There is so much to enjoy in Charlotte that you’ll likely want to bring your pup along for the fun! Fortunately, the Queen City has many activities and places that are dog-friendly. It’s known pretty well in the area that any brewery you go to you have to look down, so you won’t trip over someone’s dog. From breweries to local shops and everything in between, there will be plenty for you and your beloved dog to enjoy.
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When is the best time to visit Charlotte with your dog?
Any time is great to visit Charlotte, but if you are coming with your pup I recommend going in the Fall season. Spring and Winter are nice too, but it tends to rain a lot during these seasons and they’re on the colder side. I advise against going in the summer, as Charlotte can get really hot with temperatures getting to 90F on average. That may not sound bad, but the South gets humid – so 90F feels like 110F! It’s not healthy for most dogs to be exposed to that much heat, so try to go during the cooler months.
Dog-friendly Things to do in Charlotte:
Fit with Fido
Get your heart pumping and your cardio workout in with your best furry friend. For 45 minutes, you and your dog can enjoy an intensive workout outdoors. It is a unique way to bond with your pet. Don’t forget your dog’s vaccination records, a yoga mat, and some treats for the pup.
- Cost: $22 for 45 minutes
- Hours: Saturdays at 11:15 am & Sundays at 12:30 pm
- Address: location varies, but the most up to date information is on their website.
Skiptown
By downloading the Skiptown app, you now have access to over 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space for your dog to run around in. While your pup is busy playing with their new friends, you can dine on some snacks from the local food trucks, have a beer, or take part in the many events that go on during the week. There are monthly and daily passes that vary in cost, but the app itself is free. Just make sure to bring your dog’s vaccination records!
- Hours: Weekdays 4PM – 9PM & Weekends 11AM – 8 PM.
- Address: 222 Rampart St. Charlotte, NC 28203
City Scavenger Hunt
Let’s Roam has put together an amazing self-guided scavenger hunt. You will explore the art, culture, and history of Charlotte while taking fun pictures and earning points through their app. It’s a perfect way to explore the city with your pup while learning fun facts and getting a bit competitive!
And the best part is that tickets are only 13 dollars per person! Let’s Roam also has the opportunity to buy their Explorers Pass for 20 dollars a month which gives you unlimited access to all their indoor and outdoor scavenger hunts, ghost tours, brewery tours, virtual game nights, and daily challenges! A perfect dog-friendly Charlotte activity!
White Water Rafting Center
For a daily pass, you and your dog can spend the whole day at the White-Water Rafting Center for some fun in nature. There are 50 miles of trails to walk and access to the Catawba River. All pets are welcome as long as they stay on their leash. If you want a more dog-centric experience, the White-Water Rafting Center also holds special events like the Santa Dog Race for Christmas.
- Cost: $64 for a daily pass
- Hours: 12PM-10PM, some activities may close sooner.
- Address: 5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28214
Crowders Mountain State Park
Just 30 minutes outside of the city, you will find 11 scenic trails ranging from .5 miles to 10+ miles. If hiking is not your thing, you can paddle or fish on the seven-acre manmade lake. It is also a great park for climbers to rock climb and boulder.
- Cost: No Entrance fee
- Address: 522 Park Office Lane Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Dog-friendly Stores in Charlotte
Sleepy Poet Antique Mall
Known as one of the largest antique stores in the state, Sleepy Poet is an awesome place to spend some time with your dog. Not only are there interesting retro treasures to find, but there is also a large outdoor area for a good stretch. The store also has snacks and water for everyone to enjoy, so you and your pup will be covered in all aspects.
- Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11AM-6PM & Sunday: 12PM-6PM
- Address: 6424 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28217
Paper Skyscraper
If you’re a lover of books and stationery, then Paper Skyscraper is the perfect place to bring your favorite furry friend. This bookshop has been around for over 30 years and continues to be a local favorite stop. You both can enjoy 5,000 square feet of books, stationery, and unique gifts to take back home.
- Hours: Mon – Sun, 9am – 9pm
- Address: 330 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
Dog-friendly Restaurants in Charlotte
The Dog Bar
In line with its name, The Dog Bar is a restaurant and bar that welcomes all types of dogs regardless of size. As long as they have all of their vaccinations and are spayed or neutered, then your furry friend is welcome. The food here is known to be delicious, so you don’t have to worry about sacrificing tasty food for a dog-friendly space.
