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Dog’s Day Out: 24 Ways To Hang Out with Your Dog in Phoenix
- Hike with your dog at Camelback Mountain.
- Run around with your dog at the Echo Canyon.
- Hike at the Butte at South Mountain Park.
- Tour the Goldfield Ghost Town with your dog in Apache Junction.
- Spend an afternoon with your furry friend at Tempe Town Lake.
- Play with other dogs at the Hance Dog Park.
- Hike with your dog at the White Tank Mountains.
- Hang out at the Tempe Beach Park.
- Enjoy great food and drinks with your dog at Clever Koi.
- Savor a cup of coffee with your dog at the Cartel Roasting Co.
- Explore Papago Park with your furry friend.
- Bring your dog to the Desert Botanical Garden.
- Relax with your dog at the OHSO Brewery.
- Shop at the Road Runner Park Farmers' Market.
- Shop with your dog at Biltmore Fashion Park.
- Watch a live baseball game with your dog in Chase Field.
- Take your dog to the Pioneer Living History Museum.
- Enjoy live music at The Farm at South Mountain.
- Enjoy a relaxing day in the shade at the Encanto Park.
- Visit the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area with your pup.
- Shop at the Desert Ridge Marketplace with your dog.
- Go book shopping with your fur baby at Bookmans Entertainment Exchange.
- Enjoy shopping at Arizona Center with your dog.
- Bring your dog to the Pinnacle Dog Park
From hiking to breathtaking vistas to vibrant communities, Phoenix is a great place to explore, but it’s more fun with your pet dog. Today, we share the best places to hang out and explore Phoenix with your four-legged best friend.
From doggy dips to epic hikes, we have something for every pup and pet owner like you. Read on!
1. Hike with your dog at Camelback Mountain.
Website: http://www.hikecamelback.com/camelback-trails.html
Address: Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Contact details: 602-256-3200
Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Camelback Mountain provides dog-friendly trails that can be found at the Echo Canyon or Cholla trailheads. They have different difficulty levels, catering to athletic dogs and those who prefer a stroll.
At the summit, Camelback Mountain will reward you with panoramic views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert landscape. It also has several areas with natural shade, especially on the Echo Canyon Trail, to protect your dog from the hot Phoenix sun.
| Pro tip: Hike early or in the evening when the temperatures are cooler, and pack plenty of water for you and your dog. We recommend the Echo Canyon Trail because they have dog walking lanes for fewer encounters with wildlife that could spook your dog. |
2. Run around with your dog at the Echo Canyon.
Website: www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/camelback-mountain
Address: 925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Contact details: 602-248-2722
Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Echo Canyon has a park where you and your dog can run or jog together. The trails are easy, scenic, and comfortable for you and your furry friend.
This park is wide and uncrowded, giving your dog plenty of room to run and explore without feeling overwhelmed. If you choose to continue hiking, ensure your dog is on a leash at all times to ensure the safety of your dog and other hikers.
| Pro tip: Be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog. Watch for rattlesnakes and desert critters, especially during the warmer months. |
3. Hike at the Butte at South Mountain Park.
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/south-mountain
Address: 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Contact details: 602-262-7393
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the largest city parks in the United States, with over 50 miles of dog-friendly trails. You can choose easy paths like the National Trail Loop or, for more adventurous dogs, the Mormon Loop or the West Ridge Trail.
If you want a more relaxed day out, take the Summit Road to Dobbins Lookout and soak in the valley views. Once a month, they observe Silent Sunday, when the park’s main access roads are reserved for non-motorized uses.
| Pro tip: Keep your dog on a leash unless you’re in a designated off-leash area. Stick to designated trails to avoid disturbing wildlife and vegetation. |
4. Tour the Goldfield Ghost Town with your dog in Apache Junction.
Website: http://goldfieldghosttown.com/
Address: 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119
Contact details: 480-982-7661
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Goldfield Ghost Town features over 14 acres of terrain for dogs to explore. Dogs are allowed to run off-leash in certain areas, and there are cafes with outdoor seating that overlook the entire property where you can relax with your dog.
Most of the town, including the train ride and mine tour, are open to well-behaved dogs on leashes. Here, you’ll see dog-friendly attractions, like the scenic train ride through the desert, a tour of the Goldfield Mine, and even a live gunfight show.
| Pro tip: Plan your visit during cooler months, like spring, fall, or even winter, for a more comfortable experience for you and your pup. If your dog is easily spooked, start with the quieter areas of the town before venturing into the livelier sections. |
5. Spend an afternoon with your furry friend at Tempe Town Lake.
Website: https://www.tempe.gov/lake/
Address: 622 N Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
Contact details: 480-350-5200
Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Tempe Town Lake allows leashed dogs to enjoy water activities. Boat rentals, including pedal and donut boats, are available and allow well-behaved, leashed dogs on board.
