Residents of O’Hare benefit from all of the amenities of Chicago and the O’Hare International Airport while also enjoying a sense of removal from the busy city center.
If you are a resident of O’Hare with a dog, here are a few fun dog-friendly activities to explore that could strengthen your bond with your pup and help you both make some great memories.
1. Explore Nature at Schiller Woods Forest Preserve
For outdoorsy types with dogs who need plenty of exercise, Schiller Woods Forest Preserve should be your next destination near O’Hare. You can take in some lovely views and take advantage of the good weather while your pup runs and sniffs.
Catherine Chevalier Woods is another popular option for outdoor destinations to spend some time with your dog. Make sure to check the park’s rules before you arrive, and pack plenty of treats, water, and waste bags.
2. Enjoy a Bite at Rocky’s Bar & Grill
Rocky’s Bar & Grill is well-known among O’Hare residents for its delicious and varied menu of eats and drinks. However, it’s particularly popular with dog owners for its dog-friendly patio. Other destinations like The Original Rainbow Cone also offer outdoor seating areas that welcome dogs, so you can savor your meal with your furry friend next to you.
Bring plenty of water and treats for your pup to enjoy by your side, and call ahead to confirm the rules for bringing dogs.
3. Grab New Gear at Bentley’s Pet Stuff
Need to shop for some new pet gear? Whether you’re in need of a fresh bag of dog food or want to treat your furry friend to a brand-new toy, there are plenty of options around O’Hare to explore.
Bentley’s Pet Stuff is a great local business to support if you’re a dog owner living in O’Hare. Additionally, reliable establishments like Petco and PetSmart also have stores in the neighborhood that are convenient for locals to access.
4. Play Around at Norwood Park
Exploring the great outdoors can be fun for you and your dog, but what about when you want to enjoy some cityside green space? O’Hare is home to many public parks and recreation areas, some of which have fenced areas for dogs to roam safely.
Norwood Park features a dog-friendly area with fenced-off sections and large stretches of grass and dirt for your pup to run, play, and get exercise.
Take your furry friend to hike along the Des Plaines River Trail for an adventure. There, you’ll find Independence Grove Dog Park, which features an impressive 30-acre fenced-in dog-friendly area.
5. Explore Dog-Friendly Festivals and Parades
You love being social in your city, and so does your dog! Luckily, there are many ways for you and your pup to get involved in your community together and enjoy everything that the local culture has to offer.
If you’re on the lookout for a new furry friend to adopt, check out a local pet adoption event! Dogs are also welcome at many of the area’s parades, outdoor festivals, and public dog obedience classes.
6. Take a Walking Tour
One of the best ways to see any city is to walk its streets and learn about its history. To get to know O’Hare better while also giving your pup some exercise and strengthening your bond, look into walking tours in your area!
Nearly all public walking tours allow dogs on leash, but make sure to check before you arrive. You could learn some local lore by visiting a historic neighborhood or enjoying the scenery on a guided nature walk.
Have Fun in O’Hare With Your Dog
Make sure you practice courtesy whenever bringing your dog to a new place, even one that is completely dog-friendly. Bring plenty of waste bags, water, and treats, and keep your dog on a leash when appropriate. Above all, don’t forget to have fun and be adventurous! You might just find your next favorite dog-friendly spot.