- Hours: Monday through Saturday: 11AM-11PM. Sunday: 12PM-9PM.
- Address: 1320 S Church St #100 Charlotte, NC 28203
Zada Jane’s Corner Café
This local breakfast joint is a local favorite famous for its French toast. It’s quite hard to miss as it’s a cute green building in the heart of Plaza Midwood. You can enjoy organic brunch options made with ingredients sourced from local farmers on the restaurant’s outdoor patio with your dog. You won’t feel too bad sneaking some food to your dog knowing that all the ingredients are as fresh as can be!
- Hours: Wednesday – Friday: 8am – 3pm; Saturday – Sunday: 8am – 4pm
- Address: 1601 Central Ave, Charlotte, North Carolina 28205
- VGBG Beer Hall and Garden
VGBG Beer Hall and Garden
Spend some time outdoors with your pup, and soak in the awesome Charlotte skyline views at VBGB Beer Hall and Garden. Take in the outdoors view here and munch on their famous beer cheese and bratwursts. There’s a spacious outdoor area and volleyball court, so you and your dog can have a lot of open space to enjoy.
- Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday: 5PM-10PM; Thursday & Friday: 5PM-12AM; Saturday: 12PM-12AM; Sunday: 12PM-8PM.
- Address: 920 Hamilton St, Charlotte, NC 28206
Dog-friendly Hotels in Charlotte, NC
AC Hotel Charlotte City Center
The AC Hotel is a modern hotel with an incredible view of the city’s skyline, a gym, an outdoor space, and a library to enjoy some peace and quiet. They do allow dogs to stay at the hotel with you, but you’ll likely have to provide vaccination records for your dogs.
Address: 220 East Trade Street, Suite 500, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202 USA
Hyatt Place Charlotte Downtown
With only 172 rooms, each guest (fluffy guests included) is guaranteed to have a spacious, clean room to rest in while in Charlotte. There’s also a gym, free breakfast, and digital check-in available.
Address: 222 South Caldwell Street, Charlotte, North Carolina, United States, 28202
Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel
Located right by the Spectrum Center and Bank of America Stadium, Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel is a great place for you and your dog to stay right in the heart of the Queen City. With such a great location, it’s nice to know there’s also a lovely rooftop bar on the 19th floor providing magnificent views of the city.
Address: 303 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Dog-friendly Charlotte Packing List
It wouldn’t be a complete Dog-friendly Charlotte Guide without a complete packing guide?!
- Pet Blanket: This will come in handy to help keep your dog off the furniture at your Airbnb or hotel. Make them feel at home by creating a “comfy” bed on the floor while being respectful of your accommodation at the same time!
- Vaccination Record:Just in case some of the things to do, restaurants, or hotels require proof!
- Pet first-aid kit: Grab a small first-aid kit to make sure you are prepared for the unexpected. These pet first-aid kits include bandages, tick removal tools, gauze, saline solutions, tape, flashing collar, and so much more!
- Collapsible Kennel: Just in case you ever need to leave your pup at your Airbnb. Remember to double-check with the hosts about their rules! We don’t leave Thor back very often, but sometimes there may be a certain tourist attraction you reallllllyyyy want to see, but they aren’t dog-friendly. (I know I know, everywhere should be pup-friendly!)
- Water jug: This was a tip we learned after a few trips. It is so much easier to be able to grab the jug and be able to give your dog water whenever need be instead of having to run into every gas station to buy water.
- Collapsible Dog dishes: GIVE YOUR DOG WATER THROUGHOUT THE DRIVE(S). (I hate to admit it, but we learned this the bad way). Collapsible dog dishes are great for the drive, your accommodations, and easily packed for your hikes!
- Doggy Bags: Just be a good citizen and CLEAN UP your dog’s business.
- Dog Hiking Boots: These obviously are not a necessity, but if you have a city dog that isn’t used to rough terrain, their paws are likely sensitive. A good pair of doggy boots can be helpful in extending your hikes and protecting your dog’s paws.
- + all your human supplies of course! You can check that list out here!
Is Charlotte dog-friendly?
It may not be the most dog-friendly, but you can surely find enough dog-friendly things to do in Charlotte for a perfect weekend getaway! From watching white-water rafters to dog-friendly exercise classes, your pup will definitely thank you! What else would you add to this dog-friendly Charlotte guide?
Save this guide for later by pinning the image below and follow me (and Thor) on Instagram for more dog-friendly ideas in the United States!
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