We both know pup’s itchin’ to get out this weekend and mingle with new furry frens. We’ve sniffed out the best dog-friendly activities in the Twin Cities so you have pawlenty of time for playtime.
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P.P.S. Keep doggo close with our exclusive Patio Leash™—it’s the pawfect length for when you’re out and about!
Things to Do Near Minneapolis and St. Paul This Weekend
1. Northwoods Santa Paws
Forest Lake Senior Center, Forest Lake
Friday, November 11, 2–6 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday, November 12-13, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
‘Tis the season for insta opps with Santa Paws! Pounce up north to enjoy homemade baked goods, shop pet supplies (hello stocking stuffers!), get fluffer’s nails trimmed, and take selfies with Santa Paws and Mrs. Paws. Best of all—proceeds benefit the rescue pups of Northwoods Humane Society. A good cause with Mr. Claws? Pup yeah! Check out the schedule of activities.
2. Dog Powered Sports Dryland Race
1515 Keats Ave N., Lake Elmo
Saturday, November 12, 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Bring your sporty BFF to watch the 2nd Annual MN Dryland Race hosted by Twin Cities Dog Powered Sports. We’re barking about carts, bikes, scooters, and canicross racing. Cheer on your fellow floofs while enjoying vendor booths, a large bonfire, and a food truck. Parking is $7 and race entries are closed due to max capacity.
3. ARTJUICE Makers Market
Saint Paul Brewing, St. Paul
Saturday, November 12, 5–9 p.m.
Beer, burgers, and art? Bow wow! Pup’s not gonna wanna leave this market. Saint Paul Brewing is back at it with their drool-worthy events and this weekend’s art showcase is no exception. Grab a pint with your pupper, shop local, and chow down on burgers. Sounds like a doggone good time to us!
*Your first beer at Saint Paul Brewing is free with our MSP Dog-Friendly Brewery Pass, on sale now for only $20. Grab one for yourself, and a few more bc they make the perfect holiday gift for friends and family!
4. Fall Furry Fest
Fusion Pet Retreat, Minnetonka
Sunday, November 13, 1–2:30 p.m.
Calling all pint-sized pooches! This monthly meet-up group is all about giving tiny dogs a chance to focus on off-leash socialization and fun in a safe, relatable environment… and making new furry besties of course! This month’s meet-up is at Fusion Pet Retreat, home to 2,500 sq. ft. of temp-controlled indoor play rooms. Just be sure pupper weighs 15 pounds or less full-grown to join the fun.
5. Tiny Tots, Small Dogs, and Puppy Playgroups
Dog Day Getaway, Apple Valley
Sunday, November 13, 11 a.m.–12 p.m for Tiny Tots, 12:30–1:30 p.m. for Small Dogs, and 2–3 p.m. for Puppies
Doggo loves being with you, but sometimes he just needs to frolic with frens his own size. Take him to Dog Day Getaway to play during organized groups held at their supervised off-leash training room. Floofs can build confidence and make new besties at meetups for young puppers or tiny tater tots. Due to space limitations, only two hoomans can accompany Fido. Pre-registration required, so call ahead.
Need a Furry Fren in Your Life?
Sniff out these local adoption events happening this weekend to meet your new slobbery soulpup.
Ruff Start Rescue
- Ruff Start Rescue will be at the Blaine Pet Supplies Plus this Saturday, November 12 from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Shake paws with the adoptable foster pups and pupare to fall in ruv!
Sniff out more events on our calendar and submit your own events here. And don’t furget to tag us @SidewalkDog in pics of your tail-waggin’ weekend!
Featured photo: @honestpaws
Sidewalk Dog’s mission is to help dog parents spend more time with their puppers by discovering and sharing activities they can do and places they can go—together! Sniff out our award-winning newsletter and Instagram, join our Dog-Friendly Twin Cities Facebook Group, and grab one of our Dog-Friendly Brewery Passes.