If you’re in Minneapolis-St. Paul and looking for the perfect day out with your dog, Rover has you covered. We talked to our community of dog people in the Twin Cities to get their recommendations for the best dog-friendly activities their city has to offer. This complete route includes a fabulous dog walk, dog park, and dog-friendly restaurant. Your dog is ready for this! Read on for all the details you need.
For more dog adventures, check out our dog-friendly guides to cities across the country.
Total Distance: .7 miles / 17 minutes of walking
Start out your day in Saint Paul at High Bridge Dog Park, a former coal power plant site that is situated on the picturesque banks of the Mississippi. Next, get a bite to eat and a unique view at Red River Kitchen at City House, a restored grain elevator turned into a restaurant. Head southeast on Washington Ave and take a left on Spring Street. Head north and take a right onto Walnut Street. Finish the day with a good stroll at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Center. Head north on Walnut and take a right on Shepherd Road, then take a left onto Eagle Parkway. In just about 500 feet, turn right onto a sidewalk trail that takes you back into the center.
Dog's Day Out: Minneapolis-St. Paul
High Bridge Dog Park
Address: 59 Randolph Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
The High Bridge Dog Park is a 7-acre, former coal power plant site that was given to the city for operation as a dog-park following clean-up in May 2012. Thanks to a land-use agreement, the City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department operates the High Bridge Dog Park.
Contact Info: (651) 266-6400
Hours:
- Mon-Fri: 8am-4:30pm
Why we love it:
Along the Mississippi River, this park provides plenty of room for urban dogs to burn some energy.
With its downtown location, it isn’t hard for owners to find fun, dog-friendly bars, shops and restaurants nearby either.
You’ll score awesome views of the city from the High Bridge itself.
Red River Kitchen at City House
Address: 258 Mill St, St Paul, MN 55102
City House is a seasonal dining experience right on the Mississippi River in a restored grain elevator. Right on a bike trail and nearby High Bridge Dog Park, it’s a great place for you and your furry friend to grab a bite and a drink. City House is the perfect place to spend time with friends and family or to sit, grab a drink and watch the boats go by.
Contact Info: (952) 303-3481
Hours:
- Daily, 11am-9pm
Why we love it:
With a beautiful patio that overlooks the river, downtown Saint Paul and Harriet Island, it’s one of the best dog-friendly joints in the city.
Check out the ‘Dog Wall of Fame,’ where you can immortalize your dog’s name and paw-print in chalk.
Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
Address: 120 W Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, MN 55102
In the middle of bustling St Paul, this 72-mile river park offers ample trails and scenic views. While your dog stretches their legs, you can also learn about the fascinating human history of the Mississippi River.
Contact Info: (651) 293-0200
Hours:
- Daily, 24 hours
Why we love it:
After food and a couple of drinks, both you and your dog may want to take a slow stroll along the beautiful Mississippi River.
It’s one of the dog-friendly hidden gems of the Twin Cities.
More Dog-Friendly Activities in Minneapolis-St. Paul
You’ve taken the walk, but are hungry for more dog-friendly activities in the Twin Cities. We’ve got you covered with our picks for other dog parks in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.
