Roam: Plenty of pet (and human) amenities in Portland

Portland is pretty famous for its acceptance of our four-legged friends—some would argue too famous, because of the immense amount of freedoms dogs have in the city. However, if you keep your pooch from popping a squat in the grocery store isle, you’ll find the welcoming nature of the City of Roses overwhelming.

Parks & Play

Thirty-three scenic and well-equipped dog parks are bunched within Portland, that’s an impressive 5.4 parks per 100,00 residents. So, the question is no longer, “Where can we find a place to play?” The question is, “Which place should we choose today?”

• Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge was saved from becoming a landfill, decades ago, because of its wildlife accommodating marshland. Several species of birds call the park home, some of which you may see when traveling the dog welcoming, lake looping paths.

• Portland’s Rose Garden, also known as the International Rose Test Garden, is a serene escape bursting with color from over 10,000 rose bushes of 650 varietals. Paved paths provide smooth walking terrain through the historic grounds, making for a nice change of pace for a daily outing.

• Powell Butte is what is left of an ancient volcano that once plumed over Portland—vast meadows and gorgeous wooded trails are now maintained for hikers, bikers and dogs of course. Keep in mind, wildlife and birds of prey are abundant amongst areas like this, so stay alert and take precautions.

• eNRG Kayaking is one of those things you have to do while in Portland, because you can bring your furry friend along for the ride. Lessons are offered for those who feel they need a little training before venturing out.

• A slew of traditional dog parks are at your disposal, with many having large, off leash areas—Arbor Lodge Park, Woodstock Park, Alberta Park and Sellwood Riverfront Park are just a handful of the conveniently located, accommodating play spaces available to you and your pet.

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Eats

Finding a restaurant in Portland with pet accommodating patio seating is nearly effortless, so we’ll just narrow down to the very best in taste and hospitality.

• Java Hound Coffee Bar –the name says it all. Situated within a stellar pet boutique offering the best doggie clothes and accessories is an amazing coffee shop with killer lattes and pastries. And yes, they absolutely have puppuccinos.

• Martha’s is located inside the charming Revolution Hall, which used to be a school. Breakfast favorites include local boiled bagels and avocado toast, while handcrafted pizza, artisan sandwiches and delicious cocktails can be enjoyed on the patio that sits right next to Washington Highschool Dog Park.

• Food Cart Pods are clustered throughout Portland, and have some of the best eats around. The outdoor environment means less restrictions dogs, so you can mingle about while scoring some seriously awesome grub for both of you. (Take a look at this food cart pod map!)

• The White Owl Social Club has “Happy” and “Yappy” hours, meaning you and your dog get to indulge in special treats during certain times of the day. Local shelter dogs often get to visit as well, in hopes of finding forever homes.

• The Station adds upscale twists to pub favorites like burgers, pizza and mac and cheese. Dogs also get to pick from their own menu, which makes this place extra special.

Rest

Will all the running, playing and eating you and your furry friend will be doing in the city, you need to have an equally as stellar place to hit the hay. Again, there’s not really a shortage in Portland, but the following are standouts.

• Hotel Monaco is a part of the pet accommodating Kimpton line, and offers plush pet peds, food and other home comforts during your stay. Dogs are also invited to the daily wine reception.

• The Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel is nothing short of stunning with vast water views, and the same pup perks offered by other hotels within the chain. A beautiful river path is available for relaxing strolls.

• Kennedy School Hotel is probably the most interesting, eccentric dog-friendly hotel, with a lot to explore. Aside from eye catching historic architecture, there’s some pretty sweet bars and food joints to check out.

• Sniff Dog Hotel is every dog’s dream with rooftop strolling space, salon packages, doggy day care and plenty of treats. Modern, and spacious, they stay is an incredible experience.

Portland is an essential vacation stop for pet owners, because healthy city life and breathtaking landscape merge together for an optimal getaway for dogs. With Mt. Hood setting the backdrop, and spanning acreage for lots of play time, you’ll have one happy pup on your hands.

Karyn Wofford is a “Mom” to her fluffy, sweet dog Halli. She spends much of her time traveling and advocating for Type 1 diabetes—and Halli sometimes accompanies her on her adventures. You’ll find Karyn’s work on sites like Mother Earth Living, and in magazines such as Diabetes Forecast.