Dog-Friendly Indianapolis
Updated March 14, 2026
Indianapolis is one of the more dog-friendly cities in the Midwest. Here's where to eat, walk, and hang out with your dog — from downtown patios to off-leash parks.
Dog-Friendly Restaurant Patios
Indiana law allows dogs on outdoor restaurant patios (the restaurant decides). These are reliably dog-friendly with water bowls and patio seating:
334 Massachusetts Ave. Large sidewalk patio on Mass Ave. Tacos, margaritas, and a crowd that loves dogs. One of the most popular dog-watching patios downtown.
840 E 65th St. Indiana's first brewpub has a fenced patio. Craft beer, pub food, and a relaxed atmosphere where dogs are part of the furniture.
620 N East St. Rooftop patio and ground-level outdoor seating. Upscale casual food and cocktails. Dogs welcome on the ground-level patio.
120 S Meridian St. Patio faces the sidewalk near Monument Circle. Games, food, and drinks. Dogs welcome on the outdoor patio area.
Mass Ave and Broad Ripple locations both have outdoor seating. Cheap, filling Cajun food. Counter-service means you're in and out fast with your dog.
Dog-Friendly Breweries
Most Indianapolis brewery taprooms welcome dogs, especially on patios and in outdoor areas. These are the most reliably dog-friendly:
Parks & Off-Leash Areas
Where: 1500 Broad Ripple Ave
Features: Fenced off-leash area with separate sections for large and small dogs. Water stations. Benches. Adjacent to the Monon Trail for a walk before or after.
Parking: Free lot at the park.
Where: 801 N Alabama St (near Mass Ave)
Features: The closest dog park to downtown. Fenced off-leash area. Popular with downtown residents. Can get crowded on weekend mornings.
Parking: Street parking only. Walk from downtown hotels.
Where: 7840 W 56th St (~20-min drive from downtown)
Features: 3,900-acre park with a dedicated off-leash dog area. Trails, lake access, and massive open space. Dogs must be leashed on main trails but can run free in the designated area.
Entry: $5/vehicle for non-Marion County residents.
Where: 6000 N Post Rd (~20-min drive east)
Features: Beautiful wooded trails. Dogs on leash only on all trails, but the scenery makes it worth it. Less crowded than Eagle Creek.
Entry: $7/vehicle for Indiana residents, $9 out-of-state.
Best Walking Routes With Your Dog
Pet-Friendly Downtown Hotels
Most major downtown hotels accept dogs, but policies and fees vary:
| Hotel | Pet Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kimpton Hotel Born | None | Kimpton's no-fee pet policy. Water bowl at front desk. Director of Pet Relations on staff. |
| Le Meridien Indianapolis | $50/stay | Boutique hotel on Georgia Street. Walking distance to everything. |
| Hyatt Regency Indianapolis | $75/stay | Skywalk-connected to Convention Center. Max 50 lbs. |
| Bottleworks Hotel | $50/stay | Boutique hotel in Bottleworks District. Near Mass Ave and Monon Trail. |
| Home2 Suites Downtown | $75/stay | Extended stay with kitchenette. Good for longer visits. |