Pet-friendly Chattanooga: What to see & do with your dog

Planning a trip to Tennessee’s Scenic City with your pup? Whether you’re strolling through leafy parks, grabbing a bite at a dog-friendly restaurant, or settling in for a few days of house sitting as a pet sitter in Chattanooga, this laid-back city has plenty to offer both two- and four-legged visitors. In this guide to pet-friendly Chattanooga, we’ve rounded up the best places to eat, explore, and unwind – all pup-approved.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Chattanooga

Looking for a spot where you and your four-legged foodie can both dig in? Chattanooga has some dog-friendly places where Fido can enjoy a bowl of water and a treat or two while you peruse the menu. 

1885 Grill

This south coastal restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, steaks, and southern sides. Sit beneath the trees in the dog-friendly outdoor area, where your pooch might even get treats and iced water. It’s even made it to Yelp’s list of Top 100 Dog-friendly Restaurants in the US!

Location: 3914 St Elmo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409, United States

State of Confusion

Furry friends can expect to be fussed over by everyone from servers to managers at the State of Confusion, which is just a short walk from the local dog park. Ceviche, wood-fired grills, and beer is on the menu, and there’s a free parking lot nearby.

Location: 301 E Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

Acropolis

Sit out on the covered patio with your pooch and enjoy Greek comfort food, like gyros, lamb chops, and slow-roasted meats. Save room for dessert – everything from baklava to their famous Strawberry Patch cake is made from scratch daily.

Location: 2213 Hamilton Pl Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37421, United States 

Feed Table & Tavern

Friendly staff will make you and your pooch pal feel more than welcome on the dog-friendly patio, where Fido can enjoy some water and a treat while you peruse the seasonal menu. Expect farm-to-table favorites, steaks, and seafood, plus live music, trivia, and bingo!

Location: 201 W Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

Universal Joint

Here, dogs don’t get a water bowl; they get a bucket! Grab a seat on the spacious dog-friendly patio with a burger, sandwich, or taco in hand (there are also salads on the menu).

Location: 532 Lookout St, Chattanooga, TN 37403, United States

Massey’s Kitchen

If you’re exploring the mountains surrounding Chattanooga, this makes for a great pit stop. There’s plenty of dog-friendly outdoor seating offering mountain views, and the menu’s made up of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, all made from scratch.

Location: 826 Scenic Hwy, Lookout Mountain, TN 37350, United States

Parkway Pourhouse

Head to the pet-friendly patio so Fido can have a treat while you tuck into pub grub, Cajun comforts, and weekly rotating specials.

Location: 801 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

STIR

Sit back on the heated, dog-friendly patio, where waiters will bring out water for your pup without you even having to ask. There’s an oyster bar plus brunch, lunch, and dinner menus filled with dishes made from scratch.

Location: 1444 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

Dog-friendly coffee shops in Chattanooga

Whether you’re just starting your day or grabbing a midday treat, these dog-friendly Chattanooga cafes make it easy to bring your pup along.

The Daily Ration

The large outdoor seating area of this locally-owned eatery is the perfect place to enjoy brunch or lunch with your pooch by your side. Water bowls are available for pups, while humans enjoy bowls & plates, burritos & biscuits, and sandwiches & salads.

Location: 1220 Dartmouth St, Chattanooga, TN 37405, United States

Maple Street Biscuit Company

Famous for their biscuit sandwiches and southern-style breakfast, this popular spot has dog-friendly outdoor seating. There’s usually a long line, but it’s worth the wait!

Location: 407 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

Frothy Monkey

Steer clear of the weekend brunch rush, and you should find a seat on the dog-friendly terrace of this popular spot. They serve seasonal drinks and all-day brunch (loaded biscuits & chorizo gravy, vanilla-cinnamon French toast, and farm breakfast), along with mains, greens & grains, and a sandwich menu.

Location: 1400 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

Niedlov’s Cafe & Bakery

On a mission to bring rustic, naturally leavened bread to East Tennessee, Niedlov’s serves delicious breakfast & lunch sandwiches, skillets, salads, and quiche of the day. Of course, there’s a lovely dog-friendly patio.

Location: 215 E Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

Mean Mug Coffeehouse

A peaceful patio makes this cozy cafe perfect to stop by with your furry companion. Enjoy cinnamon rolls, biscuit sandwiches, bagels, and great coffee.

Location: 114 W Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

Dog-friendly hikes in Chattanooga

With more than 50 trailheads just a short drive from downtown, Chattanooga is one of the top spots in the Southeast for hikers and adventurous pups. From Lookout Mountain to Signal Mountain and the Tennessee River Gorge, the area’s packed with beautiful dog-friendly trails to explore – just note that leashes are usually required.

Here are a few local favorites to get you started:

Stringer’s Ridge

Close to downtown and easy to get to, a well-maintained network of trails weaves through the preserve, leading to views of the city from the observation deck.

Length: 3-10 miles

Location: Spears Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37405, United States

Tennessee Riverwalk

This paved, 16-mile riverside path is ideal for a gentle walk. There are plenty of places to stop for a coffee along the way, and you’ll even pass some outdoor art at the Hunter Museum of American Art. It’s a popular route, so expect some company!

