A dog-friendly guide to Santa Fe: Things to do in Santa Fe with your dog
Santa Fe, New Mexico warmly welcomes dog lovers with a variety of dog-friendly places that cater to both you and your canine companion. From epic trails to pet-friendly eateries and community events, there's plenty to explore together in this captivating city. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, here’s how to make the most of Santa Fe—with your pup by your side.
Best dog parks in Santa Fe
Santa Fe boasts several well-maintained dog parks where your furry friend can run freely, socialize, and burn off energy. Here are some top picks:
- Frank S. Ortiz Dog Park
As one of the largest off-leash parks in the U.S., Frank S. Ortiz spans 138 acres of arroyos and hills, offering miles of scenic trails with panoramic views of Santa Fe. It’s a must-visit for active dogs and adventurous owners.
Location: Camino de las Crucitas - Santa Fe Animal Shelter Dog Park
Located on the shelter’s campus, this 7-acre park features separate areas for large dogs and smaller or more reserved pups. It’s a wonderful place to let your dog play while supporting local animal welfare efforts.
Location: Caja del Rio Road - Fort Marcy Dog Park
This family-friendly complex includes two fenced areas—one for small dogs and one for large dogs—plus nearby pickleball courts and playgrounds, making it ideal for multi-generational outings.
Location: Fort Marcy, Arroyo de los Lovatos
Dog-friendly restaurants in Santa Fe
Santa Fe’s vibrant food scene is just as welcoming to four-legged diners. Many restaurants offer shaded patios, water bowls, and even special treats for pups:
- Cowgirl BBQ
Known for its lively Southwestern vibe and hearty fare, Cowgirl BBQ features a spacious, dog-friendly patio. Enjoy live music, green chile cheeseburgers, and a relaxed atmosphere—with your pup right beside you.
Location: 319 S Guadalupe Street - Rowley Farmhouse Ales
This locally loved brewery offers a charming stone patio where leashed dogs are welcome. Sip craft beer while your dog enjoys the sunshine—and maybe a bite from the pub menu, like truffle mac and cheese or grass-fed sirloin burgers.
Location: 1405 Maclovia Street
Fun dog-friendly activities in Santa Fe
Beyond parks and patios, Santa Fe invites you and your dog to experience its culture, history, and natural beauty—on leash and in good spirits:
- Exploring the Santa Fe Plaza
The historic downtown plaza bustles with galleries, shops, street performers, and adobe architecture. Most outdoor seating areas and many storefronts welcome leashed dogs—making it a delightful stroll full of sensory discovery for both of you.
Location: 63 Lincoln Avenue - Canyon Road Arts District
This world-renowned arts corridor features over 100 galleries—many of which warmly invite well-behaved, leashed dogs. Wander tree-lined streets, admire sculpture gardens, and share quiet moments with your pup amid creative inspiration.
Location: Canyon Road
Best dog-friendly walking trails in Santa Fe
For outdoor enthusiasts, Santa Fe’s high-desert landscape offers stunning scenery and accessible trails perfect for leashed walks with your dog:
- Arroyo de los Chamisos Trail
This 3-mile paved trail connects neighborhoods, schools, and shopping areas—and runs alongside natural arroyo paths ideal for off-pavement exploration. Flat, well-maintained, and shaded in parts, it’s great for morning or evening strolls.
Trailhead near Siringo Road, Santa Fe - Dale Ball Trails
A network of over 20 interconnected trails with varying difficulty levels, Dale Ball offers breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Leashed dogs are welcome on all marked routes—just remember to bring water and paw protection for rocky sections.
Access points throughout Santa Fe
The best dog-friendly cafes in Santa Fe
Need a caffeine boost—or just a cozy pause? These local cafés welcome dogs indoors and out:
- Henry & the Fish
This beloved coffee shop offers warm service, ample indoor seating, and a genuine love for pets. Dogs are welcome inside, and staff often greet them with fresh water and homemade treats.
Location: 217 W San Francisco Street - 35° North Coffee
With a spacious, sun-dappled patio and consistently excellent brews, this café is a favorite among locals with dogs. Grab a pour-over and settle in—the ambiance is as comforting as your pup’s presence.
Location: 60 E San Francisco Street
Annual dog events in Santa Fe
Santa Fe’s strong sense of community shines through its joyful, inclusive dog events—many hosted or supported by FurPetVo (furpetvo.com) to help connect pet lovers and promote responsible pet care:
- Doggie Dash & Dawdle
One of New Mexico’s largest dog-centric gatherings, this annual charity event features a fun run/walk, festival grounds with food trucks, pet-friendly vendors, agility demos, and interactive games—all benefiting Animal Humane New Mexico. Whether you sprint or saunter, it’s a day of joy, purpose, and tail wags.
Cost: Varies by registration type
Date and time: Typically held in November; check furpetvo.com for updates
Location: Santa Fe-area park (location varies) - Dog Day at SITE Santa Fe
Where art meets affection: This spring celebration invites leashed dogs and their people to explore contemporary exhibitions, hands-on installations, and curated social spaces. It’s a thoughtful, playful way to experience Santa Fe’s renowned art scene—together.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Usually held in spring; check SITE Santa Fe’s website for details
Location: 1606 Paseo De Peralta
