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 adventure 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!
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 stores that have a dog-friendly sticker in the window.
Lunch
While you're at the mall, why not grab lunch there? The places that allow dogs in their outdoor dining spaces are Bru Burger Bar, Theo's Italian and Stone Creek Dining Company.
All three restaurants offer great food and are more of your sit-down style eateries.
Afternoon
After fueling up, why not spend some quality time in a park? We have several great dog parks throughout our county, including Avon, Brownsburg and Plainfield.
If you want to escape to a larger park with ample space to play and trails to explore, we highly recommend McCloud Nature Park in North Salem, one of our county's top parks. It is a little out of the way, but truly worth it. You can also explore some of our top dog-friendly parks and trails 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 a good time to check in, take a nap or freshen up before dinner.
For dinner, enjoy an evening on the outdoor patio at Brew Link Brewpub in Plainfield. This ample patio space is perfect for dogs, and the restaurant's menu is ideal for their owners. Enjoy pub-style food and delicious craft beer made on-site in a great atmosphere that is even better on weekends, when live music is often offered.
Day 2
Morning
Kick off your morning by either grabbing breakfast at your hotel, if you've chosen one with complimentary options, or some pastries at Al's Donuts in Plainfield.
Whether you get doughnuts at Al's or not, we highly recommend taking advantage of Plainfield's parks and trails 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 on the outdoor patio at Oasis Diner, which is just off the Plainfield trails system along U.S. 40. Enjoy a specialty breakfast option, served all day, or splurge on their famous tenderloin, humongous 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
You can't leave without visiting Paw Street Bakery in Plainfield.
A quintessential doggie destination, Paw Street offers freshly baked treats specifically for dogs. You can also find dog birthday cakes, frozen yogurt and even wearables like bandanas and bow ties.