The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Guide to Knoxville, TN (Restaurants, Bars, Parks & Hotels)
Knoxville Dog-Friendly Guide: Patios, Parks, & Pups
Knoxville is one of East Tennessee’s most dog-friendly cities—think patio-perfect eats, craft breweries, greenway strolls, and pet-friendly stays. Use this guide to plan the perfect outing with your pup.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants & Patios
(call ahead—policies can change)
- Sunspot (Cumberland Ave) – Local fave with a relaxed patio; great for brunch/lunch with your pup.
- Calhoun’s on the River – BBQ + river views; dog-friendly patio by the water.
- Balter Beerworks – Scratch kitchen + spacious patio downtown; very pup-positive vibe.
- Cafe 4 (Market Square) – Bustling patio in the heart of downtown.
- Bistro at the Bijou – Historic spot with listed dog-friendly patio seating.
- Aubrey’s (multiple locations) – Several patios listed as dog-friendly.
For a living, official list of restaurants permitted to allow dogs on patios (by address), the City maintains a registry. Check it before you go.
Visit Knoxville also curates pet-friendly patios & breweries.
Dog-Friendly Bars & Breweries
- Alliance Brewing Company – South Knox staple with dog-welcoming outdoor space.
- Pretentious Beer Co. – Artsy/glass-blowing vibe; outdoor dog-friendly seating.
- Crafty Bastard Brewery – Neighborhood taproom; patio friendly.
- Hi-Wire Brewing – Large beer garden; frequent pup-friendly events.
- Orange Hat Brewing Company – Leashed pups welcome; patio and rotating food trucks.
(Community tip: most Knoxville breweries are dog-friendly at least outdoors; always confirm indoor policy.)
Parks & Off-Leash Dog Parks
- Tommy Schumpert (Emma Jane Walker) PetSafe Dog Park – Separate small/large areas, mulched trail + pond; connects to Sterchi Hills Greenway.
- Dogwood Dog Park at Victor Ashe Park – 1-acre off-leash with agility features; big greenway loop for leashed walks.
- Petsafe Downtown Dog Park – Convenient downtown option; part of Knoxville’s network of PetSafe parks.
- Charter Doyle, Holston River, Concord, Plumb Creek, Sam Duff – Additional city/area dog parks. See the official city list for addresses and updates.
Pet-Friendly Hotels (central picks)
- The Tennessean – Luxury downtown base near World’s Fair Park; pet-friendly.
- Graduate Knoxville – On “The Strip,” walkable to UT and downtown; dog-friendly rooms.
- Hilton Knoxville – Downtown, pet-friendly options available.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites (Papermill) – Budget-friendly, transparent pet policy listed.
- IHG portfolio options – Several pet-friendly brands around Knoxville.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Knoxville Pup Outing
- Know the rules: Knoxville publishes a permitted dogs-on-patios list by venue; check it same-day.
- Bring the basics: leash, water bowl, poop bags; many patios provide bowls seasonally.
- Heat & trails: Pack water; consider shaded dog parks like Charter Doyle.
Need better manners for patios, parks & hotels?
Well-behaved dogs get invited everywhere. Our trainers at Knoxville Dog Trainers can help with down-stays under tables, calm greetings, reliable recall, and loose-leash walking—skills made for public spaces.
Quick FAQ
Yes—if the restaurant is permitted; confirm on the City of Knoxville list and call ahead.
Tommy Schumpert is a top pick for its separate areas, pond, and trails.
Try Victor Ashe (greenway loop) and the broader PetSafe park network.
Check The Tennessean, Hilton Knoxville, IHG options; policies vary by property.