Dog's Life
City Spotlight: Atlanta
From history to hiking, this area has it all
Atlanta has it all as a must-see destination for you and your dog. This Southern city is a haven for people and their dogs. A number of dog parks make up the city's park system, but natural trails along the Chattahoochee River and scenic attractions are a big draw if you're both inclined to stretch your legs and put your paws on a new adventure!
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
1978 Island Ford Parkway, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
770-952-0370
www.nps.gov/chat
From a starring appearance in downtown to quiet, extensive spans of nature nearby, the Chattahoochee is an important part of Atlanta's legacy. A temperate spring climate makes the trails and parklands areas along the Chattahoochee River all the more enjoyable. Enjoy checking out the wildlife, exploring the wooded areas, and all the sights and sounds that will excite you and your dog.
19th Annual Pet Parade
Candler Park, 585 Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
404-974-2849
www.atlantapetparade.com
Explore Candler Park's in-town naturalistic setting with a thousand other paws on May 2 during a mile-and-a-half parade featuring you and your pooch! Play doggie musical chairs, stop and sip at various water stations, enjoy demonstrations, and enter the look-a-like contest.
ParkGrounds
142 Flat Shoals Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
678-528-9901
www.parkgrounds.com
At ParkGrounds, you both get a boost: This coffeehouse has a fully fenced .25-acre off-leash dog park! Outside, endless fresh water flows through a spigot, and he gets to enjoy treats (even specially made frozen treats for him) while you sip a latte on the patio or just romp around the grounds. Year-round activities include Dogtoberfest, games, and other fun attractions.
Stone Mountain Park
U.S. Highway 78 East, Stone Mountain, GA 30087
770-498-5690
www.stonemountainpark.com
One of the world's largest exposed granite attractions is just 15 miles from downtown Atlanta. Explore more than 10 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and one of the largest campgrounds in Georgia together. A big plus: The main 5-mile loop around the mountain has fountains for you both. Let your imaginations travel back to yesteryear at Crossroads, a 1870s bustling "town" complete with demonstration crafters, live shows, shopping, and dining.
Hotel Indigo
683 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
404-874-9200
www.hotelindigo.com
At Hotel Indigo, treat yourself and your dog to the "Ruff Life Package," where you'll both feel at home in special rooms with hardwood floors, a dog bed, and other amenities all in the heart of Midtown. City regulars drop by on Tuesday nights for the Canine Cocktail Hour, where a treat buffet is served in miniature hot-dog carts and dogs get to pick out a colorful ceramic water bowl for an evening of people and pooch watching along Peachtree.
