Your Ultimate Guide to Dog-Friendly Adventures in Cary, NC

MOSA Pet Pro
Jun 12
4 min read

Updated: Jul 16

Start Your Day with a Morning Walk at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

Kick off your day with a peaceful, dog-friendly hike in Cary at Hemlock Bluffs. This scenic preserve offers about 3 miles of shaded, leashed trails surrounded by rare hemlock trees. It’s a calm, quiet spot where both of you can get your steps in without the hustle of city noise.

📍 Located at: 2616 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC

Great for: Leashed walks, nature immersion, quiet bonding time

Let Your Pup Play & Socialize at the Barkyard at Downtown Cary Park

Next, let your pup burn off some steam at The Barkyard, Cary’s premier off-leash dog park. It features separate areas for big and small dogs. The park is clean, safe, and shaded, located conveniently in the heart of town. While your dog plays, you can relax nearby and enjoy the atmosphere.

📍 Located at: 327 S Academy St, Cary, NC

Great for: Off-leash play, social pups, downtown convenience

Take a Break With a Drink at the Bark Bar

Located just steps from the Barkyard, the Bark Bar is an outdoor, dog-friendly bar. They serve beer, wine, and light snacks for two-legged guests. This makes it the perfect pairing: while dogs play, humans can enjoy a refreshing drink.

Great for: Relaxing post-play, social time, people-watching

Indulge in a Treat Break at FRESH Local Ice Cream + BREW Coffee Bar

Need a caffeine fix or a sweet treat? FRESH and BREW are conveniently side by side, both dog-friendly. FRESH serves up pup-safe vanilla ice cream with peanut butter drizzle. Yes, it’s as delicious as it sounds! Meanwhile, BREW offers a cozy patio and locally made dog treats. Make sure to add this stop to your list of must-visit dog-friendly restaurants and cafes in Cary, NC.

📍 Located at: 138 W Chatham St, Cary, NC

Great for: Dog-friendly treats, patio vibes, caffeine + sugar boost

Shop Local at MOSA Pet Spa & Boutique

No dog-friendly day in Cary is complete without a little retail therapy. Head over to MOSA Pet Spa & Boutique, a locally loved pet spa and shop. They feature holistic treats, eco-friendly toys, luxe collars, and grooming essentials. Whether you're grabbing a gift, booking a grooming appointment, or browsing their curated retail, this boutique is a must for dog parents who love to spoil their pups.

📍 Located at: 213 Waldo Street, Cary, NC

Great for: Pet products, wellness-focused pet care, luxury spa services

Unwind at Fred G. Bond Metro Park

After your boutique visit, take a leisurely stroll through Bond Park, Cary’s largest green space. The park features lakeside views, dog-friendly walking trails, and even a dedicated dog water fountain. It’s ideal for a midday unwind. Don’t forget the poop bags!

📍 Located at: 801 High House Rd, Cary, NC

Great for: Long walks, lakeside hangs, shaded nature time

Enjoy Dinner and Drinks on a Dog-Friendly Patio

Cary has plenty of pet-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating. Many even offer water bowls and treats for dogs. Here are some great options to try:

Craft Public House

📍 Located at: 1040 Tryon Village Dr, Cary, NC

Great for: Patio dining, laid-back eats, dog-friendly staff

Fortnight Brewing Company

📍 Located at: 1006 SW Maynard Rd, Cary, NC

Great for: Local brews, food trucks, relaxed outdoor vibes

Spirits Pub & Grub

📍 Located at: 701 E Chatham St, Cary, NC

Great for: Classic menu, big patio, always welcoming to pups

Cotton House Craft Brewers

📍 Located at: 307 S Academy St, Cary, NC

Great for: Historic charm, two-story deck, dog-friendly cornhole sessions

RBF, Your Authentic Champagne Bar

📍 Located at: 210 E Chatham St, Suite A, Cary, NC

Great for: Girls-night-out with pups, bubbly on the patio, stylish low-key evenings

Chatham Hill Winery

📍 Located at: 8245 Chapel Hill Rd, Cary, NC

Great for: Local wines, shaded outdoor space, wine tastings with your well-behaved bestie

Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage

📍 Located at: 120 E Chatham St, Cary, NC

Great for: Rotating taps, walk-up window, prime downtown dog-watching

Bond Brothers Beer Company

📍 Located at: 202 E Cedar St, Cary, NC

Great for: Award-winning brews, large outdoor beer garden, live music with furry friends

Tiki Brewing Company

📍 Located at: 428 SE Maynard Rd Ste 104, Cary, NC

Great for: Tropical‑style beers, laid-back tiki‑themed patio, pup‑friendly paradise

Pro tip: Call ahead to confirm patio availability, especially during peak hours or weekends. Some spots even host dog-focused events—worth sniffing out! 🐾

✅ Dog Day Out Checklist:

✔ Check the temps for safe walks on the concrete. If the air temp is 85°F or higher, concrete and asphalt can reach 105°F to 130°F+, which is hot enough to burn paws in under a minute!
✔ Leash, collar & tags
✔ Water bowl & travel treats (you'll find many water bowls around town)
✔ Dog waste bags (the park provides them, but you never know when they might need to go)
✔ Sunscreen for you, shady breaks for them

Why Cary Is a Top Dog-Friendly Destination in NC

Cary is one of North Carolina’s best cities for pet parents. With its growing number of dog-friendly parks, restaurants, patios, and pet boutiques, it’s easy to plan a full day out with your pup that’s safe, fun, and local. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, Cary has everything you need for a perfect doggy daycation.