Dog-friendly Chattanooga: Restaurants, activities & hikes

Updated May 12, 2026

Settling in for a few days of house sitting as a pet sitter in Chattanooga, or got a dog of your own? Explore our ultimate guide to dog-friendly Chattanooga’s restaurants, activities, coffee shops, hikes, wineries, pubs, breweries and more.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Chattanooga

Looking for a dog-friendly restaurant in Chattanooga where you and pup can both dig in? Below find a list of places where dogs are currently allowed (and you can enjoy Chattanooga Southern classics), but be sure to book ahead as rules can change.

The Purple Daisy Picnic Cafe

Got a taste for Southern classics, like barbecue sandwiches, wings, and baked beans? The Purple Daisy Picnic Cafe will be your new favorite spot. Book an outdoor table and enjoy the Tennessee sun with your furry friend!

Location: 4001 St Elmo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409

Public House Restaurant

Find an outdoor table at Public House Restaurant in Chattanooga for Southern cuisine that celebrates local ingredients. If you need a gluten free menu, you’re in luck—this spot has a dedicated menu for you.

Location: 1110 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

If you can’t get enough of Southern classics, check out the dog-friendly outdoor tables at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar. Choose from a seasonal menu of biscuits, fried chicken, cocktails, and more.

Location: 2138 Pickens St, Columbia, SC 29201

Maple Street Biscuit Company

For biscuits done every way imaginable, check out Maple Street Biscuit Company. Pups can join you on the covered patio for breakfast or lunch, where you and the locals can enjoy a biscuit fix.

Location: 407 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

Embargo 62

Find a table at Embargo 62’s outdoor patio for authentic Cuban cuisine. Choose from grilled sandwiches, Camarones shrimp, ropa vieja, and more.

Location: 301 Cherokee Blvd., Chattanooga, TN 37405

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parkway Pourhouse

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

Location: 801 Riverfront Pkwy, Chattanooga, TN 37402

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

Dog-friendly activities in Chattanooga

Looking for more dog-friendly places in Chattanooga, or pet-friendly activities to help plan a day together? Find a few ideas below, and remember to check local rules before taking your dog someplace new.

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

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

Coolidge Park: 150 River St, Chattanooga, TN 37405

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 pups.

Location: 1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750

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 dogs 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

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

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

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. Check with a staff member before finding a seat with your furry friend, and be aware that dogs are generally only allowed at outdoor seating.

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

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

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

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

Mean Mug Coffeehouse

A peaceful patio makes this cozy cafe perfect to stop by with your pup. Enjoy cinnamon rolls, biscuit sandwiches, bagels, and great coffee.
Location: 114 W Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37408

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 pups. From Lookout Mountain to Signal Mountain and the Tennessee River Gorge, the area is packed with beautiful dog-friendly trails to explore. Just note that leashes are usually required, and some areas have been affected by wildfires, so always plan your visit ahead of time for your safety.

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

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!

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

Location: TN-58, Chattanooga, TN 37409

Dog-friendly wineries in Chattanooga

How about spending a relaxed Saturday afternoon with your pup in a dog-friendly winery? Below find a few wineries and vineyards where dogs are currently allowed, all within driving distance of downtown Chattanooga. Be sure to book your reservation ahead, and let staff know you’d like to bring your dog along. And remember, a non-drinking companion is required if you plan to taste wines.

Georgia Winery

Just a 20-minute drive from Chattanooga, you’ll find Georgia Winery in Ringgold. Pups are welcome on the dog-friendly patio, where you can enjoy fresh pizza and a glass of vino! 

Location: 6469 Battlefield Pkwy, Ringgold, GA 30736

Engelheim Vineyards

Drive an hour southeast of Chattanooga and you’ll find the idyllic Engelheim Vineyards. Taste the award-winning wines of over 20 varieties that vary from dry to sweet, and enjoy the view with your furry friend.

Location: 120 Lakeview Rd, Ellijay, GA 30540

Fainting Goat Vineyards

With mountain views, live music, and fine wines—there’s nothing not to love about Fainting Goat Vineyards. Choose from delicious varietals at this family-owned vineyard with your pup by your side for the perfect weekend afternoon—less than 2 hours from downtown Chattanooga.

Location: 201 Vineyard Way, Jasper, GA 30143

Dog-friendly pubs in Chattanooga

Want somewhere low-key to relax with your pup after a long day exploring the city? Find a few of Chattanooga’s dog-friendly pubs below, and remember to always check with a staff member before entering with your furry friend.

Mike's Hole in the Wall

Just north of the river, you’ll find Mike’s Hole in the Wall—a dog-friendly bar and grill loved by locals, with a relaxed atmosphere and American classics on the menu.

Location: 535 Cherokee Blvd., Chattanooga, TN 37405

Basecamp Bar

Find an outdoor table with an umbrella at Basecamp Bar—a dog-friendly pub just north of Coolidge Park, where you can enjoy craft brews and American comfort food.

Location: 346 Frazier Ave A, Chattanooga, TN 37405

Shady's Corner

Head to this dog-friendly neighborhood dive bar on the south side of Chattanooga, and enjoy fried chicken from Dumb Cluck food truck alongside your drink.

Location: 1402 Cemetery Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37408

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

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

Dog-friendly breweries in Chattanooga

Craft beer and canine companions? Yes, please. Chattanooga has no shortage of breweries where your dog is just as welcome as you are – here are some of the top spots. Just be sure to check with a staff member before finding a seat with your dog, as rules can change.

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

Five Wits Brewing Company

Head to Long Street for craft beers, community vibes, and a dog-friendly patio. Try a selection of beers with a flight, and choose from an irresistible menu of house pies.

Location: 1501 Long St, Chattanooga, TN 37408

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

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

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 pup.

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

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

Dog-friendly parks in Chattanooga

While Chattanooga is filled with outdoor activities and adventures, the dog park is the only place you can guarantee your dog will be allowed off-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

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

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

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

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

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

Dog-friendly events in Chattanooga

Throughout the year, Chattanooga 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 pups 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

Running of the Chihuahuas

Dubbed “the biggest little event of the year,” tiny 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

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

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 arrange 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