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The Ten Best Dog-Friendly Patios in Denver

Summer is coming to an end, but it's far from the end of patio season in Denver, as the weather will surely fluctuate between hot and snow for the next month or two. There's now even more reason to take advantage of every warm day before winter since Denver passed...
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Summer is coming to an end, but it's far from the end of patio season in Denver, as the weather will surely fluctuate between hot and snow for the next month or two. There's now even more reason to take advantage of every warm day before winter since Denver passed an ordinance July 1, allowing restaurant owners who want to turn part of the patio into a dog-friendly to do so, with some guidelines. Since Denver patios now belong to the dogs (or at least some do), we rounded up the ten best dog-friendly patios for you and your four-legged best friend.

See also: Denver Patios Are Going to the Dogs!

10) Bark Bar 4132 West 38th Avenue 720-550-6970

Bark Bar isn't just dog-friendly; it's designed with dogs in mind. Grab a beer, let your dog loose in the giant outdoor area to play with other canines, and chat with fellow dog-lovers at one of the many outdoor tables and chairs. It's more than just a patio; the dogs will wear themselves out while you relax with a cold one.

9) Barker Lounge 475 Santa Fe Drive 303-778-0545

When the Barker Lounge lost the lease on its original South Broadway location, the GLBT community was happy to see it re-open on Santa Fe Boulevard not too far away. Neighborhood canines also breathed a sigh of relief because, as you can guess by the name, this bar is tailored for Fido. Even if the Barker's Facebook page says the bartenders are only "friendly-ish," the fenced patio is 100 percent friendly for dogs -- and their owners. So stop by and grab a beer and let your pup mingle with the other Baker barkers.

8) Denver Beer Co 1695 Platte Street 303-433-2739

Not only are dogs allowed outside at Denver Beer Co, if your furry friend is well-behaved on a leash, he can even come inside with you. Go grab a pint and enjoy Denver Beer Co's beer garden with your fellow dog-lovers.

7) Forest Room 5 2532 15th Street 303-433-7001

Forest Room 5 has gotten a lot of buzz over the years, so if you've been meaning to check it out, you should -- along with your pup. The patio, designed to evoke a campfire alongside a mountain stream, is definitely dog-friendly; if you're lucky, you might even spot the owner's Burnese Mountain Dog, who's known to hang out with the customers. This is a great spot for a post dog-walk drink.

Keep reading for more pooch-friendly patios...

6) Jake's Food & Spirit 3800 Walnut Street 303-295-3800

Jake's has a huge -- at 100 seats -- and dog-friendly patio. Enjoy a late-night drink or afterwork beer with your friends and pup at this fun RiNo spot. The patio lounge even has TVs for the sports minded. Just don't let the pooch near the remote control, or you'll be watching Animal Planet instead of the Broncos.

5) Lala's Wine Bar 410 East 7th Avenue 303-861-9463

Lala's is a great spot to grab some wine and tapas with your pooch. Not only is the patio a great spot to relax with Spot, in the summer the eatery even hosts puppy contests and offers on-site dog photos.

4) LoHi Steakbar 3200 Tejon Street 303-927-6334

As long as Fido is on a leash, he's welcome on the patio at LoHi Steakbar. So you can stop in after walking him around the hip neighborhood to grab a drink or nice meal and not have to worry.

3) Oblio's Pizzeria 6115 East 22nd Avenue 303-321-1511

Not only does Oblio's serve up good pizza and a good happy hour, the staff welcomes you and your furry friend. Feel free to bring the dog along as you grab some Italian-grub and don't worry if it's hot out -- the staff usually has a water bowl ready for any visiting canines.

2) Racines 650 Sherman Street 303-595-0418

Racine's is a Denver institution, so it's no surprise that it's also the leader in adapting to the new city ordinance, especially since the owners are dog lovers. So bring your pooch and enjoy fall weather and delicious food knowing you're not the only one there who loves your dog.

1) The Lift 5411 Leetsdale Drive 720-441-2695

The Lift, with it's canine-centered back patio -- actually a 7,000 square-foot fully fenced private dog park -- called the Watering Bowl, is a haven for those who love dogs and beer. Dogs are allowed outsid and in, where there's a wide selection of beer and a family-friendly food menu. You don't have to leave your dog at home to go watch the Broncos with friends at The Lift -- he's more than welcome.


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