Length: 16 miles

Location: Chattanooga, TN, USA

Cumberland Trail 

This peaceful but challenging hike winds through high ridges and deep gorges along the eastern edge of Tennessee’s Cumberland Plateau. Around 200 miles are open currently, and once finished, it’ll stretch over 300 miles from Cumberland Gap to Lookout Mountain.

Length: Various

Location: Cumberland Trail, Tennessee, USA

Guild-Hardy Trailhead

The Guild Hardy Trail was once a railway, so the path is wide enough for walkers and cyclists to share comfortably. It climbs gently past Ruby Falls to the Cravens House, from which you can continue your adventure to Point Park.

Length: 5 miles

Location: 498 Ochs Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409, United States

Mullens Cove Loop

This moderately challenging trail features steep, rocky sections, but it’s worth it for views of the Tennessee River Gorge. You’ll pass unique rock formations like a natural rockhouse and a stone doorway, and the route is quieter than most.

Length: 9.8-mile loop

Location: Mullens Cove Loop Trailhead, Signal Mountain, Tennessee, USA

North Chickamauga Creek Gorge State Park

Just 15 miles north of Chattanooga, this park’s full of backcountry trails and creekside paths. Swimming holes are dotted throughout – the Blue Hole is one of the most popular.

Length: Various

Location: 354 Montlake Rd, Soddy-Daisy, TN 37379, United States

Glen Falls Trailhead

This waterfall hike is short and sweet, leading you uphill to Glen Falls. Note that the rocks near the water can be slippery, and parking is limited, so go early if you can.

Length: Short

Location: TN-58, Chattanooga, TN 37409, United States

Dog-friendly parks in Chattanooga

While Chattanooga is filled with outdoor activities and adventures, the dog park is the only place you can guarantee Fido can run free from the leash. Here are some of the best off-leash areas in and around the city:

Heritage Dog Park

A paved walking path weaves through the woods, with benches and picnic tables along the way and a creek for splashing in. The large open field is ideal for off-leash play, and there are two fenced areas for pups big and small.

Location: 1428 Jenkins Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421, United States

Greenway Farms Dog Park

Head a little out of town to this dog park, complete with agility equipment and a network of surrounding trails. It’s well shaded and has separate areas for small and large pooch pals, but the area can get a little muddy after rainfall.

Location: Hixson, TN 37343, United States

Red Bank Dog Park

Friendly locals love that there’s covered seating inside the park, and it’s an easy walk to the closest trailhead for a longer leg stretch. Like many dog parks, this one also has two separate fenced-in areas.

Location: 798 Ben Miller Pkwy, Red Bank, TN 37415, United States

Chattanooga Chew Chew Canine Park

Despite being centrally located, this dog park is often quieter than others. The simple park has two off-leash zones, shaded benches, and doggie water fountains.

Location: 1801 Carter St, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

East Ridge Dog Park

There’s lots of shade at this well-maintained park, but that doesn’t mean it avoids getting muddy! Large and small dogs are separated from each other, and there are poop bag stations and a friendly group of regulars.

Location: 1517 Tombras Ave, East Ridge, TN 37412, United States

Play Wash Pint

This one-of-a-kind doggy playground has everything from water pools to an endless supply of tennis balls, and it’s spotlessly clean. There are even heaters in winter and misters in summer! The $10 entry fee covers safety measures like registration and vaccine checks, and they have zero tolerance for aggression, meaning it’s a great place to socialize pups.

Location: 113 Johnson St, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

Dog-friendly breweries in Chattanooga

Craft beer and canine companions? Yes, please. Chattanooga has no shortage of breweries where your furry friend is just as welcome as you are – here are some of the top spots.

Hair of the Dog Pub 

This 21+ downtown tavern features both covered and uncovered dog-friendly patios, complete with water bowls for thirsty pups. Inside, you’ll find pool tables, darts, classic pub food, and a solid beer list.

Location: 334 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

Hutton & Smith Brewing Co. 

The logo might be a beer-drinking cat, but this pub is super dog-friendly! Knowledgeable, friendly staff proudly showcase the brewery's crafted beers in the relaxing atmosphere.

Location: 431 E M L King Blvd #120, Chattanooga, TN 37403, United States 

Oddstory Brewing Co: Central

You’re never more than a few feet from a furry friend at Oddstory! Local and foreign beers are served along with big portions of burgers, loaded fries, noodles, and sandwiches, plus a special menu for kids.

Location: 1604 Central Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

Oddstory Brewing Co: The Greenhouse

This 21+ Oddstory establishment is filled with plants and natural light. Pooch pals are welcome in the taproom and outdoor seating area, and the menu – run by Anomaly, the same kitchen as Central – offers quality tacos, burgers, and salads.

Location: 336 E M L King Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37403, United States

Brewhaus

Heated dog-friendly patios, German fare, and beers from around the globe make this North Shore spot a must!

Location: 224 Frazier Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

The Tap House 

Located in St. Elmo, this veteran-owned taproom serves over 30 beers on tap and a full menu of burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. Dogs are welcome, and fresh water bowls are always available for your furry drinking buddy.

