Click on one of the links below to jump to a specific month:
February 2025
Winter is here, but this is Colorado, so don’t spend your February binging Netflix. Trust us: Your pup will appreciate the adventures, and you need one too.
That’s why we put together this list of some of the best dog-friendly spots to check out throughout metro Denver, from a takeover in Golden that might actually be heaven on Earth to a dog-friendly scavenger hunt to plenty of new breweries and coffee shops that will welcome your furry best friend.
Click on one of the links below to jump to a specific Denver region:
- 🏙️ Central Denver Things To Do
- ⛰️ Northwest Denver Things To Do
- ✈️ Northeast Denver Things To Do
- 🌲 West Denver Things To Do
- ⛵️ Southeast Denver Things To Do
Central
Do the Denver Derby Amazing Race and Tour
Capitol Hill
Do you want to elevate your dog walk? We recommend checking out the Denver Derby Amazing Race and Tour, a nontraditional scavenger that welcomes your kids and pup to go on an adventure that will bring you through a wide variety of carefully curated locations throughout the Mile High City. Walk or drive to various checkpoints and partake in creative tasks, wacky challenges, and more. Tickets are $24 per person, and you need to make reservations in advance.
Highlands Cork & Coffee
Highlands
If you haven’t already been, this quaint spot in a nearly 120-year-old building might become your new favorite cafe. To start, it’s one of the most dog-friendly coffee shops in Denver, and they’ll be sure to spoil your pet when he or she stops by. Beyond that, it has a menu filled with yummy food focused on fresh ingredients, and if you need something stronger than coffee, it happens to have a full liquor license. The expansive patio is open all four seasons, so bring your pup on this adventure and enjoy.
Northwest
Hang Out on the Patio of Collision Brewing Company
Longmont
This dog-friendly Longmont brewery has basically everything you could want in a Colorado establishment. To start, your pup is allowed on the patio — and will probably meet plenty of friends there. Secondly, it has a yummy menu that features everything from soups and salads to brunch. Third, you can treat yourself to numerous styles of craft beer brewed in-house, and if you aren’t quite in the mood for a beer, this spot also happens to serve wine, liquor, and even special themed shots.
Grab a Pup Cup at Cristo’s Coffee
Boulder or Erie
Look: Your dog deserves a pup cup today. This is a generic statement, because your dog deserves a pup cup every day, and there’s no better spot near Erie or Boulder to enjoy a hot drink and get your best friend a treat than Cristo’s Coffee. This neighborhood spot roasts all of its beans in-house and also has plenty of seasonal drink specials that serve as the ultimate sweet treat. Both locations have great patio seating for your dog, so be sure to slow down and stay for a while. Your dog will appreciate it.
Northeast
Walk Ken Mitchell Park
Brighton
This relatively new spot opened in 2020, and it’s quickly become a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts in the northeast Denver area. Bring your pup and enjoy miles of trails and boardwalks for one of the best places to walk your dog in Brighton. Just a heads up: While much of this open space is dog-friendly, other spots restrict pets due to wildlife conservation, so be sure to abide by the posted signs.
Patio Beers at Mirror Image Brewing
Frederick
Regardless of the temperature — whether it’s hot, cold, bone dry, or literally raining — my dad always says, “It’s good beer-drinking weather.” And in Colorado, with its 300 days of sunshine and abundance of craft beer, this sentiment is especially true. Another great thing about Colorado? You don’t have to sacrifice spending time with your dog for spending time at a local brewery. That’s thanks to spots like Mirror Image Brewing, one of the most dog-friendly breweries in northern Colorado. Post up on the patio and enjoy a rotating selection of amazing beer, a yummy bar menu if you get hungry, and views that will make you think to yourself: “You know what, it’s good beer-drinking weather.”
West
Visit Goldens in Golden
Golden
If you have a golden retriever, this viral event in the heart of downtown Golden is literally your Super Bowl. The Saturday, Feb. 8 event will bring hundreds of these delightful, ginger-haired doofuses to downtown Golden for photo opps, after parties, custom treats, lots of vendors, and a preview of what heaven looks like (probably). Washington Street will be closed to traffic, and the goldens will rightfully have the run of the place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. See a full schedule here.
Hang Out on the Patio at Grande Station
Littleton
Downtown Littleton has basically everything a human and pup could ever want for a lazy weekend, and Grande Station fits into the vibe perfectly. Its dog-friendly patio is the perfect spot for people watching, and humans can sip on one of this spot’s many unique cocktails. The best part for your dog? Canine visitors get their own water bowl and (score!) piece of bacon.
Southeast
Hike Ridgeline Open Space
Castle Rock
February in Colorado is a weird time. Sometimes, there’s a foot of snow and temperatures well below freezing. Sometimes, it’s randomly 70 degrees and sunny (we don’t tell nonlocals it does that, though). Either way, these temperature swings can make for some sloppy trail conditions, which is why finding a spot that tends to dry out fast is always clutch. And that’s the magic of Ridgeline Open Space, a 367-acre open space that offers epic views of the Front Range and town of Castle Rock, as well as the perfect fix of buttery single track. It’s a great winter dog-friendly hike. Bonus: It’s close to plenty of great coffee shops and breweries for a post-exercise reward.
Visit Grandview Dog Park
Aurora
We get it: It’s hard to get enough exercise in the winter, especially if you’re a pup with lots of energy. Thankfully, there are places like Grandview, which happens to be one of the best dog parks in Aurora. This spot has more than five acres for your best friend to run and play. It even has a small dog area for your more timid companions. If your pup is feeling super spry, make sure they try their hand at the agility area!
