Wagging into Summer!
Wilmington’s Dog-Friendly Adventures Await
Summer is on the horizon, and in Wilmington, that means more than just sunshine and beach days—it’s a season filled with tail-wagging adventures for our four-legged companions! Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of dog-friendly events and spots to explore. Let’s dive into the paw-some happenings around town!
☠️ Port City Highland Games
Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: 3600 Randall Parkway, Wilmington, NC
️ Tickets: $20 in advance; $25 at the door (cash only)
Note: Please leave your dogs at home for this event.
Experience a day filled with Scottish heritage and festivities at the 4th Annual Port City Highland Games. This event features professional and amateur athletic competitions, including the East Coast Women’s Championship, traditional Highland dancing, piping by Port City Pipes & Drums, and sword fighting demonstrations by the Triangle Sword Guild. Attendees can also enjoy herding dog demonstrations, a British car show, kids’ games, face painting, and a Celtic music session by The Blarney Brogues. Don’t miss the exclusive limited edition Port City Highland Games Beer released by Flying Machine Brewery. All proceeds benefit paws4vets, supporting the placement of service dogs with veterans in need.
ADDIE’S Way Campus Tour
Dates: Friday, June 13 & Friday, July 18, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: paws4people Foundation, 1121C-324 Military Cutoff Rd, Wilmington, NC
Join paws4people for a guided tour of their ADDIE’S Way campus. The tour begins with a 30-minute presentation at the RILEY Admin Building, providing insights into the organization’s mission and programs. Attendees will then walk to the BRIELLE Puppy Development Center to observe the early stages of assistance dog training. This experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at how paws4people prepares puppies to become life-changing companions for individuals with disabilities.
Dog Yoga at Evoke Mind + Body
Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Evoke Mind + Body, 4833 Carolina Beach Rd, Suite 106, Wilmington, NC
️ Tickets: Eventbrite Registration
Unwind and bond with your furry friend at Dog Yoga hosted by Evoke Mind + Body. This unique yoga session welcomes all levels and incorporates shelter dogs from Marion County Animal Shelter into the practice. It’s a heartwarming opportunity to relax, stretch, and connect with adoptable pups, all while supporting a good cause. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, this event promises a joyful experience for both humans and dogs alike.
Wilmington’s Top Dog-Friendly Hangouts (Sniff-Test Approved)
Whether you’re chasing sunsets or just in desperate need of a pup-friendly patio, Wilmington is packed with places where both humans and hounds are welcome. Here’s a round-up of the best spots where your dog isn’t just allowed—they’re celebrated.
Wilmington Riverwalk
Downtown Wilmington
This two-mile stretch along the Cape Fear River is perfect for a scenic leash walk. With the breeze in their fur and endless new smells, your pup will be in paradise. Stop for an ice cream or enjoy dog-watching with a view of the Battleship. Early mornings and golden hour are extra dreamy here.
Barkington Tip: Swing by after daycare or a spa day—post-glow pups love strutting their stuff.
Flytrap Brewing
319 Walnut Street, Wilmington
A favorite local hangout with a laid-back, beer garden vibe. Dogs are welcome inside and outside (yes, really!). Bring your well-behaved pup for some cold brews and good tunes. They even host dog-themed nights throughout the year.
Pup Perk: Staff usually offer water bowls and the occasional treat. It’s a vibe.
New Hanover County Arboretum
6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington
A hidden gem of peaceful gardens and koi ponds—perfect for a leashed stroll with your pup. The calm, shady paths are great for older dogs or those who just prefer a slow sniff-and-stroll kind of day.
Local Love: It’s free, beautiful, and open daily. Great for mental stimulation, both human and canine.
Empie Dog Park
3405 Park Avenue, Wilmington
This spacious, fenced-in off-leash park has separate areas for large and small dogs. Plenty of shaded benches for the humans, and a water station to keep tails wagging. Perfect for social butterflies (the canine kind).
