Pet Care in South Loop

Complete guide to dog ownership in South Loop, Chicago. Grant Bark Park, Coliseum Park DFA, Fred Anderson Park (small dog area!), dog-friendly patios, lakefront access, and high-rise living tips.

By Pawel Kaczmarek
Excellent Walkability
Ward 4 60605, 60616 Near Lakefront Trail, Roosevelt Red/Orange/Green Line

Local Tips from South Loop Dog Owners

  • Fred Anderson Park is the only South Loop DFA with a separate small dog area
  • Grant Bark Park has summer pools/fountains - bring a towel
  • Avoid lakefront walks during convention events at McCormick Place - extreme crowds
  • Coliseum Park stays cooler in summer due to L track shade

Dog Parks in South Loop

All Chicago off-leash parks require a Dog Friendly Area (DFA) permit ($10/year).

Grant Bark Park

951 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

Surface mixed
Small dog area No
Hours 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Coliseum Park DFA

1466 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

Surface grass
Small dog area No
Hours 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Fred Anderson Park DFA

1611 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

Surface grass
Small dog area Yes
Hours 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM
DFA Permit Guide →

Dog-Friendly Patios in South Loop

The Spoke & Bird

205 E 18th St, Chicago, IL 60616

Patio Seasonal
Dog menu Yes

Dogs welcome on large enclosed patio. Dedicated dog menu with treats available. Water bowls provided. Perfect post-park spot.

Taureaux Tavern

155 W Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60605

Patio Year-round
Heated Yes
Dog menu Yes

Dogs welcome. Canine brunch menu: scrambled eggs, flame-kissed hamburger, and pupsicles. One of the best dog menus in the area.

Motor Row Brewing

2337 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

Patio Seasonal
Dogs inside Yes

Dogs welcome inside taproom AND on patio. Free popcorn for pups. One of the most dog-friendly breweries on the South Side.

Roots Handmade Pizza South Loop

744 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60605

Patio Seasonal

Dogs welcome on outdoor patio. Casual neighborhood vibe. Water bowls available.

Kasey's Tavern

701 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60605

Patio Seasonal

Dogs welcome on small patio. Laid-back dive bar atmosphere. Popular with local dog owners.

Weather Mark Tavern

1503 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605

Patio Seasonal

Dogs welcome on outdoor patio. Great people-watching near Museum Campus. Water bowls provided.

Winter Walking

Grant Park and lakefront have severe wind exposure from Lake Michigan. Michigan Avenue creates significant wind tunnels. Newer high-rise buildings provide good snow removal but outdoor walks can be brutal. Lake effect adds extra wind chill near Museum Campus. The Lakefront Trail may close during severe winter weather.

Chicago Winter Walking Guide →

Veterinary Care Near South Loop

VEG South Loop

24/7

1114 S Clinton St, Unit B, Chicago, IL 60607

South Loop Animal Hospital

DFA Tags

1640 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

312-753-5551

Mon-Fri 8AM-7PM, Sat 8AM-4PM

Partners Animal Hospital South Loop

DFA Tags

550 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60605

312-319-8004

Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM

Metropolitan Veterinary Center

DFA Tags

1556 S Michigan Ave Ste 100, Chicago, IL 60605

312-583-3100

Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM, Sat 8AM-2PM

Pet Care in Nearby Neighborhoods

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