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Editor’s Note: Our articles focus on five metro Denver regions: central, northeast, northwest; west; southeast. Some cities span across more than one region. See map.)
January 2025
If your New Year’s resolution isn’t to spoil your dog, well, it should be (and no, your dog did not write this sentence). You probably already know this, but metro Denver happens to be one of the best places to ensure that your pup is happy and perfectly pampered.
From cozy, heated wine bar patios to fun dog-friendly breweries to lively dog parks, here’s a roundup of the best things to do with your pup in metro Denver.
Click on one of the links below to jump to a specific Denver region:
- 🏙️ Central Denver Things To Do
- ⛰️ Northwest Denver Things To Do
- ✈️ Northeast Denver Things To Do
- 🌲 West Denver Things To Do
- ⛵️ Southeast Denver Things To Do
Central
Canine Fitness and Fun Center
Southeast Denver
Most dogs love to swim, but that’s probably on hold outside since it’s January. Luckily, your best friend can get their fix at the Canine Fitness and Fun Center, which has a huge swimming pool just for dogs that trained lifeguards monitor. First-time canine swimmers even get their own life vest (and yes, that is as absolutely adorable as it sounds). If your dog prefers to stay dry, this spot has indoor and outdoor play areas for pets of all sizes. Helicopter parents can even monitor their pups on a webcam. Visits are $35 for a half day and $44 for a full day.
Heated Dog-Friendly Patio at Postino
Lower Highlands
Dog-friendly breweries are all the rage, but don’t sleep on chances to sip on a glass of wine alongside your furry friend — especially if it’s on a scenic heated patio in one of the most fun neighborhoods in Denver. This dog-friendly restaurant in the Lower Highlands has one of the best happy hours around, with $6 glasses of wine and pitchers of beer, as well as some very yummy bruschetta boards for everyone to share. It’s worth mentioning that the patio is very cozy, and thanks to numerous heaters, you might even forget that it’s the dead of winter.
Northwest
Romero’s K9 Club and Taphouse
Lafayette
This dog-friendly restaurant in Lafayette has something for everyone. Humans can enjoy a wide variety of food trucks, as well as beer, wine, sake, mead, and fun nonalcoholic beverages. Dogs, meanwhile, can meet some friends and expend some energy inside the off-leash play area. A heads up that this spot is for humans ages 16 and up, and dogs have to pre-register to play. Day passes are $5 per dog, and there are discounts if you happen to bring more than one.
Let Your Pup Exert Energy at Foothills Dog Park
Boulder
Boulder does pretty much anything involving canines well, so it makes sense that it has some pretty awesome dog parks. And during the month of January, when it’s cold and walks might not be as long or as frequent as other parts of the year, your furry best friend will be eager to get outside and expend some energy. That’s what makes the Foothills Dog Park easily one of the best dog-friendly activities in Boulder. This fenced park has areas for both small and large dogs. It’s popular, too, which means that you can meet lots of other pet owners, and your dog can hopefully run and play with some other furry friends.
Northeast
Share a Hotdog at Floodstage Aleworks
Downtown Brighton
This cool, dog-friendly spot in downtown Brighton has pretty much everything you could ever want. To start, there’s a menu with 20 craft beers on tap, a great patio, and wine and liquor for the people in your lives who don’t like beer. Then, there’s the part that will make your dog really happy: a menu that includes snacks like hot dogs, giant pretzels, burgers, and pizza — all of which are ideal snacks for Fido to beg for while you enjoy a fun outing with both your furry and human friends.
Get Your New Year’s Resolution on at Crossfit Thornton
Thornton
January — and New Year’s resolution season in general — is one of the prime parts of the year to work out. And while your routine probably already involves plenty of adventures with your dog, the gym is still a necessary evil. Luckily, you don’t have to leave your dog at home at Crossfit Thornton, which allows you to be part of the #fitfam while being a good pet parent.
West
Hike Dinosaur Ridge
Morrison
January in Colorado can be beautiful, but it can also be one of the muddiest times to hit the trails, which isn’t good for anyone. Dinosaur Ridge can give you and your pup that fix of some uphill exercise, but it’s mostly paved and facing the sun, meaning you won’t have muddy pawprints all over your car. An even cooler part about this 3.7-mile out-and-back trail? The opportunity to check out fossils, plus an awesome view of Red Parks Amphitheater.
Hang on the Patio at Dirt Coffee Bar
Downtown Littleton
Dogs and brewery patios are pretty much synonymous, but if you’re hoping for a more sober hang, coffee shops are pretty great, too. This dog-friendly spot in Littleton prides itself on some of the best coffee around — and, even more importantly, supports a great cause. This coffee shop employs neurodivergent individuals and helps them learn useful skills that will serve them professionally for the rest of their lives.
Southeast
Greenland Dog Park
Larkspur
The whole area around Larkspur might lowkey be one of the most underrated places to check out the Colorado scenery near metro Denver — and it is also home to a pretty great dog park. Let your dog run loose and make friends at the Greenland Dog Park, and before (or after), be sure to leash up and check out the 11 miles of nearby trails, which explore the rolling hills of the unique Greenland region and offer sprawling views of the Rampart Range.
Sit inside with Your dog and Enjoy a Beer at Living the Dream Brewery
Highlands Ranch
Back in the golden age of Denver craft breweries (the early 2010s), dogs were allowed in pretty much any brewery taproom that didn’t have a kitchen. That’s changed, but luckily, at Living the Dream, your well-behaved pup is still allowed inside while you have a beer (which might be the actual dream). This dog-friendly Highlands Ranch craft brewery offers some of the best beer around (we’re fans of all the flavors of the Powder Run Cream Ale), and there are plenty of water bowls so your best friend can also join. A bonus? This brewery isn’t too far from fun hiking spots like Roxborough State Park or Chatfield Dog Park, so it’s the perfect spot for a post-physical activity reward.
