Pet-friendly Detroit: Restaurants, beaches, breweries & more

Updated 19th Feb 2026

Live in the Motor City with a furry family member, or thinking about house sitting as a pet sitter in Detroit? There’s plenty to do here with your four-legged friend — read on to discover the best of pet-friendly Detroit. Below, you'll find dog-friendly restaurants Detroit has to offer, along with coffee shops, parks, breweries, beaches and activities perfect for a day out with your canine companion.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Detroit

It can be tricky to find a truly dog-friendly restaurant in Detroit, but hunting them down is part of the fun, right?! Most only allow pups on their pet-friendly patios – but it’s still a good idea to double-check their dog policy before heading out, as it can be subject to change! 

Detroit Shipping Company

Not sure what you’re craving? Perfect! The six shipping containers here act as a food hall, serving dishes from all over the world, including Thai curries, Nepalese dumplings, and authentic taquitos. Best of all, they have a large, partially covered outdoor area where four-legged furries are free to join.

Location: 474 Peterboro St, Detroit, MI 48201

Detroit 75 Kitchen

This permanent food truck specializes in proper sandwiches (try the Cheesesteak), drool-worthy wings, and hand-cut fries. Fido can sit beside you at one of the outdoor picnic tables – but plan your visit between Monday and Friday, as it’s not open on weekends.

Location: 4800 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48209

Woodbridge Pub

There’s a specific dog-friendly section of the patio here, where you can settle in and enjoy sandwiches, salads, and shareables while sipping on your drink. Keep an ear out for live music events, too!

Location: 5169 Trumbull, Detroit, MI 48208

O'Connor’s Public House

Head to the dog-friendly patio here for classic comfort food and a drink - just outside Detroit in the metro area. The staff here are big dog lovers, and they’ll happily bring out a fresh bowl of water to keep your pup hydrated while you enjoy a pint (or two!).

Location: 324 S Main St, Rochester, MI 48307

HopCat

The name might shout “cats,” but their hearts belong to dogs when it comes to patio dining! HopCat is known for its massive selection of craft beer and high-quality comfort food made from scratch, all of which can be enjoyed in the dog-friendly outdoor area.

Location: 4265 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Maverick’s Kitchen

It's well worth heading to the Detroit metropolitan area to check out Maverick's. This low-key sports bar has a whopping 50 beers on tap, which means you’re guaranteed to find a new favorite! Their food menu is full of modern bar fare that’s perfect for sharing while you catch a game on their dog-friendly patio.

Location: 20970 West Rd, Woodhaven, MI 48183

Dog-friendly activities in Detroit

Looking for more dog-friendly places in Detroit, beyond dog parks and patios? Here are some of the best things to do in the area with your four-legged friend.

Stroll the scenic Detroit Riverfront

Keep Fido on the leash to enjoy a stroll along the breezy riverfront, enjoying views of the Detroit skyline, the river, and Canada across the water.

Location: 588 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

Spend the day at Belle Isle State Park

Purchase a Recreation Passport to drive onto this island state park with your pooch. Keep your four-legged furry on a leash and explore the beautiful nature and trails, including the 2.2-mile Blue Heron Lagoon Trail. You’ll also find the closest thing to a dog-friendly beach Detroit has to offer – furry friends can dip their toes in the water near Hipster Beach, where the water’s shallow and clean.

Location: Blue Heron Lagoon Trail, Blue Heron Lagoon, Detroit, MI 48207

Visit Stony Creek Metropark

Stony Creek also makes for a great dog-friendly day out! The park features a large fenced dog park with separate areas for small and large pups. Once they've had their off-leash fun, leash up and explore the park’s network of over 27 miles of hiking trails through woodlands and wetlands.

Location: PWJP+62, Washington, MI 48094

Shop ‘till you drop at the Mall at Partridge Creek

This outdoor shopping center is completely dog-friendly in all the common areas, so your fur baby doesn’t have to stay home while you browse! Check signage on store doors, as many retailers welcome well-behaved dogs inside, too.

