Wildebeest Guides
15 Dog Friendly Places in NYC (2024)
New York City, the Big Apple, home of the hustle & bustle with more than 8 million dwellers from all over the world, is also one of the most dog-friendly cities. With endless attractions to se...
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Tired of falling into the same ol’ daily routine? Or is the weather making you feel lethargic or unmotivated? If you’re looking to add some excitement and adventure to your life, how about crafting a fresh bucket list for you & your dog? After all, we as dog people share so much of our life with our pups and experiencing new things together is a fun and rewarding way to make life richer and fuller for both.“Bucket list”, originating from the phrase “kick the bucket”, means “a list of experiences or achievements that a person hopes to have or accomplish during their lifetime”. The great thing about making a bucket list is that you don’t need to make one at any specific point. You can start your dog-friendly bucket list in the middle of the year or at any age/stage in yours or pup’s life to start making special memories together. Here are some tips + ideas to get you inspired for your bucket list and unforgettable adventures with Beest.
"It’s so fun experiencing new things with your dog and seeing their reactions to a new trail or beach, or going to a restaurant that actually has a menu for them. It’s a different type of travel, but I believe she deserves to see just as much of the world as I do." - Melanie + Ruby DoodleReflect on your own dreams and goals
Perhaps the best way to start a bucket list for you and your pup is to first make a bucket list for yourself. Think about all things big and small that you’ve always wanted to do in life. Let your ideas flow and write them down as they come. Some ideas may already include your dog or actually require your dog’s presence. Others may strictly be for humans-only and not have anything to do with dogs at all. Once your list gets going, you’ll be able to identify more clearly which items may be realistic and feasible for sharing with your pup. As the dog-friendly items emerge, you can start planning and organizing towards realizing your bucket list with pup in tow.
Consider your dog’s favorite activities
Think about some activities that your dog LOVES when creating a bucket list. Whether it's playing fetch in the park, taking a dip in the water for a swim, or hiking the trails, there are those activities that bring true joy to your dog's life and would be great to include throughout your bucket list. If your pup’s sensitive to changes, these familiar activities can also be an amazing constant in different settings and environments.
Prioritize your dog's preferences but also incorporate something different and fun for both of you to try. Remember that the purpose of your bucket list is for you to make memorable moments, while also having fun at the level that you and your dog are comfortable with.
Research dog friendly destinations
Researching dog-friendly destinations for your bucket list is a great way to add some adventure and joy to your dog's life. Whether it's exploring in your city and going to new parks, beaches, or pet-friendly cafes, or if you're planning to go travel somewhere new, like a different country or state, there are plenty of places where your dog can join in on the fun as long as you do your research first.
See our growing list of City Guides with dog-friendly activities to add inspiration to your bucket list.
Be open to new experiences
Trying something new can be scary but trying something new with your Beestie by your side can make things a little less nerve racking. New experiences don’t have to be extreme like skydiving or zip-lining across the mountains, they can be simple and unique. Activities like canine sports and competitions, kayaking, visiting a national park, or taking a cruise, can offer cool and unique experiences that nudge you and pup out of the comfort zone a little – in a good way! Just remember to be willing to adjust plans, try different activities, and embrace spontaneous adventures with your dog.
Set achievable goals and stay flexible
Once your bucket list gets going, you can start breaking down the list into manageable tasks to track progress and celebrate milestones. This can help you stay organized and motivated as you work towards completing each item on the list. It's also essential to stay flexible and open to new experiences, as unexpected events or opportunities may arise that could enhance or change your bucket list adventures, especially with pups involved. Our tip is to set achievable goals and remain adaptable as you and your dog work your way down the bucket list.
Capture your adventures | Film / Photography / Journals
Recording videos of your dog trying new activities or visiting exciting places for lasting memories. Filming your dog's bucket list adventures is a crucial aspect of capturing and preserving the moments and memories you create together. By documenting your adventures on camera, you not only have a visual record to look back on but also a way to share the joy and excitement with others. Additionally, creating videos, photos and journals of your dog's bucket list adventures can serve as a great source of inspiration for fellow pet parents looking to create their own memorable experiences. You can also get creative with documenting your adventures in other ways like scrapbooking or making a digital album to help keep your adventures alive as time passes on.
