Paws, Patios, & Parks
If you’re looking for dog-friendly things to do in Atlanta, Virginia Highland District is the perfect place for you and your pup. Along North Highland Ave, neighborhood sidewalks connect a locally-owned pet store, welcoming pet-friendly patios and leafy residential streets - with Piedmont Park's off-leash dog parks a close walk away.
This guide focuses on outdoor experiences. Restaurant and shop policies can change, and dogs other than service animals may not be allowed indoors. Confirm current patio access before visiting and plan for takeout when one person is exploring solo with a dog.
At a Glance
- For a seasonal pet-friendly Sunday outing: Virginia Highland Farmers Market
- For food, treats, toys and neighborhood pet expertise: Highland Pet Supply
- For a patio where the name is part of the promise: The Family Dog
- For a large neighborhood-pub patio and game-day energy: Neighbor's Pub, George’s, and Moe’s & Joe’s
- For coffee on the sidewalk: PERC, Ash Coffee, Press & Grind, or San Francisco Coffee
- For off-leash running, water stations and separate play areas: Piedmont Park Dog Parks
Atlanta’s Sunday Morning Pup Date: Farmers Market, Treats, and Patio Brunch
Start at the Virginia Highland Farmers Market
April to November, the Virginia Highland Farmers Market brings Atlanta farmers, bakers, makers and prepared-food vendors to Highland Woodworking on Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Friendly dogs are welcome on leash, making the market a natural first stop for a weekend walk.
Add Coffee for the Human
Pick up a drink from PERC, Ash Coffee, Press & Grind, or San Francisco Coffee before continuing through the District. All of these local coffee shops have outdoor seating for you and your dog.
Stock Up at Highland Pet Supply
Highland Pet Supply has served neighborhood pet owners since 1992. The independently-owned shop carries food, treats, toys, beds, collars, leashes and other essentials, with a team known for practical product advice. It is the right stop for replacing the forgotten waste-bag roll, finding a new reward treat or bringing home a toy after a successful outing.
Choose a Dog-Friendly Patio Meal
Finish in Morningside Village at The Family Dog, whose patio explicitly welcomes dogs, at Whiskey Bird, where both the covered front patio and enclosed back patio are dog-friendly, or at Doc Chey’s, where your pup will be welcomed on the large outdoor patio. The Family Dog works well for casual bar food, sports and a laid-back crowd, Doc Chey’s is your choice for quick and delicious Asian eats, and Whiskey Bird is the choice for Pacific Rim-inspired brunch, seasonal cocktails and a more food-forward meal.
The Virginia Highland District Loop: Shady Streets, a Park, and Sunset on the Patio
Talk a Long Walk through the District and Piedmont Park
Begin with a leashed walk along Virginia Highland's tree-lined residential streets, then pass through John Howell Memorial Park. The park offers open green space and a convenient break close to the District.
Piedmont Park's three-acre off-leash area sits just outside the District and makes an easy destination for an afternoon in our neighborhood. The dog parks include separate enclosures for large and small dogs, shaded areas, benches, water spigots and nearby restrooms.
Local tip: Please keep dogs leashed in all areas outside of the Piedmont Park off-leash dog parks, clean up after them and steer clear of playground equipment and other areas where pets are restricted under City of Atlanta park rules.
Settle In for Sunset
After your walk with your pup, head toward Bar.bacoa, George’s, or Moe’s & Joe’s for an easy patio meal. Your furry friends will be welcomed at these neighborhood spots with fresh water (and maybe a treat).
Finish with a Treat - Mostly for You
Morelli's Ice Cream and Paolo's Gelato sit within a few steps of the Virginia-Highland intersection, while Three Peaches Coffee & Gelato offers another member option nearby by Piedmont Park. All of these local shops have outdoor seating and pup-cups where your pup can relax while you enjoy you both enjoy your treats.
Local Businesses Sharing Love With Free Dog Treats:
Before You Visit Virginia Highland District
Park Once
Virginia Highland is made for walking. Start in one spot and explore the neighborhood on foot. Check out our parking guide.
See What's Happening
From the Farmers Market and Porchfest to Mardi Gras and Winterfest, there's almost always an event coming up soon. Check the Events Calendar before you visit.
Editor's Note
Business hours, patio policies, park conditions, market dates and event rules may change throughout the year. Be sure to check individual business listings, official park guidance and the VHDA calendar before your visit.
