Dog Park Denver
If you’re after an inner city fenced dog park in Denver, this park will be the ideal place to let your pup release some energy. Talking of energy, this park has segregated areas for high and low energy dogs, with your dog’s safety and wellbeing in mind.
Location: 2005 19th St, Denver, CO 80202
Barnum Dog Park
Located in Denver’s Barnum Recreation Center, this dog park is ideal if you live close to the city center and need a safe place to play fetch, and an opportunity to meet other pet parents.
Location: 360 Hooker St, Denver, CO 80204
Lowry Dog Park
Lowry dog park Denver CO is accessible from the main city, and ideal if you’re looking for a Denver dog agility park, as not only does Lowry have enough space for dogs to run free safely, it also boasts an agility area.
Location: Yosemite Way & E 4th Pl, Denver, CO 80230
Kennedy Dog Park
Kennedy dog park Denver is just across from Cherry Creek State Park, and has handy separate spaces for high and low energy dog breeds, which is ideal if you’ve recently adopted a nervous dog, have a senior dog, or a teenage bundle of energy. Something dog-friendly Denver does well is catering for dogs of varying energy levels, as you can see from their impressive selection of dog parks..
Location: 9700 E Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231, United States
Dog Park Off-Leash Area
If you’re looking for a dog park near Denver airport, check out this handy off-leash area which is ideal if your pooch needs to let off steam.
Location: 15700 block, E Bolling Dr, Denver, CO 80239, United States
Willow Bark Park - Dog Park
Like many dog parks in Denver, Willow Bark Park is segregated for larger, high-energy dog breeds, and smaller dogs.
Location: 54th Pl, Denver, CO 80238, United States
Belleview station dog park
When exploring dog-friendly Denver, you might notice that the city loves a brewery - so much so that this dog park is located right next to one - Belleview Station Beer Garden at East Chenango St and S Newport St to be precise.
Location: 4825 S Newport St, Denver, CO 80237, United States
Fun dog-friendly activities in Denver
Along with dog parks, cafes and dog-friendly restaurants, Denver has so much to offer when it comes to planning a day out with your dog. It’s a truly dog-friendly city, so take a look below for a list of the dog-friendly activities you could be getting up to with your canine companion in Denver.
City Floral Garden Center
If a slow afternoon wandering around a garden center is your idea of a wind-down activity, City Floral Garden Center is dog-friendly, and has been selling outdoor gear since 1911.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Open 9am-6pm everyday, closes 5pm Sundays
Location: 1440 Kearney St, Denver, CO 80220, United States
Garden of the Gods
Located just an hour’s drive from Denver city center, Garden of the Gods is the ideal day out for pet parents, nature lovers and those fascinated by local ecology. Like many dog-friendly Denver activities, your dog must be kept on a 6’ leash at all times during your visit.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Open 5am-10pm everyday
Location: 468 S Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80219, United States
Kayaking and other water sports
Lucky for local pet parents, dogs are allowed in Union Reservoir, and can run free at the south side’s off leash area.
Cost: $10 per vehicle on weekdays, $12 per vehicle on weekends
Date and time: Open 6am-9pm everyday
Location: Union Reservoir, 461 Co Rd 26, Longmont, CO 80504, United States
The 88 Drive-in Theater
Love a bit of nostalgia? Take your pooch along for a cozy drive-in theater, 1960s style.
Cost: $10 per person
Date and time: Keep a watch on their website for upcoming showings.
Location: 8780 Rosemary St, Henderson, CO 80640, United States
Romero's K9 Club & Tap House
Something that dog-friendly Denver does well is combining the city’s love for beer with its adoration of dogs. At this tap house, you’ll naturally have a broad selection of beers to choose from, along with an outdoor off-leash area for dogs.
Date and time: Opening times vary, check the website on the day of your planned visit.
Location: 985 S Public Rd, Lafayette, CO 80026, United States
Bird Dog Rooftop Happy Hour
If you’re after a dog-friendly charity event in Denver, check out Bird Dog - it’s a pet-friendly rooftop happy hour located in Rare Bird Denver, where a portion of the proceeds go to MaxFund. Meet other pet parents, enjoy a couple of drinks and choose from the canine menu to treat your dog, too.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Last Wednesday of every month from 5-8pm, from May to October
Location: Rooftop, 245 Columbine St, Denver, CO 80206, United States
Cheyenne/Arapaho Park
This is a park open to the public and leashed dogs, where you’ll find a variety of artwork, picnic tables, grills, picnic pavilions and walking tracks.
