Bush Central Barkway is a very punny name for this off leash dog park. Located near the parkways almost as far north as Plano, Creekwood Apartments has to make use of every block it’s got. Dedicating space to canines wasn’t done lightly, and they’ve pulled out all the stops to make this park a success. There are three areas: one for large dogs, one for small dogs, and one for slow, elderly, or disabled dogs who need to be with other low activity pups. There are shade trees, soft turf, and a paved walkway. There’s even a doggie drinking fountain!

Terrace Park is nestled in a residential neighborhood, and has the busy park amenities to show for it. Aside from the playground and sports areas, the park has picnic tables and some grass for walking, playing, and lounging in the sun. If your dog needs a bit more exercise, you can use the walking path to walk loops until he’s all tuckered out. If you work up an appetite, head to Sultan Cafe. This lovely cafe serves mediterranean and Middle Eastern food with authentic flavors. It also has many outdoor seating options so you and your dog are comfortable and cared for.

University students influence the entire area around them, and that’s why Point North Park is geared less towards children and more towards adults. There’s no playground, though there are sports fields and courts. There’s a picnic area and lots of green space for your dog to roam! The park isn’t huge, but it is large enough for you to tire out an energetic dog with a few laps around the park. This is great for those days when you just can’t fit a full park run into your schedule. At Point North Park, you get what you need, and it’s pretty great.

Heights Park in Richardson is a great place to go with your dog. Dogs have to be on leash in the park, but with 33 acres to explore, that’s no problem. You can start by letting your dog people-watch at the sports fields and community pool (sadly, the doggie paddle is forbidden.) Next head deeper into the park and just put in the distance. By the time you’ve made it through the walking paths, your pup should be panting for a break. Picnic or just rest under the shade trees before heading off. Heights Park is the height of doggie enjoyment.

A lot of dog-friendly restaurants only start serving in the late morning or afternoon in this neighborhood. KNowing where you take your dog to get an early start can be a challenge. Cafe Brazil in North Richardson is the answer you and your dog have been wagging for! Cafe Brazil claims that it’s “Not just another coffee house”, and they deliver! This delicious treat serves upscale diner food for breakfast and lunch, with a variety of twists that will suit most diets. Dogs are welcome to dine on the patio with you, and the waitstaff is happy to offer bowls of water to doggie guests!