With almost 200 dog-friendly lodging options, 100+ pet-friendly restaurants, and an abundance of outdoor attractions dogs are free to explore—the “Scenic City” is a favorite for canines and their fans! Here are my hound’s top must-see dog-friendly places in Chattanooga to get the tails wagging.
Unleash the Fun at Play. Wash. Pint.
For an active start, head to Play. Wash. Pint, a dog bar designed for zoomies, sunbathing, socialization, and showing off some agility skills; with a remarkably friendly staff on duty! While the humans can enjoy a pint of local beer, your dog can make friends with other pups in the spacious outdoor play area.
On summer days, the multiple water features come in handy to cool the paws off, complete with two fire hydrant fountains to recycle that water on! Afterward, feel free to pamper your dog with a wash in the self-service grooming area.
It’s the perfect way to kick off your Chattanooga adventure & a grand way to get that hound energy out. Play. Wash. Pint. boasts: “Welcome to the happiest place on turf”!
Cool Off with a Sweet Treat at Clumpie’s
After all of the good choices made at Play. Wash. Pint., reward that sweet pup with a sweet treat from Clumpie’s, a local ice cream shop serving dog-friendly flavors like “Peanut Butter Pawfection.”
Clumpie’s does not allow dogs to “dine” in the inside area, but my dog had no problem enjoying her ice cream at one of the many outdoor tables as she watched the world go by and got endless compliments from pedestrians!
A Walk Through History: Chattanooga National Cemetery
Take a peaceful and contemplative walk through the historic Chattanooga National Cemetery with your leashed dog for a memorable experience. The layout and expansiveness of the cemetery are a thing of wonder and astonishment; the rows of military graves that seem to go into the horizon are a humbling experience.
I recommend your pup be near to catch the emotions! Make sure to extend your walk to the top of the hill, where you can read each of the memories that honor a multitude of generations, missions, and lives lost in combat.
Pamper Your Pup at The Ark Pet Spa & Hotel
If your dog needs a little time away from you to hang out with some friends, “The Ark” has the job covered! Your dog will have a thorough temperament test to see which group they belong in, maybe give you a wave when you check in on them through The Ark’s pet cams, get the cutest report card sent home with them after daycare, and sleep for the rest of the night after all of that playing.
You can fully enjoy exploring some of Chattanooga’s “human-friendly” attractions knowing your pup is in good, responsible hands at any of The Ark’s locations.
Seize the Play at Camp Bow Wow
Your canine can “seize the play” at Chattanooga’s Camp Bow Wow, another remarkable dog daycare and boarding facility in the area! After a temperament evaluation, you can check on your pup through Camp Bow Wow’s cameras in the app and watch them thrive with all of their new pals.
Discover Northshore’s Dog-Friendly Vibes & Murals
This area is a personal favorite for my dog and me! While Coolidge Park is not dog-friendly, the walk along its border is well worth it; make sure to check out the carousel, water feature, and sculptures on your walk.
For those “Will & Grace” fans, you will be as happy as I was to spot “Leslie Allen Jordan Way” on Frazier Avenue in Northshore! My dog led us up to the streets after we walked along the river & like always. I’m glad I let her snout be our tour guide because she found some outstanding murals!
North Shore’s dog-friendly, eclectic, trendy, and artsy vibes are ones to not be missed.
Explore Downtown Chattanooga with Your Canine Companion
Take your canine for a leisurely stroll through downtown Chattanooga! The area is filled with pet-friendly spots, and your dog will love exploring the streets—maybe even finding a squirrel to stalk on the walk!
The cool morning air and charming atmosphere make it a perfect time for a walk along the Tennessee Riverwalk or through the streets lined with art galleries, local shops, and cafes. Bring a leash and a water bowl to refresh your dog as you wander around.
Shop & Dine with Your Dog at Warehouse Row
Take your pooch on a stroll through the mixed-use development of Warehouse Row. This historic part of town offers plenty of pet-friendly eateries with outdoor seating where you can grab a bite with your pup by your side.
Restaurants like The Blue Plate and The Public House have dog-friendly patios, so you can indulge the palate with a delicious meal while your dog enjoys some downtime.
All Aboard! Visit the Chattanooga Choo-Choo
No trip to Chattanooga is complete without a visit to the Chattanooga Choo-Choo. This iconic landmark is dog-friendly and offers photo opportunities you will not want to miss out on with your pooch!
If you have extra time, spend some time in the sunlight with your pup on the green-space provided. It’s a great place to relax and let them enjoy their surroundings, maybe even getting some scratches from a passerby or two.
Rest and Recharge at Sonesta Select at Hamilton Place
After a day of adventure, your dog deserves a plush bed to kick back on, right? Sonesta Select Chattanooga at Hamilton Place will do just the trick for them. This dog-friendly hotel is a quiet reprieve from the adventures, sightseeing, & thrills of Chattanooga.
With spacious rooms and pet amenities, it is the perfect place to relax and recharge after a busy day of exploring. Do be aware: this hotel charges a $75 pet fee per stay.
Whether this is your canine’s first visit to Chattanooga or if they are a frequent visitor to “Scenic City,” this destination offers a wealth of dog-friendly activities, parks, dining options, and bonding opportunities; my dog gives this city a “two paws up,” and I hope the same for yours!
Want more TN travel info? We’ve got plenty: