And we don’t mean that team in Georgia. As we roll into the dog days of summer, make the most of them with your favorite pup. Of course Tuscaloosa has the standard drive thru treats with two Dairy Queens for pup cups and three Starbucks for puppuccinos, but there’s plenty more for you and your four-legged friend to take in together.  

Shop for Treats

If you’re in town for a visit, it’s helpful to know where you can shop for essentials and treats with your bestie. The Tuscaloosa area has two Tractor Supply Company locations in addition to PetSmart, Petsense, Pet Supermarket and Pet Supplies Plus storefronts. Many of the stores carry local collegiate themed pet apparel, toys and accessories to be ready for your own walk of champions. Pick up a new toy or travel water bowl before heading to the parks!

“Ruff” around Outside

The Will May Dog Park, located in Sokol Park, is a great place to socialize for everybody. Featuring two play areas, one for small breeds and another for large, this shady spot is a great place to run off-leash. 

If your furry friend loves the water, Hurricane Creek Park is where you need to be. The sandy beach is a great place to wade in, or you can take the trails to venture a little further down the stream for another swimming hole to splash around in.

Quad-Paws on the Quad

Take your buddy on a tour of The University of Alabama then make the most of the main quad’s open space. There’s usually more than a few pups chasing a soccer ball, catching a frisbee or enjoying a picnic in front of Gorgas Library. 

Pubs and Pooches

Bring together two of your favorite things — a nice, cold beer and your pup. Good Dog Park & Bar lets well-mannered pooches and their humans in with a day pass to run, play and lap up the fun. They also offer daycare services if you have some daytime appointments that aren’t suitable for your pup to join. 

Many establishments with patios allow your good boy to join you while you enjoy a meal or a beverage. Some of the best pubs include Loosa, Druid City Brewing, Innisfree, Avenue Pub or Heat Pizza. Or pick up Full Moon BBQ or Taco Casa before heading to the Riverwalk or Lake Nicol for an evening picnic topped off with a walk before heading to your home for the night. 

Let Your Sleeping Dog Lie

The whole pack is sure to stay in comfort while visiting Tuscaloosa. Many hotels around town allow pets to accompany you for your stay. Be sure to check out Hotel Indigo, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn and Residence Inn for availability. Tuscaloosa has a growing list of short-term rentals that also allow the four-footed family members to join the vacation. 

Our four legged friends are the best, and here in Tuscaloosa, we have tons of places where dogs are welcome and often the guest of honor. Here are some of the best dog-friendly spots in town for the next time you need a day out with your pup!

Innisfree

As one of Tuscaloosa’s hottest hangouts, Innisfree is always guaranteed to be a good time! What makes it even better though is its dog-friendly environment. You can’t go to “the Free” and not run into a four-legged friend hanging out on the patio! It’s the perfect place to go if you want to have a day out with friends, and since dogs are the best friends you can include them in your outing to Innisfree. If you’re looking for a great atmosphere for both you and your dog, grab your pup and head to the Free!

Will May Memorial Dog Park

This dog park opened just a few years ago at Munny Sokol Park and at the time was the most requested PARA amenity by Tuscaloosa natives! Since its opening, the park has been a mega success and is a great place to let your dog run and play in a safe environment. The park features three separate areas: a training pen, a small dog pen, and a large dog pen. There are large grassy areas for the dogs to run wild and a small muddy area that is perfect for dogs who love to get a little messy!

The Riverwalk

The best exercise partner anyone can ask for is a dog! That’s why The Riverwalk is the perfect place to go to bond with your pup. Your dog will never complain about exercising with you and will make it fun for you! There are a few park areas along the trail equipped with gazebos and benches for you and your dog to take a break and rehydrate if needed. Keep your dog and yourself in shape and hit the trail at The Riverwalk!

Black Warrior Brewing Company

Black Warrior has some of the best brews in town and welcomes dogs any time of the day! The friendly service and great atmosphere at Black Warrior is a hit among Tuscaloosa natives and their pets. You and your dog can enjoy the atmosphere from the patio, or from the upstairs area where games such as corn hole, shuffleboard, and darts are available. You can also take your dog in the fall and watch the Tide compete on one of the flat screen TV’s with your best friend alongside! What could be better?

Lake Lurleen State Park

They say a dog is a man’s best friend, and who better to go fishing with than your best friend? At Lake Lurleen State Park you can take your pup and fish along Lake Tuscaloosa! If fishing isn’t your thing, you can hit the trails for some hiking. Your dog will be in heaven with all the sticks he’ll find lining the trails that will make for perfect chew toys! You can also rent a canoe and let your pup float across the lake with you for some much-needed relaxation. If your dog loves the outdoors, Lake Lurleen State Park will be his perfect playground!

Written By: Bailee Kennamer
Photo By: @elsiemae_the_acd on Instagram