Dog walking in Venice Gardens

Golden Gate

If your pup is a regular beach bum, you’ll be happy to know there’s a nice sunny beach just a short distance away in Golden Gate. Bay Front Park is a perfectly sandy oceanside park where your pup is free to tiptoe through the tides and walk alongside their master to enjoy that nice ocean breeze. You’ll need to keep your pup on a leash, but that won’t stop you from having a good time. Just be sure to bring plenty of drinking water, and be prepared to clean up any messes your pup may make. Doggy waste bags are a must!

Arlington Park

For a nice bit of off-leash fun, take your pup on down to Arlington Park, also in Sarasota. A little slice of doggy paradise, Arlington Park Dog Park has everything you or doggy could ask for: a fenced-in area where Fido can roam, a wading pool with fresh water to cool off, fresh drinking water, doggy waste bag receptacles, and even fun toys for your dog to play with! It’s a pretty popular area with locals, both of the human and dog variety -- but no worries! They’re friendly. Just bring your pup and settle in a nice shady spot while Fido runs off some energy.

Lake Sarasota

Lake Sarasota, a beautiful locale with amazing scenery and plenty of friendly faces, is a definite must-see on your doggy day trip. That’s where you’ll find 17th Street Paw Park, another dog park that your pup will go dog wild for. With two fenced-in areas for large and small dogs, you’ll be set regardless whether you’ve got a big baby or a tiny terror! With plenty of shady spots to rest and water provided, all you’ll need to do is set your puppy loose and settle on one of the numerous benches in the area. Maybe catch up on some work, or that latest app you’re so crazy about!

Downtown

Ready for a tasty bite to eat, as well as views that can’t be beat with a rolled up newspaper? Downtown Sarasota should definitely be your next stop! There, you’ll find Cafe in the Park, located in Payne Park. Take your pup for a leashed walk around the park, and then stop in the cafe for a delicious meal. Serving a selection of sandwiches and salads, as well as sumptuous brews, you and Fido will have a blast sitting on the outdoor deck. The deck offers views of the park, as well as the entirety of downtown, and seats a fair number of people, so have fun!

Sarasota Springs

After a long day, there’s no better way to wind down than with a cold beer and a slice of tasty pizza. That’s why you should make your way to Sarasota Springs, home to Evie's Tavern and Grill. Bring your pup to chill on their outdoor deck and order some of their delightful tavern fare. This place is always rocking, so be sure your pup is ready for some serious socialization! They’ll get tons of pawsitive attention while you chug a pint and enjoy the beautiful Sarasota sunset. After all, you won’t want to drink alone -- and who better to join you than man’s best friend?