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Editor’s Note: Our articles focus on five metro Denver regions: central, northeast, northwest; west; southeast. Some cities span across more than one region. See map.)
December 2024
You probably spoil your pet year-round, but it’s particularly mandatory during the holidays. And since Colorado is a place that happens to love its dogs more than basically anywhere else in the country, there are multiple pet-friendly activities in and around Denver that will make sure that your best friend feels especially loved this holiday season.
Case in point? Two outlet malls in the region actually allow pets inside their stores, and there are also ample opportunities for pet photos with Santa and dog caricatures to grace your yearly Christmas card.
This is just the start of the dog-friendly activities on the Front Range this December. Check out the list below for more.
Click on one of the links below to jump to a specific Denver region:
- 🏙️ Central Denver Things To Do
- ⛰️ Northwest Denver Things To Do
- ✈️ Northeast Denver Things To Do
- 🌲 West Denver Things To Do
- ⛵️ Southeast Denver Things To Do
Central
Dog Caricatures at the Denver Dairy Block
Lower Downtown
There are probably hundreds of photos of your dog in your camera roll doing everything imaginable, but this event offers a new way to celebrate your best friend. Stop by the lobby of The Maven in the Denver Dairy Block on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 4-7 p.m. for dog caricatures and other fun photo opportunities just in time for the holidays. Hopefully, your pet makes its derpiest facial expression, and after their time as a model is over, be sure to enjoy a walk through Lower Downtown Denver.
Walk the Denver Christkindlmarket
Civic Center Park
The Christkindlmarket is already one of the highlights of the holidays, and we’re about to drop some news that will make it even better: It’s also one of the best December pet-friendly activities in Denver! Bring your well-behaved dog to Civic Center Park from Nov. 22 to Dec. 23 and check out this authentic, German-style holiday market. Along the way, you both can enjoy a wide variety of snacks from multiple vendors (because every good dog deserves an occasional treat), and ring in the holiday season together.
Northwest
Hang Out On the Patio at Wibby Brewing
Longmont
A true Coloradan knows that brewery patios aren’t just a fair weather activity — in fact, they’re the perfect place to hang out regardless of the season. Wibby Brewing happens to have one of the best dog-friendly patios in Longmont, with plenty of picnic tables, space to roam around, and other canine friends for everyone to meet. Wibby is known mainly for its lagers, so post up with your favorite yellow beer and enjoy the glory of Colorado winter with your best friend.
Visit Doug’s Day Diner
Boulder
We talk a lot about dog-friendly breweries, which are great and all, but sometimes — like first thing in the morning — beer isn’t the best call. That’s why we’re recommending checking out Doug’s Day Diner, which has an incredibly dog-friendly patio in Boulder. Post up in the sunshine and enjoy a menu that includes everything from breakfast quesadillas to steak and eggs to homemade cinnamon rolls. This is the perfect spot for the random 60-degree day that will inevitably happen during December, and we know that every dog loves being around the smell of bacon, making this an ideal spot to come back to all year.
Northeast
Bring Your Dog Christmas Shopping at Denver Premium Outlets
Thornton
Braving the mall during Christmas can be pretty hit or miss, but let’s be real: Everything is better if you can bring your dog along. And luckily, the Denver Premium Outlets in Thornton let you do just that. Numerous stores here are dog-friendly and even have water bowls and treats to reward your best friend’s patience while you knock off one more item on your shopping to-do list. The outlets are typically open from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Sundays. Keep an eye out for signs outside of stores letting you know that your dog is allowed inside.
Check Out the First Creek Dog Park
Commerce City
Thanks to the abundance of treats that are constantly out in the world during the month of December, all of us might want a little bit of exercise during the holidays. That includes your dog, so why not let your furry pal run wild at one of the best dog parks in Commerce City? The First Creek Dog Park has a big fenced area for your pet to burn off some excess energy, and because it’s gravel, it’s not as susceptible to the changing weather of the season as other dog parks. Another perk? There’s plenty of shade and spots for the humans to take a break, too. The park is open every day from 5 a.m.-11 p.m.
West
Dog Photos with Santa at Chow Down Pet Supplies
Evergreen
Every parent loves to get a photo of their child with Santa, and dog moms and dads are no exception. Luckily, you can do just that on Saturday, Dec. 7 at Evergreen’s Chow Down Pet Supplies from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission to this dog-friendly event is $20, and the proceeds benefit a good cause: the Evergreen Animal Protective League, which helps dogs in need find forever homes.
Check Out the Dog-Friendly Shops at Aspen Grove
Littleton
If you can’t stand the thought of holiday shopping without your dog, you’re in luck! Many of the shops in south Denver’s Aspen Grove outdoor mall allow dogs, making it easily one of the best pet-friendly destinations in Littleton for December. As you are window shopping, just look for the “welcome” decal in front of the stores that encourage dogs to shop. Your best buddy is welcome inside (as long as they’re leashed, obviously), and most spots have doggy water bowls and even treats for all the good boys and girls. A pro tip? The Chick-fil-A will hand out treats at the Aspen Grove drive-thru, so there’s no reason why your dog won’t be absolutely stoked on this fantastic shopping trip.
