Things To Do With a Dog Near Me in Austin
Dog-Friendly Austin
by Lu Ann Wall, OTL Seat Fillers
I've been with OTL for over a decade, and I probably don't need two hands to count how many dog-friendly events we've privately offered to seat filler members. And, honestly, up until a few years ago, I didn't even think about places for dog families to go - until I adopted Daisy, my spunky Maltipoo. So now, I love hearing about indoor dog parks, off-the-leash spots, and pet-friendly events.
So, I thought it would be fun to devote focus on our fur babies with a dog-friendly event series in OTL's Things To Do blog collection. It probably won't change the status of pet-friendly options for seat fillers, but it should be a helpful guide for pet parents.
>>>>> Do you have a dog-friendly venue or activity in the Austin area?
Shoot me an email and fill me in, so I can add it to the list.
Let's get to it! Things To Do With a Dog Near Me - Austin Edition...
TL;DR: Looking for fun things to do with your dog in Austin? From off-leash parks like Red Bud Isle and Auditorium Shores to dog-friendly breweries and cafes like Yard Bar and Banger’s, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the city with your pup. You can even take your furry friend to baseball games, doga classes, and fun events like Pups on the Patio and the Day of the Dog virtual race!
10 Dog-Friendly Things To Do in Austin
1. Zilker Botanical Garden
Zilker Botanical Garden isn’t just for plant lovers—it’s also a great place for leashed dogs to explore! The garden features themed areas like the Japanese Garden, Cactus and Succulent Garden, and the Rose Garden, providing plenty of scenic spots to stroll with your pup.
Each year, Zilker hosts the Annual Dog Days of Summer, where visitors can bring their furry friends for a special day of pet-friendly fun. Just be sure to keep your dog on a leash and respect the beautiful flora!
Website: Zilker Botanical Garden
2. Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden
Love beer, bratwurst, and dogs (furry, not hot…)? Then, Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden is a must-visit. This restaurant features an extensive beer list and delicious sausages. But, best of all, there’s a fenced-in dog park so your pup can play while you relax. There’s even a special menu item just for your fur baby.
It’s time for you and your furry companion to socialize!
Website: Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden
3. Red Bud Isle
Red Bud Isle is one of Austin’s most beloved off-leash dog parks. It's located on a scenic peninsula in Lady Bird Lake. This 13-acre park offers plenty of space for dogs to roam freely, splash in the water, and socialize with other pups. Surrounded by hiking trails, canoeing, and kayaking spots, it’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry friends.
Just note that this park can get busy, so be sure to keep an eye on your pup in case your pup gets wandering eyes!
Address: 3401 Redbud Trail, Austin, TX 78746
Phone: (512) 974-6700
4. Dog-Friendly Yoga (Doga)
Looking for a mindful way to bond with your dog?
Austin Doga, led by yoga teacher and psychotherapist Nicole Vykoukal, offers 45-minute private yoga sessions for you and your furry friend who has already mastered downward dog!
These sessions focus on deepening the human-dog connection through mindfulness, massage, meditation, and restorative yoga poses. It’s a great way to de-stress, stretch, and share some quality time with your furry companion.
Website: Austin Doga
5. Auditorium Shores Dog Park
Located along Lady Bird Lake, Auditorium Shores Dog Park is a large off-leash area perfect for running, playing, and cooling off in the water. This urban park features wide-open spaces and scenic views of downtown Austin.
It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors, especially during the cooler hours of the day. That's because the public restrooms and picnic tables make it a convenient stop for dog owners.
Address: 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
Phone: (512) 974-6700
Hours: 6 AM – 10 PM, daily
6. Yard Bar
Yard Bar is Austin’s original dog park where good drinks and great dogs come together! This off-leash dog park and bar is designed for both humans and canines, offering a full-service bar, comfortable seating, and 20,000 square feet of space for dogs to roam.
Bark Rangers are on patrol to keep things safe, and memberships are available for frequent visitors. Whether you’re working remotely or just want to grab a drink while your dog plays, Yard Bar is the perfect hangout spot.
Website: Yard Bar
7. Pups on the Patio – Jo’s Coffee
On select Saturdays from 12 PM to 3 PM, Jo’s Coffee hosts Pups on the Patio, a breed-specific dog meetup across their locations. Dog lovers can grab a coffee while their pups socialize with their own kind (some might say the BEST kind!).
The event is a fun way to meet fellow dog owners, let your pup play, and enjoy some good coffee. Upcoming events vary by breed, so check the website for details!
Website: Jo’s Coffee Events
Let's Keep Going with More Things To Do With a Dog Near Me in Austin!
8. Day of the Dog: Run, Walk or Jog
Celebrate International Dog Day with a virtual run, walk, or jog starting August 17th! This annual event allows participants to choose a 1-mile, 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or full marathon—either solo or with their pup.
Registration includes a medal and a dog charm for your pet’s collar, plus 15% of every entry fee supports Freedom Service Dogs of America. It's a nonprofit that trains rescue dogs for people with disabilities.
This is one you don’t want to miss, so be sure to check out the Day of the Dog Eventbrite page and buy your ticket early!
Tickets: Day of the Dog Race
9. Round Rock Bark in the Park
Take them out to the ballgame….
Baseball fans, this one’s for you! The Round Rock Express, Austin’s triple-A minor league baseball team, hosts special dog-friendly game nights where you can bring your best friend to the stadium.
Dogs are welcome in the general admission outfield lawn area, and water bowls are provided throughout the venue. Be sure to enter through the designated Right Field Gate and have your Express Dog Waiver ready for check-in.
Website: Round Rock Express Dog-Friendly Games
10. Pupsquad at Hopsquad Brewing
For dog lovers who also love craft beer, Hopsquad Brewing offers Pupsquad, a “Pupreciation Event.” It’s a super dog-friendly hotspot where everyone is mingling and having a blast!
Quarterly events with Tomlinson’s Dog Treats will prompt your pup to set up their own Google calendar! So, check Hopsquad's website for upcoming event dates.
Note to self: start using pupreciation!
Website: Hopsquad Brewing
Begging to Sit!
Austin is full of dog-friendly adventures, so grab your pup and explore everything the city has to offer. And if you ever need a break from your furry friend, OTL Seat Fillers is a fun way to enjoy free tickets to local shows. Even the best dog parents deserve a night out! 🐾🎭
Check out OTL Austin Seat Fillers!
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