Sit, Stay, Play at JAX Dog Parks
Who else can’t bear the thought of leaving their furry companion at home? ✋ In JAX, dogs truly ARE our best friends. Luckily, there are many pup-friendly spots in JAX including restaurants, shopping districts, signature events and even at our sports games!
But when fido needs to release energy, Northeast Florida dog parks can come in handy. And, with many providing a hot or cold beverage, pop-ups and entertainment, you’ll enjoy it almost as much as your dog.
A few of our faves include:
Photo Credit: Ketterman Photography
- BrewHound Dog Park + Bar, Neptune Beach – this spot is comprised of The Yard, with separate fenced areas for large and small dogs; pet-friendly turf; and a splash pad perfect for hot days under the watchful eyes of the staff (aka Ruffarees); and The Porch, a covered patio with picnic tables; games; and a beverage bar selling coffees, teas, wine and craft beer. Even dogless residents hang out here to be entertained by dog antics, as well as a host of special events like themed gatherings for singles, Harry Potter fans, holidays, etc.; movie nights; live music; and pop-up artisan shops.
- Kanine Social, Jacksonville – as the only indoor/outdoor dog park that provides coffee and craft beer in Jacksonville, it’s a great go-to activity for you and your dog, rain or shine! Its taproom also has multiple TVs attracting sports fans from across the region to watch over an assortment of beverages including wine, kombucha, coffee and rotating craft beer selections, including several from the JAX Ale Trail.
Photo Credit: Cole LoCurto
- Congaree & Penn, Jacksonville – while this 350-acre working farm is known more for its farm-to-table cuisine, horse and goat encounters, tractor-pulled wagon tours and fruit picking, fall isn’t complete without a canine field day in the back field and under the oak hammocks of this hidden West Jacksonville gem. Check their website for dates.
- Davis Park Dog Run, Ponte Vedra Beach – this free venue features two fenced parks (separated for large or small dogs), large natural area, lake and wash off stations within Davis Park, a St. Johns County-run park for youth sports like soccer, football and baseball.
- Poochie’s Park, Orange Park – this dog park offers lakes, nature trails and plenty of trees, perfect for your pup to mark his or her territory! Poochie’s also offers boarding, doggie day camps, grooming, veterinary services and training.
- Pet Paradise, Multiple Locations – headquartered in Jacksonville with more than 60+ locations across the United States, pets can enjoy air-conditioned suites, grass play areas, shaded yards with misting fans and a pet pool that would make any pet parent jealous. They also have boarding to make sure your pet will have tons of play time while you’re away!
And, if fraternizing with felines is more your speed, no problem! While the JAX cat cafes aren’t the place to bring in your own cat, they are a purr-fect place to unwind with a cup of coffee, a glass of wine or yoga among kittens. Check out The Caffeinated Cat in Jacksonville Beach or Witty Whisker Cat Café and Frisky Cat Café, both in St. Augustine. These cafes are also non-profit rescues, working to spay, neuter and provide veterinary services all for the purpose of getting cats adopted, which is an option should you find a cat you’d like to take home.