Southeast
Visit Downhill Brewing Company
Parker
At this point in human history, dogs are pretty much synonymous with craft breweries, so it’s pretty safe to assume that they’re allowed at most of these establishments. But the fact remains that some breweries do the dog-friendly thing much better than others, and we’d definitely put Parker’s Downhill Brewing Company into the top tier. This spot has a large, fenced-in patio for furry friends to play, as well as an extensive selection of beers for their human friends to enjoy. A bonus for everyone? This brewery serves pizza!
Visit the Glendale Open Space Dog Park
Castle Rock
This December, you’ll probably find yourself at Park Meadows Mall or the Outlets at Castle Rock at least once for some holiday shopping. When it comes to your dog, these trips don’t have to be in vain! That’s because there happens to be an amazing dog park directly between them. This fenced, 17-acre dog park takes advantage of this park’s sloped terrain, which offers views of the high plains and mountains. After your dog expends some energy off-leash, clip them back in and enjoy the park’s 1.6-mile trail together. The caprock overlooks make it a wonderful place for a family photo.
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Editor’s Note: Our articles focus on five metro Denver regions: central, northeast, northwest; west; southeast. Some cities span across more than one region. See map.)
November 2024
Don’t tell anyone, but almost every season makes for perfect patio weather in Denver, and November is no exception. That’s good news, especially for people who hate the thought of having fun without their dog in tow.
Here’s a list of some of the best dog-friendly breweries, patios, hikes, and off-leash areas in and around Denver. This includes bars that allow dogs inside, places where Fido can run off some excess energy, and patios that are begging for you to extend your Sunday brunch long into the afternoon hours.
Click on one of the links below to jump to a specific Denver region:
- 🏙️ Central Denver Things To Do
- ⛰️ Northwest Denver Things To Do
- ✈️ Northeast Denver Things To Do
- 🌲 West Denver Things To Do
- ⛵️ Southeast Denver Things To Do
Central
Berkeley Dog Park
Northwest Denver
The Berkeley Dog Park has long been an urban oasis for canines and the people who love them. Located near the unique architecture and lights of Lakewood Amusement Park, this off-leash dog area has a fenced-in area for high-energy pups to let loose, as well as a smaller spot for more timid pets to enjoy themselves. This park gets bonus points for being a great place to meet fellow dog lovers. Once the off-leash time is finished, be sure to take your dog on a lap around Berkeley Lake and to nearby Tennyson Street, where you can visit one of the many restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries with dog-friendly patios.
Recess Beer Garden
LoHi
This spacious bar in Denver’s hoppin’ Lower Highlands neighborhood is meant to evoke the sheer joy of bearing the recess bell as a kid, but unlike most schools, you don’t have to leave your dog at home! Bring your pup to this restaurant’s huge dog-friendly patio and enjoy one of the 24 beers on tap, upscale cafeteria cuisine, or amazing cocktails. Your best friend doesn’t have to be left out: There are plenty of dog bowls and treats available.
Northwest
Very Nice Brewing Company
Nederland
Lots of places are more than happy to host your dog on the patio, but this brewery in Nederland actually lets you bring your (leashed) dog inside — which is perfect for slightly chilly days in November. Humans who visit Very Nice Brewing Company can enjoy a very nice assortment of craft beer, and their very nice canine companions can nibble on spent grain dog treats. A bonus? This brewery has live music on most weekend evenings.
Hike the Mesa Trail
Boulder
This 6.6-mile-wide gravel trail is one of the places that is just quintessentially Boulder — and that means your dog will love it. Meander through the forests and meadows beneath the Flatirons while challenging yourself by powering up and down this trail’s rolling hills. Don’t be surprised to see professional athletes breezing by you (because Boulder). A bonus? The Mesa Trail is a gateway to numerous other longer hikes to the top of the Flatirons. Once you and your dog are tuckered out, head into downtown Boulder to refuel at one of the many dog-friendly patios.
Northeast
Bill Goodspeed Happy Tails Dog Park
Northglenn
The City of Northglenn’s only off-leash dog park is the perfect place to let your pet burn off some excess energy. This 10-acre park has a fenced-in area for dogs big and small, as well as solar lighting and trees to escape the Colorado sunshine. Humans can get a break at one of the benches and tables, where they mingle with one of the many northeast Denver dog lovers who bring their best friends to the park daily.
State House
Commerce City
The only thing that can make enjoying a bucket of mimosas during a leisurely Sunday brunch better? Bringing your dog! And yes, your best friend is invited to the spacious patio at the State House in Commerce City, which, in addition to serving up Sunday brunch, also has a pretty good happy hour and all the comfort food you can want on the dinner menu. Since this is November, you’ll be glad to know that the patio has a firepit, but thanks to Colorado’s 300 days of sunshine, it might not even be necessary.
West
Mt. Carbon Loop at Bear Creek Lake Park
Lakewood
While Bear Creek Lake Park might not feel like much of a Colorado wilderness experience, it makes up for it with ease of access and plenty of hiking trails that offer solid rewards regardless of the season. Your dog will love the 6.6-mile Mount Carbon loop, which has everything from access to water for swimming to a punchy hike to the top of the hill for which this hike is named. During November, the cottonwoods along Bear Creek might still have some color, and thanks to the ample sunshine on other parts of the loop, this trail tends to dry quicker than others in the region. Admission into Bear Creek Lake Park is $10 per vehicle.
Denver Beer Company
Littleton
The original Denver Beer Company location off South Platte Street is one of the OG dog-friendly bars in Denver, and the business is continuing that tradition with its expansion to downtown Littleton. Denver Beer Company’s newest tap room is right off Main Street and continues the tradition of being equally fun for people and dogs. The menu includes both craft beers and food, and there’s free WiFi — making it an ideal place to post up and do some remote work with your dog in tow.
