Weekend Road Trip With Dogs
We know how daunting it can be for families with dogs to plan a trip never really knowing what places cater to their pets or even allow their furry companions.
So, we've come up with a two-day trip just for you taking the guesswork out of where to go and what to do with your best friend.
If you're looking more for inspiration instead of a detailed itinerary, check out our themed trip ideas to find which one is best for you!
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Morning
Our outdoor lifestyle mall in Plainfield, The Shops at Perry Crossing, prides itself on being dog friendly, so why not start your trip there. The mall has plenty of green space for your furry friend to run, play and exert energy after a road trip.
Dogs are allowed in all communal areas and in whichever stores have a dog-friendly sticker in the window.
Lunch
While you are at the mall, why not have lunch there? The two places that we know allow dogs in their outdoor dining spaces are Bru Burger Bar and Stone Creek Dining Company. Both restaurants offer great food and are more of your sit-down style eateries.
So enjoy the outdoor scenery while you dine with your pooch.
Afternoon
After fueling up, why not enjoy some park time? We have some great dog parks throughout our county in Avon, Brownsburg and Plainfield.
If you want to get away in a bigger park with plenty of space to play and trails to explore, we highly recommend one of our county's top nature parks, McCloud Nature Park in North Salem. It is a little out of the way, but truly worth it. You can also check out some of our top parks and trails for dogs here.
Evening/Dinner
Do a little planning before you come by reserving a room in one of our pet-friendly hotels or vacation rentals. This would be the time to check in, maybe get a nap or simply freshen up before dinner.
For dinner, we suggest enjoying an evening on the outdoor patio at Brew Link Brewpub in Plainfield. This large patio space is perfect for dogs, and the restaurant's menu is perfect for their owners. Enjoy pub-style food, delicious craft beer made onsite in a great atmosphere that is even better if you are there on a weekend as they often offer live music.
Day 2
Morning
Kick off your morning by either grabbing some breakfast at your hotel if you choose one with complementary options or grab some pastries at Al's Donuts in Plainfield.
Whether you grab some doughnuts at Al's or not, we highly recommend taking advantage of Plainfield's parks and trail system on day 2. It may be the best collection of cohesive parks and trails in our county. You can browse a map of all of the connecting parks and trails here.
Lunch/Afternoon
After exerting some energy, fuel up by grabbing a table in the outdoor patio at Oasis Diner, which is just off the Plainfield trails system along U.S. 40. Enjoy a specialty breakfast option, which are served all day, or splurge on their famous tenderloin, humungous onion rings and hand-crafted sodas.
After grabbing a bite to eat, you can end your dog-friendly trip with a little shopping in downtown Plainfield. Just a few doors down from the diner, both Earth Wear and African Plum Home & More are happy to welcome dogs inside.
Last Stop
Then, your final destination has to be Paw Street Bakery in Plainfield.
A quintessential doggie destination, Paw Street offers freshly baked treats specifically for dogs, though they will look good enough for human consumption. You can also find dog birthday cakes, frozen yogurt and even wearables like bandanas and bow ties.