Location: 9200 E Iowa Ave, Denver, CO 80247, United States
Green Valley Ranch East Park
Unlike many dog parks in Denver Colorado, Green Valley Ranch East Park is popular with dog owners and non-dog owners, and boasts picnic benches and a playground.
Best dog-friendly hikes Denver
When planning a day out in dog-friendly Denver, one of the best ways to bond with your canine companions is to incorporate walkies. There are countless hiking trails and places to walk with dogs in and around Denver, so explore our list below to help plan the ultimate dog-friendly day out with your pooch.
South Platte River Trail
There are many walks you can explore along the South Platte River Trail with your doggo. The historic trail went all the way from Fort Kearny (Nebraska) to Denver (Colorado). While the entire trail is likely a tad long for you and your pooch, bring water and choose a distance from Denver that feels right for you.
Location: South Platte River, United States
Boulder Falls
Just a 40-minute drive from central Denver, a visit to Boulder Falls is the ideal place to explore with your furry friend and become a tourist in your own state.
Location: Colorado 80466, United States
Maxwell Falls
Maxwell Falls lower trail is just a 45-minute journey out of Denver, so not too far if you’re planning a dog-friendly Denver day out. Hike through shaded trails and end up at Maxwell Falls - a local natural wonder. So, if you’re after hiking trails near Denver that are dog friendly, add Maxwell Falls to your walkies bucket list.
Location: 7627 S Brook Forest Rd, Evergreen, CO 80439, United States
St. Mary’s Glacier
If you’re after the dog friendly activities Denver has to offer, head to St. Mary’s Glacier, which is just a one-hour drive from central Denver. Be sure to pack water and wear appropriate shoes, and the hike to the lake is quite steep and rocky. And come prepared with $5 in cash for the parking lots, which are located on both sides of the trail head.
Location: Colorado 80452, United States
Eagle View Trail
Start at the parking lot of Reynolds Park Trailhead (just one hour from Denver in the car), and follow the Eagle View Trail for views of Pikes Peak. This is a moderate hike, so come equipped with water and snacks for both you and your pooch.
Location: Conifer, CO 80433, United States
Chautauqua Park
If you’re looking for things to do in Denver with a dog and you don’t mind driving for around 30 minutes, Chautauqua Park is a beautiful area for walkies - keep your dog on a leash and soak up your nearby natural beauty. Find unique rock structures and a whole lot of history.
Location: 900 Baseline Rd &, 9th St, Boulder, CO 80302, United States
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
If you’re after dog-friendly trails near Denver, Golden Gate Canyon State Park is just a 45-minute drive away, and welcomes dogs who are kept on a six-foot leash. Find wildflowers in spring, and unforgettable orange hues during fall. This park charges $10 per entry, but it’s well worth it for the views.
Location: 92 Crawford Gulch Rd, Golden, CO 80403, United States
Lair o’ the Bear Park – Idledale
If you’re after a place to walk with your pooch, head to the Bear Creek Trail of Lair o’ the Bear Park, where dogs who love to swim will be in their element.
Location: 22550 CO-74, Idledale, CO 80453, United States
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre – Morrison
Just a 25-minute drive from central Denver, Red Rocks Park and amphitheater is perfect for walkies and a touch of culture. Bring your leashed dog and you’re all set for your dog-friendly Denver adventure.
Location: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465, United States
Loveland Pass Lake
If mountain views are your thing and you’re looking for hiking trails near Denver that are dog-friendly, take your pooch to Pass Lake, which you can access via Pass Lake picnic area.
Location: Colorado 80435, United States
The best dog-friendly coffee shops Denver
Time spent exploring dog-friendly Denver wouldn’t be complete without checking out a local coffee shop or two. If you haven’t clocked on yet, Denver is a seriously dog-friendly city, so you’ll generally be safe taking your canine companion with you to most coffee houses. Before entering, be sure to check first and take a look below for a list of the dog-friendly coffee shops Denver has to offer to get you started.
