Looking for some activities to do with “man’s best friend” this summer? We’ve rounded up 5 fun dog-friendly Des Moines area activities to try.
Cool down with a Puppy Cone from Snookies Malt Shop
1810 Beaver Ave, Des Moines
Snookies Malt Shop is a staple in the Beaverdale neighborhood and locals love its dog-friendly patio. Snookies is only open from mid-April to early fall, so it’s the perfect summertime activity to do with your dog. Need another reason besides the great soft-serve ice cream, shakes, malts and tasty desserts? How about free “puppy cones” to all good puppers who visit! Puppy Cones are tiny little vanilla ice cream cones that also provide the perfect photo opp of your pup to share on Instagram. Beaverdale resident Ashley Friday puts it best, “My dog Ruby looks forward to opening day as much as I do. It’s not really summer until we get our first pup cone!”
Spend a Saturday morning at the Des Moines Farmers’ Market
Court Ave, Des Moines
Ranked as the #2 Top Farmers’ Market in the US by Shape Magazine the Des Moines Farmers’ Market is a great way to spend a Saturday morning for both your and your pup. The farmers’ market welcomes leashed and well-behaved pooches to visit and browse the over 300 vendors. There are a lot of dogs that stroll around Court Avenue so it gives your dog plenty of opportunity to socialize. Pro-tip: get there early! The Des Moines’ Farmers’ Market is a popular spot and can get crowded as the day goes on. If your dog doesn’t like crowds, it could become a stressful situation.
Socialize for a good cause during the Animal Rescue League “Yappy Hour”
Multiple locations and times – Schedule here
Drinks on a patio for a good cause? Sign us up! The Yappy Hour series is a dog-friendly patio event that benefits the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. There are happy hour drink specials and admission is free. It’s a great way to spend a sunny afternoon with friends and your pup can make some friends as well. With multiple locations and dates, there’s sure to be one that fits your schedule.
Catch a fly ball during the Dog Days of Summer with the Iowa Cubs
Principal Park – 1 Line Dr, Des Moines
Each summer the Iowa Cubs offer a Dog Days of Summer event that benefits the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Principal Park goes “to the dogs” with a dog parade before the game, bandanas for all the four-legged participants, water stations and specials on hot dogs for hungry baseball fans. When asked about their favorite part of the event, Des Moines resident Jane Slusark said, “It’s so much fun to see all the dogs at the game. We bring the whole family, and it’s a great way to spend a summer evening”. Tickets are $16 and 100% of the ticket price goes towards caring for homeless animals in the metro area. It’s great family-fun, but don’t wait until the last minute. This even usually sells out!
Sip Margaritas on the patio at MALO
MALO – 900 Mulberry St
There are quite a few dog-friendly patios in Downtown Des Moines, but we are partial towards MALO and their tasty margaritas! MALO has 10 dog-friendly outdoor tables on their patio and they provide plenty of shade on sunny days. Don’t forget to grab the churritos dessert with the Mexican chocolate dipping sauce…just don’t share that one with you dog!
Where is your favorite place to take your pup in Des Moines? Share in the comments.