Dog-friendly bucket list ideas to get you started:
- Ride the ferry or go on a cruise
- Hike a new trail in a different city
- Visit a National Park
- Attend a baseball game (most teams have a dedicated day, make sure to do your research before buying tickets)
- Eat at a dog-friendly restaurant
- Have a professional family portrait taken
- Ride a convertible car down the PCH together
- Take a road trip to a new state (or all 50 states!)
- Go camping / glamping
- Travel to a different country
- Enter the dog surfing contest
- Throw a birthday party for pup
- See Snow / See the Beach
- Attend or host a pack walk
- Try dog sports / agility
- See a movie in the park (dog-friendly movie of course!)
- Stay at a dog-friendly hotel for the weekend
Special Feature: Melanie + Ruby Doodle
Dog mom Melanie and doodle girl Ruby are the adventure queens in the Bay Area. They are often traveling big and small, to all kinds of dog-friendly fun places. They have put together a bucket list with a variety of adventures that you can do in the U.S. and are surly dog-approved.
Melanie shares with us,”I’ve always been a bucket list kinda girl and when we got Ruby my list quickly shifted to dog-friendly everything. I realized pretty early on that I wasn’t enjoying traveling as much without her and as we got Ruby acclimated to traveling there was no turning back. It’s so fun experiencing new things with your dog and seeing their reactions to a new trail or beach, or going to a restaurant that actually has a menu for them. It’s a different type of travel, but I believe she deserves to see just as much of the world as I do”.
You can follow along on their adventures on their social media page, @hellorubydoodle !
Making a bucket list for you and your dog is a wonderful way to add new excitement and create lasting memories together. By researching dog-friendly destinations, including your dog's favorite activities, being open to new experiences, setting achievable goals, and capturing your adventures, you can strengthen your bond and make the most of your time together.
So start brainstorming, planning, and checking off those bucket list items with Beestie by your side!
Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!
Wildebeest's Guide To Making A Dog Friendly Bucket List
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Aug | 11 | 2023
Seattle is a lively city in the Pacific North West that offers amazing dog-friendly places and off-leash parks for you & pup. If you're visiting for the first time it can be a tad overwhelming finding which parks and restaurants to see, and for locals who may want to find something fun or spontaneous to do with your beest, we put together a list of activities from brunch, to parks, to sightseeing that are must-do’s in Seattle.
Cafes & Restaurants
1. Ampersand Café
Located at a waterfront, this cafe offers a dog-friendly patio and a perfect view of the Puget Sound. It has a great assortment of coffee, pastries, and food and is a great place to grab a bite after a walk on Alki Beach with your pup. Ampersand Café
2. Watershed Pub & Kitchen
A dog-friendly bar and restaurant that offers patio seating, this place is great for a lunch / dinner date with your pooch. They offer fresh wholesome comfort food along with specialized craft beverages (beer, cider, wine, cocktails) and offer your pup their own water bowl. Watershedl Pub & Kitchen
3. Bark! Espresso
This coffee house has a special patio just for the doggos but welcomes anyone even if you don’t come with your pup. Human food and drinks are deliciously made to impress and you can also spoil your pup at the dog service window for treats and a “pooch latte”. Bark! Espresso
4. The White Swan Public House
Located right on Lake Union, The White Swan offers delicious seafood, fresh oysters and crafted cocktails. Outdoor tables are available and the staff is dog obsessed and eager to hand your pup unlimited treats. The White Swan Public House
Parks
5. Westcrest Park
This 8.4 acre park features everything for the perfect park day with your Beest. There is plenty of open space for your pup to run off-leash and also a separated little dog area accessible on the southwest side. Restrooms, dog drinking stations, play areas and picnic areas are all available at Westcrest. Westcrest Park
