If you’re a dog mom or dog dad, you want to take your best friend everywhere. Fortunately, Asheville, North Carolina, gives you ample opportunity to travel with your pet. From parks and restaurants to anywhere in between, the Land of the Sky offers the ideal getaway for you and your pet. Pack up the car and explore the following pet-friendly destinations Asheville has to offer.
Find a Pet-Friendly Hotel
Before you arrive in Asheville, you’ll want to find a hotel that will love your pet and cater to its needs as much as you do. Thankfully, you’ll find many places throughout the area that allow pets. The best part is that these establishments are available in a range of budgets and tastes.
Hotel Indigo
Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, Hotel Indigo is a boutique hotel that will take up to two dogs if they both weigh less than 80 pounds. The second, seventh, and 12th floors are all pet-friendly, giving you the opportunity to meet other dog lovers as you go to and from your room. Don’t forget that an extra $75 pet fee applies throughout your length of stay.
Hotel Indigo
151 Haywood St.
Asheville, NC 28801
828-239-0239
Bon-Paul & Sharky’s Hostel
If you’re searching for cheap accommodations to free up some money for some other pet adventures, book a stay at Bon-Paul & Sharky’s Hostel. For less cash than most other hotels, you can enjoy a quaint spot located centrally in Asheville near many dog-friendly restaurant and bars. For more privacy, stay in the charming cottage behind the main building.
Bon-Paul & Sharky’s Hostel
816 Haywood Road
Asheville, NC 28806
828-775-3283
Cedar Crest Inn
Cedar Crest Inn is a great spot for couples who want to watch their romance blossom or rekindle the flame. As Asheville’s premier bed-and-breakfast, you’ll enjoy the serene atmosphere, even if you’re with a pet. The inn allows dogs weighing more than 80 pounds.
Cedar Crest Inn
674 Biltmore Ave.
Asheville, NC 28803
828-252-1389
Meet Other Dog Lovers in Asheville’s Dog Parks
You don’t want your dog cooped up throughout your stay. Put a leash on your pet and head to one of the following dog parks in Asheville.
French Broad River Park
Located on the banks of the French Broad River, this park is one of the most beautiful public areas in the city. You can go for a walk along the river or take one of the many paths for an evening or weekend saunter. If you’re looking to get a bit more social, you’ll find a 1-acre dog park for meeting other dog owners and letting your canine companion play with some other dogs. On-site amenities include dog waste bags, fresh water, and bathrooms.
French Broad River Park
508 Riverview Drive
Asheville, NC 28806
828-259-5800
Azalea Dog Park
Adjacent to the John B. Lewis Soccer Complex on the eastern side of Asheville, Azalea Dog Park is another excellent spot to take your pet. It has two fenced-off areas, separating larger dogs from smaller ones. This separation provides a safety net, especially if your dog gets a little anxious or aggressive around other canines. You’ll also find a swimming area in the Swannanoa River that will let your dog cool off on a hot day.
Azalea Dog Park
395 Azalea Road
Asheville, NC 28802
828-251-1122
Urban Trail
While parks are fine for your pet, don’t leave your own interests out of the equation. If you’re into art, history, and dogs, take a walk on the Urban Trail. Stretching 1.7 miles through downtown Asheville, this trail has more than 30 stops with sculptures, plaques, and other information about the city. The trail is easy to follow if you look for the pink granite markers.
Buy Your Pet a Treat or Souvenir
Even though your dog doesn’t work a 9-to-5 job doesn’t mean it can’t appreciate a break from the normal routine. That break is what makes Asheville such a phenomenal pet-friendly destination. Throughout the city, you’ll find boutique stores offering a bevy of gifts for your dog. Your pet may not know that it’s getting a souvenir from Asheville, but at least your dog will love it while it’s happening.
Three Dog Bakery
Situated in downtown Asheville, Three Dog Bakery bills itself as the world’s first full-functioning bakery for dogs. Using healthy, quality ingredients, the bakery offers a sumptuous array of dog treats and biscuits. The bakery also has a number of dog bowls, leashes, beds, and other gifts that your dog is sure to enjoy on its trip. Unfortunately, you can’t grab a treat here yourself unless you’re feeling a bit frisky and adventurous.
Three Dog Bakery
21 Battery Park Suite 103
Asheville, NC 28801
828-252-1818
Patton Avenue Pet Co.
When you need to pick up some food or other supplies for your pet on short notice, the big-box stores aren’t always the greatest choice. At Patton Avenue Pet Co., you won’t have to worry about either of these conundrums. Locally owned and operated, Patton Avenue has a knowledgeable staff for a quick supply run or a gift. Plus, you’ll take satisfaction in knowing that you’re supporting the local Asheville business community.
Patton Avenue Pet Co.
109 Patton Ave., Downtown Asheville, 828-255-7737
1388 Patton Ave., West Asheville, 828-505-8299
582 Hendersonville Road, South Asheville, 828-575-9282
Grab a Bite to Eat or a Drink With Your Pet
When you want to explore the culinary scene of Asheville, you don’t want to feel guilty leaving your pet in the hotel room all day. Not only does this enclosure give your dog anxiety, but the chances of it getting into mischief also skyrockets. Fortunately, many of Asheville’s most popular restaurants welcome your pet with open arms.
Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar
You may not have experienced it, but the combo of reading and champagne is pretty killer. Throw your dog into the mix, and it’s the ultimate trifecta. That experience is what you’ll get at the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar. Head inside to grab an interesting book and a glass of bubbly while your pet lounges on the patio. In the summer, there’s no better place to unwind.
Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar
1 Page Ave. #101
Asheville, NC 28801
828-252-0020
With many great dog-friendly options throughout Asheville, why shouldn’t you bring your pet along for the ride? Keep in mind that not every place in Asheville is pet-friendly, so ask when you’re in doubt. Many Asheville natives share your love of pets, so who knows? Maybe you’ll get a dog date you won’t soon forget.