Southeast
Resolute Brewery
Centennial
On a sunny weekend day (and let’s be real, Colorado has a lot of them), it seems like virtually everyone in Centennial is posted up at Resolute Brewery, a local mainstay that typically has almost 20 years on tap. The best part? The huge patio is very dog-friendly. The many picnic tables are the perfect place to hang with friends, both two and four-legged, and your dog will love to beg for snacks from the food trucks that are parked here six days a week.
Sulphur Gulch Trail
Parker
You can choose your own adventure at this approximately 4.5-mile-long dog-friendly walking trail that runs between the Cherry Creek Trail and the eastern town border of Parker, especially since it provides easy access to numerous subdivisions and other trails within the community. There are plenty of dog stations and restrooms along the way, as well as outdoor fitness stations for humans who want to improve their cardiovascular fitness and flexibility. A bonus? This trail ends right near downtown Parker, meaning that after the walk is over, you can bring your pup to a dog-friendly patio to wind down.
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Editor’s Note: Our articles focus on five metro Denver regions: central, northeast, northwest; west; southeast. Some cities span across more than one region. See map.)
October 2024
The leaves are turning, the weather is getting cooler, and perhaps most importantly, you can finally get your dog to wear the Halloween costume that you’ve been plotting all year. October might be one of the best times to be a dog in Colorado, in between the idyllic 60-degree days, pet parades, snuggles on brewery patios and awesome leaf-covered hiking trails.
Don’t believe us? Here’s a list of 15 of the best dog-friendly October activities in and around Denver, from pet parades to cozy coffee shop patios to a spooky 5K along the Highline Canal Trail.
Click on one of the links below to jump to a specific Denver region:
- 🏙️ Central Denver Things To Do
- ⛰️ Northwest Denver Things To Do
- ✈️ Northeast Denver Things To Do
- 🌲 West Denver Things To Do
- ⛵️ Southeast Denver Things To Do
Central
Denver Dog Days
Sloan’s Lake
The trail around Sloan’s Lake always makes for good people- (and dog!) watching, and that will especially be the case on Oct. 13, when the park will be home to a festival celebrating all things canine. Denver Dog Days features a fun dog show that’s open to everyone, and the humans can rock out to a live DJ. Perhaps most importantly, there will be adoptable dogs on hand in case this event inspires you to add to your family. A bonus? A quarter of the proceeds from Denver Dog Days support the MaxFund animal shelter.
Tennyson Fall Fest
Berkeley
We all know your dog is the cutest, so why not show the world? Enter the Tennyson Fall Fest, which is slated for Oct. 19. This neighborhood event is home to a huge pet parade, where costumed dogs of every shape and size will awe the massive crowd that gathers to see the cuteness. A bonus? The first 100 dogs get their very own gift bags. Registration is free, but donations are encouraged and support the local animal shelter.
Stella’s Coffee Haus
South Pearl Street
October marks the end of brat summer and the beginning of Gilmore Girls fall. Few places in Denver encapsulate the spirit of Stars Hollow quite like Stella’s Coffee Haus, a cozy nook right off of South Pearl Street. And there’s no better way to enjoy a cup of coffee than alongside your dog. Luckily, this coffee house has an expansive patio where your dog is welcome — and plenty of water bowls as well. It’s an easy spot to spend a few hours, and we’re sure your best friend won’t complain.
Northeast
Mother Tucker Brewery
Northglenn
Dogs and breweries are a key component of most Colorado weekends, and you don’t have to compromise at the cleverly named Mother Tucker Brewery, which is home to a tasting room with a large patio and plenty of space to enjoy “nanobrews” like the cranberry hibiscus imperial wheat, brown sugar blonde, and Dead Pirate Roberts Black IPA (“Princess Bride” references not included).
Wholly Stromboli
Fort Lupton
Good news: If you’re in Fort Lupton, you don’t need to leave your dog behind to enjoy a tasty Italian dinner. Wholly Stromboli has a massive patio with plenty of dog bowls as well as ample shade. Humans can enjoy a menu that includes pizzas, salads, calzones, and, as the name implies, stromboli.
Happy Tails Dog Park
Brighton
Sometimes, your dog just needs to run, and if you happen to be in northeast Denver, there aren’t many spots better for this activity than Happy Tails Dog Park in Brighton. In addition to plenty of fenced, grassy space for your dog to expend some energy and make friends, there’s also a swimming pond and plenty of walking trails. Bonus: There’s a water spigot at the entrance for both people and dogs.
Northwest
Romero’s K9 Club and Tap House
Lafayette
Romero’s Tap House loves dogs so much that “K9 club” is literally in the name. This establishment has its own on-site dog park where friendly pups can mingle while their owners enjoy a selection that includes 20 craft beers as well as kombucha and hard cider. Food trucks routinely park outside, and outside food is also always welcome.
Rayback Collective
Boulder
In a way, Boulder’s Rayback Collective is whatever you want it to be. In addition to having a full bar with cocktails and a variety of craft beers, it’s also a coffee shop, event space, backyard with plenty of lawn games, and a space intended to be as dog-friendly as possible. Your pup will love Rayback’s expansive patio, and you’ll love sampling the food trucks and catching the frequent live bands and comedy shows. Be sure to stop by for happy hour: On weekdays from 3-5 p.m., well drinks are $5, beer is $6, and you can even snag an Old Fashioned for $7.