This 2.5-mile lake also offers plenty of room for your dog to walk, run, and sniff around on the designated trails. Other activities beyond swimming are walking, jogging, picnicking, or renting boats that allow pets.
| Pro tip: Keep your dog leashed at all times and avoid areas with algae blooms. Then, pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing picnic with your dog under shaded areas for your dog to rest and cool down. |
6. Play with other dogs at the Hance Dog Park.
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/parks/dog-parks/hance-dog
Address: 323 W Culver St, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Contact details: 602-253-3856
Operating hours: 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Hance Dog Park ensures the safety and comfort of all pups, regardless of size. The park boasts two fenced-in areas, one for small dogs and another for large dogs, providing plenty of room for your furry friend to socialize.
The park has fun obstacles like ramps, tunnels, and jumps, as well as shaded areas for respite from the Arizona sun and water stations to keep your pup hydrated. Hance Park Dog Park is a popular spot for dog owners, especially on weekends.
| Pro tip: If you’re visiting during the day, choose cooler mornings or evenings or during the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate. You should also arrive early to avoid competition for shaded areas or water stations. |
7. Hike with your dog at the White Tank Mountains.
Website: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/white-tank-mountain-regional-park/
Address: 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell, AZ 85355
Contact details: 623-935-2505
Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
White Tank Mountain Park features over 150 acres of desert terrain for dogs to explore. Dogs are allowed to run off-leash in certain areas and are registered, so make sure to stop by the Ranger Station upon arrival.
The park offers views of rugged mountains, canyons, and desert washes, which provides visual stimulation for your dog. The Waterfall Canyon Trail leads to waterfalls or natural pools where your dog can cool off and quench their thirst.
| Pro tip: Bring plenty of water, and consider dog booties for hot trails. Match the trail difficulty to your dog’s fitness level, such as the Waterfall Canyon Trail (easy), Black Rock Loop Trail (easy), and Mesquite Canyon Trail (moderate). |
8. Hang out at the Tempe Beach Park.
Website: https://www.tempe.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/176/3542
Address: 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281,
Contact details: 480-350-5100
Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Tempe Beach Park features a walking path extending along the shores of Arizona Mills Mall down to Hayden’s Ferry Lakeside. You can bring your pet here to romp around the grassy areas with other dogs.
The park has five miles of walking and biking trails. The park also has picnic tables, ramadas, grills, and restrooms, allowing you to pack a dog-friendly picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
| Pro tip: The park hosts dog-friendly events like Walk to Save Animals, which offer fun activities and opportunities for socialization with other dogs and pet owners. Always pack plenty of water and portable bowls for your dog for your visit. |
9. Enjoy great food and drinks with your dog at Clever Koi.
Website: https://www.cleverkoi.com/
Address: 4236 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Contact details: 602-274-0449
Operating hours: 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
The Clever Koi is a dog-friendly restaurant with craft cocktails, local brews, and an Asian-inspired menu with vegetarian options. They also have canine-friendly items on the menu, like the bone marrow broth bowl for your dog.
Clever Koi has a spacious patio where your furry friend can relax and enjoy the fresh air, especially during pleasant winters and mild spring and fall weather. The staff at Clever Koi is always happy to provide water bowls for your dog to keep them hydrated.
| Pro tip: To avoid large crowds, visit during off-peak hours, such as weekdays or lunchtime. It’s also important to keep your dog under control when barking or playing to ensure the safety of other guests and their pets. |
10. Savor a cup of coffee with your dog at the Cartel Roasting Co.
Website: https://cartelroasting.co/
Address: 1 N 1st St, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Contact details: 602- 277-1144
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Cartel Roasting Co. is a dog-friendly coffeehouse with a spacious patio where you and your dog can relax and enjoy the nice weather. They provide water bowls for dogs, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own.
This cafe also has a chill, boho atmosphere that’s welcoming to dogs. They also offer dog treats for purchase so your furry friend can enjoy a snack while you sip on your coffee.
| Pro tip: Bring waste bags to clean up after your dog, and make sure your dog is leashed and well-behaved. You can also choose a time to go when it’s not too crowded so your dog can stay calm. |
11. Explore Papago Park with your furry friend.
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/papago-park
Address: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact details: 602-495-5458
Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Papago Park features bike paths, rock climbing locations, hiking trails, botanical gardens, and picnic areas with tables. While enjoying the park, you can walk your dog around the grounds or take them on some hiking trails.
