A Pet Lover's Guide to Wake Forest, North Carolina

Nestled just outside of Raleigh, Wake Forest is a charming, pet-friendly town that welcomes both residents and visitors with open arms. From its picturesque parks and scenic walking trails to its lively downtown, there’s no shortage of places for you and your furry friend to explore together. With a warm community spirit and plenty of pet-friendly amenities, Wake Forest is the perfect place for both you and your pets to feel right at home. Come see why Wake Forest is a town where tails wag as happily as the people smile!

Pet-Friendly Activities

  • Flaherty Dog Park offers separate areas for large and small dogs to play and socialize in a spacious, well-maintained setting. With shaded seating for owners and plenty of room to explore, it’s a great spot for both pets and their people to enjoy the outdoors. (919) 435-9560 Located at 1100 N. White St., Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Horse Shoe Farm Nature Preserve is a scenic haven for pets and their owners, offering peaceful walking trails along the beautiful Neuse River. With wide-open spaces and stunning natural views, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a stroll or a day of adventure with your furry friend. (919) 996-2271 Located at 2900 Horse Shoe Farm Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Sandling Beach at Falls Lake is a dog-friendly spot where pets can enjoy the sand and water alongside their owners. With its spacious shoreline, scenic views, and plenty of room to explore, it's a perfect place for a relaxing day by the lake with your four-legged companion. Located at 14813 Creedmoor Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Woodland Nature Trail is a peaceful, pet-friendly path that winds through lush forests and serene wetlands. Ideal for a quiet walk with your dog, it offers beautiful natural surroundings and a chance to enjoy the outdoors together. 13304 Creedmoor Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587

Pet-Friendly Restaurants

  • Gatehouse Tavern offers tavern-style foods, burgers, and house-made beer. With outdoor seating available, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or a drink while your dog relaxes by your side. (919) 569-6745 Located at 960 Gateway Commons Cir., Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Norse Brewing Company is a pet-friendly brewery where you can enjoy a cold craft brew while spending time with your dog on their spacious outdoor patio. (919) 554-4555 Located at 203 Brooks St., Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Real McCoys is a pet-friendly restaurant with a cozy outdoor patio where your dog is always welcome. Enjoy delicious comfort food and drinks while your furry friend lounges by your side in this laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. (919) 562-8368 Located at 3325 Rogers Rd. #112, Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Shucker's is a pet-friendly seafood restaurant with a charming outdoor patio where your dog can join you as you enjoy fresh, local seafood. (919) 453-1593 Located at 3309 Rogers Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Stewart's Bistro offers an outdoor patio where you can enjoy delicious comfort foods with your dog by your side. (919) 562-2233 Located at 3652 Rogers Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

  • Tru by Hilton offers a comfortable stay for both you and your furry companion. With spacious rooms and plenty of outdoor space for walks, it's the perfect place to rest and recharge while traveling with your pet. (919) 488-4505 Located at 12315 Hampton Way, Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Candlewood Suites provides a convenient and comfortable stay for you and your furry friend. With spacious suites, a pet-friendly policy, and nearby outdoor areas for walks, it’s an ideal choice for travelers with pets. (919) 554-6901 Located at 12050 Retail Dr., Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Clarion Pointe offers a welcoming atmosphere for both you and your furry companion. With comfortable rooms and nearby outdoor spaces for walks, it's a great place to relax and enjoy your stay with your pet. (919) 556-4007 Located at 12401 Wake Union Church Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587

Recommended Pet Services

  • Tuscan Ridge Animal Hospital is a trusted, pet-friendly facility offering comprehensive veterinary care for dogs and cats. With a compassionate team of experienced professionals, they provide everything from routine check-ups to specialized treatments. The welcoming atmosphere ensures both you and your pet feel comfortable during every visit. They are a hidden gem in Wake Forest. (919) 556-1944 Located at 230 Capcom Ave STE 101, Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Audrey's Barkyard is a fun, pet-friendly dog daycare and boarding facility where your dog can play and socialize in a safe, spacious environment. With attentive staff and a focus on individual care. They offer Boarding, Grooming and Training. (919) 435-8491 Located at 3129 Heritage Trade Dr., Wake Forest, NC 27587

Pet Stores and Supplies

  • EarthWise Pet offers high-quality pet products, including natural food, treats, and eco-friendly supplies. With a focus on health and wellness, it's the perfect place to find everything your pet needs while supporting a locally-owned business. (919) 569-5369 Located at 416 S White St., Wake Forest, NC 27587

Shelters and Rescues

  • Saving Grace is a Non-Profit organization that is dedicated to helping homeless animals in the community find their permanent, loving homes. Where they will be treated like family. (919) 518-1180 located at 13400 Old Creedmoor Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587
  • Carolina Boxer Rescue is dedicated to the health, safety, and welfare needs of Boxers in the Carolinas, Virginia, and part of Georgia. 
  • Safe Haven for Cats is a no-kill shelter that is dedicated to saving the lives of cats through adoption, spay/neuter services, and community programs. (919)872-7233 Located at 8431-137 Gravey Dr., Raleigh, NC 27616 
  • Wake County Animal Shelter in Raleigh provides a safe haven for abandoned and lost animals, offering adoption services, medical care, and foster programs. With a commitment to finding loving homes for pets in need, the shelter plays a vital role in the community's effort to protect and care for animals. (919)212-7387 located at 820 Beacon Lake Dr., Raleigh, NC 27610

Wake Forest, NC is a truly pet-friendly town that offers something for every pet lover. With numerous parks, walking trails, and pet-friendly restaurants, it’s easy to enjoy quality time with your furry companion in this welcoming community. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, relaxing at a local café, or staying in a pet-friendly hotel, Wake Forest makes it simple to travel and live with pets.

The town’s emphasis on pet-friendly amenities and spaces reflects its commitment to ensuring that both pets and their owners feel right at home. If you’re a pet lover, Wake Forest is the perfect place to visit, live, and explore alongside your furry friend.