Dog-friendly Seattle: Restaurants, attractions & beaches

Live in The Emerald City with a furry friend, or thinking about house sitting as a pet sitter in Seattle? Rest assured you’re in the perfect place. In this ultimate guide to dog-friendly Seattle’s restaurants, attractions, parks, beaches and more, planning a day with your pup is simple.

Is Seattle dog-friendly?

Yes — pet parents in Seattle can choose from the city’s dog parks and off-leash areas, such as Golden Gardens and Watercrest Park to socialize with other pet lovers. The city is also packed with a range of dog-friendly restaurants, cafes and bars, like the Barking Dog Ale House and The Yard Cafe. There are plenty of other dog-friendly things to do in Seattle. These include walks in nearby national parks and meet-ups, with dog-friendly beaches like Richmond Saltwater Park and Magnuson Park Off-Leash area.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Seattle

When you’re looking for things to do with dogs in Seattle, you’re bound to get hungry at some point! So to help plan your dog-friendly Seattle day out, explore our list of the dog friendly restaurants Seattle has to offer below.

Dog Yard

Head to Dog Yard to soak up the sun, catch up with friends, or enjoy the vibe with a cocktail, mocktail, or beer in hand — with your pup by your side.

Location: 1546 NW Leary Way, Seattle, WA 98107

The Yard Cafe

If Latin & American food is your thing, check out this dog-friendly restaurant in Seattle where you’ll find craft beers and a dog-friendly outdoor patio.

Location: 8313 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103, United States

Emmy's Vege House

After a casual dining experience? Head over to Bainbridge Island to Emmy’s Vege House for a selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

Location: 100 Winslow Way W, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Magnuson Cafe & Brewery

Looking for dog-friendly restaurants in Sandpoint, Seattle? You’re spoiled for choice — explore Magnuson cafe and brewery for classic American dishes and beers on tap.

Location: 7801 62nd Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Hattie's Hat Restaurant

After the dog-friendly brunch Seattle has to offer for a morning date with your pup? Check out Hattie’s Hat restaurant for welcoming, homestyle spot and brunch classics.

Location: 5231 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, United States

Dog-friendly things to do in Seattle

You won’t be short of things to do in Seattle — check out our list below for a few of Seattle’s dog-friendly places.

Visit Ballard Locks

The historic Ballard Locks offers a great experience for history buffs and animal lovers. Enjoy the ocean breeze while walking through the city’s oldest harbor and lock. Pups on leashes are always welcome, and there’s no extra charge for them either. Learn about the local salmon population and even see them up close through the Ballard Locks’ underwater viewing windows.

Location: 3015 NW 54th St, Seattle, WA 98107, United States

Pro tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the local seal that pops its head up from the water every now and then!

Lake Washington

On the eastern shore of Seattle sits Lake Washington, where there are tons of dog-friendly activities ideal for bonding with your pup. Head to the off-leash area of Magnuson Park, the fenced area of Luther Burbank Park, or explore Marymoor Park and its dog-friendly beaches.

Olympic Sculpture Park

Consider yourself an art lover? Head to Seattle’s Olympic Sculpture Park for a stroll where leashed dogs are allowed, and don’t forget your sketchbook!

Location: 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, United States

Washington Park Arboretum

If you’re looking for dog-friendly attractions in Seattle, Washington, heading to a public park is always a win, and your furry pal is sure to appreciate the walk. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re on a leash, but steer clear of the Japanese Garden, where no dogs are allowed.

Location: 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States

Ballard Farmers Market

Ballard Farmers market is a favorite among local food lovers, and comes recommended by our member who’s completed a whopping 15 sits in Seattle. Keep your furry friend on a leash and wander the cobblestone stretch of Ballard Avenue, picking up fresh produce and artisanal goods along the way. And the best part? Ballard Farmers Market is open year-round, come rain or shine!

Location: 5345 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, United States

Ferry rides

Dogs are allowed on some of Seattle’s ferries on the Puget Sound. Local operators have different rules around where your pup is allowed, so get informed about these when planning your journey.

Local’s pro tip on things to do in Seattle

Head to Magnolia - Seattle’s second-largest neighborhood - to check out The Little Free Libraries which are scattered throughout the area. Our member who knows the city well told us that along with the book swap, some also have games, puzzles - and even sticks for dogs.

Dog-friendly parks in Seattle

When looking for things to do with dogs in Seattle, a safe place to start is your local dog park or off-leash area in a larger park. It’s a great way to let your dog run free and meet other pet parents. Just be aware of that you should only let your pup off the leash in designated off-leash areas, and keep them leashed in all other areas.

Discovery Park

Seattle’s largest park offers plenty of options for nature lovers and hiking hounds. With beautiful views of Cascade and the Olympic Mountain ranges from mile-long beaches, this spot is perfect for picnics, swimming, and plenty of playing fetch time throughout the day. The trails also lead to West Point Lighthouse, also known as Discovery Park Lighthouse.

