Whether you’re heading to Austin for business or pleasure, if you have your dog in tow, you might be worried about finding the best destinations that allow you both. If you’re a coffee lover on top of it all, finding great coffee and a space where your dog can hang out may be challenging when you visit somewhere new. The positive of Austin is that there is a huge coffee culture in the area, so you can enjoy a beverage, meet new people, people watch, and have your dog right there with you.
Even those who live in Austin may not know how many fantastic coffeehouses are in various neighborhoods, many of which are happy to allow dogs inside or at least onto an outdoor patio. We’re going to look at some of the spots you don’t want to miss, coffee-related and otherwise. We’ll also look at other specifics that will help you best enjoy your trip into Austin, Texas. So, whether you’re coming in for South by Southwest, traveling for business, or already live in Texas, you’ll find out new information and could stumble onto your new favorite coffee destination.
General Things to Know When Visiting Austin
Before you grab your pup and head to Austin, there are certain things you should know to make the trip a successful one. We’ll share a few tips and suggestions to get you off on the right foot before you ever step foot in the city.
Austin is Extremely Warm
Sure, visiting Austin in the winter will mean mild temperatures, but if you plan to hang out there in the summer, be prepared for the heat. Not only is it hot, but the summer can feel like it lasts before. It starts to get warm as early as March and usually doesn’t cool down until around November. That’s a lot of hot temperatures if you aren’t used to that sort of thing. It also gives an indication of why so many people in this city seek out casual clothing that will be comfortable even in the heat. Pack some shorts and bring water with you when you head off on an adventure.
The Days Start Early in Austin
Traffic can be crazy later in the day in Austin and the afternoon is nearly always scorching, which makes many people start their days a bit earlier there. If you’ve heard of siesta in Italy, Austin has its own version, but it takes place during the midday and is a way to avoid the sun beating down on you. If you spend this time indoors, you’re likely to have a better experience while you explore Austin. Plus, if you get up early, you won’t be fighting the crowds everywhere you go.
Leave Earlier Than You Think You Should
When we say Austin has bad traffic, we aren’t playing. It’s been compared to the traffic found in Los Angeles. Even u sing Waze or Google Maps may mean you’re 15 minutes behind schedule due to the notorious traffic. If you want to avoid anxiety and stress, leave 15 minutes or so before you normally would. Even if you end up at your destination early, you’ll need all the time you can get to find reasonable parking.
The Cathedral of Junk is Somewhere You Have to Visit
If you’ve done any research on Austin, you may have heard about the Cathedral of Junk. It can be quite difficult to find but it well worth the effort. The cathedral is located in the backyard of a home owned by Vince Hannemann. The cathedral has been in place since 1988 and is constantly having additions added to it. You’ll walk through over 60 tons of junk and probably find some real beauty in it. If nothing else, it’s an experience like no other.
You Want to Pack a Swimsuit
It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, you’re going to want a swimsuit. Even when the temperature is generally milder, you may end up with a warm front and wish you could jump in a pool. It won’t take up much space and you’ll be glad you have it if you end up needing it. If you’re coming to Austin any time other than winter, it’s a must have piece of clothing that you’ll get a ton use out of. Visit Barton Springs to cool down when the sun is beating down on you and you can’t take it anymore. On that same not, make sure to bring a pair of sunglasses, too.
Bicycles are Nearly Everywhere
People love their bicycles in Austin and you’ll see them used as transportation, for leisure, and for exercise purposes. You may be surprised to see just how many cyclists are in the city. That said, if you enjoy biking, this is a huge advantage since it means the entire city is bike friendly. You’ll find bike lanes on pretty much all the major streets and renting a bike is a simple affair, too. So, feel free to hop on and take advantage of a city that is truly made for bike lovers.
