Tucson is the spot if you’re searching for a place where your furry friend can have as much fun as you. This city is packed with dog-friendly parks, trails, restaurants, and unique dog-friendly finds. Here’s the complete dog-friendly guide to Tucson, Arizona!
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Side note: This post was written by Becky, a local of Tucson. This way you can make sure you are reading the best and most accurate dog-friendly guide to Tucson. Read more about Becky (and her pups) below!
Table of Contents
Tucson Dog-friendly Highlights
Short on time? Here’s a quick overview (and map) of the best dog-friendly attractions, restaurants, and hotels in Tucson!
- Dog-friendly Attractions: Saguaro National Park, Reid Park, Tucson Loop, Catalina SP, Mount Lemmon, Corbett’s, Aqua Caliente Trail, Madera Canyon, Tucson Botanical Gardens (DogDays), Honeybee Canyon.
- Dog-friendly Restaurants: Barrio Brewing Co, Bisbee Breakfast Club, Locale, Zinburger, Cup Cafe, Reforma Modern Mexican
- Dog-friendly Shopping: 4th Avenue, La Encantada, Bookmans, Summit Hut, St. Phillips Plaza
- Dog-friendly Hotels: Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, Westward Look, The Graduate, Homewood Suites, Hotel McCoy, Aloft Tucson, The Blenman House Inn, Bed & Bagels of Tucson
Dog-friendly Things to do in Tucson
Tucson is packed with activities for you and your dog. Many parks and trails welcome your furry friend. It’s truly an outdoor adventurer’s dream and your pup is a welcome companion on the adventures.
1. Saguaro National Park
- Cost: $25 / car
- Hours: The Park is open to vehicles from 5 am to Sunset
- Address: Red Hills Visitor Center (West) 2700 N Kinney Rd, Tucson; Rincon Mountain Visitor Center (East) 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail
Although not completely dog-friendly, your pup can visit parts of Saguaro National Park. They are not allowed on most hiking trails, however they can join you on the Mica View Trail, the Desert Ecology Trail, and the Desert Discovery Trail.
The Bajada Loop Drive is a scenic route where you can enjoy the stunning desert landscape with your dog from the comfort of your car. There are also several overlooks and accessible areas where you can stop, take a break, and enjoy the views with your furry friend.
2. Reid Park
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 7 am – 10 pm; Closed Thursdays 9 am-12 pm for Maintenance
- Address: 910 S. Concert Place, Tucson
Miko’s Corner Playground (inside of Reid Park) offers dedicated areas for large and small dogs. There are benches for you to sit and watch your dog have fun. There are three double-entry gates, a dog water fountain, and 2 acres for your dog to let loose.
3. Huckleberry / Tucson Loop
- Cost: free
- Hours: Dawn to Dusk for best safety practices
- Address: Tucson Loop Map
Known as The Loop, this 131-mile bike and walking trail through Tucson, Marana, and Oro Valley is dog-friendly. This car-free trail stretches miles and is perfect for a long walk or jogging with your pet.
4. Catalina State Park
- Cost: Car (1-4 people) $7
- Hours: 5 am – 10 pm
Nestled in the Santa Catalina Mountains, this beautiful state park has 5,500 acres to explore and 8 shared-use trails that are dog-friendly. It’s one of my favorite places in all of Tucson!
5. Austin Fitzgerald Memorial Dog Park at Brandi Fenton Memorial Park
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 6 am – 10 pm
- Address: 3482 E River Rd, Tucson
Brandi Fenton Memorial Park is a fantastic area to take your dog. It features a fenced dog park with three separate areas for small, medium, and large dogs. The park is also pet-friendly for those on a leash. Brandi Fenton Park is also along the Rillito River, part of the Loop if you want to extend your outdoor activities.
6. Mount Lemmon
Driving to the top of Mount Lemmon is a must on any dog-friendly Tucson list!
Standing at just over 9,000 feet, Mt. Lemmon is the highest point in the Santa Catalina Mountains. So if you need a break from the Tucson heat, you can drive all the way to the top!
It’s a beautiful drive with many stops on the way up that are worth getting out to explore (Windy Vista Point was my favorite!). From the saguaros at the lower elevation to the snowy hills at the top, the entire drive is diverse!
Once at the top, you and your pup can explore the town and hike the Butterfly Loop or Meadow Loop. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can grab lunch at the Sawmill Run Restaurant followed by a delicious cookie at The Cookie Cabin.
7. Corbett’s
- Cost: Varies Hours: Thursday: 10 am–2 am; Friday–Saturday 10 am–11 pm; Sunday: 10 am–10 pm
- Address: 340 N. 6th Avenue, Tucson
Corbett’s treats your canine friend like family. They have a large patio with live music, serve food, and have pickleball courts. It’s a fun atmosphere to spend the afternoon with your best friend.
More Things to Do with Dogs in Tucson
- Aqua Caliente Trail
- Madera Canyon
- Wineries in Elgin & Sonoita
- Tucson Botanical Gardens allows dogs during their “Dogs Day of Summer” from June until September.
