Atlanta is known for many things, and being a pet lover’s destination with dog parks a’plenty is one that many residents cherish the most. In 2019, finance website known for their ranking lists, WalletHub, named Atlanta the seventh most pet-friendly metro area in the United States. Lately, a combination of social distancing, staying home and sublime fall weather have got Atlantans spending a lot of time outside. No one is a better companion for enjoying the outdoors than man’s best friend. If you are looking for a great spot to bring your pup, whether you live in the city or are just visiting, then one of these dog parks is a great option for outdoor fun.

Piedmont Park

Located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta, this large park is a gathering place for Atlantans and visitors year-round. The park is spread across 189 acres, and luckily for our furry friends, a substantial dog park is included in the southeastern quarter of the park.

While dogs must be leashed throughout Piedmont Park at large, the fenced-in dog park provides an expansive space for pups to run freely and play. There are two large sections of the dog park – one for small breeds and one for large breeds – so pet owners can feel at ease letting their dogs roam. For owners, there are several benches at the edge of the dog park. In the summer months there is even a concession stand nearby. Visiting Piedmont Dog Park is free, with parking nearby.

Hours/Address:  6 a.m.-11 p.m. Free. 1320 Monroe Drive, Atlanta, GA 30306

Brookhaven Dog Park

In Brookhaven, Atlanta’s central northeastern neighborhood adjacent to Buckhead and North Druid Hills, lies the largest off-leash dog park inside the perimeter. Though it’s only been open since 2018, this dog park is already quite popular with dog-lovers throughout the city.

Located in Brookhaven Park, the fenced in dog park is a 5-acre portion of the 20-acre park. It has entrances on both the northeast side and the south side of the park. Entry to the park is free, and they even have First Friday events at 6 p.m. on the first Friday of each month featuring potluck dishes and fellowship with other dog owners.

Hours/Address: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. 4158 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30319

Newtown Dream

If you’re outside the perimeter, a dog park that is a real dream for dogs and owners alike is the Newtown Dream Dog Park. This park is located inside Newtown Park in Johns Creek just northeast of the city. Access Atlanta named Newtown Dream the top Atlanta area dog park in 2016 and 2017, and it’s received national focus for its attention to detail and superb features.

Dogs can enjoy a one-acre fenced-in area with obstacles, sprinklers and artificial turf. There are also water fountains for dogs and owners as well as benches, shelters and shady trees. Dogs of all sizes are welcome, as long as they wear a collar with a valid license and have all of their vaccinations. Separate areas are also available for large and small dogs.

Hours/Address: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Sundays-Tuesdays, Thursdays-Saturdays; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesdays. Free. 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek, GA 30022

Canine Crossing

Just outside the perimeter to the city’s southwest, you can find South Fulton’s first dog park, Canine Crossing. This park is over 5 acres and split into two off-leash areas – one for dogs over 25 pounds and one for those under 25 pounds.

Make sure you bring a leash, as there is a short walk over some small foot bridges to access the dog park from the parking lot. But once in the fences, your dogs are free to roam. There are features to enhance the area for both dogs and owners, including tunnel obstacles, a perimeter walking path, water access and a covered pavilion.

Hours/Address: Dawn-dusk. Free. 4951 Camp Drive, College Park, GA 30349

Fetch

It’s a departure from the public-park centered dog parks on this list, but worth noting. Atlanta’s newest and first full-service dog park bar is called Fetch. This unique establishment is just minutes off of the Atlanta BeltLine in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood east of downtown.

For folks that plan to visit often, there are monthly and yearly membership packages. If you just want to check it out, there is a daily fee of $10 per visit. There is an area set aside for small dogs, and there are also human amenities including Wi-Fi and a bar. One unique feature is their “Bark Rangers,” who watch over the visiting dogs and make sure pups are playing nicely.

Hours/Address: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and 3-10 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and 3-11 p.m. Fridays; 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturdays; and 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Sundays. $10 entry fee.  520 Daniel Street SE Atlanta, GA 30312

Dogs have really got it made in Atlanta – with many more options than those that made this list. No matter what neighborhood you’re in, you can find a dog park nearby. Bundles of joy can come to you and your pup by spending time enjoying the company of other dogs, so pack up your pet and head to one of these doggy destinations for a great time for the whole furry family.

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