Get Away from the Hustle and Bustle at a Park
There are tons of beautiful parks in Austin that can give you a chance to feel like you’ve stepped outside of the city. The most popular is Zilker Park, which offers 351 acres of green for picnicking, exercising with the dog, or just enjoying a gorgeous day outside. There are tons of activities you can take part in and a view of downtown that can’t be beat. If you want to try elsewhere, McKinney Falls State Park or the Greenbelt are going to be your best bets.
Austin is a Taco Kind of Town
Like tacos? You’re going to love it in Austin. You’ll find everything from massive plates of tacos to breakfast tacos and everything in between. Nearly every restaurant you step inside is going to offer some sort of taco. This isn’t a major surprise since Austin is where a number of well-known Tex-Mex chains began, like Chuy’s and Torchy’s Tacos. Tacos are a normal meal no matter what time of day it is. Grab a breakfast taco at one of the food trucks and head back at noon for a traditional taco.
Try Out the Local Restaurants and Food Trailers
While you likely know Austin as the live music capital of the world, it also has a huge food culture that can’t be beat. You’ll find that many of the most popular restaurants use local produce and goods and are locally owned. Many of them are even operated from trailers and food trucks, so you’ll have access to great food no matter where you are. You can’t visit Austin properly without trying at least one of these locally owned spots so add it to your to-do list.
Music is Everywhere in Austin Texas
You’ve heard Austin is the live music capital of the world and that’s definitively true. There are performances across the city in all sorts of different establishments. Even if you aren’t looking for live music, you shouldn’t be surprised if you find it. Just taking a walk down the block, you may find yourself noticing live music coming from a bar or coffee house. Many of them offer live music once or twice a week. While music may or may not be your favorite thing, there’s no way to visit Austin without indulging in a little so take advantage of that.
Diversity and Tons of Young Energy
Austin is a city that is known for being hip and young, which means you’ll find plenty of diversity in the crowds you come upon while visiting. The hipster vibe is alive and well so don’t be surprised to see suspenders, beards, and thick glasses wherever you go. This also means that most of the restaurants and cafes in the city also have gluten-free, organic, and vegan fare. This is especially true if you hang out at the local places.
Where to Visit in the Round Rock & Cedar Park Neighborhoods
When you’re ready to head off to visit Austin with a dog in tow, you need to know the right places to go. There are a handful of destinations perfect for a dog with an owner in the Round Rock & Cedar Park areas of Austin. These range from dog parks to cocktail bars, restaurants, and combinations of all these things. One of the most popular is the Dog House Drinkery, which is located off of FM 1431 at 3800 County Road 175.
Dog House Drinkery
This is a dog park and bar that is located on a massive two and a half acres. There is a main park that is fenced in for off-leash dogs that offers lights, shade, crushed granite, and direct access to the bar. This section is about ½ acre in size. There’s another 10,000 square foot off-leash area in front where training, adoptions, birthday parties, and other events are held. A small area is also available for dogs who weight 30 pounds or less which is connected to the main park. There are also plenty of areas to hang with your pooch on-least and dogs are welcome in all of the bar areas.
For the off-leash dog park, there are day passes available that cost $5, while yearly memberships are only $75. You’ll want to take a look at the rules of the bar before heading in, but the requirements are fairly straightforward. Keep in mind that mainly alcoholic drinks are served here but it is a nice spot to hang out at in the evening hours to meet other people and let your dog socialize.
Dog Depot Dog Park
Another dog park, minus the alcoholic drinks, is the Dog Depot Dog Park. You’ll find it at 800 Deerfoot Drive in Round Rock. The entire dog park is leash-free and boasts nearly two acres of space. The park is fenced and there are multiple agility items for your pets from tunnels to tire jumps, and contact ramps. There’s also plenty of room for your pooch to run and play. There are three areas in the park. One is for dogs under 40 pounds, the others is for larger dogs, and one area rotates to allow grass to regrow. There are also restrooms nearby at the Lake Creek Park pavilion in front of the pool. While there isn’t any coffee served here, there are other businesses nearby, so you can grab a cup before you hit the park with your dog.
