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Spring in Chicago is one of the best times to get outside with your dog—patios open up, parks fill with color, and lake breezes replace the winter chill. Whether you’re new to the city or a longtime local, these dog friendly activities in Chicago are perfect ways to soak up the sunshine together.

1. Explore Dog-Friendly Beaches

When the weather warms up, Chicago’s dog beaches are the ultimate treat. Let your pup run off-leash, dig in the sand, and cool off with a swim—just don’t forget a towel!

• Montrose Dog Beach: A fully fenced, spacious beach in Uptown with separate areas for large and small dogs.
• Belmont Harbor Dog Beach: A quieter, more secluded beach just south of Montrose, perfect for low-key playtime.
• Puptown Dog Park Beach: A small fenced beach in Andersonville connected to a larger dog park with separate zones.
• Evanston Dog Beach: Just north of the city, this fenced beach in Lakefront Park is a local favorite for off-leash water fun.
• Whihala Beach: Located in Whiting, Indiana, this fenced beach offers a great day trip for dogs who love to swim.

Bring water, a towel, and a backup leash—you’ll want to linger.

2. Grab a Bite on a Pet-Friendly Patio

Spring patio season means more chances to dine out—with your pup by your side. Many Chicago restaurants welcome dogs in their outdoor seating areas, offering water bowls, treats, and plenty of tail-wagging attention.

• Paradise Park (Wicker Park – pizza and pups!)
• Kaiser Tiger (West Loop – big patio + water bowls)
• Tuco and Blondie (Lakeview – festive & dog-loving)

Many offer treats and water bowls—just ask!

➡️ Looking for more patio picks? Check out our guide to River North dog spots.

3. Take a Scenic Hike or Walk

Some of the best urban nature trails in Chicago welcome leashed pups:

• The 606 Trail (great for spring blooms)
• Lakefront Trail (beach access and city views)
• North Branch Trail (woodsy and winding)

If you’re planning longer spring outings, a pair of running dog shoes can protect your pup’s paws from hot pavement and give better grip on trails.

4. Visit a Pet-Friendly Farmers Market

Farmers markets are a springtime favorite—and your pup can come too. These outdoor markets offer fresh air, friendly faces, and sometimes even a treat for your four-legged companion.

• Green City Market in Lincoln Park
• Wicker Park Farmers Market
• Read WTTW’s 2025 Farmers Market Guide

5. Try an Agility Class Together

Looking for a fun challenge for both you and your pup? Agility courses are a great way to build your dog’s confidence, burn energy, and deepen your bond—plus, it’s seriously fun to watch.

• Zoom Room – Lakeview: Group and private agility training in a bright, indoor space with positive vibes and treats.
• Chicago Agility – All Fours Dog Training: Focused exclusively on agility, All Paws offers outdoor seasonal classes and indoor options in multiple locations around Chicagoland.
• PAWS Chicago – Lincoln Park: Offers beginner agility classes that focus on fun, confidence-building, and strengthening the human-dog bond—all proceeds support rescue efforts.
• K9 University Chicago – West Loop: Structured agility classes for all skill levels, from wobbly beginners to speedy pros.
• Anything Is Pawzible – West Loop: Offers indoor agility classes designed to be both mentally stimulating and physically engaging, perfect for energetic city pups.

Tip: shade is your friend! Keep pups cool and hydrated.

6. Attend a Social Dog Fundraiser Event

Chicago hosts several dog-friendly fundraising events each spring that combine fun with purpose. From baseball games to pet parades, these events support local rescues and animal welfare organizations—all while letting your dog be part of the action.

• Chicago White Socks Dog Day (dates very)
• PAWS Chicago 5K Walk/Run (Saturday 9/15/2025)
• BARK Fundraiser Anti Cruelty (Sunday 5/31/2025)

➡️ Not sure what to budget for dog care? Read our updated guide to dog sitter rates in 2025.

7. Plan a Dog Picnic in the Park

There’s something special about a relaxed afternoon picnic—especially with your dog. Pack a blanket, some treats, and a favorite toy, and enjoy one of Chicago’s dog-welcoming lawns or shaded green spaces. Here are a few dog friendly parks in Chicago?:

• Lincoln Park: One of Chicago’s largest and most scenic parks, it offers lake views, open lawns, and walking trails—great for a leashed stroll and spring picnic.
• Jackson Park: A lush, historic South Side park with spacious grassy areas and lagoons where dogs on leash are welcome for relaxed, shady outings.
• Wicker Park: A cozy neighborhood green space with shade trees and picnic tables, perfect for a chill hangout with your pup.
• Jonquil Park: A quieter spot near Lincoln Park with open lawns and plenty of room for dogs on leash to relax by your side.
• Humboldt Park: Known for its beautiful lagoon and expansive lawns, it’s a peaceful setting for a leashed dog walk and a picnic blanket moment.

8. Visit an Enclosed Dog Park

Sometimes you just want to let your pup run free—and enclosed dog parks make that safe and easy. These fenced areas offer space to zoom, socialize, and sniff without the leash.

• Wiggly Field (Noethling Park – Lincoln Park): One of Chicago’s first dog parks, this fenced-in spot is beloved by locals and has separate areas for big and small dogs.
• Grant Bark Park (South Loop): Nestled near Grant Park, this dog park features a mix of gravel and pavement with ample room for off-leash fun.
• Puptown (Margate Park – Uptown): A cozy neighborhood DFA with separate zones for small and large dogs, plus shade and seating for owners.
• Horner Park Dog Park (Irving Park): A newer fenced park with lots of space and a strong community vibe.
• Lake Shore East Dog Park (The Loop): A hidden gem downtown, offering a well-kept, enclosed area for leash-free city play.

➡️ Curious about what enclosed dog parks exist in downtown Chicago 7 Best Dog Parks in Downtown Chicago.

Spring Safety Tips for Outdoor Fun

Don’t forget to prep your pup for the season:

• Start flea/tick prevention (Frontline is a preferred brand)
• Check paws after long walks
• Bring water and avoid mid-day heat

A good pair of running dog shoes or paw balm can help avoid hot surface issues.

➡️ See spring health recommendations from the American Kennel Club.

Our Favorite Spring Gear for Dogs

Here are some of our go-to Amazon picks for active pups this season:

• 🐾 Dog running shoes
• 💧 Portable water bottle/ food container
• ❄️ Cooling vest
• 🎒 Portable treat pouch
• 🧼 Poop bag dispenser with clip

Final Thoughts

Chicago has no shortage of adventures waiting for you and your pup this spring. Whether you’re strolling along the lake or exploring a patio, there are so many dog friendly activities in Chicago to choose from.

📍Want more ideas? Check out our guides to River North dog spots and dog sitter prep.