There’s no shortage of dog-friendly places and activities in Raleigh. Here’s where you can take your four-legged BFF in the City of Oaks!
Dog-friendly event in Raleigh
Barks ‘n Brew
Barks ‘n Brews is an annual Halloween party hosted by Raleigh Brewing Company and Second Chance Pet Adoptions. This free event is open to two- and four-legged attendees, so come one, come all! Pet parents can enjoy beer and food trucks, and pick up some swag for their furbabies from pet vendors. There’s also a Howl-o-ween costume contest where the best-dressed pups can win prizes. Humans are encouraged to come in costume too, but all prizes go to the dogs (literally).
Barks ‘n Brews is happening on October 29, 2023 from 1 PM to 4 PM at Raleigh Brewing Company. A percentage of beer sales from the event will be donated to Second Chance, which will be on-site with some adoptable pups.
Dog-friendly bars in Raleigh
Raleigh Beer Garden
With almost 400 beers on tap, this beer garden in Glenwood South is a favorite haunt of beer lovers. Dogs love to tag along here too—furry friends are not just allowed on the patio (which has heaters for cold days), but they also have their own menu, which includes bacon and puppy patties.
The Raleigh Times
Located in an old newspaper building, this Downtown bar is known for its local craft beers and Belgian beers. They also have a food menu with gluten-free and vegetarian options. Four-legged patrons can hang out with their human companions on the curbside patio.
Tap Yard
This 1-acre beer garden just outside of Downtown Raleigh features 16 craft beers on tap plus a full menu of spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. Speaking of non-alcoholic drinks, they even have
dog beer for canine customers! Pups can join their people both indoors and out.
Dog-friendly activities in Raleigh
What are some activities you can enjoy with your pooch in the City of Oaks?
Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park
There’s plenty to do for both human and canine visitors at the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park. This 164-acre outdoor sculpture park at the North Carolina Museum of Art features more than 30 art installations, 4.7 miles of trails, landscapes, gardens, and a pond. It’s hard to cover everything in one day, but good thing it's free!
Historic Oak View County Park
Step back in time with your pup and see what life was like in 19th century North Carolina at a former antebellum plantation. This historic site is home to farm buildings and structures, gardens and orchards, and hiking trails—it’s a great spot to spend a relaxing and educational afternoon with your dog!
Lafayette Village
Shop and dine with your pup in tow at this European-themed shopping center. Furry friends are allowed in most stores, and there are paved walkways and green space for your pooch to explore. This outdoor mall also has a dog spa and hosts dog-friendly events regularly!
Raleigh Night Market
The Raleigh Night Market is back for the fall and winter at City Market. Enjoy live music and entertainment as you discover local goods, food, and drinks by Triangle area artisans and vendors. Dogs are welcome so you don’t have to leave your best friend at home!
Dog-friendly trails in Raleigh
Neuse River Greenway Trail
This uninterrupted paved trail along the Neuse River stretches 34.5 miles from North Raleigh to Southeast Raleigh. In addition to offering scenic views of the water, it passes by historic sites, wetlands, and agricultural fields. The
Neuse River Greenway Trail mostly steers clear of commercial areas, but there are lots of benches and shaded spots along the way.
Sal’s Branch Trail
Sal’s Branch Trail is one of the many trails in the William B. Umstead State Park. A favorite among locals, this easy to moderate 2.8-mile loop will take you and your pup through the woods and to Big Lake. This trail is hiking only and is good to visit any time of year.
Shelley Lake Trail
The
Shelley Lake Trail is an easy, paved trail that goes around Shelley Lake in Shelley Lake Park. Along the way, you and your canine companion will be met with beautiful views and possibly wildlife. The entire loop is just 2 miles, but it connects to the city's greenway system so you have the option to make it a longer walk.
Animal rescue spotlight in Raleigh
Cause for Paws of North Carolina
Cause for Paws is dedicated to protecting, nurturing, and finding homes for animals in need in North Carolina. The nonprofit has been saving animals since 2005 and is known for being the rescue that’s willing to take on the most difficult cases, including those with higher medical needs. Another thing that makes CFP unique is that it runs two thrift stores to not only care for its animals, but also to create jobs in the community and help the environment.
While CFP is not a shelter, it provides a safe haven for unwanted cats and dogs until they’re adopted. Cats are housed in the thrift stores in North and South Raleigh, while dogs stay in private foster homes around the Triangle. To see the animals available for adoption, visit the Cause for Paws
website,
Facebook, or
Instagram!