Dog lovers, rejoice – there are tons of fabulous Tampa apartment complexes that are pet friendly and conveniently located near parks and businesses where your furry pals are more than welcome. Have fun with your hounds at these cool local hangouts around the Bay area:
Hyde Park Village
On Swann Avenue in
the bustling Hyde Park area, this upscale shopping area features several shops and restaurants that love dogs and offer treats and water for your pup. Enjoy some tapas and an adult beverage with other pet parents, take a nice healthy walk, shop, and do some people-watching!
Curtis Hixon Park & Tampa's Riverwalk
A jewel of
Downtown Tampa, this waterfront area has been transformed over the past few years to a gorgeous urban destination. A lovely dog park is connected to a linear recreation space for concerts and festivals. Stop and grab a pint at Four Green Field and take in stunning views of University of Tampa's iconic minarets. Ulele and Armature Works both have tables outside where you can enjoy watching boats on the river and some tasty vittles while chilling with your pet.
Davis Island
Laid-back Davis Island is a historic Tampa neighborhood, and a superb place to take your dog and have some fun. Don't miss the dog beach on the south side of the island, where you can mix with other pet parents while your pups frolic in Tampa Bay. If you're hungry or thirsty after some hardcore games of fetch, there are several places with outdoor seating on Davis Boulevard, like the Anchor Bar and Molly Malone's.
Ella's Americana Folk Art Café
Ella's is nestled in the heart of Seminole Heights, one of Tampa's most interesting and pet-friendly neighborhoods. The eclectic menu of Southern comfort food with a Florida twist is complemented by craft cocktails and an expansive wooden deck, festooned with unique artwork and crowned by an ancient oak tree.
Hair of the Dog Park
Also in Seminole Heights, this adorable outdoor hangout spot is ideal for a relaxing afternoon watching dogs cavort while you enjoy a few affordable cold beers. Shaded by stately oaks, post up at one of the many picnic tables and chill while your puppy plays.
Nebraska Mini-Mart
An adult playground right on the
Tiger King-famous Nebraska Avenue, the Mini-Mart started life as a drive-thru convenience store that was converted to a dog-friendly hipster hangout. Play a few games of bocce ball or shuffleboard, and don't miss their famous brined chicken sandwiches and a mouth-watering Impossible Burger with all the trimmings.
Hooch and Hive
Close to trendy
South Tampa apartments, Hooch and Hive has a gigantic covered patio with big-screen TVs and industrial fans to create a refreshing breeze. The food menu has plenty of delicious options, like the Boursin and bacon burger, the Dirty Duck & Waffle, and decadent coconut cheese curds – and quench your thirst with a handmade signature cocktail like the Bees & Trees, featuring local raw honey and Redwood Empire Rye.
Ybor City
Tampa is a town that loves to party and Ybor is ground central for all the best happenings. This district boasts brick-lined streets,
several amazing apartment communities, and some of the area's most interesting scenery. This is a great place to take your pet for a walk and soak up some local flavor. Pay a visit to the Tampa Bay Brewing Company and try some freshly made house brews outside next to the charming fountain. Gaspar's Grotto on 7
th Avenue has live music, a full bar, and a spacious outdoor area that's a favorite of local dog owners. Just be aware that Ybor's large population of native chickens can be quite feisty, and they're protected by city ordinances.
The Sail Plaza
On the water near
Channelside and Harbor Island, the Sail is a welcoming outdoor bar with gorgeous 360-degree views. The friendly bartenders are prepared with water bowls and dog treats, and you can even snag some pup ice cream. For a snack or a mellow lunch, grab some grub from the Sail's own eatery, Big Ray's Fish Camp – the conch fritters and oyster po'boy are to die for.
Mad Dogs & Englishmen
Named after a phrase coined by Rudyard Kipling, this South Tampa landmark features a charming outdoor dining area where dogs are welcome, an extensive wine list, and an imaginative menu of British-inspired cuisine. Open seven days a week with brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 3pm, take your dogs to Mad Dogs for a highly enjoyable experience.
The Dog Saloon
Formerly known as the Red Dog, this low-key tavern is known for their giant wings and comfortable outdoor patio. Get some buckets of cold beers and kick back with your furry friends at this casual watering hole on Bay to Bay Boulevard.
These are only a few of the lively and welcoming places to take your pup near your Tampa apartment home. Keep checking RentTampaBay for more ideas on how to have the most fun with your beloved pet!