7 Wag-worthy Boston Adventures

When a brewery boasts that “dogs are welcome and will not be carded,” you can count on a laid-back vibe for you and your pup. That’s the promise at Mystic Brewery in Chelsea, one of a growing number of dog-friendly Boston-area craft breweries. From these local pubs to the city’s public green spaces, read on for local Bryn Nowell’s seven dog-friendly Boston destinations where your four-legged friends will be greeted with open arms, treats and a great sense of humor.

Drink beer worth barking about

Boston terriers Bean and Yoda keep their noses to the ground to help you sniff out Boston’s best restaurants, parks and shops where dogs are welcome. Photo Credit: Bryn Nowell

A 10-minute drive north from Mystic Brewing brings you to Night Shift Brewing in Everett, Massachusetts. With an expansive outdoor seating area and a shelf stacked high with board games, there’s plenty of room and entertainment for both of you. Plan your visit to this dog-friendly Boston venue to take advantage of a “Paws and Pints” night, where a percentage of the proceeds are donated to local animal rescue organizations.

With menu items like blackened swordfish tacos and vegetable bibimbap, Cambridge Brewing Company has a well-rounded and mouthwatering food selection. While Fido won’t be invited inside, you can chill, drink and eat at this dog-friendly restaurant in Boston with him on the outdoor beer deck. While you’re hanging out on the deck, encourage your dog to take a few practice laps for Cambridge Brewing Company’s annual Patio Dog Pageant. Each June, participating dogs strut their stuff for a grand prize and the honor of having their photo prominently displayed as the CBC Dog of the Year.

Run free at Boston Common

Boston Common, America’s oldest park, has a history with animals. Remember Make Way for Ducklings, that adorable children’s book about a duckling family who finds its home in a city park? This is the park. In the 19th century, cows made the news when a new city ordinance stated they’d no longer be allowed to roam freely on the Boston Common.

The only four-legged animals you’ll see these days at this dog-friendly Boston park are dogs, squirrels and chipmunks. Invite your canines to join in the fun—they’ll love taking in the mist from the fountains and sniffing the flowers in the Common’s peaceful gardens. She can even run free in two off-leash areas; Boston Common was the first city park ever to approve a non-fenced, off-leash space.

Stroll the Freedom Trail

Award-winning pet and lifestyle blogger Bryn Nowell is passionate about all things dog and all things adult-beverage. She blends the two with these Boston dog-friendly hotspots. Photo Credit: Bryn Nowell

You know the storied history of Boston—Paul Revere’s infamous ride; that party involving tea that was neither a party nor an opportunity to drink tea—but until you see some of the historical markers in person, it’s hard to fully appreciate all you learned in American History class.

On a 2.5-mile walk along The Freedom Trail, which starts at the dog-friendly Boston Common, you have the perfect opportunity to reinforce some of those classroom lessons. If your furry companion is a little on the slow side, this is your perfect adventure. Every time you stop to read an informative post, he can stop for a water break.

Follow your nose to the best dog friendly places in Boston for shopping

At the end of the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall stands two miles from Boston’s shopping haven, Newbury Street. In heavy traffic, that can equate to a 20- to 30-minute drive, but if you and your dog are up for it, it’s a great chance for a stroll. Upon your arrival, you’ll find a row of excellent shops and restaurants, many of which welcome you to shop alongside your pet.

South Boston is home to the SoWa Open Market, an outdoor market for artists, local farmers, food trucks and breweries/cideries. If your dog is looking for a new friend, this dog-friendly Boston bazaar is the place for you. While you eat your way through the farmers market section, your dog will sniff his way past what feels like half of Boston’s pooch population in laid-back pet friendly Boston.

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