Asheville is vying for yet another title, Dog City USA. We are lucky to have so many hotels, restaurants and breweries that love dogs - a long history of being very pet-friendly. Now there's even a Dog Welcome Center! Here are some of our favorite spots to visit in downtown Asheville within a few blocks of each other. Pic above: The chef at the Twisted Laurel putting final touches on Sebastian's salmon entree.
Twister Laurel Dog Menu
The Twisted Laurel restaurant downtown (130 College Street) even has a special menu for dogs bringing their owners to lunch and dinner on their outdoor patio by Pack Square Park! Features a choice of protein (trout, veggie burger, burger, scrambled eggs) and veggies (grilled brussel sprouts, asparagus, sweet potatoes). Pup can enjoy a snack of celery sticks with peanut butter or a dessert with yummy doggy ice cream! Pic above: Sebastian (left) and Lucy (right).
Dog Friendly Hotels
You'll find many hotels that love their four legged guests (see our Pet Friendly Guide for a complete list). The Aloft Hotel in downtown Asheville includes a pet bed, doggie goody bag and even a rooftop dog walk. What really makes them different is their partnership with Charlie's Angels Animal Rescue to foster dogs looking for a home - and they have matched 80+ up with owners. They host one dog at a time - stop by and look for the "Adopt Me" vest.
Dog Welcome Center
Stop by the first official Dog Welcome Center in the United States! Find indoor and outdoor seating, doggy potty area, water fountains, free goody bags, doggie ice cream, and info on their Top 100 dog-friendly attractions, restaurants, and things to do. It's located inside The Dog Door Behavior Center and Outfitter, with treats, toys, chews, and necessities. They are downtown Asheville across the street from the Grove Arcade at 1 Battle Square. The Dog Welcome Center is open Monday-Wednesday 9-5, Thursday-Saturday 9-7 and Sunday 11-5.
See our Pet Friendly Asheville Guide for more places to stay and go - including hiking trails! Plus, read more about Downtown Asheville.
Twisted Laurel Downtown
Award-winning Executive Chef Tom LaFauci specializes in handmade pasta and smoked meats putting his Italian-American touch on a wide range of crowd-pleasing entrees. The full bar includes regional… read more
Award-winning Executive Chef Tom LaFauci specializes in handmade pasta and smoked meats putting his Italian-American touch on a wide range of crowd-pleasing entrees. The full bar includes regional beers on tap, craft cocktails, and wines. Their patio is dog-friendly and open year-round and includes a Doggie Menu, so your pup can enjoy a meal out with you! (130 College Street)
Aloft Hotel, Downtown Asheville
Celebrate your style at Aloft Asheville Downtown. Stroll out the door to find loads of enticing eateries, plus a vibrant arts scene - all minutes from the Biltmore Estate and mountain exploration… read more
Celebrate your style at Aloft Asheville Downtown. Stroll out the door to find loads of enticing eateries, plus a vibrant arts scene - all minutes from the Biltmore Estate and mountain exploration. Meet and mingle at the W XYZ Bar, grab a snack from Re:fuel by Aloft or play in the Re:mix Lounge. 115 rooms, from $159, free wire and wireless Internet access, ultra-comfortable signature bed,…