The Ultimate Phoenix Pet-Friendly Travel Guide
By: Lizz CaputoExplore the best of Phoenix with your dog! Discover top pet-friendly parks, restaurants, hikes and more in our ultimate guide to dog-friendly travel in Phoenix.
Welcome to Phoenix, where the sun paints the sky and the desert blooms with opportunities for adventure! If you plan to explore this vibrant city with your pup by your side, you've come to the right place.
Phoenix is a haven for sun-seekers and a paradise for pets, offering an array of activities, eateries, and shops that welcome furry guests with open arms. Whether you're strolling through the scenic parks, dining at cozy pet-friendly patios, or finding the perfect spot to hike, this guide will help you navigate the city's hidden gems that cater to the needs of pet parents.
Fuel up at Scramble for brunch
Located in Phoenix, Scramble is a delightful spot for breakfast and lunch. All Scramble locations have dog-friendly patios and even provide complimentary recyclable dog dishes for thirsty pups. Just remember to follow health regulations – certified service animals are welcome inside the dining area and all others will have to chill outside and enjoy the sun.
Take a hike on the North Mountain National Trail
The North Mountain National Trail in Phoenix offers an invigorating outdoor adventure. It's a moderately challenging hike - approximately 1.7 miles with an elevation gain of 675 feet. It'll take you and your pup about an hour to trek in total. As long as your hiking hound stays on leash, they're welcome on all parts of the trail.
The south side is steep, rocky, and potentially challenging, especially for inexperienced hikers or those with small or senior dogs. In contrast, the north side is paved and easier to navigate. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views.
FYI - this trail is quite popular, so starting early in the morning if you prefer solitude or if your dog is averse to crowds is advisable.
Stop for a pup pastry at Happy Tails Barkery
Nestled in Phoenix, Happy Tails Barkery is the go-to spot for freshly baked dog treats, cupcakes, cakes, and more. Famous for their hand-crafted goodies, they use only the highest quality ingredients—many sourced from local AZ farmers markets. They recently got a big boost in visibility when Dave Portnoy’s dog, Miss Peaches, celebrated a big social media milestone with a custom-made birthday cake from the Barkery! And any treat good enough for Miss Peaches is good enough for your pup.
Grab beer and a brat at Brat Haus
Stop in and grab some grub at Braut Haus in Scottsdale. Friendly servers, delicious food, and a dog-friendly atmosphere create a welcoming vibe. The open-air patio is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, and it's a dog-friendly zone. For a small fee, you can even celebrate your pet's birthday and chow down on homemade biscuits and a free dog brat together! Bring along your adventure pup for some fun in the sun.
Slow down at The Farm at South Mountain
The Farm at South Mountain is a delightful spot for dog owners. Explore the beautiful grounds with your pup in tow, including the gardens, restaurants, and market, and grab a bite at Morning Glory Café or The Farm Kitchen. Just make sure your soulful sidekick is leashed!
Shopping sesh at Oh My Dog! Boutique
Oh My Dog! Boutique Hotel & Spa is a premier destination for smaller breed dogs located in Scottsdale. They offer grooming, day play, boarding, and a specialty retail boutique for the most discerning of dogs.
The boutique has been a mainstay in Old Town Scottsdale since 2008, offering a unique shopping experience with a variety of toys, collars, carriers, and accessories.
Their daycare offers three spacious areas for dogs to play and socialize, grouped by size, breed, temperament, and play style. The Oh My Dog! Boutique Hotel is a small dog-only hotel, ensuring a comfortable and tailored experience for your pint-sized pup.
Cool off at Tempe Beach Park
Imagine a day filled with sunshine and scenic views at Tempe Beach Park in Tempe, AZ, where your leashed dog can join in on all the fun. This pet-friendly paradise sits right next to the sparkling Tempe Town Lake and offers five miles of trails perfect for jogging, biking, or a leisurely stroll with your adventure pup. After working up an appetite, you can enjoy a picnic at one of the many tables, or use the grills for a pet parent cookout. Convenient restrooms are also available, making it easy to spend the whole day exploring and relaxing in this beautiful lakeside setting.
Dinner at O.H.S.O Brewery (Arcadia location)
A delightful spot for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike, O.H.S.O. is celebrated for good beer, flavorful menu, and dog-inclusive vibes. You’ll find over 40 brews on tap, wine, and house cocktails. The best part? This restaurant is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your travel companion along. They even provide free dog treats for their canine patrons!
Watch the sunset at Papago Bark Park
Papago Off-Leash Dog Park is a favorite among Phoenix-area pet parents, celebrated for its extensive amenities and beautiful setting. Located within the larger Papago Park, this dog park offers over three miles of walking and hiking trails, where dogs can explore and play to their hearts' content. The park features numerous off-leash areas along with convenient waste stations, making it easy for owners to keep the area clean.
As your adventure in Phoenix comes to a close, it's clear that this city is a fantastic destination for pet parents. From sprawling dog-friendly trails to the welcoming patios of local eateries, Phoenix proves time and again that it truly values and caters to the needs of its four-legged visitors.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, Phoenix's vibrant pet-friendly scene ensures that every moment spent here with your pet is one to remember.
Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.
