It goes without saying that it has been quite an eventful year for all of us thus far, but I believe there is no better time in New Orleans than those first few warm days of spring when the Japanese magnolias, azaleas, and camellias start blooming. Some of your favorite places may have closed permanently but others are open, so I have made a list of suggestions to get you out for some much deserved socialization for both you and your pup. There are patios, bars and parks that are dog friendly, so it’s time to get out and enjoy some sunshine and snacks with your favorite K-9.

Crescent Park (Mandeville St. Wharf in the Marigny)
Part of the French Market District, Crescent Park is a 1.4-mile, 20-acre park that also features a dog run and bike paths. To find this hidden gem in the Marigny, there is a staircase or an elevator to access the park. The dog run is at the opposite end from the entrance. My favorite thing to do is watch the power of the Mississippi River and all of the boat traffic.

The Algiers Point-Canal Street Ferry (Board at the terminal at the foot of Canal St. by the Aquarium)
You can also enjoy some time on the Mississippi River and take in the scenery by riding the no-frills Canal Street commuter ferry, which takes passengers across the Mississippi to Algiers Point. The ferry runs every 15 minutes and will set you back $2. Dogs don’t need to be in a carrier, just on their leash.

City Park
Features miles of paved walking paths, plus over 20,000 trees on 1300 acres! This park also includes City Bark, a 4.6 acre Dog Park. City Bark does require a permit and currently the water fountains are closed because of Covid restrictions.

The Levee
There is a sunny, paved path that runs from Uptown by Audubon Park all the way to Destrehan. A great starting point is at Pawlins (3501 River Road)! You also get great views of the River and you will see lots of bikers and dog walkers. After you and your pup are pooped, you can return to  the River Shack (across the street from Pawlins) and sit under the covered patio, where you can enjoy delicious food, cold cocktails and the best hot boiled crawfish on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays while they are in season.
Pawlins
River Shack

Café Amelie (912 Royal St.)
If you want the feel of old New Orleans, Cafe Amelie has one of the most lush and picturesque courtyards in the French Quarter (which is saying a lot). Just ask to sit in the historic courtyard for brunch or dinner on Thursdays through Sundays.

Café du Monde (800 Decatur St.)
I have loved beignets covered in powdered sugar and a cup of steaming cafe-au-lait since I went with my parents as a kid. Dogs are not allowed in the covered seating area, but there are tables where you can sit with your pup along the side, just outside the fence. There is usually local live music you can enjoy on the street.

Herbsaint (701 St. Charles Ave.)
This restaurant is a casually elegant restaurant and has been on the Times Picayune’s list of the 10 best restaurants in New Orleans since the list began. Herbsaint has sidewalk seating sheltered by a balcony, so you can fine-dine with your dog even when the weather isn’t cooperating. Make sure to request a table outdoors when you make a reservation.

Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant (701 Tchoupitoulas St.)
Lucy’s welcomes dogs just about everywhere, including inside, outside, and on the patio. It has a Sur-Fur dog menu that comes with a Free Chilly Pup (a bowl of crushed-ice water).

Urban South Brewery (1645 Tchoupitoulas St.)
This soulful brewery on Tchoupitoulas gives dogs and their beer-loving humans plenty of room to spread out. Urban South combines a dog playground with IPA heaven. What’s not to love?

Picnic Provisions & Whiskey (741 State St)
Everything is a picnic perfect as you would imagine since it was created by Commander’s Palace’s chef, Tory McPhail, but the fried chicken (beware of bones that can be dangerous for your pup if you want to share) will have you and Fido begging for more. Bring your best friend for outside seating in the sweet side yard, with its picnic tables and play area for the kiddos.

Our clients at these locations
River at Crescent Park – @GoldenOnTheRiver
Tchoup at City Bark – @Tchoupa_Style
Remy & Arthur at Cafe Du Monde – @RemyAndArthur &amp, @KissyFishDesign, and @ItsTeddyGrams