Pet-Friendly Detroit: Restaurants, Parks & Activities

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, from dog-friendly restaurants and coffee shops to parks and activities for you and your pup.

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 shopping 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. 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

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 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

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

Detroit Riverfront

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

Raise a glass at a dog-friendly brewery

Michigan is full of breweries which are happy to host dogs on their patios!

Eastern Market Brewing Co.: 2515 Riopelle St, Detroit, MI 48207

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

Drafting Table Brewing Company: 49438 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, MI 48393

Head out here for the patio – all they ask is that pooch pals stay leashed and on the ground.

Dog and Pony Show Brewing: 14661 W Eleven Mile Rd Suite 200, Oak Park, MI 48237

The name says it all! They’re big dog fans and even provide water jugs and bowls for pups.

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 sea 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

Belle Isle State Park

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.

Finding pet sitters in Detroit

How it works

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.

House sitting in Detroit