- Honeybee Canyon Oro Valley
- + some of these dog-friendly nearby lakes!
Dog-friendly Retail/shops in Tucson
1. 4th Avenue
- Location: 4th Ave. between University Blvd. and 9th St., Tucson
Explore the historic downtown area of Tucson with your dog. Many shops and restaurants along 4th Ave. are pet-friendly and offer water bowls.
2. La Encantada
- Hours: Monday – Wednesday 10 am – 7 pm; Thursday – Saturday 10 am – 8 pm; Sunday 11 am – 6 pm
- Address: 2905 E. Skyline Drive, Tucson
La Encantada is an upscale shopping center where you can walk your dog in the walkways and courtyard. Some stores allow dogs, and many restaurants have patios welcoming dogs.
3. Bookmans Entertainment Exchange
- Hours: 9 am – 8 pm Sunday – Thursday; Friday & Saturday 9 am – 9 pm Address:
- Several locations across the Tucson area
This popular Tucson chain allows dogs, so you can take your furry friend while hunting for books, games, and music. Their trade counter even has treats for Fido! Check out their events calendar to pass away hot days with an indoor space with your pet.
4. Summit Hut
- Hours: Monday – Saturday 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday 10 am – 5 pm
- Address: 5251 E. Speedway Blvd., Tucson and 7745 N. Oracle Rd., Oro Valley
A store specializing in catering to the outdoor enthusiast. You can find hiking supplies for you and your four-legged companion.
5. St. Phillips Plaza
There is a market at St. Phillips Plaza every Saturday, and live music is often played in the courtyard. Shops and restaurants leave water bowls out for pets, and there is a small turf area for your canine companion.
6. Simon Premium Outlets
- Hours: Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 8 pm; Sunday 10 am – 7 pm
- Address: 6401 W Marana Center Blvd., Tucson
Bring your pet along to walk the large outlet shopping center, which has a courtyard with shade for relaxing. Many of the stores and restaurants are pet-friendly.
More Dog-friendly Stores in Tucson
- Rosie’s Barket: Rosie’s offers a DIY dog wash and specialized treats and accessories for your furry friend.
- Dogs n Donuts: A dog bakery featuring treats, cakes, and donuts.
- Cones for Bones: A locally made ice cream shop especially for dogs. They carry other specialty products for dogs that are locally owned. The customer service here is excellent! They let my pup sample to see what flavor he preferred before we ordered.
Plus, national chains that are known for being pet friendly: Home Depot, Lowe’s, PetSmart, and Petco
Dog-friendly Restaurants in Tucson
With Tucson’s warm climate, there are many outdoor seating areas and patios where you can enjoy a meal with your pet. Most will offer a water bowl and sometimes a treat.
Enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side. Here’s a list of my favorites—there are too many to list!
Psst: Did you know that Tucson is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy? Don’t miss out on enjoying some of the best authentic Mexican food.
1. Barrio Brewing Company
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 am -10 pm; Friday-Saturday 11 am -11 pm
- Address: 800 E 16th St., Tucson
Barrio Brewing Co. offers a spacious patio where dogs can hang out. It’s a great place to enjoy local brews and tasty bar food.
2. Bisbee Breakfast Club
- Hours: Daily 6 am – 2:05 pm
- Address: Several locations around the Tucson area
Bisbee Breakfast Club has outdoor seating where Fido can join you while eating brunch. BE sure to try the Copper Queen Skillet…it’s delicious!
3. Locale
- Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11 am to 9 pm; Wednesday through Sunday, 8 am to 11 am; closed Monday.
- Address: 60 North Alvernon, Tucson.
This Italian restaurant has a huge outdoor area where you can dine or sit to enjoy a cold beverage. Dogs are welcome, and there is a shaded area.
4. Zinburger
- Open: 11 am – 9 pm
- Address: Several locations in Tucson
Zinburger has a covered outdoor area to bring your pet. Plus, delicious burgers…it’s a win-win!
5. Cup Café
- Open: 8 am – 9 pm, closed between 2 pm – 4 pm
- Address: 311 East Congress St., Tucson
Cup Cafe at Hotel Congress lets you dine with your dog on their patio. Share a meal and enjoy the downtown atmosphere together.
6. Reforma Modern Mexican at Phillips Plaza
- Hours: Monday – Thursday 11am – 10pm; Friday 11am – 12am; 10am – 12am; 10am – 9pm
- Address: 4340 N. Campbell Ave Ste 101, Tucson
Reforma Modern Mexican has a dog-friendly patio where you can enjoy modern Mexican cuisine. Bring your four-legged friend and soak in the lively ambiance. Nearby the restaurant is a turf area and dog waste bag station for Fido’s needs.
Dog-friendly Hotels in Tucson
After all these pup-friendly adventures, you of course need somewhere cozy to rest. Here are the best dog-friendly hotels in Tucson!
1. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
- Pet Fees: $100 per stay for two animals
- Size Restrictions: No size restrictions
This luxiourous resort is just 10 minutes from the Sabino Canyon and features a spa, golf course, outdoor pool, poolside bar and 4 on-site restaurants. There are pet-friendly areas, treats, bowls, beds, and a pet menu from room service are available. Pets cannot be left unattended.
