Charlotte is a booming city full of dogs and their owners. Here are the top spots to stay at, visit, and explore with your pup in the Queen City.
If you’re looking for a city that balances Southern charm with modern, dog-friendly living, Charlotte delivers. With a booming young population, countless breweries, and neighborhood parks tucked into nearly every corner, it’s become a hub for active pet parents.
Charlotte is designed for days spent with your dog. Start with coffee on a pet-friendly patio, stretch your legs on one of the city’s many trails, grab lunch in NoDa or South End, and then relax at a brewery with your pup by your side. With careful planning, you can fill your day with activities that welcome both you and your four-legged companion.
Charlotte’s hotel scene offers pet-friendly options in every part of the city, from Uptown’s urban core to SouthPark’s more residential surroundings.
Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel
Located in the heart of Uptown, this stylish four-star hotel is known for its pet-friendly policies and convenient location next to Romare Bearden Park. Dogs of all sizes and breeds stay for free, making it a favorite among traveling pet parents.
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Hampton Inn & Suites Charlotte
Set inside a luxury shopping center, this hotel gives dog owners easy access to Symphony Park and tree-lined neighborhoods perfect for walks. It’s a quieter alternative to Uptown, while still close to upscale dining and retail.
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites
One of the few hotel options in South End, this property puts you right along the Rail Trail, an energetic area filled with patios and breweries. ADA-registered service dogs are welcome at no additional cost, making it a convenient, budget-conscious choice.
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Other honorable mentions
Coffee culture is big in Charlotte, and dogs are often part of the scene. Many shops feature patios, shaded courtyards, or walkable neighborhoods so you can sip while your pup hangs out by your side.
Summit Coffee
With locations in NoDa, Villa Heights, and SouthPark, Summit Coffee is a go-to for pet owners. Each café has a welcoming patio, with NoDa’s location especially lively thanks to its walkable surroundings.
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HEX Coffee
Found within Camp North End, HEX Coffee sits in one of Charlotte’s most creative districts. The dog-friendly outdoor spaces give you room to sip your latte before exploring nearby art and food stalls with your pup.
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Not Just Coffee
The Atherton Mill location in South End is a favorite among dog owners, thanks to its spot right next to the Rail Trail. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink and take it with you on a walk.
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Charlotte’s mix of greenways, trails, and parks ensures daily walks are never boring. From wooded stretches to buzzing urban paths, you’ll find options for every mood and energy level.
The Cross Charlotte Trail
Spanning more than 18 miles, this paved trail connects Uptown to South Carolina, weaving through parks and running alongside Little Sugar Creek. It’s ideal for long, scenic walks with your pup.
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The Rail Trail
This popular path follows the Light Rail through South End and Uptown. Packed with murals, patios, and fellow dog owners, it’s a vibrant option for pups who like to socialize.
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Freedom Park
Spread across 98 acres, Freedom Park offers a pond, shaded lawns, and trails for leisurely strolls. It’s one of Charlotte’s most beloved weekend walking destinations.
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Other honorable mentions
“Charlotte truly has no shortage of pet-friendly activities and features to explore. We adopted a lab mix puppy from Charlotte Humane Society, and in her first year she’s gotten to be a part of all of our plans.” -Mac McArtor
Sometimes a walk on-leash isn’t enough, dogs need room to run, chase balls, and burn off energy. Charlotte offers several dog parks and open spaces designed for safe off-leash play. Many feature fenced areas, shaded seating, and even separate zones for small and large dogs, making it easy for pups to socialize while staying safe.
McAlpine Creek Park
One of the largest dog parks in the city, McAlpine Creek offers fenced areas and plenty of space for fetch. Social dogs will love the steady stream of new friends.
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Renaissance Park Dog Park
This South Charlotte favorite includes fenced areas for both large and small dogs, plus there’s easy access to a four-mile trail for an after-play stroll.
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Cordelia Park
A neighborhood gem near NoDa, Cordelia Park offers open lawns and skyline views. While smaller than others, it’s great for quick games of fetch.
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Other honorable mentions
Charlotte’s dining scene is filled with dog-friendly patios, making it easy to include your pup when grabbing a mid-day bite. Many restaurants provide water bowls, shady seating, and even dog treats, so you don’t have to choose between great food and your furry companion. Whether you want casual fare or something more upscale, you’ll find plenty of options for lunch with your dog by your side.
The Goodyear House
Located in NoDa, The Goodyear House is known for its elevated comfort food and spacious outdoor patio. Covered and uncovered seating makes it ideal year-round.
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Seoul Food Meat Company
This South End spot serves Korean fusion favorites like bulgogi tacos and crispy wings. The back patio includes a fenced dog run, making it a rare place where pups can play while you dine.
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Common Market
With locations in South End and Plaza Midwood, Common Market blends quirky charm with great sandwiches and craft beer. Its patios are lively hubs for dog owners.
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Other honorable mentions
Charlotte makes shopping trips easy to share with your pup thanks to open-air markets, dog-friendly boutiques, and even indoor spots that welcome leashed dogs. Whether you’re browsing antiques, stocking up on weekend groceries, or running errands, these locations make it simple to bring your dog along.
Atherton Mill Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning, Atherton Mill fills with local vendors selling produce, baked goods, and crafts. The outdoor setting makes it easy to bring your dog, though mornings can get crowded.
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Sleepy Poet Antique Mall
This enormous antique mall is dog-friendly, letting you browse vintage furniture and collectibles with your pup. It’s a fun rainy-day outing for curious shoppers.
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Park Road Shopping Center
A historic shopping destination, Park Road features a mix of boutiques and essentials. Shops like Blackhawk Hardware and Park Road Books are especially welcoming to dogs.