6. Denny Park
Located in Seattle’s central business district, Denny Park is the city’s oldest park with a large enclosed off-leash area for pups to safely play and socialize. Check out the vibrant farmers’ market with fresh produce and street foods every Saturday! Denny Park
7. Schmitz Preserve Park
Schmitz Preserve Park is a 53.1 acre park in West Seattle with walking paths and nature watching among old growth forest. It is dog & kid-friendly and easy to access, perfectly suited for day-hiking with your pup. Schmitz Preserve Park
8. Dogwood Play Park
This is an indoor and outdoor park & bar that allows off-leash dogs. There is a fee required upon entry or monthly memberships are also available for locals. Dogwood is great for dog socialization and has play structures like tunnels and giant tires and also a bar area for pet parents to socialize as well. Dogwood Play Park
Social Hangouts
9. Norm’s Eatery and Ale House
This bar is named after a golden retriever and goes by the motto “sit and stay”. It’s a great place for beer lovers with a variety of brews and wines. This ale house also offers a dog menu for those who plan to dine with their beest. Norm’s Eatery and Ale House
10. Chuck’s Hop Shop
A super dog friendly beer bar that offers outdoor patio seating and a variety of craft beers (literally about a thousand) and rotating food trucks are available after 5pm. Make sure to have your pup leashed when planning to attend. Chuck’s Hop Shop
11. Fiddler’s Inn
This is known as the pizza-slinging neighborhood tavern in Wedgwood and offers 11 craft beers on tap, pizza, specialty sandwiches and local live music. They have a dog-friendly patio (leashing up your pup is recommended) and are known as Seattle’s best beer garden to visit. Fiddler’s Inn
12. Dog Yard
Dog Yard is known as Seattle’s finest indoor / outdoor off-leash bar. This is the place to hang out with your fellow dog parent community where treats, drinks, and socialization are available for you and your dog. First time visitors are required to register and provide paperwork of vaccination records and once you’re registered you can start the paw-ty! Dog Yard
Sightseeing
13. Kenmore Air
Ready to see some flightseeing with your pup? Kenmore Air offers pet-friendly tours for you and your dog. Cost depends on the size of your pup and each flight is limited to one pet per flight. Kenmore Air
14. Seattle Water Tours Ice Cream Cruise
This cruise is a popular and dog-friendly cruise around Lake Union. Pups need to be well-behaved and leashed. Complementary ice cream is offered as you enjoy the view of the city on this 45 minute ride on the water. Seattle Water Tours Ice Cream Cruise
15. Seward Park
This is a recreation attraction space that is dog friendly and is 300 acres. There is a paved waterfront trail, forested areas, a plant garden, tennis courts and lots more. Dogs must be leashed while visiting the park. Seward Park
Local Feature
Seattle native and dog mom, Adaiah loves to adventure throughout Washington with her pup Marnie. She's recommended a couple of her favorite spots in and around Seattle that are dog friendly and fun for both you and beast to view together.- Marymoor Park (Redmond) -- biggest dog park to roam, very popular!
- Luther Burbank (Mercer Island) -- there’s water access here and it’s a small but nice park to visit.
- Magnuson -- All time favorite Seattle dog park!!
- University Village -- outdoor shopping mall that is very dog friendly with a Mud Bay nearby to stock up on dog treats 😋
- General Porpoise (Capitol Hill) -- favorite dog friendly cafe
- Washington Park Arboretum (Lake Washington)
- Discovery Park -- facing the Puget Sound
- Lincoln Park (West Seattle)
Plan your next outing in Seattle and make some fun memories with your beest. There is an endless amount of dog-friendly restaurants, cafes, and social gatherings to visit. And if you wish to get away from the city hustle-n-bustle, there are so many amazing islands and historic port towns around the Puget Sound that are just a ferry-ride or short drive away that are also worth checking out.
Traveling to San Francisco next? Check out our guide on 25 Dog Friendly Places in San Francisco to see and stay tuned for more dog friendly city guides to come!
Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!
