Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Raleigh This Weekend

Looking to spend quality time with your pup this weekend? Raleigh is packed with dog-friendly spots and activities that make it easy to include your four-legged best friend in your plans. From breweries with patios to open-air trails and events, here’s your guide to making the most of your weekend with your dog by your side.

1. Take a Walk Through Dorothea Dix Park

Dorothea Dix Park is one of Raleigh’s most beloved green spaces—and it’s also a dog owner’s dream. With open fields, skyline views, and wide paved trails, it’s perfect for leashed dogs to explore. Bonus: you’re likely to run into other dog lovers while you’re there.

👉 Pro Tip: If you're visiting Saturday morning, swing by the nearby NC State Farmers Market (dogs welcome outside) for fresh produce and a few tail wags from passersby.

2. Grab a Pup Cup at a Dog-Friendly Brewery

Raleigh’s brewery scene is full of spots that welcome dogs with open arms (and sometimes treats). A few local favorites:

• Raleigh Brewing Company – Outdoor seating, pet-friendly vibe

• Lynnwood Brewing Concern – Big patio and frequent dog meetups

• Bond Brothers Beer Company (Cary, but worth the drive!) – Known for their dog events and huge outdoor space

Most offer water bowls and shady seating, and many serve up pup cups or treats at the bar.

3. Visit Oakwood Dog Park

Let your pup off leash at Oakwood Dog Park, located just outside downtown in the historic Oakwood neighborhood. This shady, fenced-in park includes areas for both large and small dogs, so they can roam freely and make new friends.

4. Go Shopping Together at Pet-Friendly Stores

Want to beat the heat or rain but still get out of the house? Several local stores allow dogs inside while you shop:

• Unleashed, The Dog & Cat Store (multiple locations)

• DECO Raleigh – Many small downtown shops welcome leashed dogs

• REI at North Hills – Pup-friendly and great for outdoor gear

Always check signage or call ahead if you're unsure, but Raleigh is generally pet-welcoming in the retail scene.

5. Attend a Dog-Centric Event

Check the weekend calendar for events like dog meetups, yappy hours, or local rescue adoption days. Sites like Eventbrite Raleigh or your local dog park’s Facebook page are great places to check last-minute listings.

👉 Local Hint: Pet-friendly food truck rodeos and brewery pop-ups happen regularly—especially in spring and fall.

6. Plan a Picnic at Shelley Lake Park

Shelley Lake is a peaceful escape just north of downtown. Bring a blanket, pack some snacks (and dog treats), and enjoy the scenic views while your pup lounges in the grass or strolls the two-mile loop around the lake.

7. Snap Some Photos at a Dog Mural Spot

Make your weekend Instagram-worthy with a stop by one of Raleigh’s dog-themed murals or colorful wall art. A few ideas:

• The Barking Lot mural on Glenwood Ave

• Dogwood Country Club’s mural at Gateway PlazaDon’t forget the leash and your phone—these spots make for great photo ops.

Plan Your Weekend With Your Pup in Mind

There’s no need to leave your dog behind when Raleigh offers so many ways to include them. Whether you’re relaxing at a brewery, exploring the trails, or discovering a new park, you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly things to do this weekend.

Have a favorite pup-friendly spot we should feature? Send us a message—we’re always sniffing out the best places for local dogs and their humans.