Check rates and availability here!
2. Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa
- Pet Fees: $75 per stay for two animals
- Size Restrictions: none
The Westward Look gives all the deserty-vibes with all the amenities you could possibly need. Well-behaved pets can be left unattended. Pets are only allowed in Scenic View Junior Studio Suites.
Check rates and availability here!
3. The Graduate
- Pet fees: $75 / stay up to two animals
- Size Restrictions: 75 lbs.
This unique mid-range hotel is perfect for your pet-friendly getaway! The rooftop pool is beautiful and your pets (up to 75 pounds) are welcome to join you in the cozy rooms!
Check rates and availability here!
4. Homewood Suites by Hilton St. Phillips Plaza
- Pet Fees: $75 fee for 1-4 nights non-refundable
- Size Restrictions: 35 lbs
Homewood Suites is a great option if you are traveling with small pets and looking for a budget-friendly option. There’s a free breakfast buffet, a pool, and it’s close to all the best Tucson attractions.
Check rates and availability here!
5. Hotel McCoy
- Pet Fees: $100 refundable deposit for up to two dogs
- Size Restrictions: none
This artsy hotel has a laid-back vibe with a large outdoor space for four-legged friends to stretch their legs. Dogs cannot be left unattended nor allowed in the Artist Rooms.
Check rates and availability here!
6. Aloft Tucson University
- Pet Fees: none
- Size Restrictions: 2 dogs up to 50 lbs. each
Pets stay for free at this Tucson hotel! You and your pet will be greeted with pet beds, treats, and bowls for a stress-free vacay!
Check rates and availability here!
Dog-friendly Bed and Breakfasts
Hotels are great, but bed and breakfasts bring a whole different level of cozy! Here are some dog-friendly bed and breakfasts to consider during your trip to Tucson!
1. The Blenman House Inn
- Pet Fees: $50 / day
- Size Restrictions: none
The hotel and grounds are pet-friendly at this unique B&B. Dogs and cats are allowed, and water and food bowls are available.
Check prices and availability here!
2. Bed & Bagels of Tucson
- Pet Fees: 1-2 pets $10/night: 3 or more $20/night
- Size Restrictions: none
Bed & Bagels of Tucson is located just 15 minutes from Saguaro National Park. It has two fenced areas for dogs to play and pets can be left unattended. It’s located close to walking paths and a dog park.
Chek prices and availability here!
Campgrounds where you can bring your pet
Looking to explore off the grid a bit more? Here’s my favorite dog-friendly campground in Tucson!
1. Catalina State Park Campground
RV and tent camping are offered at Catalina State Park. Leashes are required, but there is plenty of space to exercise. Your pet can’t be left unattended and must be leashed. There isn’t a fee for having an animal at the campgrounds or park.
Tips for Exploring Tucson with Your Dog
- Stay Hydrated: Pack plenty of water for you and your pup throughout your outdoor adventures.
- Access Pass: Carry your America the Beautiful Pass to access National Parks, State Parks, and National Memorials.
- Leave No Trace: Be a responsible dog owner by bringing plenty of dog waste bags and cleaning up after your dog.
- Obey Leash Laws: Pima County requires all dogs to be leashed in public parks and areas.
- Wildlife Awareness: Tucson is home to black bears, mountain lions, and wildcats. Keep your dog leashed to protect both your pet and the local wildlife.
- Cactus Caution: Always keep your dog on a leash while hiking in Tucson to avoid wandering into the abundant prickly cacti. Cacti can cause painful injuries to your pet, especially to their paws. Maintaining control of your dog at all times is essential for their safety.
- Rattlesnake Training: Consider rattlesnake training for your dog to ensure their safety.
- Heat Precautions: Tucson can get very hot in the summer. Walk your dog early in the morning or the evening when temperatures are lower, avoiding the hottest parts of the day.
- Paw Protection: Wear booties to protect your dog’s paws from the hot ground during the summer or sharp thorns from cactus.
With these tips, you and your dog will enjoy exploring Tucson safely.
Final thoughts on Dog-friendly Tucson
Tucson offers a wide range of dog-friendly activities and experiences, making it a fantastic destination for you and your furry friend. From hiking trails and off-leash dog parks to pet-friendly accommodations, stores, and dining options, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Tucson with your furry best friend.
Remember to keep your dog leashed, stay hydrated, and be mindful of the local wildlife and prickly cacti. With these tips, you and your pup will surely have an unforgettable adventure in this pet-welcoming city.
So, what are you waiting for?! Start packing your bags for this unforgettable Arizona adventure!
About the Author!
Becky B. of Cultivate Traveling is an expert in crafting itineraries for bucket list destinations. Based in Tucson’s mountains, she enjoys outdoor adventures and off-roading. In the summers, she spends time by a quiet lake in Illinois, near Wisconsin. She has a 10-year-old Golden Retriever and a 2-year-old grand-dog Bernedoodle. Follow along over on Instagram!
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