Top Dog-Friendly Louisiana Travel Tips

At a Glance 

• Louisiana is a pet-friendly travel destination, offering dog-friendly lodging, restaurants, parks, festivals, events and attractions across the state.
• Louisiana State Parks allow leashed pets and often feature dog-friendly cabins, trails and outdoor recreation areas, while other destinations offer pet-friendly scenic outdoor spaces, including riverfront paths, wildlife refuges, forests and urban greenways.

Adventures await families visiting Louisiana, and they can be fun for your four-legged family members too. We’ve got lodging, activities and tasty treats for both man and his best friend.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants and More in New Orleans

Some bars and restaurants welcome pets in outdoor seating areas, perfect to enjoy mild weather and people-watching in spring and fall. At The Bulldog Uptown in New Orleans, sip one of more than 40 rotating beers on tap (including plenty of Louisiana craft beers) on their patio on Magazine Street. Stroll a block down to Petcetera NOLA for a selection of canine bakery treats and accessories. Take a walk in the French Quarter on a pet-friendly, guided tour of the famed neighborhood's haunted history with Witches Brew Tours.

Stay a few nights at one of New Orleans’ pet-friendly hotels, or check out places to stay statewide. Most Louisiana cities include national pet-friendly hotel chains such as La Quinta, Best Western and Holiday Inn.

Things to Do with Your Pup in Baton Rouge

In Baton Rouge, take a walk along the Mississippi River levee, then relax with a beer and a snack at The Smiling Dog — which even has a “Pupper Menu” — or the Mid City Beer Garden. Nearby in Denham Springs, with a French name that translates to "the dog," Le Chien Brewing Company graciously welcomes furry friends.

Many cities also have off-leash dog parks — BREC's in Baton Rouge are some of the nicest — and remember that all Louisiana State Parks welcome leashed pets in outdoor facilities, and most have dog-friendly cabins for overnight stays.

Canine-Friendly Experiences in Central Louisiana

In central Louisiana, the dog-friendly cottages at Cheneyville's historic (and reportedly haunted) Loyd Hall Plantation are nestled on a working farm. Alexandria's downtown is just 30 minutes away — perfect for an afternoon stroll. Picnic at Alexander Fulton Mini Park with authentic Philly cheesesteaks from nearby Critic’s Choice. Follow the Green Belt Trail for an urban hike with your leashed pup in hand, or drive up to Kisatchie National Forest and wander some of its pine-shaded trails and waterways.

Activities for Dogs in Shreveport-Bossier City

Stay in Shreveport or Bossier City for easy access to activities in North Louisiana. The American Rose Center in Shreveport features 20,000 rose bushes. Blooms peak at the end of April, early May and mid-October, and leashed pets can share the outdoor picnic facilities. The Bossier City Farmers Market also welcomes shoppers' pets every Saturday, April through November, at the Pierre Bossier Mall. The area's Boom or Bust Byway along Highway 2 leads to scenic walks, recreation areas and quaint Main Streets across four parishes.

Seasonal Pup-Friendly Events

Mardi Gras visitors should look up the Mystic Krewe de Barkus, a canine krewe. It parades a 15-block French Quarter route with costumes and a canine royal court. Other pet parades include Baton Rouge's Mystic Krewe of Mutts, Covington's Mardi Paws Parade, Lake Charles' Krewe of Barkus, Monroe's Krewe of Paws and Shreveport's Krewe of Barkus and Meoux.

Whether on two legs or four, Louisiana has an exciting experience waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pet-Friendly Travel in Louisiana 

Is Louisiana a dog-friendly travel destination? 

Yes — Louisiana is very dog-friendly, offering pet-welcoming parks, restaurants, hotels and outdoor attractions across the state. Many cities feature dog-friendly patios, walking trails and events, making it easy to travel with your pet. 

What are the best dog-friendly things to do in Louisiana? 

Popular dog-friendly activities in Louisiana include visiting state parks, walking along riverfronts, exploring nature trails and attending pet-friendly events like Mardi Gras dog parades. Many attractions allow leashed dogs in outdoor areas. 

What are some dog-friendly cities in Louisiana? 

Cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport-Bossier and Alexandria offer a variety of pet-friendly attractions, including parks, breweries, walking trails and outdoor markets that welcome dogs. 

Are Louisiana State Parks dog-friendly? 

Yes — all Louisiana State Parks allow leashed pets in outdoor areas and many also offer dog-friendly cabins for overnight stays. This makes them a great option for travelers seeking outdoor adventures with their pets. 

What should you pack for a dog-friendly trip to Louisiana? 

Essential items include a leash, waste bags, food, water, collapsible bowls and familiar items like toys or bedding. Bringing comfort items can help reduce stress and keep your dog relaxed while traveling.