Top 10 Dog-Friendly Date Ideas in Philadelphia, PA

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Top 10 Dog-Friendly Date Ideas in Philadelphia, PA

Introduction

Picturesque, historic streets, delicious dining, and more parks than you can throw a stick at — make no bones about it, Philadelphia is ripe for romance. There’s no need to leave your doggo behind on your date, either — the City of Brotherly Love has plenty of pawesome places where you can bring your buddy while you make that special someone swoon.

Whether you’re pulling out all the stops or keeping it casual, you’ll find a destination below to suit the three of you. And if your date doesn’t want to spend time with your doggo, it might be best to keep your canine companion as your sole cuddle buddy for the evening.

Stroll through Schuylkill River Park

On a daytime date, romance can be easy as a walk in the park! Schuylkill River Park is a paw-fect place for a romantic walk with your date and your doggo, with views of the Philadelphia skyline and the slow-moving river itself as a beautiful backdrop. Best of all, if your pupper longs to lose the leash, you three can check out the dog run!

Grab a coffee at Benna's Cafe

Looking for a casual, canine-friendly coffee date? Well, look no further than Benna’s Cafe! Located just streets away from Passyunk Square, the espresso at this quirky, independent cafe is the stuff of local legend, and the local art on every wall just adds to the bohemian atmosphere. Best of all, you can bring your pup inside — a serious bonus in Philly February weather!

Find a spark at Magic Gardens

A trip to the Magic Gardens is a furrific option for pups and people in search of something different to do. This outdoor gallery has creativity molded into its very structure — the mosaic staircases and walls have to be seen to be believed! You, your date, and your doggo can marvel at the sculptures and folk art. Plus, all this makes for a colorful selfie backdrop!

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Have a drink at Doobies Bar

Even though they no longer welcome wagging tails inside, Doobies Bar is still a pawesome place for you, your pup, and your paramour to grab a drink. The laid-back vibe at this unpretentious watering hole is great for people just looking to get to know each other, so grab a board game and relax! Not only that, but the menu has plenty of vegan options.

Wander around Passyunk

Architecture enthusiasts, furry foodies, and hound-dog history buffs alike should get a kick out of a stroll around Philly’s Passyunk neighborhood! Something of a hipster haven, the area is home to historic trinity houses, vintage boutiques, and some of the best and most authentic cheesesteaks in the entire city. Grab one to go and you three can chow down as you wander through the streets.

Get spooked on a ghost tour

Whether you’re skeptical or superstitious, a candlelit walking tour through Philly’s spooky side is sure to give you and your date something to talk about after! Ghost Tours of Philadelphia are just one of several outfits in the city that are happy for you to bring your doggo along. The knowledgeable guides take you through haunted houses, secret streets and gardens, and even scary cemeteries.

Upscale dining at Parc

Nothing says romance like an intimate atmosphere and classic French fare, and Parc provides both in spades. An ideal choice for those looking to push the boat out a bit, the bistro serves up some seriously special fruits de mer. Don’t worry too much about having to brave a cold patio to stay with your pup, either — the outdoor seating is surrounded by heat lamps.

Remove any doubt at Love Park

"Is it a date? Is it not a date? It’s on Valentine’s Day, that has to mean it’s a date, right? Oh no, what if it’s not a date and I ruin everything?" Sometimes it’s best to throw all subtlety out the window. Bring your hopefully-a-date to Philly’s Love Park, show them the giant, red statue of the word "love", and gauge their reaction.

Wine and dine at Tria

If you’re looking to impress your date with your encyclopedic knowledge of wine (or just to grab an upscale snack) you’d be barking mad not to check out Tria! Don’t worry if your wine knowledge extends to "red or white" either — Tria’s motto is "passion, not pretension", and the staff is happy to help you out. Best of all, their pup-friendly patio is well-heated.

Take a free walking tour

Free and Friendly Walking Tours of Philadelphia provide a grrr-eat option for pups and people on a budget. One of the selling points of Philly is its walkability, so history buffs can get their culture fix without burning through too much shoe leather. Even if you live locally, you’d be surprised at how much history passes you by as you go about your daily routine!