Austin is one of the most dog friendly cities in the U.S., with a host of different restaurants, parks, and shops catering to both humans and pets. Because the city enjoys relatively mild winters as well, many of these places can be enjoyed year round. Here are 9 of the top places to hang out with your pooch in Austin.
Dog Friendly Places Worth Seeing In Austin
1.Yard Bar
6700 Burnet Rd., Austin, TX 78757
Yard Bar combines restaurant and dog park to create a space where humans don’t just want to take their pets — they want to go themselves. There are both large and small dog areas and to get access owners can purchase a membership, park passes, or just pay the daily fee of $5 a visit. The restaurant/bar serves up a host of different salads, soups, snacks, sandwiches, and desserts, as well as beers and cocktails. There’s even some doggy foods available.
2. 2nd Street District
214 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78701
2nd Street District is a trendy shopping area in Texas that’s been open for the last 10 years. Whether you’re going to shop or grab a bite, it’s a great place to bring Fido as all restaurants with patios welcome dogs and many shops do as well. Stores in the area include ModCloth, Design WIthin Reach, and Bonobos.
3. Top Golf
2700 Esperanza Crossing, Austin, TX 78758
This golfing and entertainment complex is dog friendly, so your pup can accompany you to hit balls at their high-tech driving range or for “Sunday Funday” brunch.
4. Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden
79 Rainey Street, Austin, TX 78701
Banger’s markets itself as a fun place to hangout, and has a large outdoor beer garden to prove it. Though dogs are always welcome, each month Banger’s hosts a “Mutt Monday” with dog training sessions, puppy-related giveaways, and discounts. There’s also a dog run in case your pup wants to make some new friends.
5. Dog House Drinkery Dog Park
3800 Co Rd 175, Leander, TX 78641
Similar to Yard Bar, this is a membership-based dog park with a bar attached and occasional live music. Day passes are also available for purchase. There’s a ½ acre off-leash area, a small dog park, and an area for dog training, adoptions and other special events. Dogs don’t have to stay outside here, though; they’re also allowed in the bar.
6. Moontower Saloon
10212 Manchaca Rd., Austin, TX 78748
Originally an old ranch house that was converted into a bar, Moontower Saloon has since become a complex where families and friends can go and hangout for hours. In addition to the bar there are games like pool and corn hole, a couple of volleyball courts, and frequent concerts. The best part is that dogs are allowed if on a leash.
7. Zilker Metro Park
2201 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78704
Zilker Park, just across from Lady Bird Lake, is 350 acres of outdoor activities. The park includes a swimming area, trails, gardens, and natural springs — in addition to a breathtaking view of the Austin city skyline. It’s also the home of the Austin City Limits Music Festival and Zilker Park Kite festival, as well as other productions. Dogs are allowed as long as they’re kept on a leash.
8. HOPE Outdoor Gallery
1101 Baylor St., Austin, TX 78703
This downtown Austin site is a paint park that allows muralists, street artists, as well as community groups and classes the opportunity to display art in an educational way. Dogs can enjoy the bright colors and fun setting as well when accompanied by their owners.
9. Easy Tiger
709 E 6th Street, Austin, TX 78701
Austin has its fair share of beer gardens, but Easy Tiger is especially trendy and also has a bake shop with housemade breads and pretzels. Dogs are welcome in the outside area, and water is provided for them.
This article was written by Isabella Sayyah.