Best Places to Visit in Raleigh with Your Dog During the Winter Months

Raleigh is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the nation and has quite a few options to bring your four-legged friend.

Cameron Village

In the heart of Raleigh is a little dog-loving paradise, Cameron Village. The developers had a vision that you share — a shopping area that is truly dog-friendly. Not just dog-friendly, but welcome-your-furry-friend-with-open-arms dog-friendly! That is, of course, if your best bud is well behaved. The shopping plaza welcomes dogs and many stores will allow them to come inside. We suggest that you call before you go or simply ask an employee if your dog is welcome. While you’re there, you and Fido may run into Pork Chop and Enzo, two local celebrities in the Raleigh canine scene.

Woof Gang Bakery

Inside Cameron Village is a place dogs are always welcome — and Fido will be extremely pleased. After all, what’s better on a winter day than some nice homemade cookies? Your pup will enjoy all the fancy smells and bright colors. And you’ll love the fact that Woof Gang only uses all-natural ingredients. While you’re there, you might as well book Fido an appointment at the doggie spa for a haircut. Fido might not be as jazzed about that part, however.

Raleigh Brewing Company

Raleigh Brewing Company welcomes well-behaved dogs. The restaurant has 32 beers on tap and the staff is friendly to dogs. Barking dogs, however, may be asked to leave, so if Fido barks every time the wind changes direction, you might want to go elsewhere. Food service trucks are located outside so you and your bud can grab a quick bite.

Raleigh Beer Garden

If food trucks aren’t your thing and you prefer a nice sit-down meal, head on over to Raleigh Beer Garden. The restaurant has a well-heated outdoor patio where you can enjoy great food. Your pal will be nice and toasty and you’ll get to enjoy delicious traditional fare or try the Smoked Salmon BLT or the Corn Muffin Basket with Honey Butter. The restaurant claims to have the world’s largest beer selection on tap.

Dog Eared Books

Take some much-needed down time in an old-fashioned bookstore, perusing the titles. The owners of the store believe everyone should be able to read, and shouldn’t be prevented from doing so because of financial constraints. All titles are just a dollar! How awesome is that?

Boxcar Bar + Arcade

Go back in time with your pup and play a game of PAC-MAN, Donkey Kong, or Frogger. Your pal might be pleasantly surprised by your transformation from grumpy full-timer to an excited high school kid as you relive your bygone glory days. The staff are rumored to adore animals and will give your baby plenty of attention. If your dog is sensitive to noise, however, you might want to skip this stop.

Great Outdoor Provision Co.

Shop for hiking gear, tents, and other outdoor gear with your bud in tow. They’ll love the tantalizing sights and smells, as well as the camaraderie of other patron dogs visiting the store. You’ll find outdoor clothing, boots, and other attire here as well.

North Carolina Museum of Art

Take in some culture while getting some exercise to boot! Dogs are welcome on the museum’s 2.2 miles of outdoor trails, which wind past intriguing outdoor sculptures. Water fountains and waste stations are also provided along the trails.

Carolina Pines Community Dog Park

This beautiful, wooded dog park offers three fenced-in areas — one for smaller dogs, one for larger dogs, and another for anything goes. The park offers benches where you can rest while watching your pal run about, sniff things, and take care of business. Water, bags, and trashcans are also available.

We at Raleigh Pawz hope you enjoy your winter adventure in Raleigh. Dress warm and have fun!