15 Dog Friendly Places in Seattle (2023)
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Jul | 11 | 2023
San Francisco is one of the most dog friendly cities in the country. If you’re not local to the Bay Area, you might assume that you can bring your dog anywhere in San Francisco, which is not entirely true. While most places love to see your four-legged fur friends or welcome them in with a dog water bowl or tasty treats at the entrance, not all businesses / environments allow pets in their establishment, unless they are a service animal. As locals, we thought it would be helpful to put together a list of places that are guaranteed to welcome your Beest with belly rubs and treats.
Whether you’re visiting the city, wanting to explore new spots, or training your pup for social interactions, we’ve got a place for everyone’s taste!
Cafes & Restaurants
1. Park Chalet
This spacious and dog friendly restaurant is located at the end of Golden Gate Park, near Ocean beach. This spot makes for a great place for brunch or to grab a quick drink after walking your beest on the beach. Park Chalet offers indoor and outdoor seating and recommends your dog to be on leash. Park Chalet
2. Stable Cafe
Stable Cafe, our go-to, is in the heart of the Mission District. This is the perfect place to sit out on the patio and enjoy a cup of coffee or lunch with your pup on a sunny day. Patio seating at Stable is beautiful and covered in greenery, and they welcome any big or small four-legged fur baby. Stable Cafe
3. Zazie
Zazie’s is a French bistro in Cole Valley that is popular and well known for their delicious brunch plates and cocktails. They offer patio seating and insist you to bring your dog along especially on Monday’s as they host “Dog Night” and offer $10 off on a bottle of wine for the humans and unlimited treats for the pups. Zazie
4. Novy
Novy is located in Noe Valley and is a woman and family operating restaurant. They are Mediterranean influenced and are known for their great food and customer service, Pups are welcomed in their outdoor patio everyday of the week! Novy
5. The Ramp
Located in Mission Bay, The Ramp offers spacious tables, outdoor seating with a great bayfront view for you and your beest, and live music / entertainment. Great for brunch! The Ramp
6. Wildseed
Wildseed is a restaurant located in Cow Hollow known for their superb cocktails and seasonal vegan cuisine. They offer various outdoor seating options and are often packed, so make sure to book a reservation ahead of time so you don’t wait too long with your dog. Wildseed
Beaches
7. Crissy Fields
With the Golden Gate Bridge as its backdrop, Crissy Fields is a beautiful place for a walk or to take your pup for a swim. Certain parts, such as the East Beach, are off-leash approved but can get pretty packed with tourists and other dog owners so be sure to plan accordingly. It also tends to get pretty windy so bring a jacket to stay cozy as you stroll along the shore. Crissy Fields
8. Baker Beach
Known to be one of San Francisco’s best beaches that’s dog friendly with a superb view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Dogs are allowed to be off-leash but not recommended to swim as the waves can get unpredictable. Baker Beach
9. Lands End / Mile Rock Beach
This beach is part of Land’s End trail and is not a widely popular dog beach as it’s a long walk down (0.5-1 mile) with a steep trail to the beach but is great for more adventurous Beesties. Dogs are allowed to be off leash. For an epic view of the Golden Gate Bridge make sure to hike to Land’s End Lookout Point, which is definitely worth the walk. Mile Rock Beach
10. Ocean Beach / Great Walkway
If you're looking for a huge beach with lots of walking room and sand to dig for you and your pup, Ocean Beach is the perfect place. Dogs are required to be on leash all year round. Also, in 2022 San Francisco voted to keep the Great Highway by the beach car-free and bike and family friendly on the weekends for the next 3 years. So be sure to experience the coastal promenade the next time you & pup are visiting Ocean Beach. Ocean Beach
Parks
11. Fort Funston
A local and well-known park in the city that is filled with various trails and places to explore with your pup. During the spring season there are coyote alerts, so be mindful of keeping your dog on leash, but off leash dogs are welcome throughout the park. Fort Funston
12. Upper Douglass Dog Play Area
This is a recreational play area, great for all sized dogs and can be off leash.Your dog must be up-to-date on their vaccinations and non-destructive. Cleaning up after your pet is highly encouraged to maintain the park. This park is enclosed yet large enough to get a good amount of exercise, make sure to bring along a ball or frisbee. Upper Douglass Dog Play Area
