A Guide to Dog Friendly Chicago
Chicago has been known as a pet-friendly city for some time, but in recent years, there seems to be more Fido-friendly spaces and parks than ever. I'm a dog mom myself and part of my weekend routine with Oliver-George is to visit as many of the dog-friendly beaches, restaurants and parks that his four little legs can take. Here are some of our favorites.
My Oliver-George anxiously awaiting his visit to the beach!
Pet-Friendly Dining
Many dog-friendly dining establishments in Chicago not only welcome you and your pup; they also cater to your canine with a special menu — so they don't have to beg for some of yours. It's not only restaurants that welcome pups, either. We love Begyle Brewing Company and its outdoor patio that welcomes dogs any day or time of the week, weather permitting. You get to enjoy a local brew and your dog will get his or her own bowl of water, and perhaps even a treat or two.
Fun with Fido
Boats aren’t just for humans. Mercury Canine Cruise invites you to bring your pup for a day out on the water, where you can take in the architectural marvels of Chicago with a guided architectural tour. You can keep your dog on your lap, in a seat or out on the deck. The boat has plenty of outdoor seating, water bowls and a special newspaper-lined restroom for pets. Adult tickets are $34; Kids under 12: $12; Kids under 3 are free; Dogs: $8;
Montrose Dog Beach
Feeling more adventurous? Head to Montrose Beach for some dog-friendly kayaking. Grab a paddle, pop on a life vest and take to the open waters with Kayak Chicago. Lessons are available as well as kayak rentals for those with a little paddle time already under their belt. Even better: Montrose Beach has an entire section of the lakefront dedicated as an off-leash dog beach. Let your dog run free and enjoy getting sand in his paws and wind in his hair!
Shop Til You Drop
If you would rather experience Chicago's iconic Magnificent Mile shopping than get your dog's paws dirty, you may be surprised to learn that your pup can join you. That’s right, Nordstrom's Mag Mile location is dog-friendly. Swing by the coffee bar and get a “Pupaccino” (a cup with whipped cream in it) while you're there.
Chicago Dog Parks
One of the many things that I love about Chicago Park District, which owns and manages the city's green spaces, is that almost every neighborhood in the city has a designated off-leash park. There are over 20 designated dog parks throughout the city. One of Oliver's personal favorites is Logan Square dog park. In summer they have two wading pools available for a quick cool-down session. (Owner can kick back on the benches and enjoy the massive public mural lining the park.)
Maybe we'll see you and your pup there on your next trip? Pets are welcome, after all, at Loews Chicago. Get more details here, under Loews Loves Pets.
Kelly
Kelly joined the teams at Loews Chicago and Loews Chicago O’Hare in September 2016. A long-time hospitality professional, Kelly is a Chicago native and is thrilled to share her passion for her hometown with guests via this blog and the hotels' social media channels.
