Pet-Friendly Guide to Denver, United States
The Mile High City is a paradise for active dogs and their humans, with mountain trails, urban dog parks, and a thriving brewery patio culture.
Denver, United States
About Denver
Denver is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Colorado. Officially a consolidated city and county, it is located in the South Platte River valley on the western edge of the High Plains, and is just east of the Front Range of the R...
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United States of America
Why Pets Love Denver
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Denver is one of the most dog-friendly cities in America, and the numbers prove it — the city has more dogs per capita than children. The combination of over 300 days of sunshine, access to world-class mountain trails, a booming brewery scene that enthusiastically welcomes dogs, and a population that considers dogs essential family members makes Denver an outstanding pet travel destination.
The outdoor lifestyle here naturally revolves around dogs. From morning hikes in the foothills to afternoon patio sessions at craft breweries, Denver dogs live their best lives. The city has also invested heavily in off-leash parks and dog-friendly infrastructure.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
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Denver’s hotel market is very pet-welcoming. The Crawford Hotel in Union Station, Kimpton Hotel Born, and Hotel Teatro all have generous pet policies. The Maven Hotel provides dog beds and treats at check-in. Many Airbnb listings in RiNo, LoHi, and Capitol Hill neighborhoods are pet-friendly.
Budget travelers will find pet-friendly motels along Colfax Avenue and in the suburbs. Mid-range pet-friendly hotels run $80-140 per night.
Dog Parks and Outdoor Spaces
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Denver’s park system is exceptional, and the mountain access is unbeatable:
- Cherry Creek State Park Off-Leash Area — 107 acres of off-leash paradise with a swimming reservoir
- Chatfield State Park Dog Off-Leash Area — 69 acres including a lake for dog swimming
- Berkeley Park — Popular neighborhood off-leash park in North Denver
- Green Mountain Trail — Foothills trail with stunning views, dogs welcome on-leash
- Mount Falcon Park — Mountain park with 12 miles of dog-friendly trails
For bigger adventures, Rocky Mountain National Park is 90 minutes away (dogs allowed on specific trails and roads).
Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes
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Denver’s brewery and restaurant patio culture is intensely dog-friendly:
- Bark Bar — Denver’s original dog park and bar combo where your pup plays while you drink
- Great Divide Brewing — Taproom in RiNo with a dog-friendly patio
- Ratio Beerworks — Sprawling outdoor space where dogs are welcome
- Denver Beer Co. — Multiple locations, all enthusiastically welcoming dogs on patios
- Snooze, an A.M. Eatery — Dog-friendly brunch with outdoor seating
Local Pet Rules and Regulations
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Denver requires all dogs to be licensed with the city and vaccinated against rabies. Dogs must be on-leash on public streets, sidewalks, and in parks unless in a designated off-leash area. The city formerly had breed-specific legislation banning pit bulls, but this was repealed in 2021 — all breeds are now welcome. Waste cleanup is strictly enforced with fines up to $999 for repeat offenders.
Getting There With Your Pet
Denver International Airport (DEN) has indoor pet relief areas in all concourses, which is a major plus for travelers with dogs. The airport is about 40 minutes from downtown. If driving, Denver is at the crossroads of I-25 and I-70, making it accessible from all directions. Within the city, RTD buses allow small dogs in carriers. The downtown area and neighborhoods like LoDo, RiNo, and Cherry Creek are very walkable with your dog.
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