Wag-Worthy Summer Escapes
Who said summer fun is only for humans? They call them the “Dog Days of Summer,” after all!
When the heat is high and your dog’s tail is wagging, it’s time to hit the road together. Luckily, Georgia is full of pet-friendly patios, parks, and trails perfect for you and your four-legged sidekick to have some paws-on fun!
Patio Pup Culture
Start in Atlanta, where dog-friendly patios are practically a city standard. Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall on the BeltLine offers cold drinks, tasty bites, and a shady outdoor “campground” vibe your dog will love, while just down the trail, Park Tavern welcomes pups on its patio. And down in Savannah, you’ll find plenty of restaurants with sidewalk seating—bonus points if you stop for a pup cup at Leopold’s Ice Cream.
Paws on the Trail
If you’re looking to ditch the city for some fresh air, Georgia’s parks and trails offer plenty of leash-friendly adventures. Providence Canyon State Park near Lumpkin—nicknamed “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon”—features striking orange and red rock formations perfect for photo ops. In Pine Mountain, F.D. Roosevelt State Park offers miles of wooded paths and peaceful lake views ideal for a day hike or shaded stroll. And don’t overlook Amicalola Falls near Dawsonville, where the base trail to the falls provides a cool mist and a gentle climb that’s doable for most dogs.
Sniffs by the Sea
While most Georgia beaches don’t allow dogs during peak hours, Jekyll Island and St. Simons offer leashed access to certain areas, like Driftwood Beach and East Beach. These sandy stretches are perfect for a seaside sniff and sunset walk. Just be sure to bring water and watch those hot paws on midday sand!
Doggie Days Out
Skip the big city scene and check out some pup-friendly happenings in smaller Georgia towns. Thomasville’s First Fridays offer live music, food trucks, and open-air mingling—dogs welcome. On the second Wednesday of each month, the Powder Springs Marketplace brings live music, food trucks, and artisan vendors to Thurman Springs Park—perfect for a midweek walk and a few patio snacks. And for something a little different, head up to BJ Reece Orchards in Ellijay, where dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the orchard grounds. It’s a great late-summer day trip with scenic views, apple picking, and even fresh donuts—though your pup might have their eye on something else.
From paw-some patios to tail-wagging trails, Georgia’s got everything you need for a doggone good summer. Just leash up and let the adventures begin.
Find more places to pamper your pooch at https://gbj.com/pets-animals!
