Colorado Pet Spots Ranked Among the Best in the Nation
If you’re a pet lover in Colorado, you’ve got bragging rights. Three local spots—one for dogs, one for cats, and one massive off-leash playground—have landed on USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards, cementing Colorado’s status as one of the most pet-friendly states in the country.
Topping the list is Pub Dog Colorado in Colorado Springs, which claimed the No. 2 spot among the best dog bars in the U.S. With its unique indoor/outdoor off-leash setup, this laid-back spot lets pups romp while their humans sip on craft beer, cocktails, or grab a bite from the full food menu. Whether you’re there for the daily happy hour or a weekend hangout, Pub Dog offers a one-of-a-kind social space where dogs and people alike can unwind.
Denver got some feline love too. Denver Cat Company—a cozy, bookish café that doubles as an adoption center—was ranked the No. 7 best cat café in the nation. For $15, guests get nearly an hour to lounge with adoptable cats from Denver Cat Rescue. It’s the perfect combo of chill vibes and meaningful connection—especially for anyone curious about adopting, or just needing a dose of purring therapy.
And for dog owners who prefer wide-open spaces, Cherry Creek State Park’s Off-Leash Area was also named No. 7 among the best dog parks in the U.S. This fenced-in, 100-acre slice of freedom features fields, trails, and access to Cherry Creek Reservoir—ideal for dogs who love a good swim. Just be warned: its popularity often leads to long lines, so arriving early is key.
These rankings were decided through public voting following nominations by a panel of pet experts and 10BEST editors. Fans of each category could vote daily for four weeks, helping highlight the spots that go above and beyond in the world of pet hospitality.
So whether your ideal outing involves throwing a ball, sipping a drink, or cuddling a cat—Colorado’s got something for every kind of animal lover.
