Baltimore, Maryland, affectionately known as “Charm City,” is rolling out the red carpet for its four-legged residents and visitors. From scenic cruises to historic explorations and vibrant street art, this city offers a wealth of activities where your canine companion can join in the fun. This guide highlights the best dog-friendly spots in Baltimore, ensuring both you and your pup have an unforgettable experience.
Exploring Baltimore with Your Dog
Baltimore is a city that truly embraces its canine companions, with numerous parks, trails, beaches, and even breweries welcoming dogs with open paws. You no longer need to leave your furry friend at home when exploring this charming city.
Dog-Friendly Activities
Watermark Cruises: Experience Baltimore from the water with your well-behaved, leashed dog. Watermark Cruises welcome canine passengers for free on their regularly scheduled Chesapeake Bay cruises, including the 45-minute narrated Baltimore Harbor Cruise. Remember to clean up after your pet.
Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MarylandFort McHenry: Explore the birthplace of the national anthem with your leashed dog. Dogs are permitted in designated areas of the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, offering a chance to brush up on U.S. history while your pup enjoys new sights and smells.
Fort McHenry, Baltimore, MarylandBaltimore Ghost Tours: Embark on a spooky adventure through the city’s most haunted locations with Baltimore Ghost Tours. Leashed dogs are welcome on their walking tours, including the Mount Vernon Ghost Walk and the renowned Original Fells Point Ghost Walk.
Fort McHenry, Baltimore, MarylandDog-Friendly Events
- BARCStoberfest: This annual festival benefits the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS). It features a “Ready, Set, SNIFF!” 5K Race, a 1-Mile Walk, and a Howl-O-Ween Pet Costume Contest. Attendees can enjoy a beer garden, yoga classes, and support local vendors. An adoption tent will also be present, showcasing adoptable animals from local rescues. The 19th annual BARCStoberfest took place on October 28, 2023, at Patterson Park.Patterson Park, Baltimore, Maryland
Patterson Park, Baltimore, MarylandDog-Friendly Breweries
Many Baltimore breweries are happy to accommodate canine patrons, with some even allowing them indoors.
Ministry of Brewing: Located in a converted church, this brewery offers a wide selection of beers and welcomes families and dogs. Free water bowls and treats are available for canine visitors.
Checkerspot Brewing: This brewery specializes in small-batch, gluten-reduced beers. Dogs are permitted both inside and outside, and the brewery frequently hosts events supporting dog-related causes.
Monument City Brewing: This family-owned brewery serves a variety of ales and lagers. Dogs are welcome inside and outside the taproom, with water bowls provided.
Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore, MarylandPicture-Perfect Spots for Your Dog in Baltimore
Capture memorable moments with your pup at these unique and vibrant locations.
Dear Baltimore Murals: Discover colorful murals by artist Jessica Langley in Charles Village, designed to spread positivity and city pride. These vibrant artworks offer a unique backdrop for memorable photos.
Nipper the RCA Dog Statue: Located at the Maryland Center for History and Culture in Mount Vernon, this giant statue of Nipper, the iconic RCA mascot, makes for a charming photo opportunity.
Nipper the RCA Dog Statue, Baltimore, MarylandCylburn Arboretum: This expansive 200-acre urban oasis features beautiful gardens, wooded trails, and a historic mansion, providing a picturesque setting for dog photos. Pet waste bags are conveniently provided throughout the grounds.
Cylburn Arboretum, Baltimore, MarylandGraffiti Alley: This L-shaped alley in Station North is Baltimore’s legal canvas for graffiti art. The ever-changing, vibrant artwork covering every surface offers endless, dynamic photo possibilities.
Graffiti Alley, Baltimore, MarylandVisit Baltimore Sculpture: Situated outside the World Trade Center building in the Inner Harbor, this sculpture, inspired by a megaphone and the city’s working-class roots, is a must-have photo spot for locals and visitors alike.
Residential Street in Baltimore, Maryland
Nipper the RCA Dog Statue, Baltimore, Maryland
Cylburn Arboretum, Baltimore, Maryland
Graffiti Alley, Baltimore, Maryland
Residential Street in Baltimore, MarylandAnimal Shelter Spotlight: Maryland SPCA
The Maryland SPCA, founded in 1869, is one of the nation’s oldest animal welfare organizations dedicated to protecting and improving the lives of pets and people in Baltimore. Beyond facilitating adoptions, they offer crucial assistance programs, humane education, and veterinary care. In 2022, the organization achieved a save rate of over 90%, facilitated 2,400 adoptions, and provided extensive support through services like spay/neuter surgeries, foster care, a food pantry, and free veterinary care. You can view adoptable animals on the Maryland SPCA website, where adoption fees are often waived.
Flowering Magnolia Trees, Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore offers a welcoming environment for dog owners, with a diverse range of activities and attractions that allow your furry friend to be part of the adventure. From scenic waterfront views to artistic explorations and community events, Charm City ensures a memorable experience for every dog and their human.