Woodland Trail to Skyscraper Reservoir
Nederland
This dog-friendly hike near Nederland is an out-and-back, meaning that it’s very much a choose-your-own-adventure. If you’d like to complete the whole thing, you and your pup will have knocked out 10 miles and had the opportunity to get your feet (or paws) wet in multiple lakes, all while shaded underneath a canopy of Evergreens. Fall weather in Colorado can be finicky, so make sure to bring plenty of layers and water for your dog. Despite the difficulty, the views are worth it.
West
Old 121 Brewhouse
Lakewood
This community-focused brewery near Wadsworth Boulevard and West Mississippi Avenue has a shaded dog-friendly patio and events almost every night of the week, ranging from karaoke to trivia to Mario Kart competitions. In addition to a constantly rotating selection of beer, there are numerous nonalcoholic house-made sodas (one recent creation was an offshoot of a Baja Blast Mountain Dew). An added bonus for you and your pup? This brewery is only a tenth of a mile from Belmar Park, which happens to be one of the most scenic spaces in West Denver and an excellent spot for a walk.
Platte River Trail
Littleton
The Platte River Trail winds for miles through the southern suburbs all the way to downtown Denver, but one of the best stretches happens to be near the Carson Nature Center in Littleton. It’s also one of the best dog-friendly urban hikes near Denver. This stretch of trail is home to numerous dirt walking trails surrounding five lakes, and there are plenty of opportunities for your dog to go for a swim if the weather permits. The parking lot is near West Mineral Avenue and South Santa Fe Drive, and you have the option to make the walk as long or as short as you’d like.
Java Groove Cafe
Evergreen
Evergreen is home to some of the best dog-friendly hiking near Denver, and there’s no better way to start or to cap off a mountain adventure than with a cup of coffee. Thanks to the patio outside of downtown Evergreen’s Java Groove Cafe, you don’t need to leave your pup behind while you enjoy handcrafted coffee while people-watching in this cool foothills community. The coffee shop is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and comes with easy access to Alderfer/Three Sisters Park, Maxwell Falls, and Interstate 70.
Southeast
Hoofin’ It Through the Hollows 5K
Centennial
The Highline Canal Trail is always one of the best spots to walk your dog in Denver, but it’s extra special in the fall when the endless rows of cottonwoods along the water turn into a tapestry of red and gold. This sunset 5K near Centennial’s Goodson Rec Center takes runners and their pups on a fun adventure with a candy bar aid station in the middle and plenty of views of the mountains along the way. Be sure to check out the South Suburban Race Series website for all the latest details.
Purgatory Cellars Winery
Parker
Breweries aren’t the only places that have gone to the dogs. In addition to being the only Colorado winery that uses an ancient Georgian technique for fermenting their grapes, Purgatory Cellars Winery is Parker has a lovely dog-friendly patio where you can sample a wine (or three) and learn what sets Amphorae aging apart. Kids are also welcome to visit (as long as their parents are there, too), and there are a handful of craft beers on tap if wine isn’t your thing.
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Editor’s Note: Our articles focus on five metro Denver regions: central, northeast, northwest; west; southeast. Some cities span across more than one region. See map.)
September 2024
Late summer and early fall is a prime time to be a dog in Colorado. Case in point? The numerous events throughout Denver and beyond that honor our furry friends, from pool days to a “yappy hour” and even an adorable swearing-in ceremony featuring the Arapahoe County sheriff.
Keep reading for a lineup of some of the best dog-friendly events and places to check out in Denver, Erie, Thornton, Highlands Ranch, and everywhere in between.
Click on one of the links below to jump to a specific Denver region:
- 🏙️ Central Denver Things To Do
- ⛰️ Northwest Denver Things To Do
- ✈️ Northeast Denver Things To Do
- 🌲 West Denver Things To Do
- ⛵️ Southeast Denver Things To Do
Central
Yappy Hour on the Plaza
Denver
This dog-friendly event right in the heart of downtown Denver has everything. To start, your best friend can meet fellow dogs and their owners amidst the scenic backdrop of Union Station’s bustling Terminal Bar patio (talk about urban sophistication). Then, there are the drink specials, which include cocktails with names like “Puppy Kisses” and “All Bark, No Bite.” Finally, a local dog rescue will be on hand to help introduce your pet to potential siblings. You can enjoy all the festivities from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28.
Highlands Square Farmers Market
Denver
Dogs love smells, and their senses will come alive at the Highlands Square Farmers Market, which takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays through Oct. 13. In addition to the opportunity to buy plenty of local produce, visitors and their best friend can sample ready-to-eat food and listen to live music while humans grab something from the bar. Dog lovers from all over Denver flock to this farmer’s market, so be prepared for your best friend to meet lots of other playmates.
Long Dog Derby at the Denver Oktoberfest
Denver
If you have a dachshund and live anywhere near Denver, you must make the trek to the Ballpark District for Oktoberfest. The annual Long Dog Derby, slated for Sept. 22 and Sept. 29, will identify Denver’s fastest dachshunds, and all wiener dogs are encouraged to enter, regardless of their age and size. The wiener races start at 12:30 p.m., and awards will go to dachshunds in a variety of categories. Don’t worry: Your non-wiener dog will not be left out. All dogs can compete in the Long Dog Derby Costume Contest. And to provide joy for the rest of us living in this dark world, they should. Please.
Northwest
Wonderland Lake Park
Boulder
This North Boulder park is home to plenty of open space, views of the Flatirons, and water access, making it an ideal spot for pets on hot, late summer days. After your walk, be sure to visit nearby Upslope Brewery to the north and Twisted Pine Brewery to the south — both of which offer dog-friendly options right in Boulder.