Location: 17420 Hall Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48038

Movie night at Ford-Wyoming Drive-In

For something a bit different, drive out to Dearborn for an evening under the stars. This outdoor movie theater is dog-friendly, and you can relax and watch a double-feature from the comfort of your car.

Location: 10400 Ford Rd, Dearborn, MI 48126

Dog-friendly beaches in Detroit

Nothing quite beats a stroll along the water with your furry friend — there aren’t many in Detroit, but a stroll along the river will certainly tick a few boxes for you and your pup. Below, find a couple of Detroit’s beaches that welcome dogs, but always check the signage, as rules can change.

Belle Isle Beach

On the banks of the Detroit River is Belle Isle Beach — where you’ll find a designated area where dogs are welcome to swim. Just be sure to double check the local rules and signage before entering the park with your dog, and only let your them off-leash in designated zones.

Location: 2 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

Hipster Beach

Just a stone’s throw from Belle Isle Beach is the locally-named Hipster Beach — where you’ll find shallow, clean waters and a dog-friendly area that your pup can explore. As always, double check up-to–date local rules, and always follow the signage before entering any park or garden with your dog.

Location: Blue Heron Lagoon Trail, Blue Heron Lagoon, Detroit, MI 48207

Dog-friendly breweries in Detroit

Looking for a dog-friendly brewery in Detroit where you can sip on local brews and enjoy some quality downtime with your furry friend? No worries — start with our list below and be aware that rules can change at any time, so always check before taking a seat with your canine companion.

Eastern Market Brewing Co.

A popular city haunt, furry friends are welcome to hang out on the spacious patio while you enjoy their latest brew.

Location: 2515 Riopelle St, Detroit, MI 48207

Batch Brewing Company

Head to the dog-friendly patio of Batch Brewing Company on Porter Street in Detroit, where you’ll choose from craft beers and indulgent bar snacks.

Location: 1400 Porter St, Detroit, MI 48216

Brewery Faisan

If you’re serious about beer, check out Brewery Faisan — a locally-loved microbrewery and taproom in the Islandview neighborhood of Detroit, a stone’s throw away from downtown and Belle Isle park. With a focus on brewing, the taproom doesn’t have a kitchen, but serves up pretzels from DeutschTroit. And naturally, dogs on leashes are welcome — and the taproom specifies that dogs must be up to date on their vaccines.

Location: 1087 Beaufait St, Detroit, MI 48207

Atwater Brewery & Tap House

Since 1997, Atwater Brewery has been serving its community award-winning beers made with love to suit every occasion, and every type of customer. Dogs are welcome to join you to raise a glass at the outdoor seating area.

Location: 237 Jos Campau, Detroit, MI 48207

Jolly Pumpkin Taphouse

For a dog-friendly taphouse that’s just as passionate about the food as they are the beer, look no further than Jolly Pumpkin Taphouse on Canfield Street. Choose from local brews as well as sandwiches, salads and pizza.

Location: 441 W Canfield St, Detroit, MI 48201

Urbanrest Brewing Company

A little off the beaten track in Ferndale (just north of Detroit, but well worth the journey), you’ll find Urbanrest Brewing Company — a dog-friendly brewery known for seasonal craft beer, kombucha and hearty burgers.

Location: 2615 Wolcott St, Ferndale, MI 48220

Drafting Table Brewing Company

Stop by for the patio if you’re in Metro Detroit – all they ask is that pups must remain leashed and off the furniture.

Location: 49438 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, MI 48393

Dog and Pony Show Brewing 

The name says it all! They’re big dog fans and even provide water jugs and bowls for pups — perfect if you’re in Metro Detroit and looking for a dog-friendly brewery.

Location: 14661 W Eleven Mile Rd Suite 200, Oak Park, MI 48237

Dog-friendly coffee shops in Detroit

Much like its restaurant scene, Detroit’s dog-friendly cafes are a rare find – which makes them even more special! Here are a handful of coffee shops with dog-friendly patios, where you can enjoy pastries and coffee with your pooch by your side.