As you join trails at the pet-friendly Papago Park, you’ll enjoy the Sonoran Desert habitat and the sandstone buttes with your leashed dog. There are also fenced-in, off-leash areas in the park where your dog can run free and socialize with other dogs.
| Pro tip: Consider your dog’s fitness level and choose a suitable trail, like shorter, shaded paths. Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, insect repellent for yourself, a water bowl, and some toys for your dog. |
12. Bring your dog to the Desert Botanical Garden.
Website: https://dbg.org/
Address: 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact details: 480-941-1225
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
The Desert Botanical Garden features exhibits such as cactus gardens where you can bring your dog and explore it for free. The garden is the best place for them to sniff and observe cacti, succulents, and desert flora.
Walking paths through the Garden provide an excellent opportunity for your dog to get exercise. The garden has a dedicated 1.5-mile dog leash walk with diverse desert landscapes, preventing dogs from disturbing other visitors or wildlife.
| Pro tip: Stay on designated paths and obey leash laws to avoid letting your dog chase wildlife or disturb other visitors. Choose a time and route that best suits your dog’s personality and energy level, and take breaks in shaded areas. |
13. Relax with your dog at the OHSO Brewery.
Website: https://www.ohsobrewery.com/
Address: 4900 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018
Contact details: 602-955-0358
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
The OHSO Brewery has a dog-friendly patio perfect for dogs to run around, burn off some energy, and make new furry friends. They’re very welcoming to dogs and will even provide your pup with a water bowl and treats.
The brewery boasts a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere and an extensive menu of beers, cocktails, and dog-friendly snacks. They also have a dog-friendly policy encouraging interaction between human and canine patrons.
| Pro tip: Visit the brewery early, so you’ll likely find a spot on the patio. Ensure your dog is up-to-date on their vaccinations and well-behaved around other dogs. |
14. Shop at the Road Runner Park Farmers’ Market.
Website: https://arizonacommunityfarmersmarkets.com/roadrunner-farmers-mkt
Address: 3502 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85032
Operating hours: Saturday – 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
You can shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local goods with your dog at the Road Runner Park Farmers’ Market. The market welcomes well-behaved dogs on leashes.
The Road Runner Park has plenty of green space, so your dog can stretch their legs, sniff around, and even catch a frisbee in the grass. While your dog enjoys the grass, you can explore the market for fresh produce, artisan crafts, and delicious food.
| Pro tip: Bring plenty of water for you and your dog, especially during the warmer months. You can refill water bowls at the park fountain and pack some tasty dog treats on hand, which can help keep your dog happy and focused during your visit. |
15. Shop with your dog at Biltmore Fashion Park.
Website: https://www.shopbiltmore.com/
Address: 2502 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, Arizona 85016
Contact details: 602-428-8220
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
If you’re up for outdoor shopping with your dog, visit Biltmore Fashion Park. Many stores will let you bring well-behaved pets inside with you, like the Zinburger and Over Easy restaurants.
The park has plenty of outdoor space for your dog to run and play and even grassy areas to relax in the shade. There are also several water fountains throughout the park to keep your dog hydrated.
| Pro tip: Look out for their dog-friendly events like dog parades and costume contests. The park can get crowded, especially on weekends, so if you want to avoid the crowds, try going early in the morning or later in the evening. |
16. Watch a live baseball game with your dog in Chase Field.
Website: https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/ballpark
Address: 01 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact details: 602-462-4600
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Spring training is one of Phoenix’s most popular attractions, and you can witness this sports event with your dog. In Chase Field, dogs are welcome only for an additional $5 each.
Chase Field also offers doggy seating on the PetSmart Patio during select games. You can also purchase a “Dog Days of Summer” ticket package to allow your pet to enjoy treats like doggie ice cream while enjoying all-you-can-eat hot dogs.
| Pro tip: Join the Bark at the Park, an annual event featuring a pre-game Puppy Parade, special bleacher seating, and dog-themed concessions. Always purchase tickets in advance, as dog-friendly seating areas sell out quickly. |
17. Take your dog to the Pioneer Living History Museum.
Website: https://pioneeraz.org/
Address: 3901 W Pioneer Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85086
Contact details: 623-476-2734
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum is an outdoor museum that mimics a pioneer town in the “Wild West” from the 1800s. You can see original and restored buildings like a Blacksmith Shop, Dress Shop, and Schoolhouse with your dog.
The museum has extensive grounds with walking paths and gardens for dogs to run and meet other dogs. While your dog enjoys the outdoors, you can learn about local history and culture through re-enactments and exhibits.
| Pro tip: Dogs must always be leashed, stick to the museum grounds, and avoid entering buildings unless explicitly allowed. Be aware that snakes are around during warm months. |
18. Enjoy live music at The Farm at South Mountain.
Website: http://www.thefarmatsouthmountain.com/
Address: 6106 S 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Contact details: 602-276-6360
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
The Farm at South Mountain has a pet-friendly patio where you can explore gardens, peruse the market, eat at The Farm Kitchen, and enjoy live music at Tempe’s Mill Avenue every Thursday night.