Maggiores
Maggiores is a restaurant that allows dogs which is located at 1420 Cypress Creek Road in Cedar Park. You can enjoy a cup or two of coffee or have dinner here to mix with the locals. The restaurant serves everything from burgers and sandwiches to pizza, Stromboli, wings, salads, seafood, and pasta. This is one of the most dog-friendly restaurants in the area, so nobody is going to take a second look if you bring along your pet. Just keep in mind that pets shouldn’t actually enter the restaurant. However, when the weather is nice, the outdoor tables are open to pets and their owners.
Greenhouse Craft Food
Another restaurant that promises local craft food and allows dogs is Greenhouse. You can find your way to this restaurant by visiting 1400 E Old Settlers Blvd in Round Rock. Greenhouse is open on weekends but closed on Mondays. The menu has a bit of everything from chili cheese fries to all sorts of burgers, sandwiches, salads, and soups. If you’re a vegetarian, don’t worry. There are also options for you, too. If your pup is coming along, you’ll want to take up at one of the tables on the porch to enjoy your meal with your buddy.
Cedar Bark Park
Our last destination in this part of Austin is the Cedar Bark Park. It’s located at 2525 West New Hope Drive in Cedar Park. The park itself is fenced-in and offers five acres for your pet to roam. If you’re looking for amenities, you aren’t going to be disappointed. There is a dog pond, dog showers, pet waste stations, and plenty of drinking fountains. While this isn’t a spot where you can pick up a keto coffee or your favorite latte, it’s somewhere you can bring one along and spend time with your dog just outside of Austin.
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Places You Need to Visit in the North Austin Area
If you are setting up shop in North Austin, there are a few restaurants and bars that are open to furry friends. Some of them even offer a dog park to make the location superior as far as your pet is concerned. No matter what sort of cuisine you enjoy, there will be options in this neighborhood. Our first pick is Austin Terrier, which we’ll talk more about below.
Austin Terrier
Austin Terrier is found at 3435 Greystone Drive and offers a neighborhood restaurant that is family and pet friendly. Your pup can enjoy time on the patio with free treats and water to keep him fed and hydrated. As for the humans in your party, this place offers a menu filled with pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and more. Coffee is served here and is shade grown and organic from Chiapas. The coffee has a low acidity and a smooth, chocolatey taste. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll want to try the chocolate banana milkshake or the deep-fried Oreos with vanilla ice cream.
Tinos Greek Café
Tinos offers quick casual Greek dining on 10515 N Mopac Expressway. There are five tables outside, so you can enjoy time dining with your dog nearby. When you step inside of Tinos, you’ll notice that the ordering system is cafeteria style. You can pile up on things like falafel, gyro, and moussaka and then head outside to hang out with your dog. While coffee isn’t on the menu, tons of other items are. You can whet your thirst with soda or a fresh squeezed lemonade. For those who prefer to avoid meat, try the vegetarian platter for a tasty, filling meal.
Little Woodrow’s
Another dog-friendly spot in North Austin is Little Woodrow’s, which is a chain sports bar throughout the state of Texas. In addition to offering seasonal brews to enjoy, there are also plenty of tasty bar eats. If you hit up the patio, all covered and uncovered seating can be shared with your dog. This is more of a bar than a coffee destination, but it marks an interesting location to cool off in the evening and eat some great Austin food. There are a few locations, but one is convenient to North Austin’s neighborhoods.
Yard Bar
If you want to visit a location that really caters to dogs, Yard Bar is the going to be the best option. This is a restaurant that includes a dog park, so your pup can let off some energy. While there is a large menu of sandwiches, soups, salads, and appetizers for humans, what really stands out is the dog specific menu. You can order your dog a hotdog, dog treats, dog “beer” which is beef stock, meatballs and gravy, or dog-friendly ice cream. The dog park is 21+ and all dogs need to be at least four months old. You can see all the rules and information for the park on the Yard Bar website, or peruse the menu of delicious foods.
