Knoxville has always been a dog-friendly city, but recently, it’s gotten even better in ways that actually change how you spend a day out with your dog.

From new coffee shops and patios to off-leash parks and local spots popping up across the city, there are more places than ever where your dog isn’t just allowed, they’re part of the experience.

Whether you’re planning a full day out or just looking for a new place to try, these recent openings and updates make it easier to bring your dog along without having to second-guess where they’re welcome.

Here’s what’s new and worth adding to your next outing with your dog in Knoxville!

 

Cozy Coffee Shops

Camp Honey Coffee in Bearden offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and features goods from local artists. Located just across from Lakeshore Park, it’s an ideal stop before a walk along scenic lakeside paths overlooking the Tennessee River. Dogs are not allowed inside but there is plenty of seating space outside and they even had igloos set up this winter so you could still enjoy your dog’s company.

Intrepid Nitro Coffee & Tea Bar opened their second shop recently. Their original location is in Bearden, with a second shop now open in Hardin Valley. Both welcome dogs inside. This coffee shop is known for their unique coffee experience and you can even offer coffee flights. Their original space in Bearden is in the same shopping center as River Dog Bakery so you can stop and get your dog a treat to keep them busy while you enjoy your coffee.

 

Unique Shopping Experiences

Golden Threads is a fun secondhand and vintage store that recently opened on historic Gay St. and is dog friendly just like its neighboring shops­­­­­—Bliss and Tori Mason Shoes. Make this one a stop along your shopping route in downtown. You can also visit other downtown stores, such as Earth to Old City, Nothing Too Fancy, Citifid-O, and Union Ave Books that are welcoming to dogs.

Wabi Wear Repair also located on Gay St is a unique dog-friendly store that rescues clothes from going to a landfill and repairs and transforms them into one-of-a-kind pieces. When you shop here, you’re supporting sustainability while supporting a local small business—and leaving with something truly unique.

 

Dog Menus

Ruby Sunshine in Market Square is not new, but they did just add a dog menu! Your dog can indulge in Shaggy’s Scramble or some Berry Good Boy Pupcakes. And they have a nice shaded patio with southern inspired eats, making it a must-stop with your dog when exploring downtown Knoxville.

 

Iconic Strolls

The Gay Street Bridge closed to vehicle traffic in 2024 and reopened to pedestrians and cyclists in late 2025, creating a more walkable connection between downtown and South Knoxville. It’s now one of the best ways to explore both areas in a single outing. So it’s worth taking a walk across this historic bridge while you check out all the new dog friendly spaces.

 

South Knox Additions

If you’re heading across the river, South Knoxville has seen some of the most exciting additions. The Pink Cactus replaced long-time restaurant The Landing House on Sevier Avenue. The Pink Cactus is a karaoke bar with food and they have a spacious front lawn that the dogs are welcome. Earl’s Restaurant just opened on the newly designed South Knox Waterfront. Dogs are welcome to join you on the covered patio overlooking the water.

 

Off-leash Fun

Wagbar dog park and bar opened its doors at the previous site of Creekside Food Truck Park. This is a fun, social spot for both dog and human. They have over 2 acres of off-leash space that includes a sand pit and splash pool for the pups. And for the humans, they have a large selection of craft beer, ciders, and seltzers and TVs perfect for game day, making it a popular social spot for both dogs and their owners. Note that there is a fee and your dog does need to be up to date on vaccinations and spayed/neutered.

If you are wanting a free option, visit the new Karns Dog Park at the Knox County Sports Park. There are separate off-leash areas for large and small dogs and water stations. It’s a great spot for your dog to burn off energy in a safe, fenced environment.

 

Exploring Knoxville with your dog is easier than ever, you can spend the entire day together going from coffee stops to afternoon walks to evening patio hangs. Knoxville’s dog-friendly scene is growing and becoming easier to navigate, more connected, more walkable, and designed for bringing your dog along from start to finish. And the best part? There’s always more to discover. Because in Knoxville, life really is better when your dog gets to come too!

 

 

This post was written by Dog Friendly Knoxville, a local resource dedicated to helping dog owners discover dog-friendly restaurants, patios, parks, and businesses across Knoxville and East Tennessee. Through curated guides and an interactive map, it makes it easy for pet parents to explore the area with their dogs. Follow along with Sarah and her dog Josie (@dogfriendlyknoxville) as they share dog-friendly spots to explore around Knoxville.