Pro Move: Let your pup get their zoomies out before a chill evening at home—or a boarding stay at The Barkington.
The Cargo District
Near South 16th Street, Wilmington
This funky, up-and-coming neighborhood has cool local shops, dog-friendly patios, and food trucks. It’s become a go-to Saturday hang for dog owners who like their coffee with a side of community.
Why It’s Great: Dogs are welcome almost everywhere outside. Bonus points for trendy photo ops.
Wrightsville Beach Loop (Pet-Friendly Side)
Wrightsville Beach Park
While most of the beach is off-limits to dogs during peak season, the Loop trail is a great alternative! It’s 2.5 miles of clean, paved walking—great for cardio with your canine. And if you’re there off-season (Oct 1–March 31), the beach itself is fair game.
Tips for a Tail-Wagging Wilmington Summer
If your dog had a summer bucket list, it would probably include things like “sniff every bush in the city,” “charm the barista into a free pup cup,” and “roll in something questionable.” But it’s up to us humans to make sure they stay safe, happy, and hydrated while they’re living their best sun-soaked life. Here’s how…
Hydration is Key
We don’t mess around with Southern summers—and neither should your pup. Dogs can overheat quickly, even on days that feel “mild” to us. Always bring a portable water bottle and a collapsible bowl on your adventures. Keep an eye out for signs of dehydration like dry gums, excessive panting, or a lack of energy.
Pro tip: Add a few ice cubes to their bowl or keep a frozen treat (like DIY pup popsicles) in your cooler for mid-day cooldowns.
Paw Protection Matters
Hot pavement = ouch. If you wouldn’t walk barefoot on it, neither should your dog. Asphalt and sidewalks can get up to 40–60° hotter than the air temperature.
How to check: Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. Too hot for you? Too hot for them!
Solution
Walk during early mornings or evenings.
Stick to grassy areas when you can.
Try dog booties or paw wax for added protection (bonus: cute factor).
Stay Cool, Literally
Shade is your best friend—and your pup’s personal oasis. Bring a pop-up umbrella for beach or park days, and never leave your dog in the car, even with the windows cracked. Temps can rise dangerously fast.
Cool-down Hacks
Wet a bandana and tie it loosely around their neck.
Bring a cooling mat or damp towel to lay on.
Let them wade in shallow water (bonus fun: kiddie pools or Barkington hose parties).
Socialization is Summer School for Dogs
New smells, sights, and sounds help build confidence and emotional resilience in dogs. Summer is full of dog-friendly festivals, brewery nights, and park picnics—take advantage!
Make it meaningful
- Let shy dogs observe before jumping in.
- Use treats and praise to reinforce calm, happy behavior.
- Practice leash manners in public places. You’ll thank yourself later.
Check out events like Dog Yoga, the Port City Highland Games, or just stop by Barkington Daycamp where your pup can party with the pack in a safe, structured environment.
Don’t Forget Rest Days
With so much going on, even the most social pup needs down time. Overdoing it can lead to overstimulation, which can show up as restlessness, barking, or even tummy trouble.
Rest = Reset
Schedule quiet evenings after big days.
Provide a cool, comfy place for naps (hello, Barkington hotel suite).
Watch for signs of fatigue like slower movement or disinterest in play.
Ready to Make This Summer Unforgettable—for You and Your Dog?
Wilmington is full of things to see, do, and sniff—but it all starts with making sure your pup is feeling their best. Whether you’re out adventuring or need a trusted spot while you’re away, The Barkington is here to bring the love, the care, and the tail wags. From daycare that keeps your dog socialized and happy, to spa days that leave them looking like royalty, to safe, spacious hotel rooms while you’re off making memories—we’ve got it all. Just don’t wait. Summer fills up fast, and your dog deserves to be part of it. Let’s make this their best season yet—book now and secure your pup’s spot before we’re full.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
OR
BOOK TODAY!