Wash Perk
Location: 853 E Ohio Ave, Denver, CO 80209
Milk and Honey Coffee
Location: 2401 Blake St Unit 102, Denver, CO 80205
Hello Darling
Location: 1610 Little Raven St #110, Denver, CO 80202
Crema Coffee House
Location: 2862 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Stella's Coffee Haus
Location: 1476 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Whittier Cafe
Location: 1710 E 25th Ave, Denver, CO 80205
Blue Sparrow Coffee
Location: 1615 Platte St suite 135, Denver, CO 80202
Toasts N Roasts
dog friendly brunch denver
Location: 450 E 17th Ave #106, Denver, CO 80203
Rivers and Roads Coffee
dog friendly cafe denver
Location: 2539 Bruce Randolph Ave, Denver, CO 80205
Roostercat Coffee House
dog friendly places denver
Location: 1045 Lincoln St, Denver, CO 80203
Port Side
Location: 2500 Larimer St #103, Denver, CO 80205
Annual Denver dog events
Want to meet other pet parents and help your furry friend socialize? Well lucky for you, there are heaps of dog-friendly events in Denver - it is a pooch-loving city, afterall. Take a look below for a few dog events in Denver you might enjoy.
Furry Scurry
This annual pet-friendly event in Denver really celebrates our furry friends. For over 30 years, Furry Scurry has brought together pet parents and their dogs for a 2-mile walk, and all proceeds are donated to charity.
Cost: Prices vary, so check the website for the latest costs.
Date and time: Yearly in May, check the website for up to date times.
Location: Washington Park, Denver, CO, United States
All-Out Dog Days
Love running and got a pup with endless energy? You could sign up to All-Out Dog Days, a dog-friendly running event that’s been held for over 10 years in Denver.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the length of your run and whether you’re attending in person or virtually.
Date and time: Every year - check the website for the most up to date information.
Location: 10170 Church Ranch Way
Denver Dog Fair
If this doesn’t demonstrate dog-friendly Denver, we’re not sure what does! Held in Arapahoe County Fairgrounds, Denver Dog Fair has a range of fun activities, including dog sports, celebrity dogs, dog adoption booths, doggie salons and so much more - it’s the perfect day out for any dog lover and their four-legged friend.
Cost: $20 per adult
Date and time: Yearly - check the website for the latest dates.
Location: 25690 E Quincy Ave, Aurora, CO 80016, United States
Barktoberfest
If there is anything that Denver does well, it’s combining its love for dogs and beer. Check out Barktoberfest held at Second Dawn Brewing Co for fun activities, dog treats and beer (for the humans).
Cost: Free
Date and time: Yearly, October
Location: 2302 Dayton St, Aurora, CO 80010, United States
Pet photoshoots
Did you know that pet photoshoot events are common in Denver? Socialize with other pet parents, get your pup used to being around other dogs and come away with professional photographs of your furry friends. Costs, locations and dates vary, so keep a lookout for your nearby pet photoshoot.
Pet adoption events
If you’re looking to adopt another dog into your life, it’s worth staying on the lookout for one of the many dog adoption events held in Denver. Held frequently in various establishments across this dog-friendly city, have a look in your nearby neighborhood and you might just find a pet adoption event, linked up with a local shelter.
The best dog-friendly bars in Denver
If there is one thing that dog-friendly Denver does well is craft beers, beer gardens, and dog-friendly patios that welcome canine companions. Take a look below at our list of dog-friendly breweries, bars and pubs in Denver.
Lowry Beer Garden
If you’re after the dog-friendly patios Denver has to offer, head down to this chilled-out spot serving up local beers and welcoming dogs in their large outdoor patio.
Location: 7577 E Academy Blvd, Denver, CO 80230
Homegrown Tap and Dough Washington Park
If craft beer is your thing, grab a seat outside this spot, where you’ll also find pizza and a range of vegetarian options.
Location: 1001 S Gaylord St, Denver, CO 80209
Briar Common Brewery + Eatery
Choose from the brewery’s two floors and terrace where dogs are welcome, and you can choose from a range of bistro-style eats.
Location: 2298 Clay St, Denver, CO 80211
Blue Moon Brewing Company RiNo
An impressively large brew house on one hand, highly rated food on the other, and a dog-friendly patio? What’s not to love?
Location: 3750 Chestnut Pl, Denver, CO 80216
Doghouse Tavern
If you want a dog-friendly bar in Denver’s downtown area, head to Doghouse Tavern, where dogs aren’t just welcomed, they’re adored! You’ll see why on arrival.
Location: 3100 S Sheridan Blvd, Denver, CO 80227
The Monkey Barrel
Find local brews and spirits, plus a menu of homemade burgers, and find a seat on one of the two dog-friendly patios outdoors.
