Re-imagine what it means to take the dog on a walk with this list of some of the Hudson Valley’s top dog-friendly bars (in no particular order).
1. Poughkeepsie Ice House, Poughkeepsie
On the shores of the Hudson River, this historic exposed-brick ice house is the ideal location to dine in the sun on their dog-friendly porch. In the early 19th Century, Ice was carted on steam ships and stored in ice houses like this restaurant. Despite their chic, modern renovations, the owners still managed to hold on to its rustic essence with 25-foot high ceilings and stamped cement floors.
Your complimentary glass of water comes with a dog bowl for your under-the-table friend to lounge along with you. You can also enjoy their selection of draft beer, wine, and sangria while browsing a menu of American classics, pasta, seafood, and savory starters.
2. The Parish, New Paltz
This intimate and dimly lit bar and restaurant is perched above the quaint Water Street Market, offering a breathtaking view of the towering cliffs of the Shawangunk Mountains. Come inside and try their New-Orleans style menu and selection of cocktails, wine and craft beer. They also offer outdoor seating on their second-floor balcony with a scenic view to the front and people-watching opportunities in the market below. With outdoor dog bowls at the ready, you can both enjoy an evening out with a variety of antique shops and even a new black-box theatre to enjoy afterwards.
3. Fetch, Goshen
Your first indicator that Fetch is a dog friendly zone is the massive dog-bone logo out front. But that’s just nothing compared to the interior. The walls are plastered with pop-art painting, collages and even statues of man’s best friend. This neighborhood bar and grill is situated right on main street in Warwick, with a menu of American home-cooking classic like their favorite “Mom’s Meatloaf” or “original” Philadelphia Cheesesteak, made with bread shipped in from Philly daily.
The outside eating area comes equipped with bowls of water and treats to recharge your pup for a post-dinner stroll around town.
4. Snugs Harbor Bar & Grill, New Paltz
When food isn’t your top priority, this cool, communal dive bar is almost always housing a dog or two. The bar is also one of the most consistent music venues, books loads of talented local musicians almost weekly and hosts open-mic night on Thursdays. However, the puppy protection sets a curfew at 9 p.m. for canine companions, due to the loud music. Stop on Wednesday night for “drawing night” where bartenders provide paper and pencils for you to get creative in exchange for a free drink. The interior decor is the epitome of a dive bar: abstract artwork lines the walls, also a pool table and dart boards are available for your amusement. All the while your pup can roam the inside and gated smoking area out back, greeted warmly by pets from nearby patrons.
5. Hickory BBQ & Smokehouse, Kingston
Since moving to the area in the 1970s, the Hickory family has continuously crafted their signature style of American barbecue cooking. Their menu is heavily influenced by southern-style cooking and sprinkled with family recipes served hot from a traditional smokehouse barbecue. Try some of Doc Hickory’s secret barbecue sauce on sizzling spare ribs or homemade meatloaf smothered in gravy and mushrooms.
Wash it down with their wide selection of bottled and draft beers, wines, and champagnes. While you might make your dog incredibly envious, it’ll have to settle for the water and warm aromas (unless you're the table scrap-sharing type— we don't judge).
6. Mahoney’s Irish Pub & Steakhouse, Poughkeepsie
This rustic historic building provided tasty traditional Irish meals with a side of warm hospitality. The two-floor dining areas offer a prime location to grab a bite or utilize the full-service bar in both sections. Mahoney’s menu contains all the classic pub-grub, like buffalo wings and nachos, and Irish classics including Moira’s Shepherd’s Pie and Banger & Mash.
Their newest addition, the Vassar Room, is hosts a range of entertaining events including chuckles with the “Laugh it Up” comedy club and drama courtesy of the Acme Mystery Theatre Group.
7. Terrapin, Rhinebeck
From the outside, this restaurant and bar is reminiscent of a gothic cathedral or temple, rather than a pro-pup eatery. Inside, the noticeably high ceilings and windows, along with circular chandeliers, provide sufficient light and an open feel for your dining experience. Each table is constructed of worn-wooden planks, which contrasts nicely to the otherwise modern layout of the restaurant.
Head Chef Josh Kroner is a devout farm-to-table advocate in the Hudson Valley, working with local farmers to add organic ingredients in as many dishes as possible. His unique style of New American cooking is influenced by French, Italian, Asaian, and American Southwest cooking styles, bringing a variety of tapas, soups, pastas, and other delectable dishes
8. Arrowood Farms, Accord
Once your dogs see the idyllic, lush, green farmland Arrowood has to offer, they'll immediately fall in puppy love. They’re a farm for more than just their name—raising pigs, bees and other animals to keep their local ecosystem happy and healthy. Green energy-minded visitors will be delighted to know that the entire facility is powered solely by solar energy. Feel free to roam the property, including their towering hop stalks, grassy fields, and outdoor seating areas. After exploring the rustic property, plop yourself (and your pooch) at the bar or the side porch where you can catch a breathtaking view of the sunset together.
Check out the pup-friendly pubs above (and let us know some of your favorite dog-friendly spots) — and, of course, anticipate a lot of gawking and love from fellow dog-loving Hudson Valley folks throughout your barkin' bar crawl.