Location: Seattle, WA 98199, United States

Magnuson Park

On the shores of Lake Washington, Magnuson Park has over four miles of walking trails with a mixture of forest and grassland surroundings. You and your pup can come here for the day or you may even decide to regularly return.

Location: 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115, USA

Kinnear Park

Like many of the dog-friendly parks Seattle has to offer, Kinnear Park has an off-leash area, plus you can explore the forested area and the park’s rewarding views across the water.

Location: 899 W Olympic Pl, Seattle, WA 98119, United States

Seacrest Park

If city views are your thing, head to Seacrest Park for views of downtown Seattle and the city’s skyline. Just be sure to enjoy your walk with your dog on a leash at all times.

Location: 1660 Harbor Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98126, United States

Designated dog parks in Seattle

Blue Dog Pond

Dog-designed and dedicated, the Blue Dog Pond is off-leash with plenty of watering holes for thirsty pups. This is an ideal space for socializing your dog and meeting other pet parents. Be warned, this park can become very muddy after heavy rain.

Location: 1520 26th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144, United States

Golden Gardens Off Leash Area

Golden Gardens is home to hiking trails, picnic areas, wetlands and a designated off-leash area — perfect for a day of exploring with your pup.

Location: 8498 Seaview Pl NW, Seattle, WA 98117, United States

Northacres Off-Leash Dog Area

If you live anywhere near Northacres park (located in Haller Lake neighborhood), check out the fenced-off trails safe for dogs and their humans.

Location: 12718 1st Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125, United States

Dogwood Play Park Seattle

If you’re after an indoor dog park in Seattle, look no further than Dogwood Play Park! With both an indoor and outdoor area, dogs can run free, and pet parents can enjoy a drink from the bar.

Location: 12568 33rd Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125, United States

Westcrest Dog Park

Head to this local green space for skyline views of the city along with picnic tables and a playground. Naturally, only let your dog off the leash in the designated dog park.

Location: SW Henderson St, Seattle, WA 98106, United States

Denny Substation Dog Park

Explore this spot for locals, where you can socialize your dog, and avoid the mud with the park’s astroturf.

Location: Seattle, WA 98109, United States

Dog-friendly bars in Seattle

Explore the dog-friendly bars Seattle has to offer below, and always check with a staff member before finding a seat with your pup.

• The Barking Dog Alehouse. 705 NW 70th St, Seattle, WA 98117, United States
• Old Stove Brewing Co — Pike Place. 1901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
• Bainbridge Brewing. 9415 Coppertop Loop NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
• Can Bar. 9427 17th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98106, United States 
• Beveridge Place Pub. 6413 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98136, United States
• Linda’s Tavern. 707 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122, United States
• Ounces Taproom and Beer Garden. 3809 Delridge Wy SW, Seattle, WA 98106, United States
• The Traveling Goat. 621 1/2 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States

Dog-friendly cafes in Seattle

If you’re planning a day out with your furry family member, you’ll need a pit-stop at some point. And there’s no better way to socialize with other pet parents than to take your pup to a dog-friendly patio in Seattle or a dog-friendly cafe. For a list of the dog-friendly cafes Seattle has to offer, take a look below - leashes at the ready!

• Bark Espresso. 11335 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98125
• Seafab cafe. 1001 NE Boat St, Seattle, WA 98105
• Cloud City Coffee. 8801 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
• Citizen Collective. 706 Taylor Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
• Ampersand Coffee on Alki. 2536 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116
• Makeda & Mingus. 153 N 78th St, Seattle, WA 98103
• Cafe Argento. 1125 E Olive St, Seattle, WA 98122

Local coffee shop spotlight

The Outer Rim. The Outer Rim coffee shop comes highly recommended by our member who’s completed 19 sits in Seattle (and counting!). Described as a “funky sci-fi” cafe in Magnolia, this spot serves up specialty coffee and pastries loved by locals.

Dog-friendly beaches in Seattle

Take a look below for a list of the dog beaches Seattle has to offer to plan an action-packed day out with your canine companions.

Magnuson Park Off-Leash Beach

Sitting at the edge of Seattle’s Magnuson Park, this off-leash dog beach is the perfect place to let your pup run free. Explore the wider park and be sure to put your dog back on the leash in designated areas.

Location: Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Richmond Beach Saltwater Park

Head over to Richmond Beach (just a one-hour drive from central Seattle) with your furry pal if you’re looking for dog-friendly places in Seattle. Soak up the views of Puget Sound, and relax after a long walk in the park’s picnic shelters.

Location: 2021 NW 190th St, Shoreline, WA 98177, United States

Lowman Beach Park

This is a small park on Seattle’s coastline that allows dogs, and is complete with tennis courts and swings.

