Ready to road trip with your furry best friend? Fort Worth is one of the most pet-friendly cities in Texas—offering scenic trails, dog parks, and cozy cafes where pups are not only welcome but pampered. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or just a day trip, this guide is packed with dog-approved places perfect for tail-wagging adventures.
With year-round sunshine, wide-open green spaces, and a community that loves pets as much as you do, Fort Worth is the ultimate road trip destination for pet lovers. Leash up and hit the road—this is a Texas getaway both you and your dog will love.
Why Fort Worth Is a Great Destination for Pet Travelers
Fort Worth welcomes pets with open paws. From shady walking trails and off-leash dog parks to pup patios and boutique pet shops, it’s a city that blends Southern hospitality with four-legged fun. You’ll find dedicated pet amenities almost everywhere—making it easy to plan a stress-free, pet-friendly road trip.
Its proximity to scenic river trails, nature preserves, and laid-back neighborhoods adds to its charm. Whether your pup is an active explorer or a laid-back patio companion, Fort Worth offers plenty of options. Even better, most parks and cafes are located within short driving distances, making it easy to build a custom itinerary with walk breaks, water bowls, and puppuccinos on every corner.
Travelers love Fort Worth for its blend of urban and outdoor appeal—and pets will love the freedom to join in on the fun. From hiking along the Trinity River to munching dog treats at local cafes, it’s a city that turns every trip into a shared adventure.
Best Dog-Friendly Places in Fort Worth to Visit by Road Trip
1. Fort Woof Dog Park
A local favorite, Fort Woof is Fort Worth’s first off-leash dog park and one of the highest-rated in Texas. With separate areas for large and small dogs, agility equipment, shady trees, and water fountains, it’s perfect for pups to run wild while humans relax.
Address: 751 Beach St, Fort Worth, TX 76111
Hours: Daily, 5 AM–11:30 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Shaded off-leash dog park with agility features and double-gated safety
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a towel—your pup might find the mud pits after rain!
2. Trinity Trails System
This extensive network of over 100 miles of multi-use trails runs along the Trinity River and through key areas like Clearfork, Downtown, and Panther Island. Ideal for long walks or jogs with your pup, the trails offer scenic water views and access to parks and pet-friendly patios.
Address: Multiple trailheads around Fort Worth
Hours: Daily, 5 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Leashed pet walking along scenic riverside paths with picnic spots
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Start at Panther Island Pavilion for riverside strolls with nearby food trucks.
3. ZBonz Dog Park
Located on a former golf course, ZBonz is a massive 10-acre park with multiple fenced zones, water features, walking trails, and shaded seating for owners. It’s a paradise for high-energy dogs looking to socialize and explore.
Address: 6950 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76116
Hours: Daily, 5 AM–9 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Large-scale dog park with two lakes and agility space
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring your own waste bags and water bottle just in case—the place gets busy on weekends.
4. MUTTS Canine Cantina
More than just a dog park, MUTTS is a unique dog-friendly bar and eatery where pups play off-leash while owners enjoy food and drinks. There’s a membership fee for off-leash access, but the patio and takeout options are open to all.
Address: 5317 Clearfork Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76109
Hours: Daily, 10 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $9.95/day pass or memberships available
Famous For: Dog-friendly restaurant and play park with full-service menu and bar
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit during happy hour for drink deals and dog treats.
5. TCU Trailhead & Woodshed Smokehouse
Start with a relaxing walk along the Trinity Trails near TCU Trailhead, then grab a table at Woodshed Smokehouse—one of Fort Worth’s most dog-friendly restaurants. Their patio even includes a dog menu with grilled meat and rice.
Address: 3201 Riverfront Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Hours: Daily, 11 AM–10 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30 per person
Famous For: Dog menu, riverside patio, and smoked Texas meats
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Come early on weekends for a quiet brunch with river views and space for your pup to sprawl.
6. Dream Park – Gateway Park Area
While not a dog park, Dream Park offers a nearby walking area within Gateway Park where leashed dogs are welcome. It’s perfect for families with kids and pets, with adjacent shaded trails and picnic tables.
Address: 2001 Beach St, Fort Worth, TX 76103
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–9 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Inclusive play park for families with nearby leashed dog walking trails
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Combine your visit with a stop at Fort Woof—just a few minutes away.
7. Press Café
This modern cafe along the Clearfork section of Trinity Trails has a large, shaded patio where dogs are not just welcome—they’re celebrated. Staff often bring out water bowls, and it’s a popular stop after a long riverside walk.
Address: 4801 Edwards Ranch Rd #105, Fort Worth, TX 76109
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–9 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$25 per person
Famous For: Dog-friendly riverside patio and healthy breakfast/lunch options
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit mid-morning for fresh pastries and room to relax with your pup.
Road Trip Packing Tips for Traveling with Pets
- Collapsible water bowl and travel food container
- Leash, harness, and ID tags
- Extra waste bags and pet wipes
- Dog bed or blanket for car comfort
- Health/vaccine records (some patios and parks require proof)
- Pet first-aid kit (bandages, antihistamines, tick remover)
- Treats and toys for break times
- Cooling vest or bandana for hot weather
- Pet-safe bug spray or paw balm
- Tether or seatbelt attachment for safe car rides
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice for Pet-Friendly Trips
Spring & Fall: Ideal temperatures for long walks and patio dining. Trails bloom with color, but bring water—pups tire fast.
Summer: Stick to shaded trails and go early. Avoid midday pavement—it burns paws.
Winter: Great for energetic dogs! Pack jackets for small breeds and avoid icy mornings.
Pet Events: Look for seasonal “Yappy Hours,” dog parades, and adoption fairs across the city.
Vets & Pet Stores: Plenty of 24-hour clinics and boutiques are located near major parks and trails.
Etiquette: Always leash in public spaces unless posted otherwise, and pick up after your pet.
Final Thoughts: Make Fort Worth a Pawsome Adventure
Fort Worth is more than just a pet-friendly city—it’s a place where you and your dog can truly explore together. With wide-open green spaces, river trails, welcoming patios, and a community that values four-legged companionship, every stop feels like it was designed for you both.
Whether you’re playing fetch at Fort Woof, savoring smoked brisket with your pup at Woodshed, or hiking riverside trails, Fort Worth turns a road trip into something unforgettable. So leash up, roll down the windows, and let your next Texas adventure go to the dogs—in the best way possible.
