There’s nothing quite like taking the pup out for a day. Seeing their little (or big) tails wag with joy when they hop into the car is literally the best feeling in the world.
However, the challenging part is finding dog-friendly places to bring your pup. So, today, let’s explore a few dog-friendly spots and activities throughout the Merrimack Valley area, including what they offer for both pets and their humans.
Navigation Brewing Co.
Navigation Brewing Co.’s taprooms welcome owners and their furry friends. Here, beer-lovers can snag a few craft brew tastings, pour a pint, fill their growlers, or take home cans of their favorite brew.
While you may know your pup is a complete angel, the brewery asks that dogs be kept under control and leashed at all times. Retractable leashes are not permitted. If pets show signs of excessive barking or aggressive behaviors, the party will be asked to leave. Additionally, dogs are not allowed in the hallways during taproom hours.
Brew’d Awakening Coffeehaus
Not only is Brew’d Awakening Coffeehaus a fantastic place to grab a delicious cup of coffee and a quick bite, but it’s also a great place to take your pup! So if you’re walking through Downtown Lowell with your dog and need a hot beverage or a sandwich, Brew’d Awakening is the place for you!
Both inside and outside the cafe are dog-friendly, but owners should use their best judgment. Still, while you drink your coffee or eat your lunch, you’ll be happy to hear that they sell tasty dog treats for your pup to snack on, too. You can even include them in your online order if you don’t have time to sit and relax. It’s this extra little bit of consideration for their customers, both two-legged and four, that makes Brew’d Awakening such a popular place to visit.
Heritage Farm Ice Cream
Heritage Farm serves up some of the best ice cream delights in the Merrimack Valley. Here, ice cream lovers can find their favorite flavors, floats, sundaes, and other sweet concoctions. The ice cream stand is also heavily involved in the Merrimack Valley community, often holding free family-friendly events and concerts.
Additionally, dog owners can bring their pups to the outdoor areas for a delicious snack and a breath of fresh air on a warm summer afternoon or evening. According to customer reviews on BringFido, the stand might even offer a doggie sundae for your companion to enjoy.
Rapscallion Table & Tap
Breweries are typically pretty dog-friendly, and Rapscallion Table & Tap is on that list! They love dogs and all three of their locations are dog-friendly, though they request that all dogs remain leashed and under supervision at all times. This is as much for the dogs as it is for the other patrons, really – after all, this is supposed to be an outing for you and your pup, so you should give them your full attention.
While pups can’t come inside the Acton location per Board of Health regulations, they’re absolutely welcome to dine with you on the outdoor patio. Still, you’ll both be happy dining al fresco, as your dog and you can enjoy the fresh air while dining on great food made from scratch.
Minute Man National Historical Park
The Minute Man National Historical Park features gorgeous green grounds, walking trails, and many historical sites to visit. The national park is also pet-friendly, with a few regulations, of course.
The park asks that dogs are leashed at all times. Pets are also not permitted within any buildings (except for service animals). And, of course, pet waste must be bagged and removed from the park – dog poop bags cannot be left on the ground with the “intention” of picking it up on the way out.
As the park’s website notes, “temporary littering is still littering and a violation that carries a fine.”
Other Dog-Friendly Walking Trails And Parks
Additionally, there are many dog-friendly walking trails throughout the area. Please adhere to posted pet regulations on all trails and parks. Some of these trails include:
Reminder: Always Pick Up After Your Pet!
A gentle reminder – always be kind, considerate, and responsible when bringing your dog to public spaces or local businesses. Please remember to pick up after your companion, and keep in mind that not everyone is a dog or pet person. Additionally, unless otherwise posted, make sure to keep your dog leashed at all times. And, of course, strictly follow any postings, regulations, or guidelines for all locations.
When in doubt, be sure to contact all locations prior to your visit to confirm pet guidelines.
