Known for its welcoming midwestern charm, The Windy City is just as welcoming when it comes to our four-legged friends. Enjoy pet-friendly accommodations when you stay at either of our Chicago locations and be sure to take advantage of our onsite pet amenities including dog runs and pet spas. When you’re ready to explore, we’ve rounded up our favorite ways to enjoy Chicago with your dog, from outdoor adventure to pup-friendly patios.
Photo courtesy of @mercurycruises
Go Sightseeing on the Water
All paws on deck! See the city from a whole new perspective from one of the many dog-friendly sightseeing boat tours.
Mercury Chicago’s Skyline Cruises (112 E Wacker DR Chicago IL 60601, United States)
Sit back, relax and soak in the city views as you enjoy a lively narration of Chicago’s rich history and architectural marvels, with dog-friendly highlights.
Shoreline Sightseeing (401 N Michigan Ave, United States)
Hop aboard Shoreline Sightseeing’s dog-friendly cruise and revel in the city’s famous landmarks and storied history narrated by their experienced guides.
Take a Trip to the Beach
With the shores of Lake Michigan extending around the city, Chicago has its fair share of dog-friendly beaches. Staying with us at Level River North? Post beach visit, be sure to take advantage of the pet spa to freshen up your pup before heading back to your suite.
Montrose Dog Beach (W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60640,)
A 15 minute drive from Level River North, this off-leash dog beach is the very first of its kind in Chicago, located where Wilson Avenue reaches east, almost to Lake Michigan. A trending place for local dog-owners, it’s the paw-fect place (sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves) to meet all kinds of breeds with plenty of room to run and play.
Belmont Harbor Dog Beach (3500 N Lake Shore Drive (At Belmont Harbor) Chicago, Il 60657)
While a little smaller than Montrose, Belmont Harbor has everything you need for a great morning near the water. Located in Lincoln Park on the shores of Lake Michigan, the area is fenced so dogs can enjoy off-leash play and swim time at the beach!
Spend a Day on the Trails
You might not think trails and outdoor adventure when you think Chicago, but if you have the time and vehicle to explore outside the city limits, a day on the trails is only a drive away.
Sandstone Point & Overlook Trail: Starved Rock State Park(2678 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348, United States)
Starved Rock State Park is a wilderness area on the Illinois River, approximately 1hr 30min outside of the city (4.3 miles), known for its steep sandstone canyons formed by glacial meltwater. Sandstone Point & Overlook Trail is a very popular trail that allows leashed pets, leading to a stunning viewpoint over the Illinois River Dam. Entry is free and the trails are open year-round.
Waterfall Glen Forest: Main Trail (Lemont, IL 60439, United States)
If you are looking for a longer trail nearby Chicago, check out the main trail of Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is popular pet-friendly forest preserves known for its Rocky Glen Waterfall, Sawmill Creek bluff overlook, and extensive trail.
Go Patio Hopping
If your idea of getting outside involves less trails and more ales, this section is for you.
Happy Camper Pizzeria (1209 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, United States)
Less than a 2-minute walk from Level Old Town, you’ll find Happy Camper Pizzeria, specializing in traditional and inventive pizzas, tasty cocktails, and good vibes in the Old Town neighborhood. Grab a seat on their pet-friendly patio and you’ll all be “Happy Campers”!
Barrio (65 W Kinzie St, Chicago IL 60654)
Located in the heart of River North, Barrio serves up a creative take on traditional Mexican fare with pan-Latin and American influences. Their 70 seat patio is dog friendly and they’ve even been known to feature a puppy patio menu that includes items like chicken breast, burger patties, steak and dairy-free woof-cream.
Centennial Crafted Beer & Eatery (733 N LaSalle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654, United States)
Are you a beer person? This local gathering spot is conveniently located in the River North neighborhood, offering 56 taps with a selection of 36 rotating craft beers as well as curated wine and spirit list. They offer a dog-friendly patio, plus water and treats for your four-legged BFF.
Yappy Hour at Fora Chicago (311 N Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60607)
A globally inspired restaurant in Fulton Market, Fora has a dog-friendly patio, with summertime 'Yappy Hour' events with special cocktail offerings and dog treats for you and your furry friend.
Refresh at the Spa
Whether you're in town for a weekend or staying for a few months, knowing the best spots to care for your pup is always important.
Pup Pet Club(316 West Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60654)
Conveniently located in River North, Pup’s Pet Club is your one-stop-shop for a variety of services including grooming, dog-walking, pet-sitting and veterinary care.
Level Chicago locations
Book your stay in Chicago with confidence knowing that our spacious suites are pet-friendly and both locations feature pet amenities including a pet spa to refresh your pup after a day exploring and secure pet runs so you can take your pup out safely no matter the time of day.