The Farm has a shaded patio where you and your dog can relax and enjoy the live music. The music is usually at a level that is not too loud for dogs, so you don’t have to worry about them getting stressed out.
| Pro tip: The Farm has a cafe that sells food and drinks for people and dogs so you can get a coffee or a beer for yourself and a treat or toy for your pup. They also provide dog water bowls, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own. |
19. Enjoy a relaxing day in the shade at the Encanto Park.
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/parks/alphabetical/e-parks/encanto-park
Address: 2605 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ, US, 85007
Contact details: 602-262-6862
Operating hours: 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Encanto Park is a pet-friendly park with amenities, including a picnic area, playground, grills and fishing lagoon. You can take your dog on a walk along the lazy river or enjoy a lazy day with a picnic in the grass.
Encanto Park’s mature trees provide ample shade, making it a comfortable spot for you and your furry friend to escape the sun. The park’s 32 acres offer plenty of grassy areas perfect for fetching, playing frisbee, or just enjoying a stroll.
| Pro tip: Always be responsible and clean up after your dog, so pack enough waste bags and dispose of them properly in designated bins. Keep your dog on a leash and under control. |
20. Visit the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area with your pup.
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/rio-salado-habitat-restoration-area
Address: 2439 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ, US, 85004
Contact details: 602-262-6863
Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area welcomes dogs, and you can explore the area with them as long as they remain on the asphalt trails. Here, you can enjoy the views of the river channel, ponds, rocks, flowers, and wildlife.
The Restoration Area boasts over 10 miles of paved and natural trails perfect for walking, running, or biking while exploring wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. These are paved, and natural trails are suitable for dogs on leashes.
| Pro tip: Go early in the morning or later in the evening. Bring plenty of water so you and your dog will need to stay hydrated, especially if you’re doing a lot of walking or running. |
21. Shop at the Desert Ridge Marketplace with your dog.
Website: http://shopdesertridge.com/
Address: 21001 N Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050
Contact details: 480-513-7586
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Desert Ridge Marketplace offers 1.2 million square feet of dog-friendly retail space. The general outdoor areas, including walkways, plazas, and the KidSplash fountain, are designated for dogs to enjoy fresh air and explore freely.
Many restaurants and cafes have patios or sidewalk seating, allowing you to grab a bite with your furry friend without leaving them behind. If you need a quick refill on kibble, there’s PetSmart within the market for quick access to essential pet supplies.
| Pro tip: During peak hours, the marketplace can get crowded, which might be overwhelming for your dog, so aim to visit in the morning or during less busy times. Phoenix can also get hot, so bring water bowls and cooling vests, especially in the summer. |
22. Go book shopping with your fur baby at Bookmans Entertainment Exchange.
Website: http://www.bookmans.com/
Address: 8034 N 19th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85021
Contact details: 602-433-0255
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Bookmans Entertainment Exchange buys, sells, and trades used books, music, movies, video games, and musical instruments and welcomes well-behaved, leashed dogs in their stores. So you can hunt for treasures in this place with your furry friend.
It’s also an excellent place for your dog to meet other friendly pups and people. Bookmans also provides a cool escape from the heat for you and your dog to get free dog treats at this place.
| Pro tip: Visit during less busy hours like weekdays or mornings to avoid overwhelming your dog with crowds. Be mindful of other customers and keep your dog on a short leash, avoiding book displays and delicate merchandise. |
23. Enjoy shopping at Arizona Center with your dog.
Website: https://arizonacenter.com/
Address: 400 N 5th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact details: 602-271-4000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Arizona Center is a fantastic place to stroll down the sidewalk with your dog for window shopping. The Center’s garden has walking paths, benches, fountains and shade for your dog to romp around.
The Center caters to many people and their pets, providing your dog with socialization opportunities. Some restaurants at the Center have dog-friendly patios where you can enjoy a meal with your pup.
| Pro tip: To be safe, call ahead to confirm the restaurant allows dogs on the patio. Be mindful of other people and their pets, so keep your dog on a leash at all times and clean up after them. |
24. Bring your dog to the Pinnacle Dog Park
Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parkssite/Pages/pinnacle-dog-park.aspx
Address: 20900 Black Mountain Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050
Contact details: 602-262-6696
Operating hours: 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Pinnacle Dog Park is a three-acre space in Phoenix where your dog can play freely with other pups. It features separate fenced areas for large and small dogs and amenities like shade trees, turf and granite surfaces, drinking fountains and benches.
Seating areas and water are available, making it a comfortable place for humans to relax and watch their dogs play. The park is also easily accessible from the city, making it a convenient option for an after-work play session or a weekend adventure.
| Pro tip: Pack some of your dog’s favorite toys to keep them entertained during your visit, like frisbees, balls, and chew toys. |