Location: 7017 Beach Dr SW, Seattle, WA 98136, United States

Double Bluff Beach and Off-Leash Area

The best way for your furry pal to enjoy the beach is off-leash, so at just an hour’s drive away from central Seattle, Double Bluff Beach off-leash area is well worth the journey.

Location: 6378 S Double Bluff Rd, Freeland, WA 98249, United States

Madrona Park Beach

If you’re looking for dog beaches in Seattle, Madrona is just a 10-minute drive from the city and offers impressive views of Lake Washington.

Location: 853 Lake Washington Blvd, Seattle, WA 98122, United States

Matthews Beach Park

Just along the water from Pontiac Bay, Matthews Beach Park is complete with lifeguards and hiking paths, along with relaxing views over the lake.

Location: 5100 NE 93rd St, Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Goose Beach 

If you’re a local to Lake Union and you’re after dog-friendly places in Seattle, head down to Goose Beach for a short walk and a chance to socialize your dog with other canines.

Location: 900 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States

Great places to walk with your dog in Seattle

Washington Park Arboretum

Nothing is quite as calming as a walk around an arboretum. On the shore of Washington Lake and surrounding the University of Washington Botanic Gardens, this is an excellent place for you and Fido to feel at one with nature. See species of plants and trees found only in this part of North Eastern America, and watch the leaves changing in all their glory. 

Location: 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is arguably the most dog-friendly neighborhoods in Seattle. It’s filled with dog-friendly places including bars, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. If you’re in the mood for an urban dog walk, this is also a vibrant and colorful neighborhood to wander around.

Bainbridge Island

View West Seattle from the glorious shorelines of Bainbridge Island. Filled with pet-friendly restaurants, this place is brimming with outdoor activities and relaxing tours.

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Just a one-hour drive from Seattle, this natural wonder is well worth the journey for a memorable day out with your furry companion. Find alpine forests, a cave and lakes. Dogs must be leashed in some areas, and are prohibited in others, so plan your route accordingly and always check before turning down a new path.

Location: Wenatchee, WA 98807, United States

Coal Creek Falls

Be sure to keep your dog on a leash, and enjoy the tranquil views of Coal Creek Falls - just a 20-minute drive from central Seattle.

Location: Coal Creek Falls Trail, Bellevue, WA 98006, United States

Green Lake Park

If you’re after dog-friendly things to do in central Seattle, a gentle stroll with your dog on a leash in Green Lake Park is a great way to spend an afternoon.

Location: 7201 East Green Lake Dr N, Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Tips for pet parents

Feeling set for a dog-friendly day out in Seattle with your canine companion? Great—here are a few extra tips on exploring the city with your pup.

• Follow local leash rules. Most areas require dogs to be kept on a leash, unless you're in a designated off-leash area. So, get to know the local rules to keep your pup and others safe.
• Check restaurant rules. Rules around dog friendliness change regularly, and so do owners of local establishments, so call ahead and book a table.
• Plan your route ahead of time. Many of the national parks near Seattle have varying rules around dogs, so plan your route ahead so that you don’t accidentally enter a zone that’s not safe for dogs.
• Plan ahead for your vacation. You might be all set for exploring Seattle with your pup, but what about when it’s time for you to take a vacation? Well many vets agree pets are happier kept at home, so why not consider connecting with a verified, in-home pet sitter? Take a look below to find out how it works.

Tips for pet sitters

Want to experience the city with a furry friend by your side? Here are a few tips to note when planning your trip.

• Always check local rules and regulations. Always check before heading out that your planned coffee or lunch spot is dog-friendly, and never enter a tourist attraction without making sure dogs are allowed.
• Check out local dog events. If the pet parents are okay with it, take your canine pal along to a nearby dog event or dog park, where you'll get the chance to meet fellow animal lovers.
• Find a place to stay in exchange for pet sitting. Want to see the sights of Seattle with a furry tour guide by your side? Click below to find out how house sitting with TrustedHousesitters works.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Seattle

Thinking about house sitting near Seattle, 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.

• The 10 best dog friendly restaurants, Seattle
• Top 10 dog-friendly bars in Seattle
• 14 off-leash dog parks in Seattle
• Dog-friendly Bellingham: things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Boise: things to do in the city with a dog
• Pet-friendly Portland OR: Things to do in Portland with dogs
• Dog-friendly Olympia: restaurants, parks and things to do
• Dog-friendly Vancouver: things to do in Vancouver with a dog
• Pet-friendly Hood River: Hikes, restaurants & activities
• Dog-friendly Eugene: Breweries, restaurants & walks
• Dog-friendly Tacoma: Restaurants, dog parks, beaches & hikes
• Dog-friendly Victoria BC: Restaurants, walks & breweries