As a native Houstonian, avid dog mom and real estate agent selling in and around Houston, I know firsthand that our city is a paradise for pet lovers! Houston’s vibrant culture, beautiful parks, and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect place to explore with your furry companion. Whether you’re looking for a place to walk, dine, or catch a show, there are countless dog-friendly spots waiting to be discovered. I’ll share my pup, Basil, and my top 10 dog-friendly activities that will ensure you and your pup never run out of things to do. Let’s unleash the fun and make some tail-wagging memories!
1. Dog Parks: The biggest dog parks in and around Houston visit spots like Congressman Bill Archer Dog Park, Millie Bush Dog Park or Johnny Steel Dog Park. These expansive parks provide plenty of space for your pup to run and play, complete with agility courses and dog pools. Equipped with wash stations by the entrances you’ll want to bring towels, trust me. For a different park experience, check out Levy Park and Midtown Park. Both with designated off-leash areas and are nestled among popular shops, cafes, and even occasional food trucks and special events.
2. Hiking Trails: Explore the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center or the trails at Memorial Park—great for scenic walks with your pup. North of Houston is the beautiful Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve which features a natural lake, fishing piers, unpaved picnic areas and a canoe launch. Our favorite dog-friendly trail is the Buffalo Bayou Loop. Pack water and extra treats for this hike is 5 miles of hidden gems to explore.
The Best Parks in Houston (According to a Local Who Loves Parks!)
3. Pet-Friendly Patios: You can bring your furry companion to almost any restaurant with a patio. Here are a couple of our favorite spots and why. First two on the list are El Venado in Washington Corridor and Toulouse in River Oaks Shopping Area. Not only is the food exceptional, but they have gorgeous patios and live performances you and your pup can enjoy. Visit any of Barnaby’s Café or Lazy Dog's multiple locations for their delicious human eats and adorable dog menus. We have to include KA Sushi located in Greater Heights for being the only premium sushi restaurant in Houston with a dog-friendly patio. If your pup enjoys a picturesque city view and chill vibes then you must take them to St Arnold’s Brewery.
4. Events & Festivals: Your dog's social calendar can be booked up all year if you so choose. Keep an eye out for dog-friendly events like the annual Puptopia Festival. This year The Powder Keg is hosting another Barktoberfest on Saturday, October 12th. We've gone three years in a row and we won't be missing it! The Kite Festival is one for the whole family and takes place in the Spring. Don't forget to check out your local venues for regular Yappy Hours too.
5. Shopping: To be honest, I’m not a big fan of shopping, but if I can bring my fur baby Basil I am all for it!. Plus, it enriches her life by introducing her to new sights and smells. You can take a stroll through The Heights or Market Square Park. When fall arrives, be sure to bring your pup to one of the many Farmers Markets around town. The team at Beyond The Dog has put together a list of "35 Dog-Friendly Stores" (That aren't pet stores) and I can't wait to check some of these spots out myself!
6. Dog-Friendly Beaches: East Beach in Galveston is a fantastic dog-friendly destination where you and your furry friend can enjoy sun, sand, and surf together. With plenty of space to run and play, dogs are welcome to frolic along the shoreline, making it a perfect spot for long walks and fun beach games. Just remember to keep your pup on a leash and clean up after them. The laid-back atmosphere and nearby pet-friendly eateries mean you can easily make a day of it, soaking up the sun and enjoying delicious food with your pup by your side.
7. Dog Training Classes: Sign up for fun training or agility classes at local facilities to bond and teach your dog new skills. Basil, like most dogs, loves a good training sesh. Any opportunity to teach our canine companion how to be an even good'er boy or girl is a win-win for everyone.
8. Pet Photography: There is no shortage of Instagram worthy spots to choose from. Capture memories at dog-friendly spots like the Water Wall or the Outdoor Sculptures at Menil Collection—perfect for a fun photo shoot. Let's not forget that Houston is home to some of the finest Murals by local and international artists alike. You can catch many locals in Hermann Park taking wedding, quinceañera and maternity photos, why not puppy photos too? The most popular picture taking spot within the park would have to be along the reflection pool.
9. Dog-Friendly Tours: Look for guided tours or walks that allow dogs, so you can explore the city together. A few fun suggestions from Bring Fido.
10. Catch A Show: Miller Outdoor Theater, Axel Rad, Rooftop Cinema Club Uptown. Check out the Miller Outdoor Theatre calendar which offers a perfect setting for enjoying performances under the stars with your pup by your side. Bring a blanket and relax on the grassy hillside while soaking in the culture. Axelrad is a lively beer garden where you can unwind with craft beers and food trucks. With plenty of outdoor seating to watch classic movies from the large outdoor screen and occasional live band. They will even let your dog into the upstairs show room for their weekly comedy shows. Rooftop Cinema Club Uptown elevates movie nights with stunning skyline views. Dogs are welcome, so you can snuggle up and enjoy a film together.
Whether you're new to Houston, thinking of moving to Houston or you're like me, a long time Houstonian looking for new dog-friendly activities, you can rest assure the list is vast and ever growing. I truly hope you and your four-legged friend go out and these suggestions and enjoy them as much as we have. Watch our adventures at "Is Houston Dog-Friendly?". Thank you for taking the time to read. If you know of anything that I've missed please send them my way. I would love to know them.