Various Places to Check out While in Central Austin
There are dozens of restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and other attractions in East Austin, but many of them aren’t known for being dog friendly. The good news is that there are a handful which buck that trend and are happy to serve both humans and dogs in the same location. Some of them even offer live entertainment, so you’re sure to find something to do every night of the week. If you like artisanal dishes and the use of seasonal ingredients in your meals, you’re going to be impressed with the first location on this list.
Second Bar + Kitchen
Second Bar is a restaurant in Each Austin, but they serve more than the typical diner coffee. You can get drip coffee, but espresso and cappuccino are both also on the menu. Second Bar is located at 200 Congress Avenue and there is a daily happy hour from four to six pm. Dogs are welcome as long as you select the outdoor seating, of which there is plenty. The food here is New American and composed of small plates for sharing, larger plates for main dishes, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, rotisserie options, and even desserts. Second Bar is open for lunch and dinner but also serves brunch on weekends.
Crown & Anchor Pub
This place is a restaurant and pub with the typical offerings you might expect. You can get burgers, salads, hot dogs, and sandwiches alongside a large selection of bottled, canned, and tap beer. It’s a relaxed and casual environment and you can catch live music on some nights of the week. While you can’t bring your dog inside Crown & Anchor, there is seating on the front porch which welcomes your pooch. You can find the pub at 2911 San Jacinto Boulevard if you want to give it a shot. With tons of awards under its belt, it’s a safe bet that you and your pup will have a fantastic time.
Irie Bean Coffee Bar
The Irie Bean Coffee Bar is a spot that serves up fair trade, organic coffee that was roasted by people right in Texas. However, the spot also serves a variety of beer, wine, and champagne. The bar is open to dog patrons and features a backyard bar that is perfect to enjoy with your pooch. Keep in mind that this patio bar is only available Thursday through Sunday, though. You’ll find this place at 2310 S Lamar Boulevard. Some of the coffee available include cold brew, latte, mocha, frappe, espresso shots, and cortados so you will have no lack of options if you decide to drop in.
Buzz Mill
This is a 24-hour shop that serves both coffee and beer, among other things. There is a large selection of infused elixirs which you won’t find elsewhere with options like the jalapeno pear vodka. As far as the dogs go, they are welcome on the outdoor patio which has tons of room for your dog to roam when not sitting at your feet. It’s a community driven coffee shop that is part coffee shop, part comedy club, and part lodge. Whether you want a sip of coffee or to down a few beers, you aren’t going to regret visiting at least once.
Jo’s Coffee Shop
Another coffee shop that you need to give a shot is Jo’s Coffee Shop. There are a few locations around town and all of them are great to grab a brew and hang out with your furry pal. You can expect to stumble upon poetry slams, Jazz band performance, and open mic nights on a regular basis. In addition to coffer, you can also pick up a tasty burger and share it with your pet while you hang out at one of the outdoor tables. Make sure to check out the various events that are going on if you want more than just a quiet table and coffee. Each location has its own entertainment on various nights of the week.
Spider House Cafe
Spider House is a popular place to take out of towners who want to experience what Austin is all about. Thankfully, it also allows dogs as long as you choose the appropriate seating options. You can grab a great cup of coffee, try the chips and salsa, and get to know the natives. Nighttime is the beset time to visit as the shop is filled with Christmas lights all year around. Spider House was listed by USA Today as one of the Top 10 Best Things to Do in Austin and has been referenced in other newspapers. You can enjoy coffee, cocktails, burgers, tacos, and more.
Epoch Coffee
Epoch Coffee is located at 221 W N Loop Boulevard and serves some of the best coffee in town. There are actually a few of this shop around the city and each is as nice as the next one. Dogs are allowed to dine with you and the coffee options are quite diverse. There are simple hot coffees, espresso drinks, cold brewed coffee, and a bunch of tea. While Epoch isn’t known for its food, they do offer a few things including pizza by the slice, sandwiches, and Greek salad. There are also pastries and other desserts.
