5.  Eat, Drink, & Be Furry at Freddie’s Place.

There’s always a myriad of big and little dogs (and little humans) at this casual restaurant off of South 1st, and we love the tree covered shady patio.  They also make one fierce portabella burger – Yum!

4. Red Bud Isle Dog (and people) Park

This little strip of beautiful lush land juts out on Lake Austin to make the perfect off-leash play land for dogs.  If your dog is a swimmer, we highly recommend it as there are quite a few gradual beaches on the island, making it easier for Fido to test the waters.  Bring your floaties and bathing suit too, and go for a swim.  We often park a block away and walk to avoid the parking hassle (and parking tickets).  Or you could just kayak over if your dog has sea legs.  Don’t forget to scoop the poop!

3. Barton Creek Trail

Mo post-hike. He's ready for a massage and some ice cream now.

We love this beautiful hike.  There’s always cool waters and nice people waiting at the end.  Hike up to the first set of falls for a more social atmosphere with more people (and dogs) swimming and lounging; or make the trek 15-30 minutes up the trail to a more secluded spot.  Here’s a map.

2. The Dog & Duck Pub

No favorites list is complete without the cool dog friendly pub, and the aptly named Dog & Duck really fits the bill.  Haha – get it?  Bill?  Duck?  Anyway…   With 42 beers on tap, a friendly outdoor patio, a variety of food options (veggie & meat), and live music – how could we ask for more on a night out with our favorite hound?   We’re getting thirsty just thinking about it.   Is it Friday yet?

1. Camping!

This is our number one because we are total camping nerds.  Any reason to sweat, get sunburned, hike and ride our bikes until our legs turn to jello, and you can count us in!   For a weekend get away we love Inks Lake.  Just 1.5 hours outside of Austin, it’s a beautiful drive and totally worth it.  With lite and rough hiking terrains, swimming, and beautiful camps sites to choose from, we visit whenever we can.  An added bonus for the brave are the cliffs that you can dive from.  Jack and I prefer to watch from the beach.

For a quick camping trip closer to home there’s also McKinney Falls just South East of town and Bastrop State Park just 40 minutes East.

Crystal & Jason w/Jack Inks Lake

Thinking about getting away without the dogs this weekend?  Just call us to look after your furry family and we’ll make sure they have a great holiday while you’re away!