Y'all, we're heading to the Volunteer State! Part 3 of our 25-part Southeast road trip series takes us to Tennessee — a state that somehow packs honky-tonks, world-class hiking, charming small towns, and some of the South's best craft beer all into one incredible destination. And yes, your dog is invited to most of it.
🐾 Why Tennessee?
Tennessee is one of the most dog-friendly states in the Southeast, full stop. Nashville's booming food and bar scene has embraced patio culture in a big way, the Great Smoky Mountains are a hiker's paradise, and charming towns like Franklin and Chattanooga have made welcoming dogs part of their identity. Whether your pup is a city dog or a trail dog, Tennessee delivers.
🏨 Pet-Friendly Hotels & Stays
Kimpton Aertson Hotel — Nashville (Midtown)
Kimpton's Nashville outpost is as stylish as the city itself, with zero pet fees and a prime Midtown location. Walk to Centennial Park and Vanderbilt's campus with your pup before hitting the town.
The Inn at Evins Mill — Smithville
A secluded retreat on the Caney Fork River in Middle Tennessee, Evins Mill welcomes dogs in select accommodations. Surrounded by waterfalls and forest trails, it's a peaceful escape from city life.
The Chattanoogan — Chattanooga
A full-service hotel in the heart of Chattanooga that welcomes pets. Steps from the Tennessee Riverwalk and the city's vibrant Southside neighborhood, it's a great base for exploring one of Tennessee's most dog-friendly cities.
The Lodge at Buckberry Creek — Gatlinburg
A stunning mountain lodge near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Pet-friendly cabins and rooms with breathtaking views make this a top pick for hiking-focused road trips.
The Franklin Hotel — Franklin
A boutique hotel in the heart of historic Franklin, just south of Nashville. Pet-friendly and perfectly positioned for exploring Franklin's charming Main Street and nearby Harpeth River Greenway.
🍽️ Pet-Friendly Restaurants & Cafés
The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden — Nashville (East Nashville)
One of Nashville's most beloved burger joints, The Pharmacy has a massive, lively beer garden that is extremely dog-friendly. Grab a smash burger and a German lager while your pup soaks up the East Nashville energy.
Pinewood Social — Nashville
A Nashville institution with a sprawling outdoor patio, bocce courts, and a dog-welcoming atmosphere. Great cocktails, solid food, and one of the best people-watching spots in the city.
Milk & Honey — Nashville & Chattanooga
A beloved local café chain with dog-friendly outdoor seating at multiple locations. Perfect for a morning coffee and pastry before hitting the trails or exploring the city.
The Bitter Alibi — Chattanooga
A craft cocktail bar and restaurant in Chattanooga's Southside with a dog-friendly patio. Great food, creative drinks, and a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to linger.
The Porch Kitchen & Cantina — Franklin
A Franklin favorite with a welcoming patio for leashed dogs. Tex-Mex inspired menu, great margaritas, and a fun atmosphere just off Main Street.
🍺 Dog-Friendly Breweries
Tennessee Brew Works — Nashville
A Nashville staple with a large dog-friendly patio right in the Gulch neighborhood. Their Extra Easy ESB is a crowd favorite, and the outdoor space is perfect for a relaxed afternoon with your pup.
Yazoo Brewing Company — Nashville
One of Nashville's original craft breweries with a welcoming taproom and outdoor space. Their Dos Perros brown ale is practically made for dog lovers — the name says it all.
Oddstory Brewing Company — Chattanooga
A Chattanooga favorite with a dog-friendly taproom and patio. Great rotating taps and a fun, community-focused atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Gatlinburg Brewing Company — Gatlinburg
A mountain brewery in the heart of Gatlinburg with outdoor seating where leashed dogs are welcome. The perfect post-hike stop before heading back to your cabin.
Leiper's Fork Distillery — Leiper's Fork
Technically a distillery, but too good to leave off the list. This charming spot in the tiny village of Leiper's Fork (just outside Franklin) has a dog-friendly outdoor area and some of Tennessee's best whiskey.
🌲 Dog-Friendly Parks & Trails
Great Smoky Mountains National Park — Gatlinburg/Cherokee
America's most visited national park does allow leashed dogs, but with restrictions — they're permitted on paved roads, campgrounds, and a handful of trails including the Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail. Plan accordingly and enjoy the stunning scenery together.
Centennial Park — Nashville
Home to a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, Centennial Park is Nashville's most iconic green space and very dog-friendly. A great spot for a morning walk before the city wakes up.
Radnor Lake State Park — Nashville
A peaceful natural area just minutes from downtown Nashville with dog-friendly trails around a serene lake. One of the best urban nature escapes in the Southeast.
Tennessee Riverwalk — Chattanooga
A 13-mile paved trail along the Tennessee River through the heart of Chattanooga. Flat, scenic, and extremely dog-friendly — one of the best urban walks in the state.
Frozen Head State Park — Wartburg
A hidden gem in East Tennessee with over 50 miles of trails through old-growth forest. Dogs are welcome on leash and will love the varied terrain and cool mountain streams.
Harpeth River Greenway — Franklin
A beautiful trail system along the Harpeth River just outside Franklin. Perfect for a morning run or leisurely walk with your dog before exploring Franklin's historic downtown.
🗺️ Suggested Road Trip Route
Start in Nashville (East Nashville + Centennial Park) → day trip to Leiper's Fork & Franklin → head east to Chattanooga (Riverwalk + Southside) → north to Frozen Head State Park → finish in Gatlinburg & the Smokies.
This route is ideal over 5–6 days and gives you a perfect mix of city energy and mountain serenity.
🐶 Pro Tips for Tennessee Road Trips
- The Smokies get extremely crowded in summer and fall — arrive early at trailheads to snag parking and beat the heat.
- Nashville's Lower Broadway honky-tonks are generally not dog-friendly indoors, but many have outdoor areas — check before you go.
- Tennessee summers are hot and humid — keep water handy and limit midday outdoor activity for your pup.
- Chattanooga is consistently ranked one of the most dog-friendly cities in the US — give yourself extra time there.
Up Next in the Series
Stay tuned for Part 4: North Carolina — where we'll explore Asheville's legendary dog-friendly brewery scene, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Outer Banks. Subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss a stop!
Have a favorite dog-friendly spot in Tennessee we should add? Drop it in the comments!