Everything is better with man’s best friend by your side. Whether you want to take your dog to a dog park, museum or restaurant, Tucson has many places where Fido can come along for the adventure.
Dog Friendly Places in Tucson to Put On Your List
1. Tucson Botanical Gardens
Spend the day surrounded by nature, beauty and get some quality time with your pet. This urban oasis is home to a butterfly greenhouse, cactus gardens and much more. Open daily, leashed dogs are welcome from June to September. There is a $3 admission fee, or you can purchase a $20 membership for the whole summer. Tucson Botanical Gardens is the perfect place for a quick walk or all day fun. The gardens are located at 2150 N. Alvernon Way, and they are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.
2. Fort Lowell Museum
This museum is full of Arizona history, and they love dogs! The Fort Lowell Museum is located in the reconstructed Commanding Officer’s quarters at Old Fort Lowell. A small pond and hiking trails are in the surrounding areas of the fort. Entrance to the museum is free and it’s been said that their four-legged friends get cookies for coming along. The museum is located at 2900 N. Craycroft Road and they are open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
3. Rillito River Park Trail
The beautiful desert scenery Tucson has to offer is perfect for a morning or evening walk with your pet. There are several paths at Rillito River Park that vary in length and difficulty. The trail on the north side of the riverbed is paved and perfect for jogging or walking. The park is located at 4200 N. Campbell Ave., and is open from dawn to dusk.
4. Dakota Bar & Grill
Hungry for dinner and want to bring your dog? Dakota Bar & Grill is the perfect place with a covered patio and a variety of delicious menu options. The restaurant also accommodates your pet with treats and water. Popular menu choices include sandwiches, salads, seafood and much more. The restaurant is located in Tucson’s Trail Dust Town at 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road. Reservations are recommended.
5. Brandi Fenton Dog Park
Sometimes your dog needs a place where they get off the leash and socialize. Brandi Fenton Dog Park, in the east part of Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, is a great place for both. Separated into small and large dog sections, this park has plenty of shaded areas and resources to care for your pet. The park is located at 3482 E. River Road and is open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. everyday.
6. Pima Air and Space Museum
With over 300 planes on display, this air and space museum is a fun activity for both owner and pet. Pima Air and Space Museum is one of the largest aerospace museums in the world, and the exhibits are both educational and interactive. Pets are unable to attend the tram tours, however, museum staff are willing to care for your pet while you’re on the tour. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 6000 E. Valencia Road.
7. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort
If you and your pet are looking for a luxury vacation, Loews Resort is the place. You can expect a goodie bag full of essentials for your pet upon arrival and special treatment for the entire stay. A gourmet menu is available for cats and dogs as well as dog walking. There is $100 fee for up to two dogs during your stay. The resort is located at 7000 N. Resort Drive and rates start at $159 a night.
8. Stray Dogs Grill
Unlike the name, this restaurant does not in fact have stray dogs. But it is a great space for customer’s pets along with fantastic food. The dog-friendly patio even has a play area for pets. The restaurant is famous for its hot dogs, milkshakes and unique cocktails. Located at 78 W. River Road, they are open daily 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
9. Miko’s Corner Playground
This ‘doggie playground’, located in Reid Park, has two-acres for your pooch to explore and interact with others. Areas are divided for small and large dog and there is even a doggie water fountain, how cute! This popular community park even has lighting for late night fun. The park is located at 900 S. Randolph Way near the Tucson Zoo.
This article was written by Taylor Bishop.