Pet-Friendly Columbus, Ohio: Restaurants, Dog Parks & More

Looking for the best spots pet-friendly Columbus, Ohio has to offer? This guide explores dog-friendly coffee shops, activities, dog parks and dog-friendly restaurants in Columbus, Ohio so you and your pup can experience the city to its fullest.

Planning a trip? Connect with trusted pet sitters in Columbus or explore house sitting opportunities.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Columbus, OH

Columbus locals love their patios, and there are many dog-friendly restaurants that welcome four-legged guests. Below, explore some of the eateries where dogs are allowed, but be sure to call before arriving to check pups are still welcome.

Northstar Cafe

Northstar Cafe is a local favorite for those looking for organic, environmentally-conscious food and brunch. Dogs are welcome on the spacious patio with water bowls available.

Location: 951 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

Wolf's Ridge Brewing

Known for elevated pub food and premium craft beer, this brewery-restaurant welcomes dogs on their outdoor patio.

Location: 215 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215

Land-Grant Brewing Company

Land-Grant Brewing Company is a large outdoor beer garden with food trucks and live music where dogs are welcome. Note that dogs aren’t permitted in some areas, and it can sometimes get quite busy.

Location: 424 W Town St, Columbus, OH 43215

Food trucks at Columbus Commons

The vibrant Columbus Commons frequently has food trucks with great local eats. Perfect for a post-walk snack or dinner. Make sure to check their website for more details on the current food trucks.

Location: 160 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Tommy's Diner

In the mood for an all-American meal out? Check out Tommy’s Diner on Broad Street for all-day breakfast and a Greek-inspired menu.

Location: 914 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43222, United States

Top tip for visiting dog-friendly restaurants in Columbus

Always call before arriving to book a table, and let staff know you’d like to bring your dog along. And naturally, dogs must always remain leashed and under control when dining out with you.

Dog parks in Columbus, OH

From wooded trails to fenced-in play zones, Columbus offers excellent off-leash dog parks. Just be sure to check you’re in a designated off-leash area before letting your dog run free.

Scioto Audubon Dog Park

Scioto Audubon Metro Park provides a 1.5-acre off-leash space with separate areas for small and large dogs, agility equipment, and river views.

Location: 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215

Godown Dog Park

Godown Dog Park is a wooded fenced park with plenty of benches and water access. It’s a great place for your dog to socialize with other pups.

Location: 6099 Godown Rd, Columbus, OH 43235

Three Creeks Dog Park

This dog park is equipped with athletic facilities and separate sections for small and large dogs. You can also access it via the greenway trail.

Location: 3066 Spangler Rd, Columbus, OH 43207

The Wag

The city’s hottest new spot is actually a dog park. This Columbus indoor dog park with outdoor space has a bar, WiFi, and food trucks for humans, along with grooming and social areas for dogs. You won’t want to skip a visit to The Wag!

Location: 1330 Norton Ave, Columbus, OH 43212

Wheeler Memorial Park

In the heart of the city you’ll find Wheeler Memorial Park — a lush green space complete with water stations, shaded areas and poop bags.

Location: 725 Thurber Dr W, Columbus, OH 43215, United States

Top tip for visiting dog parks in Columbus

Most dog parks ask dogs to be licensed, vaccinated, and on a leash when arriving and leaving the off-leash area, so make sure you’re looped in with local rules.

Dog-friendly trails in Columbus, OH

Searching for some dog-friendly trails in Columbus, Ohio? The city and its surrounding areas are packed with scenic paths perfect for daily walks or longer adventures. Just make sure you keep your dog on a leash unless you’re in a designated off-leash area, and keep your dog under control around local wildlife.

Scioto Mile

Venture to Scioto Mile in the heart of downtown Columbus, where you can explore riverfront trails with fountains, parks, and skyline views with your furry buddy.

Location: Scioto Mile, Columbus, OH 43215

Olentangy Trail

For a scenic walk along the Olentangy River, the Olentangy Trail is popular with runners and dog walkers.

Location: Olentangy Trail, Columbus, OH 43210

Highbanks Metro Park

The stunning trails and scenic overlooks of Highbanks Metro Park are perfect for energetic dogs who like to sniff and explore. Dogs are allowed on most trails except the nature preserves.

