1. Ewing Dog Park
Source: wcfcourier.com
Featuring over eight acres of fenced in green space, this is one of the top Des Moines dog parks that provides the room for your pooch to run. It is located south of downtown Des Moines and just north of Ewing Park and open year round, 6 a.m. to sunset. There is an acre fenced in for the smaller dogs (20 pounds or less) but small dogs have the privilege to roam both fenced in areas. The terrain is sloped with tall, mature trees and a mixture of tall and short grasses sure to satisfy your dog’s craving for nature. During the hot Iowa summer days you can cool down under the open air shelter.
A permit is required to enter but the fee can be waived by volunteering to be a dog park ambassador. Ask the City Clerk’s office in Des Moines City Hall for more information and to purchase the permit.
2. Riverwalk Dog Park
Source: desmoinesregister.com
Adjacent to downtown Des Moines, Riverwalk Dog Park has many amenities in a convenient central location. Open year round from 6:00 a.m. to sunset, the park has four acres of long, fenced in green space along the Des Moines River. There are two fenced in unleashing areas on either side of the park which are within a short walk from the on-street parking. The fencing is five feet tall which deters even the most athletic dogs from jumping over the fence. The park includes a portable restroom and picnic tables so you can spend all day with your pooch. Convenient nearby Riverwalk trails are a scenic way to complete your day at the park.
An annual permit is required to enter and can be purchased at the City Clerk’s office in the Des Moines City Hall.
3. Reno Memorial Dog Park
Source: dogsofmanhattan.com
Located near East Euclid, Reno Memorial Dog Park has three and a half acres of fenced in roaming room. All dogs large and small with permits are allowed to enter and get to enjoy the large trees and the inevitable squirrel chasing that comes with them. The park is open year round, 6:00 a.m. to sunset.
There are a few rules and regulations you should know before you and your dog can enjoy Ewing, Riverwalk, and Reno Memorial dog parks in Des Moines.
- Need current dog rabies certification
- Be at least four months old
- Have a current dog license for their home jurisdiction
- Purchase a permit for $20.00 valid Jan. 1st through Dec. 31st
- Read and follow the human and dog behavior rules posted at the parks
4. Confluence Brewing Company and Gray’s Lake
Source: distilledopinion.wordpress.com
Have you ever wanted to take your dog to take your dog to the bar? Confluence Brewing Company allows dogs on their patio deck. Enjoy uniquely flavored microbrews and live music Thursday nights with delicious food trucks that rotate occasionally to provide great varieties of gourmet food on-site. This establishment is located near Gray’s Lake and miles of interconnected trails so you and your buddy can stop by the brewery after a long walk or make the lake your solo destination. There is a beautiful bridge over the lake that is lit up at night and has a direct view of the glowing Des Moines skyline. Bonding with your dog can be enjoyable for both of you with beautiful scenery and lasting entertainment.
Be mindful of your dog’s limits though. A night out drinking may be fun for you and your friends, but not your pooch. Make sure that if you bring your pup along they are well-socialized, potty-trained, and have ear protection or Mutt Muffs for the live music on Thursdays.
5. Des Moines’ East Village
Source: onosendai.info
Whether you live here or are just visiting, the Historic East Village is one of the best non-typical dog friendly areas. There are plenty of trash cans to take care of “business” and a lot of walking ground. This is a great area if you want a change from the typical park setting and the privilege of taking your pooch in a couple of the stores with you.
Appropriately enough, the clothing store that announces that it is the greatest in the universe is dog-friendly. Raygun is famous for interesting, bold, and unique apparel, drinkware, and other nick-knacks. The products range from glasses that say “Kiss Me I’m Iowish” and shirts that say “You’ve Cat To Be Kitten Me Right Meow” along with everything in between.
The East Village Pantry is a pet-friendly store that sells groceries, beer, wine, and more. It is one of the few convenient stores in the area and lucky enough it is dog-friendly.
Before you take your dog to the East Village, make sure they are well-socialized and potty-trained. This is a popular area often with a lot of people, especially on the weekends. Even some well-behaved dogs can find this environment uncomfortable and may uncharacteristically act out or have an accident. Try familiarizing your pooch with this area during the weekdays before delving into a weekend outing.
2 Point Highlight
“Bonding with your dog can be enjoyable for both of you with beautiful scenery and lasting entertainment.”
“The terrain is sloped with tall, mature trees and a mixture of tall and short grasses sure to satisfy your dog’s craving for nature.”
