Raleigh, North Carolina is so much more than commerce, dining, and nightlife — it’s regularly ranked on lists of America’s most dog-friendly cities. With so many pet parents in residence, Raleigh offers an ever-widening variety of experiences you and your canine companion can enjoy together.
If you’re planning an end-of-year staycation with your pets, Raleigh is a fantastic place to be. Here are just a few local activities that will be just as fun for your dog as they are for you.
With over 27 miles of river-lined trails, the Neuse River Greenway is a beautiful scenic place to walk, jog, or bike with your dog. Be sure to observe leash ordinances and protect your dog’s paws if you visit during cold weather. While you’re probably already aware of the dangers of hot sidewalks, many pet parents don’t realize that prolonged exposure to cold, damp ground can injure dogs’ feet.
If you want to get off-leash, check out Raleigh’s Oakwood Dog Park. This expansive play place has separate areas for large and small dogs, covered shelters, and lots of agility equipment for exercise. Facilities are open daily from sunrise to sunset for hours of fun that cost zero dollars.
Don’t forget to bring along waste bags as well as plenty of water and healthy treats to fuel your day of fun.
When you’re in the mood to grab a beer, Raleigh has several breweries that welcome your favorite drinking buddy. Raleigh Brewing Company allows leashed dogs inside as well as outside, making it a fantastic place to hide out even when the weather is uncooperative. Bring along a favorite chew toy to keep your dog engaged and comfortable in a new environment.
Pullen Park is a Raleigh institution filled with fun activities for the entire family (furry and otherwise). With lots of walking paths to explore, leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park with the exception of children’s play areas, the train, and the carousel. The park is open daily from 7am until 9pm.
Raleigh is home to a number of fantastic restaurants with heated and covered dog-friendly patios. Chuy’s Tex Mex and the Flying Biscuit Cafe happily welcome pets with treats and water bowls, while Raleigh Beer Garden features an entire “pup menu” of made-to-order, pet-friendly entrees.
If you want to spend a day outside of the city, check out Umstead State Park. Though it’s conveniently located just 10 miles outside of downtown Raleigh, it truly feels like an escape into nature.
Explore miles of easy-to-moderate hiking trails, but come prepared. Keep your dog on a leash and bring plenty of waste bags so you don’t interfere with the local ecosystem.
The State Farmer’s Market is open year-round, and outdoor spaces welcome leashed dogs. Browse fresh produce, artisanal goods, and plants while enjoying time with your pet, but be mindful of your dog’s behavior in crowded spaces and keep them on a leash.
Dorothea Dix Park is a sprawling urban park best known for the picturesque field of giant sunflowers that bloom each summer. Year-round, however, it’s full of open spaces ideal for dogs to run and play. Dix Park hosts a full calendar of seasonal events, some of which cater specifically to dogs and their owners. Pack a picnic and enjoy the fresh air with your canine companion.
At Falls Village Veterinary Hospital, a Raleigh, NC veterinarian, dogs, cats & their families deserve the best. In fact, we specialize in delivering warm, compassionate care that reminds our clients and patients how unique and important they truly are. We provide complete veterinary care including dentistry, laser therapy, surgery, and more. Call us today!
