Is Knoxville Dog Friendly? Discover the Best Spots for You and Your Pup
- Jun 4
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 9
If you’re a dog parent wondering, “Is Knoxville dog friendly?”—the answer is a resounding yes! Whether you're in search of dog-friendly patios, breweries that welcome dogs, off-leash parks, or fun local events to share with your pup, Knoxville, Tennessee, offers a vibrant community and a plethora of spaces for dogs and their humans. Looking to explore dog-friendly Knoxville? Here are some great places to start.
Dog Friendly Breweries in Knoxville
Knoxville’s craft beer scene is not just about the brews. It’s about the atmosphere. Many breweries welcome dogs, allowing you to enjoy your drink alongside your furry friend.
Top Dog Friendly Breweries in Knoxville:
Pretentious Beer Co. – Situated in the Old City, this brewery allows dogs inside and boasts a lively taproom. They are also known for their unique hand-blown glassware.
Yee-Haw Brewing Co. – Ideal for catching a game or relaxing on their spacious outdoor patio. Family and dog-friendly, this place welcomes all.
Alliance Brewing Company – Known for its dog-friendly indoor policy, this brewery offers great beers and easy access to the South Waterfront greenway.
Orange Hat Brewing – Located in Hardin Valley, this taproom is both kid- and dog-friendly, featuring a spacious patio and a host of community events.
Many breweries offer dog treats, water bowls, and even pup cups. Some breweries participate in the Knox Pup Culture Club, which provides exclusive drink discounts and perks. Learn more here.
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Knoxville
Dining out with your pet has never been easier in Knoxville. There are several dog friendly restaurants where dogs are welcome on the patio—and sometimes even treated with water and snacks.
Local Favorites with Dog Friendly Patios:
Café 4 – A downtown staple with a generous covered patio and consistently friendly staff.
Barley’s Pizzeria & Taproom – Located in the Old City, it offers a spacious dog-friendly patio alongside an impressive selection of beers.
Zalate Taqueria – A newer yet popular taqueria providing fresh tacos in a relaxed setting with a dog-friendly patio.
Ale’ Rae’s Gastro Pub – Known for its live music and large outdoor patio where dogs are welcome.
Most restaurants in Market Square and Old City Knoxville feature patios that cater to dogs, especially during spring and fall. It’s a good idea to double-check with the staff since policies can vary depending on the time of day or event.
Best Dog Parks and Trails in Knoxville
Discover an impressive selection of dog parks and dog-friendly trails in Knoxville, offering everything from fenced areas for play to serene wooded paths.
Top Dog Parks in Knoxville:
Concord Park Dog Park – As one of the largest off-leash parks, it provides areas for both large and small dogs, plus access to water for swimming.
Tommy Schumpert Dog Park – This beloved park near Fountain City features fenced areas for dogs, shaded benches, and agility equipment.
Downtown Dog Park – Conveniently located near World’s Fair Park, this urban park is ideal for city dwellers and visitors.
Dog Friendly Trails and Walking Spots:
Ijams Nature Center – Offers miles of leash-friendly hiking trails with beautiful views and water access.
Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area – A scenic spot featuring sunflower fields and paved trails along the river.
Third Creek Greenway – This paved and shaded trail connects multiple neighborhoods, making it perfect for daily strolls.
Dog Friendly Shopping in Knoxville
Want to shop without leaving your dog behind? Knoxville has several dog-friendly shopping centers and stores where leashed dogs are welcomed with open arms.
Where to Shop with Your Dog:
Painted Tree Boutiques – An expansive indoor marketplace in West Knoxville featuring local vendors. Dogs are welcomed while you browse.
Mast General Store – A charming dog-friendly store downtown with a special pet section and an excellent range of outdoor gear.
Earth to Old City – An eclectic store with tons of Tennessee-themed merchandise, where well-behaved dogs are welcome.
For more pet-focused shopping, don’t miss:
River Dog Bakery – Offers fresh-baked treats, accessories, and even birthday cakes for your pup.
CitiFid-O – An upscale downtown boutique filled with high-end gear, collars, toys, and holistic food options.
Dog Friendly Events in Knoxville
There’s always something happening in Knoxville for you and your furry friend. From vibrant parades to delightful dog markets, the city hosts a variety of dog-friendly events worth attending.
Notable Dog Events:
Mardi Growl – A festive downtown parade hosted by Young-Williams Animal Center. Expect dogs in costumes, vendors, music, and fun.
Howl-O-Ween – A fall favorite at UT Gardens that includes a dog costume contest and local vendors.
Local Dog Markets & Brewery Events – Keep an eye out for seasonal pup events, adoption fairs, and dog-centric vendor fairs across local venues.
For updated events, visit the Dog Friendly Knoxville events calendar.
Dog Friendly Hotels in Knoxville
Traveling with your dog or planning a staycation? Knoxville features several pet-friendly hotels that make accommodating dogs a breeze.
Recommended Dog Friendly Hotels:
The Marriott Knoxville Downtown – Perfectly located with parks and dog-friendly dining close by.
The Oliver Hotel – Known for its boutique charm, this hotel is pet friendly and steps away from Market Square.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham – Frequently recommended for its pet policies without extra fees.
Always call ahead to confirm specific policies, pet fees, and weight limits.
Final Verdict: Is Knoxville Dog Friendly?
Yes, Knoxville is an incredibly dog-friendly city. Whether you’re enjoying greenways, sipping craft beer, or dining on a sunny patio, don’t forget to check out the many dog-friendly options available. This city makes it easy for locals and visitors to spend quality time with their pets.
Explore More with Our Dog Friendly Map
Want a complete view of Knoxville’s offerings for you and your pup? Use our interactive Dog Friendly Knoxville Map to find breweries, patios, parks, trails, and stores—all of which are dog-friendly. This resource is updated regularly with local favorites and hidden gems. It’s perfect for planning weekend outings or discovering new spots your dog will love!
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