Location: 9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center, OH 43035

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

With over 7,000 acres of prairie and forest trails, your leashed dog will have a blast. Just make sure to always keep your dog on a leash, especially near the bison pastures.

Location: 1775 Darby Creek Dr, Galloway, OH 43119

Alum Creek Greenway Trail

This flat, scenic paved trail is perfect for a relaxed walk through the city with connecting parks and neighborhoods.

Location: Alum Creek Trail, Columbus, OH 43219

Goodale Park

Located in the Victorian Village community, Goodale Park offers scenic pedestrian paths and greenery.

Location: 120 W Goodale St, Columbus, OH 43215

Schiller Park

Schiller Park in the German Village area is a popular spot for dog owners with plenty of green space and a dog-friendly atmosphere.

Location: 1069 Jaeger St, Columbus, OH 43206

Wolfe Park

Wolfe Park offers lots of open grassy areas and trails, and many locals bring their dogs here to explore and play on-leash.

Location: 105 Park Dr, Columbus, OH 43209

Thompson Park

Thompson Park is a smaller neighborhood park with paths and open space where dogs are allowed on-leash.
Location: 4250 Woodbridge Rd, Upper Arlington, OH 43220

Scioto Mile, Columbus

Dog-friendly activities in Columbus, OH

Beyond parks and patios, Columbus offers a few other dog-friendly places and pet-friendly tourist attractions for you to sniff out. Make the most of the city, starting with the activities below.

Short North Arts District

This vibrant arts and shopping neighborhood has plenty of sidewalks and outdoor patio spots for you to hang out with your leashed dog.

Location: Short North Arts District, Columbus, OH 43215, OH43201

Franklin Park Conservatory

These lovely gardens and the surrounding park provide a pleasant outdoor walking experience for you and your leashed pup. Note that pets aren’t permitted inside the Conservatory’s indoor spaces.

Location: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203

Columbus Commons

This downtown park and social hub welcomes leashed dogs throughout its open green spaces. Enjoy a walk, relax on the lawn, or grab a bite from nearby food trucks with your dog by your side.

Location: 160 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Battelle Darby Creek, Columbus

Dog-friendly breweries in Columbus

There’s no shortage of dog-friendly breweries in Columbus, Ohio. The city’s craft beer scene is thriving, and many taprooms welcome dogs on patios so they don’t miss out on the fun. Naturally, check with a member of staff before taking a seat with your dog.

Seventh Son Brewing Co.

Seventh Son Brewing Co. has a lively outdoor patio where leashed dogs are welcome. Enjoy craft beer and the rotating food trucks with your furry friend.

Location: 1101 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201

Nocterra Brewing Co.

Nocterra Brewing Co. is known for its scenic outdoor patio near the park, where many guests bring their dogs to relax. Enjoy a pint here with views of the greenery and downtown skyline.

Location: 516 Maier Pl, Columbus, OH 43215

BrewDog DogTap Columbus

This beloved chain just outside the city offers a dog-friendly setting and many types of craft beer.

Location: 96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110

Wolf's Ridge Brewing, Columbus

Dog-friendly coffee shops in Columbus

A coffee is more fun with two - the other being your dog, of course! There are a few dog-friendly coffee shops in Columbus, Ohio where you can get your caffeine fix after your morning walk.

Stauf's Coffee Roasters

Stauf’s Coffee Roasters is a popular Columbus coffee roaster and cafe that many local dog owners visit with their pups. Its pet-friendly outdoor seating offers a great place to enjoy freshly roasted coffee together.

Locations:

627 S 3rd St #1060, Columbus, OH 43206
North Market, 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215

The Roosevelt Coffeehouse

The Roosevelt Coffeehouse in downtown Columbus welcomes leashed dogs at its outdoor seating. This relaxed, community‑oriented cafe makes an enjoyable stop if you want to taste locally roasted coffee while spending time with your canine companion.

Locations:

300 E Long St, Columbus, OH 43215
462 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215

Roaming Goat Coffee

This cozy dog-friendly cafe in Columbus is in the Short North Arts District that’s known for being dog‑friendly. With a welcoming vibe for both humans and dogs alike, it makes a nice stop on your walk around town.

