Dog-Friendly Destinations Near Grand Rapids

With Grand Rapids thawing from a snowy winter, dog owners couldn’t be more excited to get out with their furry friends– sans shin-length parkas or frost bitten walks. While there are countless places pups and their people can enjoy together in the city, here are three of our favorites:

Outside Coffee Co.

This coffee shop on Wealthy St is the perfect place to spend a sunny Spring day. Made by people who love coffee, being outside, and welcoming all (leashed) dogs, you’ll want to add this to your weekend itinerary. But the dog-friendly atmosphere isn’t the only thing we love about Outside Coffee Co.; their seasonal menu will please even your non-coffee-loving friends. Please note that they ask that guests don’t invite their dogs into the geo-domes, which are first come first serve.

The Pack Dog Park

Michigan’s very first indoor dog park, bar, and restaurant is located just outside the city in Comstock Park. For the inevitable not-so-sunny days, The Pack offers a climate controlled environment for dogs to run around and socialize with playgroups. When they’re all tired out, they can join their owners for a bite to eat. Options include from breakfast sandwiches, fries, and pizza, some of which cater to gluten free and vegan guests too. They first opened in January 2021. New members can register their pet online here.

Dog-Friendly Trails

The Grand Rapids area has so many outdoor dog-friendly trails, we couldn’t choose just one! On the north side of the city is Fred Meijer White Pine Trail, which passes through popular spots like downtown Rockford and Custard by the Dam, and stretches nearly 93 miles up to Cadillac. On the east side of town however, Reeds Lake Trail offers just over 4 miles of trails around the idyllic Reeds Lake.

With so many options in the area, you’ll never run out of new places to explore with your four-legged adventure buddy. Whether your idea of adventure is winding through the trails, socializing with other dogs, or supporting a puppy-positive coffee shop, Grand Rapids’ offerings won’t disappoint.