PET FRIENDLY WILMINGTON: WHERE TO EXPLORE WITH YOUR PUP
There is nothing better than exploring new places with your four-legged friend in tow. Luckily, Wilmington is full of dog-friendly places that will make you and your furry friend glad you came. Wilmington’s moderate temperature means that it’s a dog-friendly destination year round. Don’t worry about Fido getting too cold, as the year-round sunshine keeps Wilmington a very manageable temperature. Its proximity to the coast means that water-loving dogs will have the time of their lives as they bound up and down expansive beaches. But don’t worry about those that prefer to stay dry; we’ve gathered up lots of restaurants and shops for them to explore.
RUFF DRAFT DOG PARK & BAR
Ruff Draft Dog Park & Bar has to be at the top of dog-friendly places in Wilmington. Located in the Cargo District, Ruff Draft is a membership-based business that literally has a full-service bar attached to a dog park! We’ll call that a win-win! Open until 8 every day of the week, they have a great cocktail list that will keep all dog-owners entertained as their pups run around.
NEW HANOVER COUNTY ARBORETUM
The New Hanover County Arboretum has year-round seasonal gardens welcome dogs as long as they are on leash. Mix up your daily walk, and instead take a wander through seven acres of garden that include a water feature with hundreds of Koi fish, a children’s cottage, and a Japanese garden, complete with authentic tea house. Take a moment of reflection at the Contemplation garden that honors the five branches of the military.
CHEEKY MONKEY COFFEE
This quirky cafe gives visitors the caffeine hit they need to keep up with their busy day, while also giving dog owners a place to stop and sit while on their daily walk. Cheeky Monkey Coffee has a dog-friendly outdoor seating area is a great place to sip their banana foster latte while you enjoy one of their fresh pastries.
LAZY JACK’S ICE CREAM SHACK
Premium soft serve, vegan 100% fruit soft serve, and pup cups? Dog lovers flock to Lazy Jack’s Ice Cream shack on the Riverwalk. Steps from historic downtown, Lazy Jack’s Ice Cream Shack is the perfect way to beat Wilmington’s summer heat. Whether you grab an order of their Ice Cream Nachos, or a Nightingale ice cream sandwich, you can’t miss with Lazy Jack’s.
DREAMERS
This character-filled hotel is made up of two different suites, with enough room for you, and your dog. The pet-friendly rooms are complemented by vegan breakfasts that are included in your stay. Indulge in the immaculately decorated hotel that balances a laidback luxury that is hard to replicate. Right in the middle of historic Wilmington, Dreamers is a great base to return to after a day of exploring the city.
ANNE BONNY’S BAR AND GRILL
This floating bar and restaurant is ready to welcome all guests on either two, or four legs! Specializing in Calabash-style seafood, Anne Bonny’s Bar and Grill is located on the Cape Fear River. Dive into the seafood-rich menu with a crab cake reuben, or some jumbo shrimp, as you and your dog enjoy the dog-friendly covered area that is covered in colder months.