The Brooklyn Street Local LLC

The menu here consists of breakfast, brunch, and lunch made with fresh, locally sourced meats, cheeses, and produce, plus plenty of vegan and veggie options. They’re famous for their authentic Canadian Poutine, which you can enjoy on the umbrella-shaded tables outside.

Location: 1266 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

The Congregation

Housed in a repurposed former church, The Congregation now functions as a cafe and bar with space for community events. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with plenty of room for pups in the dog-friendly outdoor area.

Location: 9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206

The Roost

Dog treats and water bowls are on hand for fur babies at this coffee shop, which is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main drag. You can settle in to enjoy sandwiches, soups, or a selection of fresh pastries and coffee.

Location: 1541 W Canfield St, Detroit, MI 48208

Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters Detroit

Here, they roast their coffee locally and bake delicious, signature desserts in-house – most famously their cheesecakes! Pooch pals are welcome to hang out with their pawrents on the outdoor terrace.

Location: 1220 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226

Dog parks in Detroit, MI

There’s nothing quite like watching your four-legged favorite run full-speed ahead in an area made just for them! These Detroit dog parks are dotted throughout the city, so you and your furry friend have plenty to choose from. 

Midtown Dog Park

Midtown Dog Park is a real social hub, making it a great place for pooch pals to make new furry friends. It’s completely fenced, and the artificial turf means things don’t get too muddy after rainfall! There’s also a variety of agility equipment to challenge your pup’s mind and body.

Location: Detroit, MI 48201

Grand Circus Dog Park 

You can’t get more central than this! Located right in the heart of downtown, this designated dog run is fully fenced and has plenty of space for pups to stretch their legs.

Location: 101-157 Witherell St, Detroit, MI 48226

Palmer Dog Park

Palmer Dog Park has two separate, fully-fenced sections – one for little pups and one for the larger breeds. The paved trail circling the exterior of the park is perfect for a stroll while the pups are playing.

Location: 1655 W Seven Mile Rd, Detroit, MI 48203

Riverside Dog Park

For a run with a view, this clean, well-maintained park has plenty of open space. Enjoy views of the river and the iconic Ambassador Bridge while your furry friend plays – there are also plenty of on-leash trails in the surrounding area to explore.

Location: 3565 W Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48216

Detroit Dog Park (Rose Street)

Detroit Dog Park is large, clean, and well-organized, with a dedicated washing station and trash cans. The double-gated entrance is there to prevent any accidental escapes.

Location: 2699 Rose St, Detroit, MI 48216

Tips for pet parents in Detroit

• Keep your licenses up-to-date. Dogs six months or older must be licensed, and the City of Detroit requires yearly renewal. You should also make sure your microchip details are kept up-to-date.
• Know the leash rules. While dog parks (like Midtown and Palmer) are for off-leash play, most other city parks and trails require a 6-foot leash.
• Plan the perfect staycation for your pup. Four-legged friends prefer the comfort of home, even when you’re traveling. Your pooch will thank you later for finding a verified, in-home sitter to take care of them while you’re away. Click the link below to learn more.

Tips for pet sitters in Detroit

• Carry extra poop bags for walks. Help keep Detroit’s green spaces pristine by cleaning up after your furry friend – and making sure you’re never caught short. 
• Be aware of strays. There are a number of stray dogs in Detroit, Michigan, and if you spot one while out walking your pup, it’s best not to engage.
• Get to know Detroit as a pet sitter. Like what you’ve read? Explore Detroit as a house and pet sitter with a four-legged furry who’ll show you the ropes. Click the link below to learn more.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Detroit

Thinking about house sitting near Detroit, 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 Ann Arbor: Restaurants, parks & activities
• Pet-friendly Milwaukee: Things to see & do with a dog
• Dog-Friendly Indianapolis: Things To Do in Indianapolis With a Dog
• Dog-friendly Kansas City: Things to do in Kansas City with a dog
• Dog-friendly Cincinnati: Restaurants, bars, & activities
• Dog-friendly London, Ontario: Restaurants, beaches & cafes