America’s Second City is second to none when it comes to fun pet-friendly activities! Chicago’s downtown area is conveniently located on the shores of Lake Michigan and, where there’s water, there are usually great parks for walks with your pups!
Yet Chicago pet-friendly activities don’t stop at walks in the park. Check out our list of the top things to do in the city with your furry companion.
Hit the Beach at Montrose Dog Beach
Just north of Chicago’s downtown area is Montrose Dog Beach. One of the few spaces in the city where you and your doggies can let loose and leave the leash behind.
Montrose Dog Beach is entirely volunteer-run. Their mission is to provide locals and visitors a fun and safe swimming experience on a sizeable strip of sand in the city. The dog beach is fenced off on the sand. In the water and pups of all shapes and sizes love to splash around and play with frisbees in this popular park.
Take a Walk in the Park at Lakeshore East Dog Park
The main section of downtown Chicago, The Loop. The Loop is the home to the famous Cloud Gate (Chicago Bean) sculpture, Willis Tower, and, of equal importance, the Lakeshore East Dog Park.
Bring your pet along for a visit to the city and stop by the off-leash dog area of the park. Local meet-ups host dog parties, but mostly it’s just a great shady spot to play. From here, you can access the Navy Pier to the north or Millenium Park to the south within 15 minutes walking along the shore.
Float Along Chicago’s Waterways on the Mercury Canine Cruise
Chicago is known for its waterways and bridges over the Chicago River. For a unique Chicago pet-friendly activity, take a cruise along the waterways of the city with Mercury Cruises.
Depart from the corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive for a cruise in the harbor on Lake Michigan and down the Chicago River. Best of all, there is even a Halloween Canine Cruise with prizes for the best canine costumes!
Catch the Puppy Friendly Food Truck “Fido to Go”
See if you can spot the Fido to Go food truck driving the streets of the city!
Fido to Go is the original dog and cat treat truck in the country and it just so happens to call the streets of Chicago its stomping grounds. The food truck makes frequent stops in Chicagoland and offers gourmet meals to furry friends using natural ingredients. That means your furry friend can feast on cookies, chews, and frozen yogurts. That are egg-free, corn-free, grain-free, and with no additives or preservatives, according to the folks at Fido to Go.
If you follow the pet-friendly food truck company on social media, you can track their truck daily from the streets of Chicago to its dog parks and waterfront.
