August 26, 2024
From walkable downtowns to miles of trails and expansive parks, this destination features plenty of places where both you and your dog can run, play, snack and meet new buddies.
Parks For Playing
Your dog will appreciate a first stop at the park to burn off that road trip energy. At Frank Liske Park in Concord, wide-open spaces welcome outdoor enthusiasts and their pets to play the day away with a number of amenities, from disc golf to fitness trails. This 238-acre park is also managed as a wildlife and nature preserve.
Weddington Road Bark Park in Concord was clearly built by dog lovers for dog lovers. The park has separate areas for small and large dogs to keep all pups safe. Covered areas for pet parents let them take a break while their dogs explore grassy and wooded areas of the park, which also includes fun obstacles in the doggie playground. This park is conveniently located within walking distance of several pet-friendly hotels at Exit 49. Part of the Carolina Thread Trail, the paved Riverwalk segment of the Hector H. Henry II Greenway connects the dog park with Embassy Suites Charlotte/Concord Golf Resort & Spa.
A full list of the area’s scenic greenways and parks can be found here.
Pup-Friendly Patios
Throughout Cabarrus County, four-legged friends are common fixtures in taprooms and beer gardens, where you can drink alfresco with your pets by your side. Spots like Old Armor Beer Company and many more are dog-friendly. At Buzzed Viking Brewing Company in Concord, you can even pick up a dog collar for your pooch that has a bottle opener hooked to the clasp. Many area breweries have large open spaces inside and out, perfect for dogs to fit right in. Explore all breweries and taprooms in Cabarrus County and be sure to check their pet policies before visiting.
Ready to eat? Enjoy a enjoy a tasty meal on a comfy patio with your dog. Find the perfect pet-friendly dining spot at Gibson Mill Market in Concord. The food hall features plenty of outdoor seating and several local dining options serving a variety of cuisines. Before or after your meal, shop the huge antique mall next door at The Depot at Gibson Mill which welcomes pets on leashes.
Find more eateries with perfect patios where dogs are welcome.
Special Events
Looking for paw-sitively awesome events to enjoy during your dog’s day out? During “Weiners & Wags” Wednesdays, the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers invite you to enjoy $2 hot dog specials throughout the ballpark and cheer on the home team with your best friend. Find details on these and other special themed-promotional nights on the team’s website. Did you know the Ballers have a furry, four-legged team member? Keep an eye out for Kacey Betty the bat dog when visiting Atrium Health Ballpark!
In Harrisburg, Percent Tap House hosts Wednesday vendor events that include Pup Socials, doggy play dates that assist pup-parents in teaching socialization to their pets. Their markets also feature vendors offering fun dog products including lots of treats. Stay tuned to their calendar on social media for the latest events.
Cabarrus Brewing has previously hosted events such as Pets, Paints & Pints where beer lovers can enjoy a cold one while painting a portrait of their dog, who is welcome to come along. Keep an eye on their calendar for any upcoming dates.
Treats For All
Rather than toss spent grains in the trash, local brewers will pass them along to partners to make dog treats. Old Armor Beer Company and Eat Cakes Bakery in Kannapolis team up to use spent grains to make crunchy dog treats. Along with plenty of delicious desserts for humans, Eat Cakes also has Pupcakes on the menu with dog-favorite flavors like oatmeal, peanut butter, banana and honey.
At Cabarrus Brewing Company, spent grains are baked into Brew Bonz. When buying a brew for you, grab a bag of these tasty treats for your dog and help another in need. The sales raise money for local dog advocacy groups like the Humane Society of Concord and Greater Cabarrus County.
Pet-Friendly Hotels
Bring your best friend along for all the fun! The Cabarrus County, NC Destination Guide includes information on lodging options throughout the destination where your pets are more than welcome.
From fresh-baked treats to inviting outdoor spaces, the pup-friendly activities found in Cabarrus County will make your dog’s day! Start planning your adventure today.