Location: 4401 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211
The Brutal Poodle
Find happy hour, hearty American plates as well as cocktails and beer, and relax on the outdoor patio where dogs are allowed.
Location: 1967 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80210
Edgewater Beer Garden
Meet with your other pet parent pals in this dog-friendly Denver spot, where you can choose from a range of beers and sit outdoors with your dogs.
Location: 2508 Gray St, Edgewater, CO 80214
Improper City
For something a little different, head to Improper City where you’ll find a warehouse-style taproom, multiple food trucks and lots of space to sit with your furry friends.
Location: 3201 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205
Dog-friendly shopping Denver
If you love nothing more than a touch of retail therapy, then dog-friendly Denver is on hand, with many shops (not only dog shops Denver) welcome dogs on a leash. Yup, you can enjoy a day of shopping in Denver with your pooch in tow.
Take a look below for a handy list of shops, boutiques and shopping malls where well-behaved dogs are welcome. And note, there are heaps of shops that welcome dogs in Denver - just look out for the dog-friendly sticker on the door.
Chewy’s Bonetique
Treat your pooch at Chewy's Bonetique Denver where you’ll find dog grooming kits, apparel, food and a range of canine accessories.
Location: 200 Quebec St #600-119, Denver, CO 80230, United States
Orvis Denver
If you love the outdoors and need to top up on hiking gear, pet products and other outdoor apparel, take your pooch along to Orvis where dogs are welcome.
Location: 2770 E 2nd Ave, Denver, CO 80206, United States
Cherry Creek North Mall
Did you know that most shops in Cherry Creek North Mall welcome dogs, and many even encourage pet parents to visit with dog bowls and treats at the entrance? Yup, if you’d like some retail therapy in the company of your canine companion, head to Cherry Creek North Mall.
Location: 2401 E 2nd Ave #150, Denver, CO 80206, United States
Rare Finds Warehouse
Find unique and bespoke furniture from around the world at Rare Finds, where leashed dogs are welcome.
Location: 6500 E 44th Ave Unit A, Denver, CO 80216, United States
Tattered Cover Aspen Grove
Is a rainy afternoon spent book shopping your idea of fun? Take your pooch along for the ride at Tattered Cover Aspen Grove, where canine company is welcome.
Location: 7301 S Santa Fe Dr, Littleton, CO 80120, United States
Artisan Center
Prefer boutique shopping to chain stores? Check out Denver’s Artisan Center where dogs are welcome and you’ll find home decor, gifts and jewelry from around the world.
Location: 2757 E 3rd Ave, Denver, CO 80206, United States
A Pet’s Paradise
Top up on natural pet supplies at A Pet’s Paradise where dogs are naturally welcomed with open arms.
Location: 913 Corona St, Denver, CO 80218, United States
Bass Pro shops
If you’re into fishing or other outdoor activities, Bass Pro shops is dog-friendly and might just have what you’re looking for.
Location: 7970 Northfield Blvd, Denver, CO 80238, United States
Tips for pet parents in Denver CO
As you can probably tell by now, Denver is a city that simply loves dogs. It’s packed with dog-friendly activities, dog parks, plus countless cafes and restaurants that welcome canine companions.
So, now you’ve located your local dog-friendly Denver coffee shop, and got a huge list of pet-friendly options when it comes to planning a day out in Denver, what about when the time comes for you to go on vacation?
Well that’s where pet sitters come in - vets agree pets are happiest at home, surrounded by all the comforts, sounds and smells they’re used to. And that’s especially true when dogs like yours live in a city that’s as dog-friendly as Denver!
So, to avoid having to take your pup away from their local, dog-friendly haunts, consider keeping them happy at home by connecting with a verified, loving dog sitter.
To find out how connecting with a pet sitter works, take a look below.
How to connect with pet sitters in Denver
Tips for pet sitters visiting Denver
Thinking about visiting dog-friendly Denver? Great - you’ll be inundated with the pet-friendly activities Denver has to offer, and you’ll be living like a local in no time.
And if simply meeting local pets out and about doesn’t quite fulfill your furry dreams, why not consider pet sitting in Denver?
In exchange for caring for pets in the comfort of their own home, you could be getting a place to stay, and an entire dog-friendly city at your fingertips.
If dog sitting in Denver sounds up your street, take a look below to find out how it works, and remember to always check in with pet parents first to check out where they’re happy for you to take their furry beloved around the city.
How to explore Denver by house sitting
