It's a dog's life in Tampa Bay -- and how. Here in Florida's Most dog-friendly destination, four-legged fur persons and their humans will find a pooch's paradise, with plenty of establishments -- from hotels to restaurants, shops, and parks -- catering to canine companions. We're even home to the U.S.'s No. 1 dog-friendly restaurant! So bring your best friend along with your unlock Tampa Bay!
Al Lopez Park Trail gets high marks from users. “Great dog park. Nice trail. Police drive by every 15-30 minutes. The city of Tampa cleans the dog area,” wrote Jo Graber in her Google review of the park. And that’s why it makes it onto our list. Hikers love and recommend it, and there is a large, fenced dog park inside the park, so once you’re done with your hike, you can let Daisy off of her leash for a little fun with the other dogs.
It's easy to find a spot to bed down for the night when you bring Fido along. Across Tampa Bay, nearly 100 locations large and small make accommodations for traveling dogs, some with pet fees. In the heart of downtown, the Aloft Tampa Downtown, Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk, and Le Meridien Tampa are three popular properties that allow dogs of all sizes. All three are a short walk away from Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and its dog park.
Who's got one of the highest rates of dog parks per capita in the country? We do! Give Rover some off-leash time to exercise and socialize at parks along the Tampa Riverwalk and beyond. You'll find dog parks at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park (just below the Tampa Museum of Art), Water Works Park (a short walk from Armature Works or Barrymore Hotel), Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park (just across the Fortune Taylor Bridge from downtown). You can find a full list of dog parks here.
What would a waterfront destination like Tampa Bay be without a dog beach? We've got two in easy reach of downtown. Take a quick trip over the bridge to Davis Islands, a unique community that includes a popular beach just for dogs. A little farther south, Picnic Island has space for picnics as well as pooches.
With hundreds of outdoor eating spaces, Rover never has to worry about being left out of the fun. Grab a table on the patio at Ulele or Goody Goody, whose owner, Richard Gonzmart, is famous for his love of German shepherds. Bring the pup along to the Sail Pavilion, downtown's popular waterfront watering hole and 10Best's top dog-friendly restaurant. Dog-friendly breweries include Six Ten Brewing and 7vnth Sun, both in hipster haven Seminole Heights.
You'll always find a bowl of water and a bit of shade for your loyal shopping buddy at Hyde Park Village. The open-air plaza includes even includes Downtown Dogs, a boutique catering to canines and their humans. Drop by Buddy Brew (the logo tells you all you need to know) for an iced coffee and a moment to relax with a treat.
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