Pet-friendly Asheville: Restaurants, breweries, hikes & more

Updated 27 Feb 2026

Welcome to Asheville, North Carolina – affectionately known as Dog City USA! Whether you’re exploring the area while house sitting in Asheville or you’re a proud pet parent who wants to introduce your Asheville pet sitter to the city, you’ll find no shortage of pup-friendly places to visit. From tail-wagging trails to patios where pups are treated to the very best, this guide to dog-friendly Asheville will help you make the most of the city.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville

Below, find a few of the dog-friendly restaurants Asheville has to offer, and remember to call ahead and book a table to make sure your pup is still allowed.

Twisted Laurel

While you dig into plates of fish, bowls of salads, and stone hearth pizzas, your furry friend can try anything off the doggy menu, which has been specially designed by an animal nutritionist.

Location: 130 College St, Asheville, NC 28801

White Duck Taco Shop

Head here for mouth-watering tacos with a variety of flavors that change with the seasons and a spacious outdoor area perfect for you and your pup.

Location: 12 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28803

Laughing Seed Cafe

Organic, locally grown ingredients are whipped into vegan and veggie delights while you can sip on anything from craft cocktails to herbal mocktails – of course, Laughing Seed welcomes well-behaved pups on the patio.

Location: 40 Wall St, Asheville, NC 28801

Posana

Where else can you enjoy fine dining on an outdoor patio while your pup gets treated like royalty with their very own dog menu?
Location: 1 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Corner Kitchen

Corner Kitchen is a farm-to-table restaurant loved by locals for its high-quality food and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant is set in a vintage home in Biltmore Village, and dogs are welcome to join you at the outdoor seating area.

Location: 3 Boston Way, Asheville, NC 28803, United States

Carmel's Kitchen & Bar

Love Southern cuisine? Dine under the umbrellas of Asheville’s Historic Grove Arcade with your furry friend and choose from crab cakes, fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and more.

Location: 1 Page Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States

Mellow Mushroom

If you’re looking for somewhere dog-friendly to enjoy a slice (or three), check out Mellow Mushroom on Broadway Street. It’s a laid-back spot for pizza, wings and an eclectic beer menu.

Location: 50 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801, United States

Dog-friendly breweries in Asheville

Asheville is known for its craft beer scene, so what better way to explore the city than hopping between breweries with your pup in tow? Find a few of Asheville's breweries and bars that allow dogs below, and remember to check with a staff member before finding a seat with your dog.

Wicked Weed Brewing

The dog-friendly patio here is the perfect spot for beer lovers to enjoy a range of craft beers and delicious bites (plus their merch is top-notch). 

Location: 91 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Burial Beer Co.

Forget your usual hipster brewery, this family-run spot is all about good quality craft beers served in a warm, welcoming environment – and it’s pet-friendly inside and out! 

Location: 40 Collier Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

The Whale: A Craft Beer Collective

Featuring a curated selection of craft beers from around the world, plus wine, cider, mead, and even sake, this bar welcomes dogs inside.

Location: 507 Haywood Rd #10, Asheville, NC 28806

Green Man Brewery

Dog-friendly inside and out, this popular brewery serves fresh beers that vary from season to season in a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Location: 27 Buxton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Mills River Dog Park

If you’re looking for somewhere new to let your dog run free, drive just 25 minutes south of Asheville to Mills River. Here, you’ll find a spacious dog park complete with trails and water bowls.

Location: 124 Town Center Dr, Mills River, NC 28759, United States

Wagbar

And for another option not far from Asheville, make the short drive to Weaverville (just 10 minutes) to find Wagbar. It’s an off-leash dog park and bar, perfect for both pups and humans to socialize.

Location: 320 Merrimon Ave, Weaverville, NC 28787, United States

WagWorld

If you like the sound of Wagbar but Fletcher is easier for you to get to, drive 20 minutes from central Asheville to find WagWorld. It’s an off-leash dog park and pub (for humans) — ideal for both dogs and their owners to meet like-minded others.

Location: 21 Redmond Dr Building C, Fletcher, NC 28732, United States

Dog-friendly activities in Asheville

Asheville has plenty of activities that cater to humans and their pet pals — start with our list of dog-friendly places in Asheville to make the most of the city and beyond.

