18 Aug Exploring Milwaukee with Your Dog: Dog-Friendly Fall Activities in Milwaukee
Fall is a perfect time to explore the beauty of Milwaukee with your four-legged friend. From scenic hikes to dog-friendly events, Milwaukee offers plenty of activities to keep both you and your dog entertained. Here’s a guide to some of the best dog-friendly Fall activities in Milwaukee!
See Our Team at a Local Event
Come visit Veterinary Dental Specialists at our upcoming events! We are excited to participate in several community events on September 7th! We’ll be setting up a booth at the Elmbrook Humane Society’s Wagfest, where we’ll be supporting the Humane Society—be sure to stop by and say hello! On the same day, you can also find us at the Greyhound Gala, where we’ll be offering nail trims for our greyhound friends, with all proceeds benefiting Greyhound Pets of America. At both events, we’ll be donating a raffle basket packed with goodies for your dog. We hope to see you there!
Additional Dog-Friendly Fall Activities in Milwaukee
Hiking in the Kettle Moraine State Forest
One of the most popular destinations for nature lovers in Milwaukee is the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The forest, known for its rolling hills and stunning fall foliage, offers numerous dog-friendly hiking trails. The Ice Age Trail, which runs through the forest, provides a range of options from short walks to more challenging hikes. This time of year, the trails are lined with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a picturesque outing for you and your dog. Be sure to bring a leash and plenty of water for your pup, as some trails can be lengthy and challenging.
Stroll Along the Oak Leaf Trail
For those who prefer a more urban setting, the Oak Leaf Trail is a fantastic option. This 125-mile trail weaves through Milwaukee, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and the lakefront. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to explore the Oak Leaf Trail as it winds through scenic parks like Estabrook Park and Hubbard Park, where you and your dog can enjoy the crisp fall air and beautiful views of the Milwaukee River. The trail is also a great place to meet other dog owners and socialize with their pets.
Visit Estabrook Park Beer Garden
Speaking of Estabrook Park, a visit to the Estabrook Park Beer Garden is a must during the fall season. This dog-friendly beer garden offers a relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink while your dog lounges by your side. The beer garden is located right along the Milwaukee River, providing beautiful views of the surrounding fall foliage. You can also grab a pretzel or bratwurst to enjoy with your drink. On weekends, you might even catch live music, making it a fun outing for both you and your pup.
Attend the Milwaukee Pet Expo
If you’re looking for a fun indoor activity, the Milwaukee Pet Expo is an event you won’t want to miss. Held annually in the fall, this expo is a paradise for pet lovers, featuring vendors, demonstrations, and entertainment all centered around pets. There are often opportunities to meet adoptable dogs, participate in contests, and learn about the latest pet products. Your dog will enjoy the socialization, and you might even discover some new treats or toys to bring home.
Dog-Friendly Apple Picking at Barthel Fruit Farm
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to an apple orchard. Barthel Fruit Farm, located just outside of Milwaukee, is a dog-friendly orchard where you can pick your own apples. Your dog can accompany you through the orchard as you fill your bag with fresh apples, making it a fun and unique experience. Afterward, enjoy a picnic in the designated areas, and don’t forget to share an apple slice or two with your furry friend!
Explore the Milwaukee Riverwalk
The Milwaukee Riverwalk is a beautiful spot to take a leisurely stroll with your dog, especially during the fall. The Riverwalk stretches along the Milwaukee River, passing through downtown and offering views of the city’s architecture as well as the colorful autumn scenery. Many restaurants along the Riverwalk offer dog-friendly patios where you can enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee. This is also a great place to take some fall-themed photos with your dog as the backdrop of the river and city creates a stunning contrast with the fall colors.
Enjoy a Day at Granville Dog Park
If your dog loves to run off-leash, Granville Dog Park is the place to go. This 10-acre park is fully fenced and offers plenty of space for your dog to run, play, and make new friends. The park is especially beautiful in the fall, with plenty of trees providing shade and a colorful canopy of leaves. There are also walking trails throughout the park if you prefer to take a more structured walk with your dog. The park is well-maintained, with water stations and waste bags available, making it a convenient and enjoyable outing.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Another quintessential fall activity is visiting a pumpkin patch, and there are several dog-friendly options near Milwaukee. One popular spot is Basse’s Taste of Country, where you and your dog can explore the pumpkin patch, navigate a corn maze, and even enjoy a hayride together. Many pumpkin patches also offer fall-themed photo opportunities, so be sure to bring your camera to capture some memories of your dog among the pumpkins.
Take a Scenic Drive to Holy Hill
If you’re up for a bit of a drive, head to Holy Hill, located about 30 miles northwest of Milwaukee. This area is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, and the drive there is almost as beautiful as the destination itself. Once you arrive, you can explore the grounds with your dog, taking in the breathtaking views from the top of the hill. There are several trails around Holy Hill where you and your dog can enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by the vibrant colors of fall.
Dog-Friendly Fall Festivals
Fall is festival season in Milwaukee, and many of these events are dog-friendly. The Milwaukee Public Market often hosts outdoor events where dogs are welcome, and there are also several Oktoberfest celebrations that allow dogs to join in the fun. These festivals are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture while spending time with your dog. With live music, food vendors, and plenty of people to meet, these events are sure to be a hit with both you and your furry friend.
Autumn Photography Session
Take advantage of the beautiful fall scenery by scheduling a professional photography session with your dog. Many photographers in Milwaukee offer pet photography services and can capture stunning images of you and your dog amidst the fall colors. Whether you choose to have your photos taken in a park, along the lakefront, or at a pumpkin patch, these pictures will be cherished memories of a fun fall spent together.
Relax at a Dog-Friendly Café
After a day of outdoor activities, unwind at one of Milwaukee’s dog-friendly cafés. Colectivo Coffee, for example, has several locations with outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. You can enjoy a warm drink while your dog relaxes at your feet, watching the world go by. It’s a peaceful way to end a busy day and a chance to enjoy the last few days of fall before winter arrives.
Dog Dentist in Milwaukee
Milwaukee is a fantastic city for dog owners, offering a variety of fall activities that you can enjoy together. Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, attending a festive event, or simply enjoying a walk along the Milwaukee Riverwalk, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. So grab your leash, pack some treats, and head out to enjoy dog-friendly Fall activities in Milwaukee! And if your pet is due for their annual dental cleaning, don’t hesitate to book a visit with our team!