El Mercado
The final place you have to check out in Central Austin is El Mercado. This is a Mexican restaurant located in a few spots around Austin, so you can find one regardless of where you hang your hat. It is extremely dog-friendly and offers a happy hour appetizer buffet which is out of this world. The seating with dogs it outside and you can expect to have fresh water available for your dog. The back patio is a fantastic spot to sit if your pet is okay around children. You can nosh on some of the best enchiladas in town while puppy is by your side.
South Austin’s Dog Friendliest Establishments to Visit
Now that we’ve covered the rest of the city, it’s time to jump into South Austin. This location actually has the most dog friendly establishments in the city so no matter what you’re looking for, you are likely to find it. There are beer gardens, parks, restaurants, brewing companies, and much more to check out. If you go nowhere else, though, you want to hit up the Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company while in the city.
Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company
The beer garden here is open to dogs and the entire establishment is a lot of fun to visit. This location has won the Great American Beer Festival Brewpub of the year for three years and counting so you know that they do things right. The beer garden is located at 1305 W Oltorf and has tons of beer on tap and in bottles. There is also a selection of cider and wine for those who prefer it. But beer and space for pups isn’t all they offer. There’s also a food menu that changes often to incorporate seasonal ingredients. You’ll find appetizers, salads, soups, unique pizzas, pasta, sandwiches, burger, and more.
Black Sheep Lodge
Another great bar and grill in the area is the Black Sheep Lodge. There is a huge outdoor seating area where dogs are most definitely welcome. The bar boasts over 25 beers on tap and more than 125 in bottles. There are also daily drink specials, so you can watch your budget while having a drink with your dog. The food is high-quality, and the menu is packed with dishes like the black bird chicken sandwich, Chicago dog, fried jalapenos, and cheese curds. If you want to hit this place up, you’ll want to head to 2108 S Lamar Boulevard. The location is open every day from 11 am to 12 am but stays open an hour extra on Saturday.
Bouldin Creek Cafe
One of the more unique restaurants in town is Bouldin Creek Café, which is dog friendly if you’re okay sitting at an outdoor table. This restaurant serves a dozen different coffees, each of which is organic and locally roasted. There is also a wide selection of tea, along with smoothies and juice. For those who are stopping in for a night cap, you’ll find plenty of beer and wine. The food menu is largely vegan and anything that isn’t vegan by default can be made that way. Stop in between 11 am and 3 pm on weekdays to try one of the lunch features, like the taco fantasy plate or Ruby Rueben.
Independence Brewing Company
Before you set off to check out Independence Brewing company, you need to be aware that it isn’t always open to the presence of canines. However, every Friday afternoon from 4 pm to 8 pm, your pooch can come along with you while you explore the brewing company. As should be expected, there are a ton of beers on the menu here with some of the year-round offerings including Austin Amber, Liberty Lunch IPA, and Power & Light. There’s always a new drink to try, too, with a selection of seasonal and limited release brews at the bar. It may not be coffee, but for some of us, it’s the next best thing. While Fido can’t come, you can also visit and tour the tap room for an experience like no other.
Waterloo Ice House
The Waterloo Ice House is a restaurant that has several outdoor tables that are pet friendly, so you can bring your pooch along. The place has been open for decades and many of the ingredients are sourced right in Texas. As far as the food goes, you can expect hearty dishes like turkey meatloaf, chicken fried steak, and tacos. However, there are some lighter items like soups and salads. There are also happy hour specials on cocktails every single day so you can enjoy a beverage with your meal if you want to step away from caffeine for a moment. However, there is coffee too, so you aren’t out of luck on that front.
