The dog days of summer are here, making it the perfect time to plan something special with your four-legged friend. Whether your pup loves splashing in the lake, wandering scenic trails, or kicking back at a patio while you relax, Illinois is full of places that welcome you both. Each outing gives your pup the chance to explore, play, and enjoy the season right by your side. And with binske nearby, every adventure becomes a treat for you too.
Where to Play
Montrose Dog Beach (Chicago)
One of the most popular spots for dogs in the city, Montrose Dog Beach gives pups the chance to run free and splash in Lake Michigan with plenty of space to play. Owners can relax along the shore, enjoy the lakefront breeze, and watch their dogs make new friends. Pack a towel for the ride home, and, if you want to add something extra to your day, Village Dispensary Bucktown is a great stop to pick up some binske.
Starved Rock State Park (Utica/Peru area)
Known for its stunning sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and miles of shaded hiking trails, Starved Rock is a bucket-list adventure for nature-loving pairs. Your pup will love exploring the trails and cooling off in the shade, while you’ll get to take in some of Illinois’s most dramatic scenery. After the hike, Stash Dispensary in Peru is a perfect spot to treat yourself with binske while your pup naps in the backseat.
Jackson Bark (Chicago – South Loop)
Often called one of the city’s most creative dog parks, Jackson Bark is built entirely from recycled sports equipment, transforming the space into a one-of-a-kind agility course. Dogs can run, climb, and test their skills, while owners enjoy the urban setting just minutes from downtown. Since Sparkd Dispensary in South Loop is nearby, it’s easy to plan a visit before or after to enjoy some binske as part of the outing.
Where to Grab a Treat (For Both of You)
Scooter’s Frozen Custard (Chicago)
On a hot summer day, nothing beats a stop at Scooter’s. Known for its creamy frozen custard and rotating flavors, it’s a treat for both people and pups – cones for you, pup cups for them. After cooling off, you can swing by the nearby Sway Dispensary to grab binske and make the stop even sweeter.
Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery (Peoria)
This Peoria favorite is as dog-friendly as it gets, with a spacious patio, shaded seating, and plenty of water bowls to keep pups comfortable. While your dog lounges, you can sample local craft beer and hearty pub fare in a relaxed outdoor setting. Once you’ve wrapped up your meal, NuEra Peoria is just around the corner and a perfect place to grab binske before heading home or continuing your evening.
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
With a full dog menu, water bowls, and patios made for hanging out, Lazy Dog is designed for both people and pets to enjoy a meal together. Dogs can snack on their own special dishes while you dig into comfort food classics. To round out the experience, add a stop at a nearby dispensary and pick up binske to enjoy later
- Naperville → Prairie Cannabis
- Vernon Hills → Rise Mundelein
- Northbrook → BLOC Northfield
One Last Lap Around Summer
With summer fading, now’s the time to squeeze in a few more adventures with your four-legged friend. From city beaches to canyon trails and pup-friendly patios, Illinois is full of ways to close out the season. This guide pulls together some of the top spots, along with nearby locations where you can pick up binske, to plan an outing that’s as rewarding for you as it is for your pup.