September Artisan Market
Lyons
This market involving numerous local vendors is right off of St. Vrain Creek — meaning that in between shopping for the humans, your dog can cool off in a crisp mountain stream. This event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 7 in Bohn Park, is held in conjunction with Lyons’ epic Grillin’ and Chillin’ BBQ and Cookoff. The event includes live entertainment and music, plus root beer floats. Just be sure to give your dog at least one table scrap, as long as it’s allowed.
Tails and Ales
Erie
Sure, bringing your furry friend to this Sept. 21 event certainly isn’t mandatory, but if you want to have fun, liking dogs definitely is. Stop by the Boneyard at Reliance Park from 3:30-6:30 p.m. for food trucks, pet-related vendors, and a beer garden. You can meet fellow Erie pet owners and catch some live music. It’s free for anyone to stop by, but food and drinks obviously cost extra.
Northeast
Sand Creek Regional Greenway
Commerce City
It’s a choose-your-own-adventure on this nearly 13-mile public trail and natural area that links up Commerce City, Denver, and Aurora. The trail, which meanders along Sand Creek, provides ample shade for your pup as well as opportunities to access water. It is open every day from sunup to sundown, and pets are always welcome on leashes (this goes without saying, but make sure to clean up after them). For a look at different parking spots and a description of each stretch of the trail, check out their website.
Prost Brewing
Northglenn
Denver favorite Prost Brewing Company now has a new outpost in the northern suburbs, and it’s a perfect dog-friendly patio for a warm late summer day. Post up on the large patio and try a wide array of German beers as well as numerous shareable bites ranging from pretzels and sausages to a slightly healthier option of hummus and veggies.
West
New Terrain Brewing Company
Golden
The massive beer garden outside of Golden’s New Terrain Brewing Company is a utopia for both dogs and their owners. Since it’s right on the base of North Table Mountain, it’s easy to knock out a hike before posting up at one of the dozens of picnic tables nestled at this scenic spot. New Terrain is often ranked one of the most dog-friendly breweries in Colorado, and for good reason: The spacious backyard has numerous water bowls for pets, lots of beer on tap for their parents, food trucks, and a stage for live music.
Rescue Puppy Yoga
Arvada
This dog-friendly event is for aspiring — rather than current — canine companions. Head to the Denver Beer Company in Arvada between 10 and 11 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22, for the chance to complete a yoga class alongside numerous rescue puppies who are available for adoption. Tickets to this class are $30, and it is open to yoga enthusiasts of all ability levels. There will be time after the class is finished for pictures and to fill out adoption applications (since, for some, it will be the inevitable conclusion!). Register here.
Wynetka Ponds Dog Park
Littleton
If you’re looking for an incredible off-leash area for your dogs, look no further than Wynetka Ponds Dog Park. The park’s expansive play area gives your furry friend plenty of room to run and stop for a quick drink at one of the several water fountains throughout. There are even separate play areas for dogs based on size, plus a pond for cooling off on hot summer days.
Southeast
Elizabethpalooza Festival and Dog Parade
Elizabeth
You know your dog is the cutest thing ever, and the world needs to know, too. Sure, you can post their photo on Instagram, but they really deserve to be on parade — and they can have that opportunity on Saturday, Sept. 7 at Casey Jones Park in Elizabeth. After your dog struts its stuff in the parade, everyone can enjoy games, local vendors, live music, and lots of food and beverages. The event’s also for a good cause: A percentage of the donations will help benefit local dog rescue organizations.
Doggie Splash and Pet Expo
Highlands Ranch
Your dog deserves a pool day, too! That’s why the Westridge Recreation Center in Highlands Ranch is opening its outdoor pool up just to dogs on the morning of Sept. 7. Sign up for a one-hour session for your best friend to play in the water with other social dogs before the pool closes for the season. Tickets go for $10 per dog, and there are two maximum per owner. Sign up and find all the rules here.
RexRun for Pawsitivity
Aurora
In addition to being a dog-friendly trail run and walk, this Sept. 7 event also has a higher cause: raising money to support mental health awareness and to support programs that bring therapy K9s to local schools. Outside of the 5K, this event also includes a pancake breakfast, auctions, a meet-and-greet with therapy K9s, and demonstrations from police dogs. But we saved possibly the cutest part for last: Your dog can be sworn in as an honorary K9 deputy (complete with a badge and personalized certificate) during a live swearing-in ceremony with the Arapahoe County sheriff himself. The festivities last from 7 a.m. to noon, and you can register here.
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Editor’s Note: Our articles focus on five metro Denver regions: central, northeast, northwest; west; southeast. Some cities span across more than one region. See map.)
August 2024
There’s nothing Coloradans love more than their pups, and during the month of August, there’s no reason why you should leave your best friend at home (these are called the dog days of summer, after all).
From dog-friendly patios to breweries and fun walking trails with ample access to water, there’s no shortage of things to do with your pet in Denver, Littleton, Commerce City, and beyond.
Click on one of the links below to jump to a specific Denver region:
- 🏙️ Central Denver Things To Do
- ⛰️ Northwest Denver Things To Do
- ✈️ Northeast Denver Things To Do
- 🌲 West Denver Things To Do
- ⛵️ Southeast Denver Things To Do
Central
Chewy’s Bonetique
Lowry
Next time you’re heading out for a fun shopping spree that involves your pup, skip the big box stores like PetCo and check out Chewy’s Bonetique — a locally-owned shop in the Lowry Town Center that has everything from natural dog treats to handpicked toys to even a full-service dog wash and spa. The dog wash entails a signature blueberry facial (fancy!), premium shampoo, super absorbent chamois towels, and high-velocity dryers, a setup that might even put the best human spa to shame.
