Some of Sacramento’s most dog-friendly spots double as social spaces that connect travelers with friendly locals. By striking up a conversation, you’ll often get the inside scoop on the best parks, restaurants, shops and trails for pups. These paw-some playgrounds, brewery patios and other surprises offer an easy starting point.
Some dog parks are simply fenced recreation areas, but Sacramento’s pet-friendly play areas offer much more. The city has 15 off leash bark parks with everything from doggie drinking fountains to tennis ball launchers to shaded tables and plenty of room to run. Regulars love showing off their city, so don’t be afraid to say hello to someone new when you visit.
Truitt Bark Park in Midtown has separate sections for big dogs and smaller canines weighing 25 pounds or less. Dog-themed murals and sculptures make for a social media-worthy experience. Please note: Truitt Bark Park is near a light rail station, so you might want to choose another park if your pet is sensitive to sound.
South of the American River, Glenbrook Park has trees, walking trails and two play areas for pups. Pets can run in the grass and roll in the dirt at Partner Dog Park, a lively spot near the Belle Coolidge Recreation Center. For more ideas, check out the City of Sacramento’s full list of local dog parks.
Following some park time, kick back with cool drinks on a low-key dining patio. Midtown’s Der Biergarten offers water dishes for dogs and serves fresh pints and food in a friendly outdoor setting. Over on V Street, Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse has patio tables, while the Bawk! by Urban Roots spinoff serves crispy fried chicken in dog-friendly downtown digs.
Looking for a true taste of the Sacramento lifestyle? Check out the Midtown Farmers Market on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Covering five blocks around 20th and K streets, this weekly event draws more than 200 vendors. Leashed dogs are welcome at the market – just be sure to keep pups at least 20 feet away from booths with food and always pick up pet waste.
