Dog walking in Cleveland

City Center / Delta State University

Because of the growing amount of students in Cleveland, it is widely referred to as a college town. So much of what is available in this neighborhood, be it restaurants, activities or events, is aimed at this target audience. And what do college students love? Their pets. So get ready for an abundance of parks scattered nearby to accommodate these collegiate canines. Grab your waste bags and Fido’s favorite treats and head on over to Firemans Park, or clip on the leash and chase some ducks beneath the lush trees at Bear Pen Park. And if your pup is seeking out a little more human interaction, feel free to explore the public areas at Delta State University. As long as your furry friend stays on-leash, the outdoors are open for rollicking and fraternizing. Make sure to end your long day with coffee and treats at Mississippi Grounds – a local joint with pup-friendly outdoor seating and complimentary doggie water bowls.

Renova

Head over to the Renova Heritage Walking Trail for an easy paved walk with your furry mate and green fields as far as the eye can see. Nestled within a residential neighborhood, enjoy spontaneous run-ins with the locals while your pup romps around in a breezy open field — with leash still intact, that is. Also, humans can take in some of the community staples such as the beautiful neighborhood churches and perhaps even a stop at Renova City Hall, if only for a quick rest. And a neighborhood bonus: each year, Renova plays host to several music festivals as well, many of which are Fido-friendly! So come experience the good tunes, eats, and sips with your favorite pooch pal.

N Davis Ave / E Sunflower Rd

Cleveland has established an “Alive After 5” promotion to help keep the nights young and the folks — and pets — active. These fresh deals include kids’ nights, taco Tuesdays, and happy hours at joints like Hey Joe's Burgers + Beer. Spoiler alert: Hey Joe’s is Fido-friendly! As long as your furry friend stays on a leash out on the patio, y’all can spend the evening enjoying the temperate Mississippi weather, making new friends, and taking in the live music vibes coming from the concert hall inside (without the hassle of the crowds). But Hey Joe’s isn’t the only local restaurant with a pooch-loving spirit. Be sure to take a stroll around the neighborhood and keep an eye out for the many other pup-friendly patios ready to welcome Fido in!

Rosedale

If you’re looking for even more acreage for pup playtime, the gorgeous Great River Road State Park is just a 19-mile drive away. Located along the Great River Road Historic Scenic Byway, the drive itself is worth the trip. Whether you’re looking to fish or simply take in the view, spectators come from all over to visit the 25-acre Perry Martin Lake, and there’s no doubt your barking bestie will be excited to see all the fish life this lake has to offer — but only from a distance, of course. In the pet-friendly areas, be sure to keep Fido on a solid leash that is no longer than six feet. Snag your human and pup munchies and get prepared for a relaxing picnic lunch, endless scenic walks, and a puptacular day in nature! (And don’t forget those doggie waste bags.) Side note: the state park now has limited visiting hours, so be sure and check the website for details before planning your visit.