CCG IQ’s Guide to Life in Charlotte: Top Dog-Friendly Spots for You and Your Pup
Nothing beats spending time with your dog, and the Queen City offers countless opportunities to get out of the house and explore with your pup.
To give you some ideas for places that you should check out with your four-legged friend, we’ve put together a list of our favorite dog-friendly places in the Charlotte area.
1. Lucky Dog Bark and Brew
With over 25,000 square feet of space and an extensive drink menu, this dog park/sports bar combo is a staple for Charlotte residents and their furry companions. HVACi account manager Lauren Cooley said that she especially loves its “Beer and Dog Bath” events on Tuesday nights.
“They offer a really great dog bath,” Cooley said. “I can hang out, have fun and get my dogs clean at the same time.”
2. The Dog Bar
The Dog Bar is a popular NoDa hangout that is the exact kind of place you would expect it to be based on its name. While you’re listening to live music and enjoying a drink with friends, your pup can roam around off-leash in a safe, fenced-in environment. It even offers a kissing booth for your four-legged friend!
3. Bulldog Beer & Wine
Bulldog has two dog-friendly Charlotte locations that offer wide selections of craft beers and fine wines. Its South End venue is a go-to spot for HVACi large loss liaison Gabe Albuquerque, who calls it a “hidden gem.” If you stop in, be on the lookout for the business’s bulldog mascots: Dixie, Elvis and Buster.
4. Seoul Food Meat Company
While Seoul is first and foremost a southern BBQ joint with Korean flair, it also serves as a popular hangout for Charlotte dog owners because of its fenced-in play area. It’s a great option if you’re looking to enjoy some delicious food while your dog lets some energy out.
Lauren’s dogs, Brooks and Lucy, playing with other pups at Seoul
5. Wooden Robot
Charlotte breweries are known for being dog-friendly, and Wooden Robot is no exception. This South End spot has a large patio that’s perfect for dog owners who want to spend some time outside while sipping on a brew (or two).
6. U.S. National Whitewater Center
There are countless ways to enjoy the great outdoors at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. In addition to its large network of trails, the 1,300-acre facility offers paddle boarding, kayaking and other fun ways to stay active with your dog.
Gabe with his dog, Athena, at the U.S. National Whitewater Center
7. Latta Plantation Nature Center and Preserve
With over 16 miles of trails, Latta Plantation Nature Center and Preserve is an ideal outdoor space to explore with your pup. Bob Fernstrom, claims concierge manager, loves taking his dogs there for hikes and swims.
Bob’s dog, Porter, at Latta Plantation Nature Center and Preserve
8. Frazier Park
While there are several dog parks in the Queen City, Frazier Park is a local favorite. It offers sections for large and small dogs, and pups are permitted to be off-leash, which is a draw for StrikeCheck sourcing specialist Ann Spencer Lee.
“You can take your dog off-leash, which is nice because there aren’t many places where you can do that,” Lee said.
Ann Spencer’s dog, Winston
9. Freedom Park
Freedom Park is centered on a scenic seven-acre lake and has paved walkways to walk or run with your dog. If you feel like extending your adventure, the park connects to the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, which leads to the nearby Park Road Shopping Center.
10. Crowders Mountain State Park
If you’re seeking an adventure outside the city limits, head to Crowders Mountain State Park, which is located just to the west of Charlotte in Kings Mountain. With hundreds of miles of trails, it makes for a great day trip with your pup (and the stunning views are worth the trek).
Gabe’s dog, Athena, at Crowders Mountain State Park
Does dog-friendly Charlotte sound like a great place for you to start your career? Check out our current opportunities!