Go to Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum

If you’re on the hunt for dog-friendly museums, Asheville’s got one for you! Furry friends are welcome on the leash of this historic site, where you’re both free to explore the collection of vintage and classic cars. 

Cost: Free (although donations are greatly appreciated).

Date and time: Open daily April—December, 10 am – 5 pm.

Location: 111 Grovewood Rd, Asheville, NC 28804

Drive along Blue Ridge Parkway

Take your furry friend for a scenic drive along the ridge from Asheville to Blowing Rock (or further!), which takes around three hours if you do the whole thing in one go. Stop and enjoy the scenery or head off into the mountains to find some great hikes.

Visit Biltmore Estate

Explore the grounds of this French Renaissance château with your pup on the leash. Note that you can’t enter any buildings with your pet unless they’re a service animal.

Cost: Admission varies by date and season — check the Biltmore website for current pricing.

Date and time: Seasonal opening times vary, check their website for details.

Location: Asheville, NC 28803, United States

Complete the Asheville Urban Trail

Get to know the city of Asheville with this self-guided walking tour, following a string of 30 sculptures that showcase the city’s incredible history. 

Cost: Free

Date and time: Accessible year-round.

Location: Start in front of Pack Place on Asheville's Pack Square

Go to Patton Avenue Pet Company – Downtown

Pick up a tasty treat or a high-quality toy for your furry friend at this locally owned, ethically run pet store. 

Date and time: Open daily 10 am – 7 pm.

Location: 109 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Dog-friendly hikes in Asheville

Most dogs love nothing more than being outside — luckily, there are plenty of scenic trails that welcome dogs in Asheville. Explore a few dog-friendly hikes below to get started, and remember to always pack appropriately — bringing poop bags, a first aid kit, portable water bowl, snacks, dog-safe sunscreen, and anything else you'll need to protect both you and your dog from the weather.

Craggy Pinnacle hike

This is a relatively easy hike leading up to spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with rhododendron blooming in late spring.

Location: 3641 Blue Ridge Parkway, Barnardsville, NC 28709

Length: Approx. 1.5 km

Bent Creek trailhead

Hikers, dog walkers, and mountain bikers share this peaceful network of trails through woodlands and fields.  

Location: 2-1298 491, Asheville, NC 28806

Graveyard Fields loop 

Waterfalls, open meadows, and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains make this shaded trail a popular spot for pawrents and their dogs. 

Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, Canton, NC 28716

Length: Approx. 5-6.5 km

Hominy Creek Greenway - Sand Hill Entrance

Not far from town but still with the feeling of being in nature, this short trail has a sandy beach right in the middle – perfect for a refreshing splash.

Location: 420 Sand Hill Rd, Asheville, NC 28806

Length: Approx. 3-4 km

Catawba Falls 

Drive just 30 minutes from Asheville to Catawba Falls for views of the 100-foot fall — just be sure to keep your dog on a leash, and consider avoiding the metal grating as it may be difficult for your dog’s paws.

Location: 3074 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort, NC 28762, United States

DuPont State Recreational Forest

Roughly 50 minutes away from Asheville, DuPont State Recreational Forest has a whopping 12,500 acres for you and your pup to explore. Keep your eyes peeled for Hooker Falls, High Falls and Triple Falls, and opt for the wider gravel trails if you’d like an easier walk.

Location: Staton Rd, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718, United States

Pisgah National Forest

If you want to plan an adventure with your furry friend, make the short drive to Pisgah National Forest — a forest in the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina. Keep them on a leash, always pick up after your pup and choose from gentler walks on wide gravel paths, or rugged routes perfect for high-energy dogs.

Location: Pisgah Ranger District, 1600 Pisgah Hwy, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

Dog-friendly coffee shops in Asheville

These dog-friendly cafes serve barista coffee, comforting lunch dishes and even dog-safe drinks. Get started with Asheville's dog-friendly coffee shops below, and remember to always ask a staff member before taking a seat with your furry friend.

Farewell

Light bites are served alongside coffee, tea, and wine in this bright, airy cafe, where dogs are welcome both inside and out.

Location: 11 Southside Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

All Day Darling

A delicious all-day breakfast menu is served at this friendly local spot, which has dog-friendly dining on the patio and plenty of free parking. 