Zilker Park
This park is the perfect place to bring your leashed pet for some exercise and playtime. There is a 10-mile Lady Bird Hike if you really want to get acquainted with Austin nature. There is also a trail for cyclists and a lake where you can hang out on a canoe or kayak. While the pool isn’t open to dogs, they can romp in the downstream water and cool off after a long day. The green space available is an area where your pet can off-leash but be cautious since there are roads near the park.
Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden
Finally, we come to Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden. Not only is it dog friendly but you can purchase a Woof Wurst for your pet and part of the purchase price goes to Austin Pets Alive. The outdoor seating area is free for dogs to join you and you’ll find great food and beer available no matter when you visit. There’s a BBQ menu, sausage menu, beer menu, wine menu, brunch menu, and even a happy hour menu. If you enjoy meat, this is a great destination. There are even exotic dishes like rabbit and mushroom, jalapeno cheddar bratwurst, and South Texas antelope merguez.
What to Know About Austin’s Coffee Culture
As you can see from the huge amount of coffeehouses in Austin that allow dogs, coffee is a big thing in the capital of Texas. It’s no longer a matter of hitting up a diner to grab a cup of regular or decaffeinated coffee. Instead, you’ll find yourself nearly overwhelmed with options. There are dozens of shops that offer artisan drinks and provide a community atmosphere that shapes coffee culture in the city. Whether you want espresso drinks, cold brew, or something even less common, you’re going to have plenty of choices available. There are roasters scattered around town and you’ll find plenty of options for fair-trade and organic brews to start (or end) your day in Texas. No matter where you go or what you do, Austin is a great place for both you and your dog. Enjoy your trip and have fun!
Bonus Questions
1. What is the official state dog of Texas?
As of 2005, Rick Perry signed legislation that made the Blue Lacy the official state dog breed of Texas. That makes is no surprise that many Texans own a dog of exactly that breed.
2. What is the most populous city in Texas?
Going from the most populous to the least, the top most populated cities in Texas include Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, and Fort Worth.
3. What is the best time of year to visit Austin Texas?
The accepted best times to visit Austin are from September to November and March to May. It’s nice and warm but not overly hot or humid. June through August is the hottest time of year and often hard to tolerate for visitors.
4. Does it snow in Austin TX?
While Austin gets plenty of rain every year at an average of 34 inches, snow is uncommon and the area averages zero inches annually.
5. Where should I go in downtown Austin?
There are tons of things to see and do in downtown Austin. Some of the most popular include the Boardwalk park, Bob Bullock Museum, State Capitol Building, Esther’s Follies bar, and the Contemporary Austin museum.
6. What are the safest neighborhoods in Austin Texas?
Some of the top ranked neighborhoods in terms of safety include Barton Hills, Hyde Park, West Austin, St. Edwards, and Allandale.
7. Is Texas the biggest state in America?
Texas is the second largest state after Alaska but is the largest state in the lower 48 states. It’s a bit larger than France and nearly double the size of Japan or Germany.
8. Is Austin democratic?
While Texas is a largely Republic state, Austin is largely Democrat city along with San Antonio, El Paso, Dallas, and Houston.
9. Does Austin have a zoo?
It does! The Austin Zoo is a non-profit rescue zoo located in Travis County just west of Austin. This zoo looks to assist animals through education, rescue, and rehabilitation.
10. Is Austin a city in Texas?
Austin is a city located in Texas and is the country seat of Travis County and the capital of the state of Texas. It’s the fourth most populated city located in Texas.
Related Content:
Best Practices to Keep Your Pet Dog Away from Coffee and Other Hazardous Items
Dogs and Coffee, Chocolate, Raisins and Other Forbidden Foods of the Holidays (Video)
Adventures with Fido…What You and Your Best Bud Can Do When You Can’t Kick Back with a Beer or Coffee (Video)
Sources:
https://austin.eater.com/maps/best-coffee-austin-cafes
https://tomlinsons.com/blogs/articles/36-pet-friendly-spots-around-austin-a-dogs-guide-to-sxsw