Dog Friendly Date Ideas In South Florida

As a wedding company we frequently talk about engagements, anniversaries, weddings, etc. but we realize that there are many of us without a significant other or couples that really want to include their dog in all the outings. For example, Valentine’s day to singles is usually a pointless and uneventful holiday, but it doesn’t have to be if you include your four-legged friend. On the other hand, there are so many fun dog friendly date ideas that you can any day. Treat yourself and your furry companion to a special date (or day of events). We’ve included some ideas here that can be done by yourself and your fur-baby, or with a significant other (or all three!).

Most of these ideas are specific to the Miami/South Florida region but if you live somewhere else please take some of these ideas as inspiration to treat you and your furry companion to a special day- partner or no partner. 

_{1.Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens- Dog Date Concert}

The exquisite botanical garden in Coconut Grove hosts different ‘doggy date’ ideas during the year. What is better than enjoying some fresh air while looking at the beautiful scenery. On Valentine’s Day in particular, they often feature live music with performances. Check out their calendar of events here. This is a must to visit if you’re new to Miami or just simply haven’t been here yet. Not to mention, it’s also a wedding venue! 

_{2.Love is in the air}

Ft. Lauderdale Beach has plenty of dog friendly date ideas including yappy hours with your dog and outdoor movies. It’s a great opportunity to mingle with other wonderful pet owners or just go alone and enjoy some food and drinks.

Come support your local businesses and enjoy the laid back vibes while taking in the view with your furry companion.

_{3.Berry Farms} 

This is a great date idea with your dog if you love fresh fruits and vegetables, especially strawberries. Here you can pick all-you-can-carry strawberries and just pay by the pound to take them home with you. There is also a cafe/bar where you can enjoy a bite to eat (or glass of wine) while resting with your furry friend. Just make sure to bring them some water and something to drink out of so they don’t get dehydrated or too hot! We think this is a great place to go either with a significant other and your pup, or just you and the dog. After sunset, the fields close but don’t let that push you out the door. The ambiance shifts as the trees light up with lanterns and fairy-tale lights. You may also hear some live music if you stay long enough after sunset. Just make sure you ask your pup what they want to do!

_{4.Kush by Spillover in Coconut Grove}

This artistic restaurant is one of the most perfect places you can take your pup to an enjoyable and inclusive dinner. Rather than just having them lay under the table with you while you’re enjoying your delicious dinner, Kush loves dogs so much they’ve designed a menu specially for dogs. What’s a better Valentine’s day dinner than giving your pup the chance to eat alongside you? They’ll get to choose between house made (dog-friendly, of course) meatballs, chicken & rice, or Cuban Chew-Gars. You can read more about this amazing establishment here and book reservations here. If Coconut Grove is too far from where you live, or you prefer a different location, do not fret because there are multiple locations for Kush’s dog-friendly restaurants.

_{5.Spa day}

Take the day off and enjoy a relaxing and pampering spa day for you at Fido at Neo Pet Spa. View their services offered for dogs and then check out their sister company and neighbor, Neo Nails to book a manicure/pedicure for yourself. You and Fido both deserve to be spoiled so treat yourself on this day to a full pampering experience.   

_{6.The Wharf} 

Located on the Miami River, you can enjoy a variety of different food trucks while sitting outside with Fido by your side. Leashed dogs are allowed until 6pm and if you have a boat, you can also arrive via the dock. There will be a Mardi Gras celebration from February 11th-14th at The Wharf with lots of live music, drinks, and food. You can learn more and RSVP here. Although we are not sure if the Mardi Gras event will be dog friendly so please ask them in advance to confirm. 

_7.Picnic 

Florida is such a beautiful state filled with thousands of parks, each different from the last. One great way to avoid contact with other people is to instead take Fido to your favorite park and find a nice tree to sit under for your picnic. Visit any of the state parks, or your favorite local park, and spend some quality time bonding with your dog and enjoying the fresh air.  Just make sure to pack the bug spray and don’t forget their food or you won’t be able to eat yours 😉 

 

 

_{8.Dog Beaches/Dog Park}s for a date with your dog

Miami and South Florida has a fabulous selection of great dog parks & dog beaches to visit, all offering different things to set them slightly apart from each other. Here is our list of favorite dog parks and beaches. If you’re going to be there for a couple hours, make sure you bring some fresh water for you and your pup so neither of you get dehydrated or overheated!

-Haulover 

-Bark Beach/Park

-Snyder Park

-Hobie Island

 

_{9. Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour}

‘Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour’ is a pet-friendly Airbnb Experience hosted by two lovely ladies Ariana & Amy. Rent a paddle board and experience nature close up. You will get to experience paddling through mangrove tunnels, observing the native birds and fishes with your pooch side by side. This wonder-woof experience lasts about 2 hours and can accommodate 10 guests. Please do not forget to make sure to bring your furbaby’s life jacket.

 

 

_{10. Swimming with the dolphins}

Have you ever wanted to just recreate flipper and see how your dog interacts with dolphins? Doesn’t that sound dreamy? Captain Sheri will guide take you on a journey through the pristine waters of Key West. On this adventure you will be able to experience the beauty of Florida’s coral reefs, backcountry mangrove habitat and a diverse marine life including of course your resident dolphins. Witness the behavior of these wonderful creatures in their own habitat while snorkeling and swimming around the waters of Key West. The best part you can bring your four-legged bestie along.

 

 Looking for an overnight date that includes your dog? Look no further…

 

 There are plenty of luxury hotels in South Florida that are so ‘pawsh’ your furbaby might want to extend their stay. Here are just a few fun options to choose from :

We hope that you were able to find some ideas that may spark your desire for adventure without needing to leave your dog behind. South Florida is a very pet friendly place with plenty of options for different tastes and people. Whether you choose to do something to brighten your Valentine’s day or even just some dog friendly places to put in your pocket to visit later. There is no lack of dog friendly date ideas. Just, don’t forget to always pack Fido’s water and in some cases shoes. Florida weather can be brutally hot so it’s always good to be prepared.

Please feel free to share this blog with any of your friends or family and don’t forget to check out the services we offer for dog involved engagements and weddings on our website or by clicking here. 

 

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