August is National Dog Month, so why not let your pup join you for your next date? After all, some of the best adventures are better with a little extra wagging involved. Kansas City is packed with romantic spots where you can spend quality time with your sweetheart without leaving your four-legged love behind. So grab the leash, pack a few treats, and get ready for a date that’s sure to be paws-itively memorable.
1) Art Alley~ Art to Bark About
Turn your date into a colorful adventure with a stroll through Kansas City’s Art Alley. This ever-changing outdoor gallery is filled with vibrant murals and street art, giving you, your sweetheart, and your pup plenty to see as you wander through the Crossroads. It’s also a great spot to snap some colorful couple-and-canine photos. Just remember to keep your pup leashed and ready to pose!
2) Swope Park~ Bark in the Park
For a date that lets you and your pup really stretch your legs, Swope Park is a tail-wagging good choice. With roughly 1,800 acres of trails, wooded areas, open spaces, and scenic spots to explore, there’s plenty of room for sweethearts and their canine companions to enjoy some fresh air together. You can take a leisurely walk, explore the trails, pack a picnic, or visit the park’s off-leash dog area for some four-legged fun.
3) Parkville Wine House~ Raise a Glass to Your Dog
Wine not bring your pup along while you uncork a romantic evening? Parkville Wine House is housed inside a beautifully renovated 100-year-old home and offers wine flights, glasses, bottles, and shareable bites in a cozy setting. Even better for your furry plus-one, dogs are welcome on the front porch, giving you a lovely place to sip and socialize while your pup enjoys the date, too. Just make sure your pooch stays on the porch, where they’ll be perfectly positioned to supervise your wine selection.
4) Java Garage~ Caffeinate with Your Canine
Coffee, conversation, and canine cuddles? That’s a pretty solid recipe for romance. Java Garage offers a relaxed, industrial inspired space where you can enjoy hot or iced coffee, espresso drinks, and freshly baked pastries while spending some quality time with your sweetheart. This coffee shop is also known for being welcoming to four-legged companions, making it an easy spot to grab a caffeine fix with your pup in tow. With a resident furry mascot already part of the Java Garage family, your dog should feel right at home.
5) Kessler Park~ Unleash Romance
If you and your sweetheart prefer your dates with a little adventure, lace up those walking shoes and head to Kessler Park. This historic park covers more than 300 acres and features wooded trails, limestone cliffs, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and the beautiful Colonnade. Take your pup for a leisurely stroll along the park’s scenic paths, stop for a photo with the city views, and enjoy a little quiet time surrounded by nature. It’s a great reminder that sometimes the most romantic dates don’t require reservations.
Don’t have a dog of your own to celebrate National Dog Month with? You can still celebrate and make a huge difference for a dog! KC Pet Project allows adults to check out an adoptable shelter dog for a day of fun. Sign up and the staff can help you find a furry friend to third wheel on your next date. It’s a win-win, you get an unforgettable outing and the dog gets a day full of love and adventure. Kansas City proves that some of the best dates really do go to the dogs regardless of whether it’s your own dog or a shelter dog your taking out for some fun. After all, love is even sweeter when it’s shared with someone who thinks you’re both pawsome.
