The toughest thing about going on a trip is leaving a family member behind. That includes the four-legged family members we all know and love. It’s hard on us and it is doubly hard on them. Our pets don’t understand how long we will be gone and when we will come back. So here’s the solution! Pick a destination that welcomes the four-legged members of our family with open arms. Knoxville, TN is one of the most pet friendly communities in the United States.
Pet Friendly Hotels in Knoxville, TN
There are no worries about where you and your dog will stay when you come to Knoxville. There are over 75 pet-friendly hotels in the area. Some hotels do not ask for additional charges for a pet and some hotels do request a small deposit. When you make your reservation be sure to ask as there are continual updates in the travel industry and hotels are no exception. For your convenience here are two hotels with great locations and no additional fees.
The La Quinta Inn and Suites Knoxville Central Papermill is newly remodeled, centrally located and just off I-40 and only 10 minutes from Downtown Knoxville. They welcome two dogs of any size for no additional fee.
Red Roof PLUS+ & Suites Knoxville West Cedar Bluff is very pet-friendly and 
offers modern rooms and a great west Knoxville location. They welcome one pet of any size for no additional fee.
Baymont Inn and Suites at Cedar Bluff has affordable comfort, welcomes pets and is near 1-40/I-75, the University of Tennessee, restaurants and shopping.
Need more hotels to choose from? Here are 56 pet friendly Knoxville hotels listed at the Knoxville Visitor Center.
Dog Friendly Restaurant/Patios
Now that you found your perfect hotel, you’ll find Knoxville very accommodating to you and your pet. One of the best parts of traveling is having the opportunity to visit different restaurants and sample local fare. There is no reason to leave the four-legged family member behind as there are over 150 dog friendly restaurants in Knoxville, TN. Some of these restaurants will offer water and treats to your pal while you enjoy your meal. Many of these are sidewalk cafes, some are bars, there are coffee shops and ice cream parlors, and many other eateries around town as well. Knoxville’s Historic Market Square is dog heaven
with wide-open spaces and great restaurants with outdoor tables. Enjoy a delicious meal or a cold one as you and your pet watch the world pass by. It is a lovely way to spend an evening in Knoxville.
Around town there are many, many other options for dining out with your pet. With more than 150 establishments to choose from you and your four-legged friends will have a great time together. One enjoyable benefit of having Fido as a companion is that you’ll meet tons of friendly Knoxvillians because everyone loves dogs in Knoxville.
Here are two of our favorite dog friendly restaurants to visit:
Pelancho’s Mexican Grill – two locations, west and south, with a covered dog friendly patio. Hostess welcome dogs whole heartedly with 2 biscuits and water. There are dog themed cartoons and pictures hung around the patio.
Blackhouse Pub & Brewery – Close to Downtown, just minutes from UT Campus, dog friendly patio, quiet with nice greenery.
Need more restaurants and breweries with dog-friendly patios for you and your pal to enjoy? The Knoxville Visitor Center has them all listed for you.
A Pet Friendly City
Knoxville is just plain dog friendly and known generally for its southern hospitality to people too. Throughout the city, there are plenty of parks and an elaborate system of paved greenways of walking trails that follow natural features. Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness is a spectacular outdoor adventure area all within the heart of the city. There is a special dog park downtown and most all communities surrounding Knoxville host dog parks of their own. Visit Outdoor Knoxville to learn more about all the dog parks in the greater Knoxville area. Pet Safe is a Knoxville-based corporation (you may know them for their many helpful pet products as electric fence and boundary collars) and they have facilitated the building of many of these fine dog parks we enjoy.
Top 6 Dog Parks in Knoxville, TN
- PetSafe Village Dog Park – 10424 PetSafe Way, Knoxville, TN 37932
Includes a natural pond for play and a doggie water fountain for hydration - Victor Ashe Park – 4901 Bradshaw Rd, Knoxville, TN 37912
Family friendly spot with playground, fishing, duck pond, and greenway to walk your dog - Concord Dog Park – 10901 S Northshore Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922
Three separate areas: small dogs, big dogs, and a doggy beach with plenty of shade - Tommy Schumpert Park – 6400 Fountain City Rd, Knoxville, TN 37918
Three fenced areas for dogs: small dogs, big dogs and a pond play space, doggy water fountain - Holston River Park – 3300 Holston Hills Rd, Knoxville, TN 37914
Shady dog park with distinct areas for small and big dogs - Petsafe Downtown Dog Park – 200 S Central St, Knoxville, TN 37902
Open play space is well-maintained and has water for dogs, separate area for smaller breeds
Many Knoxville businesses cater to our four-legged friends with bowls of fresh water, dog beds to rest in, and even shopping carts with special cushions. Our neighborhood Home Depot welcomes owners and their pets to shop anytime. Knoxville is definitely a pooch playground, so be sure to bring your pet along as you enjoy exploring together mountaintops, trails, waterways and the very walkable downtown.
Visiting Knoxville with your pooch has never been easier or more fun!
Dog Friendly History – War Dog Memorial
Did you know that Knoxville honors war dogs and the special connection people share with dogs?
A statue of the noble Doberman Pinscher is representative of heroic war dogs that have served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. The majority were Doberman Pinschers, but German shepherds, Labrador retrievers and even a collie served during the war as sentries, messengers, and scouts. Dogs also served with the Marines as devoted friends and trusted companions.
The War Dog Memorial at the University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center is an exact replica of the official memorial in Guam. It was donated to the College of Veterinary Medicine by Dr. Maurice Acree on July 17, 1998, honoring war dogs that gave their all.
Dog Events in Knoxville
Each year there are many events that include “man’s best friend”. A couple of examples begin with the Knoxville Ice Bears hockey team as they host the beloved Wiener Dog Races during their season. March 
is the annual Marti Growl Pet Parade and Party on Market Square, or catch the fall Furry Festival. June’s Bike Boat Brew & Bark is an outdoor celebration on the Tennessee River at Volunteer Landing for the 
adventurer, all dog lovers, and any craft beer enthusiast. Discover how Knoxville’s urban wilderness is a place where you can ride your bike, bring your dog and explore Knoxville every day of the year at this special event!
Knoxville will be the proud host of the 2019 DockDogs® World Championship at the Knoxville Convention Center, October 29 through November 2, 2019. All are invited to watch the best canine athletes as they compete in aquatics competitions.
And don’t miss the first ever Barktoberfest! Enjoy free activities and festivities, shop for canines and pet lovers AND let your dog try Dock Dogs for free!
Plan Your Dog Friendly Holiday to Knoxville, TN
Never again with the stress of kennels and saying goodbye, or having feelings of guilt and worry be part of your next vacation. Bring your best friend with you to pet friendly Knoxville, TN and make memories together.