Location: 102 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Double D's Coffee & Desserts

This double-decker-bus-turned-coffee-shop has a quirky atmosphere and outdoor seating for pups and their human companions.

Location: 41 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Liberty House Coffee and Café

Leashed pups are welcome on the patio of this rustic coffee shop, which serves delicious farm-to-table breakfast and lunch options.

Location: 221 S Liberty St, Asheville, NC 28801

Sunny Point Cafe

This beloved, family-owned spot is known for its all-day breakfast (with a side of Bloody Marys) and dog-friendly patio.

Location: 626 Haywood Rd, Asheville, NC 28806

Dog parks in Asheville

Of all the dog-friendly places in Asheville, the dog park has to be one of the best spots to visit! Fenced dog parks are a great way to help your dog socialize, Start with the dog parks below, and remember to only let your dog off the leash if you're sure you're in a designated dog park.

French Broad River Dog Park

This riverside park has plenty of open green space and a dedicated off-leash area for pups to socialize and play.

Location: 508 Riverview Dr, Asheville, NC 28806

Azalea Road Dog Park

This spacious off-leash park has separate areas for large and small dogs, plus shaded seating for pup parents. 

Location: 498 State Rd 2754, Asheville, NC 28805

Annual dog events in Asheville

Think Asheville NC is dog-friendly? Wait until you go to one of their dog-friendly events! Whether your pup is a social butterfly or just loves a good belly rub, these events are the perfect excuse to get out, have fun, and maybe even make a few new furry friends!

Asheville Puppy Bowl

Forget the Super Bowl, watch the adorable adoptable pups show off their best moves as they play their way toward finding a fur-ever family. 

Cost: Free to attend, suggested $5 donation.

Date and time: Typically held in early February; check local listings for exact dates.

Location: The location may change yearly, so check the website to confirm.

Doggie Dip

In this end-of-summer tradition, local pools open their doors to dogs for a refreshing swim before closing for the season.

Cost: $5

Date and time: Beginning of September.

Location: 65 Gashes Crk Rd, Asheville, NC 28805

Tips for pet parents in Asheville

Keep these tips in mind when exploring Asheville’s dog-friendly spots:

• Mind the mountain weather. Asheville’s weather can be unpredictable – sunshine one minute, rain the next. Always check the forecast before heading out (although don’t rely on it to be totally accurate!) and pack for all seasons.
• Take advantage of off-leash spaces. If your furry friend needs space to zoom, head to French Broad River Dog Park or Morgan Falls River Park for some off-leash fun. Just remember to bring water and poop bags.
• Watch out for wildlife. Asheville’s natural beauty comes with some wild neighbors, so keep an eye out for deer, bears, and the occasional snake while exploring the trails. 
• Plan ahead for your next vacation. Heading out of town but not sure what to do with your pup? While day trips are easy to organize, longer vacations require a little more planning. Finding an Asheville pet sitter who’ll care of your furry family members while you’re away is not only better for your pup, but also means you’ll have total peace of mind on your trip. To find out more, click below.

Tips for pet sitters in Asheville

If you’re pet sitting in the city, knowing the best dog-friendly places in Asheville can make all the difference. Here are a few tips to remember during your stay:

• Explore dog-friendly places in Asheville. From pet-friendly patios to dog-friendly museums, Asheville is full of things to do and places to explore with your new furry friend.
• Be respectful at Biltmore. Visiting Biltmore Estate? Remember that pups are welcome on the grounds and trails but not inside the house. 
• Leave no trace. Asheville prides itself on being dog-friendly – let’s keep it that way! Always clean up after your dog, whether you’re at a park or on a mountain trail.
• Experience Asheville through house sitting. Love the idea of staying in a cozy Asheville home with a furry friend by your side? Click below to see how house and pet sitting can make that happen!

More dog-friendly travel guides near Asheville

Thinking about house sitting near Asheville, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.

• Dog-friendly Charlotte: Things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Atlanta: Things to do in Atlanta with a dog
• A guide to dog-friendly Durham, NC
• Dog-friendly Raleigh: Things to do in Raleigh with a dog
• Pet-friendly Knoxville: attractions, restaurants and parks