Dog-Friendly Lemont: Restaurants, Trails & Shops That Welcome Your Pup
Looking for dog-friendly spots in Lemont? You're in good company. We love the pups of Downtown Lemont, and we want them right there beside you while you eat, shop, and explore. Whether you need a fresh route for the daily walk or want to plan a full doggy day date, here are our favorite places to bring your best friend.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants & Patios in Lemont
Good news for the four-legged food critics: plenty of Downtown patios welcome dogs. Grab a table outside at Kings on Canal, Matt's Barbecue, Pollyanna Brewing Co., Hughie McClafferty's, Wooden Paddle, or Cornerstone Tavern and settle your pup in beside you. Matt's has a full patio right on Canal Street, so you can dig into Texas-style brisket while they hold down the shade. Hughie's opens its front windows onto the patio for the best view downtown, and they've been known to bring out a water bowl for your pup. Just ask staff to seat you outdoors, keep the leash short, and everyone eats happy.
Planning a whole day of al-fresco dining? See our full guide to patios in Downtown Lemont.
Dog-Friendly Trails & Walks in Lemont
Some of the best dog walking in the area starts right downtown. Pick up the I&M Canal Trail at Stephen Street and follow the old crushed-stone towpath along the water. Keep going and about a half mile later you'll reach Lemont's Heritage Quarries and The Forge. Dogs are welcome the whole way, on leash.
Want to make a bigger day of it? The trail connects to longer routes like the Cal-Sag Trail, which is both leashed-dog-friendly and open sunrise to sunset year-round. For a full rundown of routes, parking, and what to pack, see our guide to hiking in Lemont.
A few trail reminders: keep dogs leashed, bring water for warm days, pack a bag for cleanup, and check the Forest Preserve of Cook County website for weather closures before you head out.
Dog-Friendly Adventure at The Forge
You shouldn't be the only one having fun at The Forge: Lemont Quarries. Dogs are welcome as long as they're leashed and with their owner. Wrapping up at The Foundry for lunch? Grab an extra treat for your trail buddy while you're at it.
Athens Park & The Barkyard Dog Park
Downtown Lemont's newest green space is a dog owner's dream. Athens Park, at the north end of Stephen Street, spans more than 13 acres with walking paths, open green space, pavilions, and restored wetlands, plenty of room to stretch four legs. It's also home to The Barkyard, a dedicated dog park where your pup can run off-leash and make a few new friends. Wander the paths on leash, then let them loose in The Barkyard for the main event.
Dog-Friendly Shops in Downtown Lemont
Lemont Downtown doesn't have a pet store yet, but running errands with your dog is easy. Stops like Mabel’s Market and Three Stories are happy to have well-behaved pups along. You'll find plenty of storefronts where your dog can catch a fresh bowl of water, a friendly hello, and a little downtown people-watching.
Dog-Friendly Events in Lemont
We throw events for all the lovely humans of Downtown Lemont, but pups roaming the streets is what really makes our day. Bring your dog to Sunset Soirees, Lemont Legends Cruise Nights, Keepataw Days, Lemontster Days, or just for an evening stroll along the Canal. Watch for our holiday Paw Parades and dog-friendly meet-ups around town, too!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed at The Forge in Lemont?
Yes. Dogs are welcome at The Forge: Lemont Quarries as long as they're on a leash and accompanied by their owner.
Which Lemont restaurants have dog-friendly patios?
Kings on Canal, Matt's Barbecue, Pollyanna Brewing Co., Hughie McClafferty's, and Cornerstone Tavern all have open-air patios where leashed dogs are welcome. Ask to be seated outdoors.
Where can I walk my dog in Downtown Lemont?
The I&M Canal Trail starts downtown at Stephen Street and runs along the historic towpath to the Heritage Quarries and The Forge. Dogs are welcome on leash, year-round.
Is Downtown Lemont dog-friendly?
Very. You'll find dog-friendly patios, shops, trails, and seasonal events throughout Downtown Lemont. Just keep pups leashed and clean up after them.