Location: 849 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Columbus

Leash up and explore. Most parks, trails, and city streets require dogs to be leashed, so grab a comfy harness and enjoy miles of scenic strolls along the Scioto Mile or through German Village. Your dog will love the sights and smells!
Be aware of busy spaces. Outdoor festivals in areas like the Short North can be crowded, noisy, and overwhelming for sensitive pups. If it gets too much, choose quieter morning walks or riverfront trails like the Olentangy Trail for a calmer experience.
Plan ahead for your vacation. When planning your own vacation, remember that pets are happiest staying in their familiar home environment. Vets agree, and welcoming a pet sitter allows your dog to have a staycation with routine and comfort.

Connecting with pet sitters in Columbus

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Explore Metro Parks. The Columbus Metro Parks system offers miles of scenic trails, perfect for daily dog walks and a chance to soak up the daily Columbus life.
Embrace seasonal events. Columbus hosts year-round outdoor events, markets, and festivals. Pet sitting here lets you enjoy these experiences with a pup by your side! Just check event rules for pets, and you’re ready to mingle with the locals.
Experience Columbus through house sitting. Pet sitting is the dream vacation for pet lovers. Experience a new city, new trails, new eateries — all with the constant companionship of an adorable dog.

House sitting in Columbus

How it works

More dog-friendly travel guides near Columbus

Thinking about house sitting near Columbus, 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 Columbus: FAQs

Are dogs allowed on public transportation in Columbus, Ohio?

Yes, dogs are allowed on some public transport in Columbus — including buses. Check the system you’re thinking of traveling on, and only bring your dog if rules and regulations allow.

Do dog-friendly patios in Columbus allow dogs year-round or only seasonally?

Most patios operate seasonally (spring through fall). Heated patios may allow dogs in cooler months.

Are dogs allowed at festivals or outdoor events in Columbus?

Yes, they are often allowed, but it depends on the event organizer. Large festivals may be crowded, so are best avoided if you have an anxious dog.

Are there any dog-friendly indoor activities in Columbus for rainy or cold days?

Indoor access is limited due to health codes, but some breweries and pet-focused shops occasionally allow leashed dogs inside. It’s always best to check ahead for each venue.

Are there dog parks in Columbus, Ohio?

Columbus offers several excellent dog parks including Scioto Audubon Dog Park with river views and agility equipment, Godown Dog Park with wooded trails and water access, Three Creeks Dog Park with separate sections for small and large dogs, and The Wag, an indoor/outdoor facility with a bar and grooming services.

Are dogs allowed on trails in Columbus?

Yes, dogs are allowed on most trails in Columbus but must remain leashed unless in designated off-leash areas. Popular options include the Scioto Mile, Olentangy Trail, Highbanks Metro Park, and Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, though dogs should be kept on leash especially near wildlife like bison.

What dog-friendly restaurants are in Columbus?

Dog-friendly restaurants in Columbus include Northstar Cafe with organic food and spacious patios, Wolf's Ridge Brewing with elevated pub fare, Land-Grant Brewing Company's outdoor beer garden, Tommy's Diner for all-day breakfast, and food trucks at Columbus Commons. Always call ahead to confirm dogs are welcome and book a table.

Are there dog-friendly breweries in Columbus?

Yes, Columbus has several dog-friendly breweries with outdoor patios including Seventh Son Brewing Co., Nocterra Brewing Co. with park views, and BrewDog DogTap Columbus just outside the city. Dogs must remain leashed and patios typically operate seasonally from spring through fall.

Where can I get coffee with my dog in Columbus?

Dog-friendly coffee shops in Columbus include Stauf's Coffee Roasters with multiple locations and outdoor seating, The Roosevelt Coffeehouse in downtown, and Roaming Goat Coffee in the Short North Arts District. All welcome leashed dogs at their outdoor seating areas.

What should I know about exploring Columbus with my dog?

Most parks, trails, and city streets require dogs to be leashed, so bring a comfortable harness for exploring areas like the Scioto Mile or German Village. Be aware that outdoor festivals can be crowded and noisy, which may overwhelm sensitive dogs, and carry poop bags at all times.