The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Guide to Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the most popular destinations in the South — for both people and pups! The city is beloved for its charming cobblestone streets, stunning historic architecture, mouth-watering Lowcountry cuisine, many beautiful churches, and exquisite white sand beaches.

In short, “The Holy City” (one of Charleston’s many nicknames) has something for everyone! To ensure your visit is a hit for the people and pups going on the trip, here’s our dog-friendly guide to Charleston, complete with dog-friendly restaurants, shops, parks, and hotels.

Cafes and eateries

Charleston has a scrumptious dining scene dripping in southern comfort. The dining spots below allow dogs to join in on breakfast, lunch, and dinner dates. 

Eli’s Table

129 Meeting St. @ElisTable

Eli’s Table is one of Charleston’s most popular dining destinations for worldly takes on classic Lowcountry fare. Guests can anticipate a menu filled with delectable dishes like fried green tomato salad, Creole coconut shrimp and grits, and banana pudding crème brûlée. Pups are permitted on the patio, where they’ll be welcomed with water and treats. 

Ellis Creek Fish Camp

1243 Harbor View Rd. @elliscreekfishcamp  

Ellis Creek Fish Camp is adored by visitors and locals alike with its casual, camp-inspired atmosphere, serene waterfront marsh views, and fare that spans shareable snacks, like hushpuppies and firecracker shrimp, to sandwiches, seafood plates, and a roster of entrées. (There’s a bar with beer, wine, and cocktails, too!) Of course, the real highlight of this Charleston gem is the fact that dogs are allowed everywhere since it's outdoor, picnic-style dining. 

Swig & Swine BBQ

1217 Savannah Hwy. @swigswinebbq

You can’t go to Charleston without indulging in the region’s signature low-and-slow barbecue. Swig & Swine BBQ receives rave reviews for its traditional, wood-smoked meats, delicious Southern sides, and a wide bourbon and craft beer selection. Just be sure to arrive with an appetite. With brisket, sausage, ribs, mac and cheese, corn pudding, and BBQ plates on the menu, you’re bound to want to eat up. Pups are permitted on the patio.

Three Little Birds Cafe

65 Windermere Blvd. @3littlebirdschs

Three Little Birds Cafe is a precious, pup-friendly breakfast and lunch spot with a sizable menu of unique creations. From the strawberry and goat cheese stuffed French toast and black bean Benedict to the Cuban and Monte Cristo sandwiches, Three Little Birds Cafe is bound to leave an impression.

Mex 1 Coastal Cantina

817 Saint Andrews Blvd. @mex1coastalcantina

Charleston might have beautiful beaches of its own, but if you want Baja-inspired surf culture and cuisine, Mex 1 Coastal Cantina is worth a visit. The ultra-fresh, always laid-back eatery serves up street corn queso, various takes on shrimp tacos, and larger entrees for those looking for a more substantial meal. And if you’re a pickier eater, don’t fret! Mex 1 has a build-your-own menu to easily customize salads, quesadillas, and Baja bowls.

Breweries, wineries, and bars

Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long work day or chill-out over the weekend, the breweries and wine bars below allow you to bring your pup along for your booze break.

Bay Street Biergarten

549 East Bay St. @baystreetbiergarten

Football, food, and fun — that’s what Bay Street Biergarten is all about. The fan-favorite Southern grub pub is a standout with its mouthwatering menu, spacious outdoor, dog-friendly patio, and full calendar of events. You can even order authentic German fare from the mostly American menu. Jägerschnitzel and cheese spaetzle, anyone?

Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co. & Taproom

1505 King St. #115 @eobrewing

The owners of Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co. & Taproom kicked off the craft brewery scene in Charleston. After witnessing the success of their craft beer store, The Charleston Beer Exchange, the friends opened Edmund’s as an extension of it in 2017. With an expansive tap list, to-go brews, memorable shareables and sandwiches, and casual, dog-friendly atmosphere, visitors can’t get enough.

Revelry Brewing

10 Conroy St. @revelrybrewing

Revelry Brewing is the perfect option for craft beer aficionados with a taste for Italian. The hip brewery has a massive beer list paired with “unauthentic Italian-Inspired Americana,” featuring dishes like mozzarella sticks and disco fries (garlic fries drenched with vodka sauce, pesto, and mozz). As great as the food and beer are, it’s the rooftop, dog-friendly atmosphere that makes Revelry such a hit.

Frothy Beard Brewing Company 

1401 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. @frothybeardbrewing

Frothy Beard Brewing Company marries brow-raising craft brews with a fun, quirky atmosphere where you’ll want to spend hours. Fortunately, pooches are permitted on the patio. For an extra-memorable visit, be sure to check out the Frothy Beard event calendar — you might just be able to pop into bingo, trivia, or a craft fair.

Uncork Charleston

476 King St. @uncorkcharleston

While many breweries now serve wine, too, true vinophiles will appreciate Uncork Charleston, where over 40 unique wines grace the menu. The dog-friendly wine bar is also a hot spot for live music; check the event calendar and plan ahead. 

Shops

Nowadays, many restaurants and bars allow dogs outside. But walking inside and shopping with pups can be a bit trickier. Fortunately, Charleston is home to many pup-forward districts and boutiques. Check them out below.

Historic King Street

King Street, Charleston @kingstchs

Historic King Street is Charleston’s city center, where top-tier shopping, dining, lodging, and people watching merge. From a historical stance, King Street dates back some 300 years and is named after King Charles II of England. From a modern-day perspective, it’s an incredibly charming area of Charleston — one you’ll most definitely want to stroll with your doggo. While you’re there, be sure to turn off onto East Bay to see Charleston’s iconic Rainbow Row — the perfect backdrop for a photoshoot with your pooch.