13. Alamo Square
Alamo Square has one of the most iconic views with the infamous “Painted Ladies”. Dog mom and content creator, Dianna, and her pup Raylan love this park and is one of their go-to spots for play dates or a nice stroll. “The views are my favorite part, I’m a big fan of Full House so I love seeing the Painted Ladies!” Alamo Square
14. Golden Gate Park
Looking for a massive park to get lost in? Golden Gate Park has so many paths to explore and is one of the most popular parks in San Francisco. Filled with large grassy fields, trails, meadows, and picnic areas, you’ll never run out of places to explore. Golden Gate Park
15. Glen Canyon
This 66.6 acre recreational area includes scenic hiking trails and large open areas for you and your dog to explore together. Glen Canyon Park is one of San Francisco’s significant natural resource areas filled with important plant species. Dogs are required to be on leash. Glen Canyon
Social Hangouts
16. Tornado Pub
This local pub is located in the Haight and offers an assortment of craft beers. This is a great place to hang out with friends and pups are welcome if they are on leash. Tornado Pub
17. El Rio
A queer neighborhood bar located in the Mission District, that offers a backyard patio along with dancing and live music, all are welcome, including your beest. It can get pretty packed on special event nights, so be sure to plan accordingly if you plan to bring your pup. El Rio
18. Palm House SF
A colorful hangout spot with a tropical theme perfect for meeting friends and family for happy hour. Located on Union Street, this bar welcomes pup’s with their very own lei and lots of treats. Palm House was voted to be one of the Bay’s “most dog-friendly restaurants”. Palm House SF
19. Barebottle Brewing
In the mode for a good craft beer? Barebottle has various amounts of craft beers and food trucks. They have 2 locations, one in Bernal Heights and the other at Salesforce Park. They are very dog friendly and offer outdoor seating! Barebottle Brewing
20. Spark Social SF
Located in Mission Bay, Spark Social has something for everyone. Filled with food trucks, games, and lots of outdoor seating, this is a great and dog friendly place to hangout at. There are a number of food vendors and even a dog vending machine. Spark Social SF
21. Zeitgeist
A long time Mission District institution, Zeitgeist is a bar and beer garden known for its huge craft beer selection (64 on tap), bloody marys and outdoor patio with picnic tables. Pups are welcome to hang with you in their back yard but remember it can get crowded especially on those warmer days! Zeitgeist
Sightseeing
22. Cable Car
Take your dog on a sightseeing tour of the city on the cable car. 1 pet per car is welcome to ride during non-peak hours (5-9am and 3-7pm on weekdays). Pups must be leashed and on their parent's lap or sitting right next to them. Cable Car
23. Bay Cruise
A 60-minute tour of the bay on the Blue & Gold Fleet with your pup. You’ll be able to enjoy views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Pier 39 and much more. Dogs must be leashed or in a carrier and well behaved in order to board. Bay Cruise
24. Hotel Kabuki
Located in Japantown, this hotel is a great place and location to stay if you're planning on traveling with your dog. Bay Area local + doodle mom Melanie and pup Ruby, visited Hotel Kabuki and enjoyed their experience. “We felt safe walking at night and didn’t experience any boundaries. We were able to take Ruby almost anywhere in the hotel (not the gym or attached restaurant). It’s walking distance to a lot of dog-friendly things and close to grass…” Hotel Kabuki
25. Coit Tower
An iconic San Francisco landmark that is a must see if you haven’t yet. Bring your dog along for a scenic hike up to the top of the tower to get a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline view. Pup’s are recommended to be on leash and able to walk up and down a few flights of stairs. Coit Tower
Plan your next trip to the busy city and don’t feel guilty for not being able to bring your pup along. With restaurants, trails, parks and social gatherings, there's plenty to keep yourself and Beest engaged and making new memories together. Traveling to a different city? Stay tuned for more dog friendly city guides to come!
Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!
25 Dog Friendly Places in San Francisco (2023)
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