Dog-Friendly Places

An abundance of lovely parks and green spaces makes Boston an ideal city for dogs and dog lovers. From the lovely, tree-lined Commonwealth Avenue mall to the dog-friendly shops on Charles Street to Boston Common, there are pups everywhere you look.

For the party animal

Night Shift Beer Garden on the Esplanade

BOST-0502496000 (pop-up between Berkeley and Clarendon Streets along the Storrow Lagoon)

This seasonal beer garden is the ideal place for you and your pup to relax while watching the sun set over the Charles. In addition to a selection of fresh craft beers, wines, ciders, and non-alcoholic beverages, there are a variety of local food trucks and (of course) dog treats. If you or Fido get restless, the walking trails of the Esplanade are literally right at your feet. The perfect ending to a summer day.

For the dog that loves a good cocktail

Yappier Hour at the Liberty Hotel

215 Charles St.

Every Wednesday evening from early May through October, the courtyard at The Liberty Hotel is transformed into the liveliest, most adorable party in town. Guest and neighborhood dogs fill the yard, creating a joyous—if slightly chaotic—social happening. The themed, seasonal cocktails are delicious, but hold on tightly to avoid spilling as a pack of playful pups runs under
your feet.

For Dogs that Brunch

The Buttery

14 Shawmut St. and 37 Clarendon St.

Slightly farther afield—but totally worth the walk—the two South End Buttery locations are fabulous spots for a brunch al fresco with your pet. Both have gorgeous patios where you will find plenty of dog-friendly shaded areas for a much-needed rest after a long neighborhood walk. Fresh water and treats await your pup, and for you, there are Brick Street Bagels (at Clarendon Street Café), perfectly prepared coffee drinks, and a full menu of breakfast items and pastries.

For the sophisticated dog

The Fairmont Copley Hotel

138 St. James Ave.

One of the most luxurious hotels in town, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is also dog-friendly. Their canine mascot, Cori Copley, is a fixture at the posh social events. She—and the staff—love it when local dogs stop by to say hello and grab a treat from the friendly doormen. Although they can’t let dogs into the bar and restaurant areas, they are very welcome in the lobby, and the hotel hosts a variety of dog-friendly events throughout the year. It’s fine to stay a while: Fairmont offers special packages for canine guests, including luxe branded swag and a spa discount for dog pampering at nearby Onyva.

For the clean and healthy dog

Onyva Dog Spa

171 Newbury St.

In addition to offering indulgent baths and precision cuts, Onyva Dog Spa on Newbury Street is a place where dogs and dog owners can relax and get to know one another. They hold dog-friendly social events like Wine and Cheese Nights, Art Openings, Canine Information Sessions, and even a Dog Lover’s Book Club, and offer complimentary beverages, snacks (both canine and human), a rotating art wall, and the latest curated dog toys and treats. While you are there, ask about a very special spa birthday party event for your pup…only the best for your best friend, after all.

Lisa Mulman is a dog-loving former literature professor who has for the past five years been pursuing a passion project: re-imagining dog grooming as an opportunity for community engagement. A co-founder of Onyva Dog Spa, she resides in the South End with her husband, Merritt, and her 101-pound St. Bernadoodle, Satchel.