Art Galleries That Welcome Dogs

Posted by Lauren Barker

Whether you’re a collector of artwork or just enjoy admiring the talent of others, art galleries across the nation are a unique way to get a taste of local culture and creativity. While you’re exploring a new destination with Fido, stop by one of these dog-friendly showrooms that invite both art enthusiasts and their four-legged friends to embark on a unique and enriching journey together.

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

Tucson, AZ
Photo by BringFido/Cindy

Tuscon is a mecca for admirers of Southwest artwork and DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a must-visit attraction for anyone vacationing in the city. The gallery features six permanent collections of paintings that trace historical events and native cultures of the Southwest and also rotating exhibitions of some of founder and artist Ettore “Ted” DeGrazia’s 15,000 originals. Visitors are invited to view not only the art hung in the gallery, but the colorful grounds and sculptures surrounding the property at the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains as well. Leashed dogs are welcome and the staff readily hand out dog treats.

Enjoy more desert views in luxurious accommodations at Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort. Book a one- or two-bedroom casita with a private porch where you can watch the sunset over the Tucson Mountains with Fido.

Torpedo Factory Art Center

Alexandria, VA
Photo by Facebook.com/torpedofactory

Unleash your inner artist at the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria. Take a stroll along the Potomac River waterfront and wander through this hub of artists’ studios with your pooch. See the creative process and resulting artistic works of over 165 vendors in the open studio space. Purchase an original work of art, chat with your favorite artist about their methods and inspiration, or sign up for a class at The Art League School. Ten galleries offer exhibition space for photography, fiber arts, enamel work, pottery and ceramic art. Leashed dogs are always welcome, and there is no admission fee. Guided tours are also available upon request.

After you’ve purchased a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home, walk back to your room at Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria where you and your pooch can relax to views overlooking the Potomac River.

Spanish Village Art Center

San Diego, CA
Photo by Facebook.com/spanishvillageartcenter

Stroll with Fido through the dog-friendly studios of over 200 incredibly talented artists, metalsmiths, photographers, painters, sculptors, and designers at the Spanish Village Art Center in San Diego’s Balboa Park. Converse with artists, browse through beautiful galleries, and shop for your new must-have pieces. You can also view live demonstrations, participate in art-making activities and relax in the colorful courtyard. Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome to join you as you experience this unique environment.

Rest up afterward at The Sophia Hotel Downtown. Fido will be welcomed with his name on the VIP (Very Important Pet) Board and receive treats at check-in.

A.T. Hun Art Gallery

Savannah, GA
Photo by BringFido/Erin

During your dog-friendly weekend trip to Savannah, stop by the City Market, an 18th-century open-air marketplace, and walk with Fido through the A.T. Hun Art Gallery. Your four-legged art connoisseur will receive treats from gallery staff as you peruse works by local and international contemporary artists. Many of the pieces are pet-themed, including large pet portraits by artist, Steven Schuman. If you stop in on a weekend you may hear the gallery owner, Chuck Hamilton playing piano - guess the song he’s playing and you may receive a discount on your purchase! Leashed pets are permitted throughout the gallery.

Check out more original works of art by renowned artists when you stay at The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront on Bay Street.

Paseo Arts District

Oklahoma City, OK
Photo by Facebook.com/paseoartsdisctrict

No trip to Oklahoma’s capital city with Fido would be complete without a visit to the Paseo Arts District. Leashed dogs are welcome on this two-block, tree-lined street with Spanish revival architecture and original bright-colored stucco buildings. The district’s 20 art galleries like Prairie Arts Collective and Little D Gallery are home to works by more than 60 artists. Be sure to pick up a Paseo Arts District bandana so your pup can show his support. Intermixed with the galleries are restaurants, art schools, boutiques and other businesses that welcome furry friends as well. While you’re browsing through, take a lunch break at Picasso Cafe and order your pooch something delicious from the dog menu.

Walk to everything within Paseo when you stay at this boho-chich bungalow, just a block away.

Gallery Rinard

New Orleans, LA
Photo by Facebook.com/GalleryRinard

Located in New Orleans’ famous French Quarter, Gallery Rinard is a pet and art lover’s dream come true. Artist Matt Rinard specializes in vibrant pictures of whimsical and humorous depictions of dogs and cats. His pieces have even been featured as the official artwork for the Mystic Krewe of Barkus party and parade during Mardi Gras. In addition to Rinard’s work, many more local artists are on display at this pet-friendly gallery, including canine artists, Ames Romig and Georg Williams, and Pete the Cat illustrator, James Dean. If you have more time, swing by Rodrique Studio New Orleans to check out the famous Blue Dog Series by late Cajun artist, George Rodrique.

Bienville House Hotel, also in the French Quarter, combines Old World elegance and modern comfort to provide a luxurious retreat for both people and their pets during a NOLA vacation.

William Secord Gallery

New York, NY
Photo by Facebook.com/WilliamSecordGalleryInc

New York City is the largest art market in the U.S., and William Secord Gallery is the only gallery of its kind in the city, or in North America, for that matter. The gallery’s founder, William Secord, is the world authority on 19th-century dog paintings. Inside you’ll find a collection of fine 19th- and 20th-century dog and animal paintings as well as more modern works of canines from contemporary artists. You can even commission a portrait of your own pet. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join you as you browse through the exhibits and shop for unique paintings, sculptures, books and more.

Take your new (or 19th-century) artwork back to Kimpton Eventi Hotel in Chelsea and enjoy city views from your room’s floor-to-ceiling windows.

San Luis Obispo Museum of Art

San Luis Obispo, CA
Photo by Facebook.com/slomuseumofart

In the heart of the SLO’s culture corridor, you’ll find the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art. Bring your canine companion along to browse through this free public museum with frequently changing exhibits and a large selection of permanent works on display. The museum hosts many events throughout the year including pet-friendly fundraisers to support the Woods Humane Society.

Stay with your pup in a colorfully decorated room at Hotel San Luis Obispo, a modern urban resort in the heart of the city.

On the Edge Gallery

Scottsdale, AZ
Photo by BringFido/Valerie

If you’re looking for the perfect souvenir to take home from your Arizona vacation with Fido, or a gift for someone who already has everything, make a stop at On the Edge Gallery. You’ll find a vast selection of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, ceramics, mosaics and more from over 40 local artists. You’ll likely see members of the gallery working on pieces while you browse and they’ll be happy to tell you about their work and answer questions. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are invited inside to look, and they’ll find paintings and other items depicting their furry friends.

Once you’ve admired all the artwork you can for one day, take a short walk to Hotel Valley Ho, a historically hip hotel featuring rooms with vibrant colors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and private patios or balconies.

Have you visited a dog-friendly art gallery with your pup? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!