Nestled in the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, NC is a city that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
The vibrant streets of downtown are always filled with the sound of live music and the aromas of the local cuisine. The awe-inspiring mountain backdrop serves more than just aesthetic purposes with the wide variety of hiking trails and beautiful wildflower meadows to explore. Plus, it’s recognized as one of the most dog-friendly cities in America!
Nearly every spot you take your pup to in the Land of the Sky will welcome dogs, but of them all, here are some of our favorite pet-friendly places in Asheville that are too good not to share.
Thinking about a trip with your fur kids? Then you won’t want to be without our FREE Doggie Packing Checklist! This is the same list I use when preparing for a trip with Lady and ensure I’ll have everything I need to keep my girl safe and healthy during our travels.
Download your free copy right now and let’s start planning your next vacation with your pets!
Our Favorite Pet-Friendly Places in Asheville, NC
1. The Biltmore Estate
Recognized as America’s largest home, this incredible 250-room mansion is Asheville’s crown jewel.
The Biltmore Estate is reminiscent of the grand castles in Great Britain and France and was used as a retreat for George Vanderbilt and his family in the late 1800s. Today, the architectural masterpiece attracts thousands of visitors every year and offers a historic experience that won’t soon be forgotten.
Although pets are not allowed inside the mansion, there is still plenty to see with Fido on the estate’s extensive grounds, including 250-acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. Antler Hill Village is an extension of the Biltmore Estate that also provides more to explore and pet-friendly restaurants to enjoy.
2. Bearwallow Mountain Trail
Asheville is a haven for hiking enthusiasts. With more than 1,600 miles of trails to explore, you and your dog could literally spend weeks meandering through the Blue Ridge Mountains and creating your own adventures.
One trail that has always stood out to me is the picturesque Bearwallow Mountain Trail. It’s a 1.7-mile loop located just a few minutes from town, making it ideal for a quick excursion that ensures you’ll be back in time to enjoy dinner at one of Asheville’s incredible restaurants.
When you arrive at the trailhead, you’ll get to choose between the 1-mile trail to the right or the slightly shorter gravel road to the left. The trail is ideal for those looking for a bit of a challenge on the way up while the gravel road is more suited to families and beginner hikers.
At the top, you’ll be greeted with spectacular views of an open garden meadow, wildflower fields, remains of an old apple orchard, and majestic mountains stretching towards the sky in the distance.
3. Big Butt Trail
This high-elevation hike is another one of the best Asheville dog-friendly hikes and a great option for exploring the nearby Pisgah National Forest.
Big Butt Trail (great name, right?) can be found about 45 minutes outside of Asheville and transports hikers on an incredible 4.8-mile round trip journey through some of the region’s most lush spruce forests.
It can be a bit strenuous, so I recommend this excursion only for experienced hikers and their dogs. If you have a relatively healthy stamina level, I guarantee you’ll love this trail!
4. Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar
Our next pet-friendly Asheville attraction takes us back to the downtown area. Battery Park Book Exchange is a local treasure that marries together books, wine, and dogs, three of life’s greatest pleasures!
This eclectic and inviting shop in the Grove Arcade houses thousands of books, cozy seating areas, an espresso bar, and a wine bar that serves up sparkling vino and champagne. What more could you possibly need? Oh, that’s right…your dog!
Pups are welcome inside and invited to join you anywhere in the shop. Whether you’re cozied up with a good book on one of the couches or chatting away with your friends at the bar, it’s good to know that your pooch will be right there to join in on all of the fun.
5. Wedge Brewing Company
Located in the heart of the River Arts District, Wedge Brewing Company acts as a gathering place for people from all walks of life to come together and connect over a delicious pint of freshly-brewed craft beer.
With over 20 tasty selections to choose from, you’re sure to find your new favorite beer from their menu! They’re also known as the go-to place for some of Asheville’s most popular food trucks. Each day of the week, a new truck serves brewery patrons crave-worthy grub such as gourmet grilled cheese, pizza, and comfort food.
Grab a seat at the dog-friendly section of the outdoor patio to enjoy your food, socialize with the locals, and sip on your beer.
6. 12 Bones Smokehouse
A trip to Asheville isn’t complete without sinking your teeth into the city’s world-famous BBQ! Out of the dozens of BBQ joints in the Land of the Sky, the one that always seems to rise above all the rest is 12 Bones Smokehouse.
The tried and true family recipes and exceptionally tender meats have earned this local joint a spot on the Food Network’s list of “Top 10 Spots for BBQ in America.” After trying their smoked brisket for myself, I can’t say that I’m willing to argue.
Since 12 Bones is a lunch-only restaurant, the line is usually always running out the door. If you want to avoid waiting for too long, I suggest getting there right when they open or a little later in the afternoon. There are also two locations to choose from, but the River location on Foundy Street is the closest one to Downtown Asheville and offers plenty of outdoor seating for you and your pup.
7. Three Dog Bakery
This was one of Lady’s favorite stops during our visit to Asheville!
The Three Dog Bakery is the world’s first full-functioning bakery exclusively for pooches. They offer a wide variety of freshly baked treats that will have your dog drooling from the moment they walk through the door. Plus, each of their treats is made with only the highest-quality ingredients and healthy human foods. Yum!
If your four-legged friend has been a good boy/girl, show them your appreciation by treating them to a tasty snack. You’ll also find plenty of pet-related products to browse through including leashes, dog beds, bowls, and dog-themed home decor.
8. Ariel Gallery
Asheville has a buzzing art scene, and we’re sure your dog will be able to appreciate it just as much as you do.
The Ariel Gallery in Downtown Asheville is one of the city’s best dog-friendly galleries and houses a beautiful collection of ceramics, glass crafts, woodwork, and much more.
Since it is an artist-run gallery, you and your pup can look forward to meeting one of the artists themselves at the gallery anytime you decide to visit.
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From the dog-friendly Downtown Asheville to the vast mountain wilderness, The Land of the Sky offers something for any dog and traveler to enjoy.
Lady and I couldn’t get enough of this incredible city, and we can’t wait to return again someday. If you and your furry friend have visited before and know of even more pet-friendly places in Asheville, make sure to leave them in the comments! We’re always interested to hear about our fellow travelers’ experiences.
Also, don’t forget to check out other dog-friendly destinations that Lady and I have visited such as the Outer Banks, NC or Charleston, SC! We’re sure you’ll find you and your dog’s next vacation spot on our list.