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Other honorable mentions
Charlotte and its surrounding areas offer countless ways to enjoy nature with your pup, from urban recreation centers to scenic hiking trails just outside the city. Whether you want a shaded stroll, a weekend hike, or a place to relax by the water, these spots make it easy to enjoy the outdoors together.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
With 50 miles of trails, wide lawns, and riverfront views, this recreation hub is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs. Entry is free aside from parking, and dogs are welcome on leash.
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Crowders Mountain State Park
Just 45 minutes west of Uptown, Crowders Mountain offers strenuous hikes with sweeping views. It’s perfect for adventurous owners and pups who love a challenge.
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Latta Nature Preserve
Located north of the city, Latta Preserve features trails along Mountain Island Lake plus access to the Carolina Raptor Center. It’s a peaceful escape for nature lovers.
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Other honorable mentions
Charlotte’s brewery and bar scene is full of patios, beer gardens, and even dedicated dog bars where pups are part of the fun. Whether you want a craft beer, a cocktail, or a casual spot to hang out with friends, these locations make it easy to relax with your dog right by your side.
Skiptown
This South End staple is more than a bar—it’s a dog playground. With 20,000 square feet of off-leash space, bone broth “dog beer,” and an app for easy check-in, it’s a must for social pups.
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Optimist Hall
A food hall in a renovated mill, Optimist Hall offers plenty of outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. It’s a lively spot to sample food stalls while sipping a beer.
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The Dog Bar
In NoDa, The Dog Bar doubles as an off-leash dog park and bar. For a small annual membership fee, dogs can roam indoors and outdoors while owners enjoy a drink.
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Other honorable mentions
Charlotte supports its pups with dependable services so owners don’t have to stress over the basics. From emergency care to stylish grooming and training centers that build confidence, the Queen City has all the resources you need to keep your dog happy and healthy.
Charlotte has a mix of established neighborhood clinics and modern hospitals, making it easy to find care for everything from routine checkups to emergencies. Whether your dog needs preventive care, diagnostics, or surgery, you’ll find skilled providers across the city.
Uptown Veterinary Hospital
Located in the heart of the city, Uptown Veterinary Hospital offers comprehensive wellness and medical services. The team is known for its personalized approach, and pet parents appreciate the attentive staff and convenient central location.
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South End Veterinary Clinic
This neighborhood clinic provides everything from preventive care to surgical services. Its smaller size makes it a welcoming option for pet parents who prefer a more personal touch.
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CLT Vets
A full-service veterinary hospital in South Charlotte, CLT Vets offers emergency care, dentistry, pain management, and surgery. Its broad range of services makes it a reliable choice for both everyday and urgent needs.
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Charlotte dogs are no strangers to muddy trails or shedding seasons, so reliable groomers are a must. Across the city, you’ll find full-service salons and mobile options that help keep pups looking and feeling their best.
Bubbly Paws
This hybrid salon offers both full-service grooming and self-service wash stations, giving owners flexibility based on their dog’s needs. Regular visitors often join the Scrub Club for unlimited self-washes and discounts.
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Whitney’s Wittle Wonders
Located in the University area, this locally owned groomer specializes in cuts, nail trims, and even pet-safe dye jobs. Its boutique feel and personalized service make it a favorite among north Charlotte pet parents.
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Doggie Styles Mobile Grooming
For pups who prefer staying home, Doggie Styles brings grooming services directly to you. Covering South Charlotte and nearby suburbs, the mobile unit is ideal for anxious or high-maintenance dogs.
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City life can be full of distractions, but Charlotte has a wealth of trainers who specialize in obedience, behavior modification, and advanced skills. Whether your pup is a new addition or an experienced learner, you’ll find programs that fit.
Charlotte OffLeash Dog Training
Offering everything from basic obedience to advanced board-and-train packages, this program helps dogs build confidence while mastering commands. Their personalized plans cater to both puppies and older dogs.
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The Dog Knowledge
This 10,000-square-foot training facility in Grier Heights offers group and private programs, including service and therapy dog training. Their structured approach has earned them glowing reviews.
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When you’re traveling or just busy with work, Charlotte’s boarding and daycare facilities offer peace of mind. From luxury boarding suites to indoor play yards, these spaces keep dogs entertained and safe while you’re away.
Camp Bow Wow
A nationally recognized brand with multiple Charlotte locations, Camp Bow Wow offers spacious play yards, comfortable cabins, and webcams so owners can check in at any time. Dogs enjoy structured play all day before winding down at night.
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Club Fetch
Located in South End, Club Fetch combines boarding, daycare, and grooming in one place. Staff provide plenty of personalized attention, and dogs can bring blankets and toys from home to make stays less stressful.
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Skiptown
More than a dog bar, Skiptown doubles as a daycare and boarding facility with splash pads, agility courses, and off-leash play areas. Owners receive daily app updates, ensuring peace of mind while away.
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From boutique shops to specialty bakeries, Charlotte makes it easy to spoil your pup while keeping them stocked with the essentials. Many stores focus on high-quality foods, durable toys, and locally made treats.
Hollywood Feed
Located in Dilworth, this store carries premium foods, fun toys, and accessories. Staff are known for their knowledge and helpful recommendations, making it easy to find what you need.
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Pet Supplies Plus
With locations in SouthPark and Elizabeth, Pet Supplies Plus combines convenience with variety. They also offer curbside pickup and delivery for busy owners.
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Charlotte has grown into one of the Southeast’s most dog-friendly cities, blending Southern hospitality with modern convenience. From Saturday mornings at Atherton Mill to afternoons on the Rail Trail and evenings at Skiptown, life with a dog here is full of variety. Whether you’re looking for hiking trails, breweries, or trusted pet care, Charlotte makes it easy to live side by side with your pup.