Woof Gang Bakery

341 King St. @wgbcharleston

Woof Gang Bakery is a pet shop and grooming boutique with locations across the country. Whether you want to buy your pooch a new collar, toy, or treats, or take them for a bath and trim, Woof Gang Bakery on King Street is sure to please.

The Black Dog

262 King St. @theblackdogmv

The Black Dog specializes in coastal apparel and gear (and even dog accessories), much of which features the iconic black dog logo. The retailer is a Martha’s Vineyard, Massachussetts, staple, so it makes sense that it’s become a must-visit destination in Charleston, too, as the cities have similar vibes. 

Historic Charleston City Market

188 Meeting St. @chascitymarket

If your idea of souvenir shopping includes finding goodies from local artisans, the Historic Charleston City Market is calling your name. Home to hundreds of merchants, the Historic Charleston City Market is a great place to shop for all things homemade and handcrafted, from jewelry and art to apparel and bath goods. Some vendors even sell unique dog treats, bandanas, and toys!

Hairy Winston Pet Boutique & Grocery

1616 Palmetto Grande Dr. @hairywinstonpetboutique

For a more designer dog shopping experience, make your way over to Hairy Winston Pet Boutique & Grocery, where you and your pup can peruse dog toys with plays on iconic brands, plus plenty of treats, collars, leashes, and other pet goods.

Parks and trails

If strolling from shop to shop isn’t cutting it for your pup’s zoomies, incorporate one or two (or even a few) of the dog-friendly parks and trails into your agenda.

James Island County Park

871 Riverland Dr.

James Island County Park is a massive off-leash dog park with plenty of room to romp, play, splash, and swim. Just keep in mind that since wildlife is present, you’ll want to keep a close eye on your pups during their play sesh. (It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Charleston County Parks dog rules.)

Bridgewater Dog Park

Carolina Bay Drive

Bridgewater Dog Park is another off-leash haven for pups. A mix of dirt and grass, this park can make for some messy play seshes, so it’s best reserved for days when you can fit a trip to the dog wash in, as well. A word to the wise: Gators have been seen nearby — keep a close eye on your pups!

Hazel Parker Playground Dog Park

70 East Bay St.

Also known as East Bay Dog Park, the Hazel Parker Playground Dog Park is a fenced, off-leash dog park with a mix of gravel and wood chips. As such, it tends to be a bit cleaner of a playing experience than in some of the city’s other dirt-based parks. 

Cannon Park

131 Rutledge Ave.

Cannon Park is a popular picnic, lounge, and stroll spot for people and pups. While this is not an official dog park, pups are regularly seen walking around, with many visitors letting them off leash. It’s always best to be aware of your surroundings before letting your pup run free, though.

Wannamaker County Park Dog Park

8888 University Blvd., North Charleston

The Dog Park at Wannamaker County Park is a top destination for pet parents with its separate off-leash dog runs for large and small dogs, plus a Splash Paw spray fountain that pups go nuts for. With water fountains and shade, it’s an especially great place during the hottest days of the year. 

Hotels

Think you want to stop and stay awhile after getting a hint of all Charleston has to offer? The hotels below welcome pups.

Hotel Bennett

404 King St. @hotelbennett

Hotel Bennett is a beautiful, European-inspired property on King Street with sprawling suites, a relaxing spa, and an overall aesthetic that will make you stop and stare. The caveat? Only small dogs are allowed.

Know before you go:

• Pet fee: $200 per stay

• Number/size restrictions: Two dogs up to 25 pounds

• In room: Pets shouldn’t be left unattended.

The Charleston Place

205 Meeting St. @thecharlestonplace

Planning to shop ‘til you drop at The Historic Charleston City Market? Book a room at The Charleston Place, located just next door, so you don’t have to lug your bags around. The pet-friendly property marries Southern Charm with European flair for a classy, luxurious stay you won’t soon forget. Bonus: Dog sitters are available through the property’s concierge.   

Know before you go:

• Pet fee: $0 — pets stay free

• Number/size restrictions: Two dogs of any size

• In room: Pets shouldn’t be left unattended.

The Ansonborough

21 Hasell St. @theansonborough

For a moodier, more mod stay, head over to The Ansonborough, where bespoke design is accompanied by top-tier hospitality. Make sure to stop by the rooftop garden for zen vibes and historic downtown views.

Know before you go:

• Pet fee: $120 per pet, per stay

• Number/size restrictions: Two dogs up to 50 pounds

• In room: Pets shouldn’t be left unattended.

Grand Bohemian Charleston

55 Wentworth Street @grandbohemiancharleston

If bold design is your goal, pop over to the Grand Bohemian Charleston, a property brimming with pattern, color, and personality, not to mention a lot of love for pups. It also has a rooftop green space, complete with a bar and beautiful views.

Know Before You Go:

• Pet fee: $150 per stay

• Number/size restrictions: One dog up to 40 pounds

• In room: Pets shouldn’t be left unattended.

The Palmetto Hotel

194 East Bay St. @palmettohotelcharleston

On the opposite end of the design spectrum, The Palmetto Hotel is about as bright and cheery as they come. The modern-luxe property pairs crisp white linens with accent pillows, statement walls, and charming art pieces for a soft and cozy, yet totally chic stay. Trust us; you’ll want to snap a pic of your pooch in these digs.

Know before you go:

• Pet fee: $150 per stay

• Number/size restrictions: Two dogs up to 40 pounds

• In room: Pets shouldn’t be left unattended.