Location: 3800 St Elmo Ave #114, Chattanooga, TN 37409, United States

Naked River Brewing Co

This lively brewery serves Southern BBQ food in its dog- and kid-friendly outdoor space. The covered turf area is comfy for pups to lounge on – just remember to keep them on the leash.

Location: 1791 Reggie White Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

Dog-friendly activities in Chattanooga

Looking for more dog-friendly places in Chattanooga, or something to do that’s a little bit different? Here are some favorite pup-approved activities around town:

Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge

Built in 1891, the famous Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge is one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world, and takes around 20 minutes to cross! It’s a lovely place for a scenic stroll with your pup, especially at sunset.

Please note that the bridge is currently closed for renovations and is expected to reopen in 2027.

Location: 1 Walnut St, Chattanooga, TN 37403, United States

Renaissance Park & Coolidge Park

These neighboring riverside parks have spacious lawns, fountains, art, and even a carousel. Four-legged furries are welcome in designated areas, just keep them leashed and check signs for where pups are allowed.

Renaissance Park: 133 River St, Chattanooga, TN 37405, United States

Coolidge Park: 150 River St, Chattanooga, TN 37405, United States

Rock City

Enjoy spectacular views as you explore rock formations and over 500 species of plants with Fido on the leash. Just be aware: there are stairs, high walkways, swinging bridges, and tight spots, so it’s best for confident, agile doggos!

Location: 1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750, United States

Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center

Part public park, part nature center, and part wildlands, this 300-acre space is great for a peaceful day outdoors. Leashed fluffies are welcome on its 10 miles of trails, some of which lead to National Park land and up Lookout Mountain. Admission is donation-based, so you can give what you like.

Location: 400 Garden Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37419, United States

Sculpture Fields at Montague Park

Enjoy a flat walk through this 33-acre parkland, where you’ll see a variety of quirky contemporary sculptures from artists around the world.

Location: 1800 Polk St, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

Bluff View Art District

Although it’s just 1.5 blocks long, you can wander through this artsy district to find a variety of galleries, gardens, and dog-friendly eateries.

Location: 411 E 2nd St, Chattanooga, TN 37403, United States

Dog-friendly events in Chattanooga

Throughout the year, the city hosts fun, dog-friendly events where pups are the stars of the show. From baseball games to costume parades, here are a few feel-good favorites worth marking on your calendar:

Dogs at the Diamond – Chattanooga Lookouts

Take your pup out to the ballgame! Dogs at the Diamond days let fans bring their furry friends along for the fun. Enjoy a pre-game dog parade, then cheer on the Lookouts with your pup by your side.

Cost: $7 for dogs, plus ticket cost for humans

Date & time: TBC

Location: 201 Power Alley, Chattanooga, TN 37402, United States

Running of the Chihuahuas

Dubbed “the biggest little event of the year,” pint-sized pups compete for prizes all in aid of charity. It’s a day of food trucks, music, and family-friendly entertainment, so don’t miss it, even if you don’t have a Chihuahua!

Cost: Free

Date & time: TBC

Location: 1826 Reggie White Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37408, United States

St Elmo Corgi Parade

Every year, over 200 corgis strut their stuff down St. Elmo Avenue, dressed in everything from tutus to superhero costumes. The parade is part of the Hello, St. Elmo! street festival, which also includes live music, a makers market, and food trucks, making it a fun day out for the whole family.

Cost: Free

Date & time: Annually

Location: 3800 St Elmo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409, USA

Tips for pet parents in Chattanooga

• Beware of water dangers. Tennessee has freshwater hazards like blue-green algae in slow-moving creeks and toxins in stagnant water. From North Chickamauga Creek to local ponds, keep pets hydrated with bottled water and prevent them from drinking from unknown water sources.
• Protect from parasites. Local forests and creek areas can be home to ticks and fleas year-round. Use vet-recommended preventatives and give your pup a thorough check after woodland walks.
• Plan ahead for time away. It’s always a good idea to sort your pet care as soon as you book a trip, if not before. Our verified sitters care for your pets in the comfort of their own home, helping them stay relaxed and happy while you’re away.

Tips for pet sitters in Chattanooga

• Take care in the heat. Chattanooga’s summers are hot, so avoid midday walks, always carry water, and never leave pets in parked cars or on hot pavement.
• Watch out for snakes. While snakes in Chattanooga are rare, there are two venomous species here: Northern Copperheads and Timber Rattlesnakes. They’re more commonly found in wooded ridges like Lookout Mountain or Signal Mountain.
• Explore Chattanooga as a pet sitter. Get to know local spots through the eyes of a furry friend who lives there, and enjoy a home away from home with the company of a pooch pal. 

More dog-friendly travel guides near Chattanooga

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

• Pet-friendly Knoxville: attractions, restaurants and parks
• Dog-friendly Charlotte: Things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Atlanta: Things to do in Atlanta with a dog
• Pet-friendly Wilmington: Beaches, parks & places to visit
• A guide to dog-friendly Charleston, South Carolina