Fun Things to Do in May With Your Pet in Charlotte, NC
As spring blossoms in full force, May is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the Queen City with your furry companion. Charlotte, NC, is incredibly pet-friendly, offering a wide range of outdoor events, parks, patios, and even special pet-focused activities. Whether you have a dog that loves long walks or a cat who enjoys quiet outdoor lounging in a carrier or backpack, there’s something for every pet (and pet parent) to enjoy. Here’s a roundup of fun and pet-friendly things to do in Charlotte this May.
1. Explore Freedom Park
One of Charlotte’s most beloved green spaces, Freedom Park offers scenic walking trails, open fields, and shaded picnic spots perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The 98-acre park has plenty of room for dogs to explore on-leash. Bring a blanket and a portable water bowl, and enjoy some people-watching with your pup under the spring sun.
2. Visit the U.S. National Whitewater Center
While not every activity here is pet-friendly, many of the trails at the Whitewater Center are open to leashed dogs. With over 50 miles of hiking trails and ample open space, it’s a fantastic place for active pets and owners. Throughout May, the Whitewater Center also hosts live music and outdoor festivals where dogs are welcome on-leash.
3. Attend a Pet-Friendly Brewery Event
Charlotte’s craft brewery scene is booming, and many spots are dog-friendly. In May, several local breweries—like The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, Sycamore Brewing, and NoDa Brewing Company—host outdoor events, live music nights, and food truck festivals where leashed dogs are welcome. Keep an eye out for “Yappy Hours” or charity events benefiting local rescues.
4. Take a Walk Through the Rail Trail
The Rail Trail in South End is a vibrant, pet-friendly urban walking path that connects parks, art installations, shops, and eateries. It’s a great place to stroll with your pet and maybe even snap a few Instagram-worthy photos with Charlotte’s colorful murals in the background.
5. Plan a Picnic at Romare Bearden Park
This uptown gem offers a grassy area perfect for relaxing with your pet. In May, the park often hosts small markets, food events, and yoga sessions that welcome spectators with pets. Just bring your leash, some waste bags, and a few treats to keep your furry friend happy.
6. Support Local Animal Rescues
May often features pet adoption events and fundraising walks across the Charlotte area. Groups like the Humane Society of Charlotte and CMPD Animal Care & Control frequently host outdoor festivals or meetups where pets are encouraged to attend. It’s a great way to give back and let your pet socialize.
Charlotte, NC, offers countless ways to enjoy the spring sunshine with your pet in May. From laid-back park days to exciting brewery events and hiking adventures, the city is full of pet-friendly fun just waiting to be explored. Just remember to bring water, stay leashed where required, and enjoy everything the Queen City has to offer with your four-legged friend by your side.