10 Pet Friendly Places to Take Your Dog in Atlanta

If you are traveling down south with your four-legged friend, you will be happy to know there are many pet-friendly places to see in Atlanta, Georgia.

May 22, 2023By Heather Jarek, BA Veterinary Technology
pet friendly places to take your dog in atlanta

The city of Atlanta is the capital and the most populous city in Georgia. There are many beautiful and exciting attractions across the city. From shopping to beaches, the pet-friendly adventures are endless. You and your dog will find many fun activities to fill your days when visiting the capital of the Peach State.

10. East Palisades, Whitewater Creek Trail

chattahoochee river atlanta georgia

This popular 3-mile hike runs along the Chattahoochee River and offers many places for you and your dog to cool off in the shallow waters. The Whitewater Creek Trail is part of the Palisades Trail, located in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. It is open all year round and welcomes leashed dogs. The trail is marked as a moderate hike, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water!

9. Piedmont Dog Park

peidmont dog park atlanta

Piedmont dog park offers 3 acres of fields and trails for that much-needed off-leash play! There are two separate areas, one for smaller dogs and one for larger dogs. There are shaded areas with benches if you need a break from that Atlanta heat. Better yet, on the weekends, they have concessions offering dog popsicles. Be sure to review their rules and regulations before heading out for a day of play!

8. The Treehouse Restaurant and Pub

treehouse restaurant pub atlanta

If you’re looking for a place to gather with new friends or old ones, The Treehouse Restaurant and Pub welcomes two and four-legged friends. This quaint restaurant serves brunch, lunch, dinner, and your favorite wines and spirits. Dogs are allowed on their covered deck, which is tastefully decorated. Their generous menu has something for everyone; with so much to choose from, you may want to review the menu beforehand.

7. ParkGrounds Café

parkgrounds cafe outdoor patio

Are you looking for your morning caffeine fix and don’t want to leave your four-legged companion behind? ParkGrounds Café has a large outdoor seating area to accommodate you and your dog while you sip your morning latte. Hungry? The café serves breakfast until 2 pm, and sandwiches are available to order all day. If you need to walk off that caffeine buzz, you can hop on the Atlanta Beltline for endless walking or running opportunities.

6. Atlanta Beltline

running atlanta beltline georgia

The Atlanta Beltline is an expansive trail and walkway system that connects Atlanta’s central neighborhoods, restaurants, and parks. It is one of the most extensive urban development programs in the United States. It was built along a historic railroad track, reaching 22 miles long. That’s a lot of exploring to do! If you and your pup get tired, you can take a break at a local café or spread out a blanket in one of the many parks along the route.

5. Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown

hotel indigo atlanta midtown dog

Comfort, beauty, and convenient accommodations. The Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown allows dogs large and small and offers many amenities. Their restaurant deck is dog-friendly, so there is no need to leave your dog alone in your hotel room while you dine. The hotel also puts on a Canine Cocktail Hour on Tuesday evenings!

Hotel Indigo Atlanta is conveniently located in the heart of Atlanta, offering a quick commute to many attractions. These include the Georgia Aquarium, Fox Theatre, Philips Arena, and many more!

4. Atlanta Preservation Center

healey building atlanta georgia

The state of Georgia is filled with history and beautiful architecture. The Atlanta Preservation Center provides walking tours, most of which are dog friendly. You can look at the different tours they offer right here on their website. Discover the Healey Building, which boasts the most beautiful lobby in Atlanta. Or check out the exquisite sculptures scattered throughout Westview Cemetery, the largest cemetery in the Southeast.

3. Peachtree Road Farmers Market

dog farmers market

Support your local farmers and merchants at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market held at The Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta. This outdoor market has over 50 vendors, live music, fresh produce, and more. Leashed dogs are welcome but are requested to stay away from the produce, plants, and food displays.

The Peachtree Road Farmers Market is Georgia's largest producer-only market. This means that the farmers or merchants make everything sold at the market. You genuinely support the local farmers when you shop and buy at this market.

2. Splish Splash Doggie Bash

splish splash doggie bash

Is your dog a water lover? Head on down to the Splish Splash Doggie Bash. This event is held at the Piedmont Park public swimming pool. The park opens the swimming pool to dogs before cleaning and shutting it down for the season. This event is held over two days and scheduled by sessions from morning to afternoon. Head to their website to view their dates and times. Tickets sell out quickly, so act fast so your dog can enjoy a fun day at the pool!

1. Rita’s Italian Ice

dog eating ice cream

If you have a sweet tooth or want to cool down after a day in the Atlanta heat, make your way to Rita’s Italian Ice. Try their award-winning frozen custard or cool down with a cup of Italian ice made fresh daily with real fruit. From milkshakes to cookie sandwiches, you will surely find a new favorite treat. They welcome pets at their outdoor tables, so grab your cone and let your dog have a taste!

Heather Jarek
By Heather JarekBA Veterinary Technology

Heather is a lover of all animals, big and small. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology in 2014. She has been working as a licensed veterinary technician for the last eight years. Her favorite hobby is horseback riding, and she has been riding horses since the age of eight. She enjoys spending time with her family at the lake with their golden retriever Calista in her free time.