Dog-friendly Ann Arbor: Restaurants, parks & activities

Whether you're a longtime Ann Arbor resident or planning a pet-sitting stay in this vibrant Michigan city, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy Ann Arbor with your canine companion. From sunny patios and scenic trails to welcoming shops, this guide covers the best dog-friendly spots across town — all curated for pet lovers who use FurPetVo to connect with trusted sitters and hosts.

A happy dog sitting on a shaded outdoor patio at a bustling Ann Arbor restaurant

Dog-friendly restaurants in Ann Arbor

Food is central to Ann Arbor’s charm — and many local eateries embrace that spirit by welcoming dogs on their outdoor spaces. Here are top spots where you and your pup can dine together:

  • Frita Batidos: This Cuban-inspired spot serves juicy Fritas (Cuban burgers), shoestring fries, and tropical milkshakes (batidos). Its lively patio is a favorite among local dogs and their people.
    Location: 117 W Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Sava’s: Book a table on the dog-friendly patio for salads, bowls, and sandwiches during the week — or join the weekend brunch crowd. Favorites include bang bang shrimp, mac & cheese, and Greek salad.
    Location: 216 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Zingerman’s Delicatessen: The iconic deli’s backyard patio features water bowls for pups and legendary sandwiches like Binny’s Brooklyn Reuben or Gemini Rocks The House with fresh mozzarella and pesto.
    Location: 422 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • RoosRoast Coffee: An art-filled café offering high-quality coffee and generous outdoor seating — perfect for relaxing with your dog while you sip.
    Location: 1155 Rosewood St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Fleetwood Diner: A quirky all-day diner serving breakfast, burgers, and bites — including the famous Hippie Hashbrowns. Their dog-friendly patio makes it easy to enjoy a meal with your pup.
    Location: 300 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea: While this local chain has multiple locations, the Kerrytown spot stands out for its inviting courtyard — ideal for coffee, light bites, and quiet time with your dog.
    Location: 407 N 5th Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Grizzly Peak Brewing Company: Go beyond standard hospitality with their “Pups on the Patio” menu — featuring pup patties, bacon bites, and doggy ice cream. A portion of proceeds supports the Humane Society of Huron Valley.
    Location: 120 W Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Jolly Pumpkin Café & Brewery: Known for truffle fries and award-winning brews, Jolly Pumpkin also offers wood-fired pizzas and small plates. Their shaded outdoor area includes water bowls and friendly staff.
    Location: 311 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • HOMES Brewery: A casual brewpub serving Asian-fusion dishes alongside IPAs, sours, and stouts — all enjoyed with your leashed pup on their welcoming patio.
    Location: 2321 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Dog parks in Ann Arbor

Let your pup stretch their legs and explore nature at these well-maintained parks — whether off-leash or on-leash. Note: Michigan law requires all dogs entering official Ann Arbor dog parks to have a valid city license. Visit furpetvo.com for local licensing resources and pet-sitting tips before your visit.

  • Swift Run Dog Park: A 10-acre off-leash paradise with separate areas for small and large dogs, grassy fields, and ample waste stations.
    Location: 4000 Platt Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
  • Olson Dog Park: Nestled inside a 54-acre park, this clean, sheltered off-leash zone features benches and dog waste stations — perfect for playdates.
    Location: Off-leash Dog Play Area, 1551 Dhu Varren Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
  • Broadway Park: Offers two spacious dog areas and connects via paved trails to riverside parks — great for combining off-leash play with longer on-leash walks.
    Location: 800 Broadway St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Barton Nature Area: A serene 98-acre natural space along the Huron River where leashed dogs are welcome for peaceful strolls and picnics.
    Location: 1010 W Huron River Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
  • Gallup Park: One of Ann Arbor’s most beloved green spaces — 69 acres of riverside trails and open fields, all accessible to leashed dogs.
    Location: 3000 Fuller Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
  • University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum (“The Arb”): Though not a designated dog park, this 123-acre botanical haven welcomes leashed dogs on its 3.5 miles of scenic trails — ideal for relaxed, sniff-filled adventures.
    Location: 1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Two dogs playing joyfully in a fenced, grassy dog park with trees and benches in the background

Dog-friendly stores in Ann Arbor

Shopping doesn’t have to mean leaving your pup behind. Several Ann Arbor retailers warmly welcome leashed dogs — just confirm policies in advance and keep your companion comfortable and well-behaved.

  • Downtown Home & Garden: Grab a treat from their complimentary “Pup Cups” while browsing gardening tools and pet supplies.
    Location: 210 S Ashley St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Literati Bookstore: This independent, three-story bookstore invites calm, leashed dogs to join literary explorations — a dream come true for book-loving pet parents.
    Location: 124 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Sierra: This department store carries everything from outdoor gear to home essentials — and happily welcomes leashed dogs throughout its spacious aisles.
    Location: 114 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
A golden retriever sniffing a colorful dog toy display near the entrance of a cozy downtown boutique