Dog-friendly Denver CO: things to do in Denver with a dog

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.

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 Of​f 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.

Fuller Park is also popular with our member @Makelikeanapeman., who is an experienced house sitter in Denver:

“If you have a dog that likes to chase a ball there is Fuller Dog Park. The park comes with tons of tennis balls. We sat a dog that lived in walking distance from the park. He loved it.” - @Makelikeanapeman

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

City Park, Denver

City Park in Denver is a great place to walk your pooch pal on a leash if you’re house sitting, and after local things to do with a dog. In fact, our sitter member Makelikeanapeman recommends this spot, too:

“I spent 3 months pet sitting in Denver earlier this year. I took dogs to City Park. Luckily I had a couple of sits that were in walking distance of City Park.” - @Makelikeanapeman 
Location: City Park, Denver, CO, 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.

Location: 4455 Jebel St, Denver, CO 80249, United States

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.

If you plan on visiting a few of Denver’s nearby (dog-friendly) parks while you’re house sitting, check out the park passes, recommended by our sitter in Denver, @Makelikeanapeman.

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. 853 E Ohio Ave, Denver, CO 80209
• Milk and Honey Coffee. 2401 Blake St Unit 102, Denver, CO 80205
• Hello Darling. 1610 Little Raven St #110, Denver, CO 80202
• Crema Coffee House. 2862 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
• Stella's Coffee Haus. 1476 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
• Whittier Cafe. 1710 E 25th Ave, Denver, CO 80205
• Blue Sparrow Coffee. 1615 Platte St suite 135, Denver, CO 80202
• Toasts N Roasts. 450 E 17th Ave #106, Denver, CO 80203
• Rivers and Roads Coffee. 2539 Bruce Randolph Ave, Denver, CO 80205
• Roostercat Coffee House. 1045 Lincoln St, Denver, CO 80203
• Port Side. 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.

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.

Useful resources

• Preparing your home for dog sitting
• Can you trust pet sitters?
• How to create the perfect owner listing