Highline Canal Trail
Denver-Greenwood Village
The Highline Canal Trail winds 71 miles through Denver, meandering from Waterton Canyon near Littleton to southeast Aurora. But, one of the shining segments is the stretch from East Quincy Avenue in Denver to Orchard Road in Greenwood Village. This section of trail offers sweeping vistas of the entire Front Range and, more importantly, plenty of access to water to help your pup cool down on a hot August day.
Northwest
4 Noses Brewing Company
Broomfield
By definition, being a Coloradan involves loving beer and hating leaving your dog at home. Luckily, the original 4 Noses Brewing Company location in Broomfield makes sure you don’t have to make a difficult choice. The patio has ample room for leashed dogs, and there are plenty of water bowls. Meanwhile, the restaurant has an extensive beer selection and food trucks for all the humans.
Acreage by Stem Ciders
Lafayette
A hot summer day calls for a cold cider, and at this venue, dogs will feel more than included. Dogs can hang out on the cider patio while their owners sample a variety of libations ranging from wine and beer to (obviously) ciders and cocktails. Food is available from the restaurant, and there’s an on-site food truck. There’s even a vast green area with a playground directly behind the facility.
Dog-Friendly Hiker Shuttle at Chautauqua Park
Boulder
Hiking Chautauqua Park is a Colorado classic, but on a summer weekend, finding a parking spot can be harder than getting a ticket to the Eras Tour. Luckily, the City of Boulder has implemented a free hiker shuttle that connects Chautauqua with downtown and the Hill — and dogs are welcome to join!
The shuttle is free and runs every 15 minutes from May 25 to Sept. 2 on Saturdays and Sundays, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Northeast
Barr Lake
Brighton
Enjoy a panoramic view of almost the entire Front Range against a view of beautiful Barr Lake — all with your dog in tow. Enjoy a range of smells in a backdrop that encompasses everything from the Eastern Plains to wetlands. Hiking in the area includes gentle gravel paths to walkways that extend hundreds of feet into the water. The only caution: dogs are not allowed in the state wildlife area, so look at the rules and regulations posted in the park before visiting.
Pour Tap House
Commerce City
Pour Tap House provides itself for having something for everyone … and that includes your best friend, who is welcome on this dog-friendly patio. While you enjoy a selection of 30+ craft beers and a curated whiskey list, your dog can mingle with northeast Denver’s fellow pampered pup on what’s been called Commerce City’s most dog-friendly patio.
West
Green Mountain Beer Company
Lakewood
If you’re a dog lover, the patio of Green Mountain Beer Company is the place to be on a summer afternoon (or any afternoon, really). With plenty of picnic tables, misters, tiny treats on demand, and a selection of dog bowls, this Lakewood brewery is the epitome of dog-friendly. And, being roughly 10 minutes to Red Rocks, it’s the perfect gateway to Colorado mountain adventures.
Bear Creek Greenbelt
Lakewood
On a hot summer day, walking your dog close to water is almost mandatory, and the Bear Creek Greenbelt in Lakewood delivers. With shady trails right next to Bear Creek, your dog can take a dip whenever it pleases alongside a roughly 3.5-mile loop between Wadsworth Boulevard and Kipling Street in the heart of Lakewood.
Chatfield Dog Park
Littleton
The Chatfield Dog Park has 69 acres of completely fenced-in open space, as well as two ponds for swimming and miles of walking trails. On a hot summer day, everything from tiny Chihuahuas to lumbering Saint Bernards can be seen cooling off in Chatfield’s tranquil waters — making for dog watching that’s almost as good as the people watching!
A daily park pass is $10, and there’s an extra $3 fee to visit the off-leash dog area.
Tony Grampsas Dog Park
Golden
If you’re looking for an off-leash dog park away from the crowds, look no further than Tony Grampsas Dog Park in Golden. Here, your dogs can run free in a wooded off-leash site that features large trees for shade as well as shrubs for sniffing.
Better yet, this area is free to use (just remember to clean up after your dog).
Southeast
Cherry Creek State Park Dog Park
Aurora
This 107-acre fenced-in area near Cherry Creek Reservoir is basically like Disneyland for dogs. Let your pup run off leash to its heart’s content among other dog friends from throughout Denver. There’s even access to Cherry Creek when it’s time to cool off with a swim.
And, just like Disneyland, wait times are possible during peak hours, but your dog will thank you. A daily vehicle pass is $11 and it’s $3 extra to enter the dog off-leash area.
Living the Dream Brewing Company
Douglas County
Is there anything more Colorado than skiing and dogs? We can’t think of anything off the top of our heads, and this Douglas County brewery heavily features both. It has two patios, ample water bowls, and daily food trucks (since most dogs love to beg for snacks). For the humans, the beer is pretty darn good, too.
Miyo Cafe
Castle Pines
You and your furry best friend can people-watch on the patio of this top-notch breakfast and coffee spot in the heart of Castle Pines Village. Better yet, free Wi-Fi makes it the perfect place to park for a while and get some work done.
Carboy Winery
South Littleton
While brewery patios might be all the rage when it comes to dog-friendliness, there’s no reason why you can’t bring your best friend to a winery, too. Luckily, Carboy Winery in Littleton is home to a massive lawn and colossal patio that will be enough to entertain you and your pup, along with an ample wine list.
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Editor’s Note: Our articles focus on five metro Denver regions: central, northeast, northwest; west; southeast. Some cities span across more than one region. See map.)
