Dogs Downtown Returns to Central Park This September
Saturday, September 26 | 11am-3pm | Central Park
If your dog is the kind of pup who thinks every walk should be an adventure, mark your calendar for Dogs Downtown on Saturday, September 26.
From 11am-3pm, Central Park will become a gathering place for dogs, their humans and anyone who simply appreciates a good day with four-legged friends. This free, family-friendly event brings together crafts, games, activities and giveaways for a day designed with dogs in mind.
A Day for Dogs—and the People Who Love Them
Dogs Downtown is all about getting outside, enjoying the community and spending time with your favorite companion. Bring your pup along for an afternoon of activities and plenty of opportunities to explore.
One of the event highlights is Mayo Clinic Caring Canine’s free hospital simulation room, where you can see if your dog has what it takes to become a hospital therapy dog. It’s a fun way to put your pup’s skills to the test while learning more about the important work of therapy animals. Be sure to get there early to sign up for a time slot during the event.
And because every good outing needs a snack break, food vendors including Uni Uni Bubble Tea and Fuzzy’s Italian Ice will be at the event.
Don't Forget to Snag a Dogs Downtown T-shirt
Dogs Downtown t-shirts are available for purchase for $20 at the Rochester Downtown Alliance booth, located in the center of the event close to the fountain!
Keep the Fun Going Downtown
Dogs Downtown takes place at Central Park, 225 First Ave NW, a longtime Downtown Rochester gathering space with green space, picnic areas and the Heritage House Victorian Museum.
After the event, keep your Downtown adventure going with a meal or drink on one of the area’s dog-friendly patios. Several Downtown restaurants welcome you and your four-legged companion, including Almadina, Bleu Duck Kitchen, Cafe Steam on Broadway, Chester’s Kitchen & Bar, Hollanberry Pannekoeken, Olde Brick House, Pasquale’s Neighborhood Pizzeria, People’s Food Co-op, The Tap House, ThaiPop and Victoria’s Ristorante. Note that patio policies vary by location, including restrictions for service dogs or certain outdoor areas.
Thank You to Our Dogs Downtown Partners
Events like Dogs Downtown are made possible through the support of community partners who help bring free experiences to Downtown Rochester.
Dogs Downtown is presented by Subaru of Rochester, with support from our partners:
- Mayo Clinic
- Altra Federal Credit Union
- Olmsted Medical Center
- Winona State University, Rochester
- Minnesota Public Radio
We’re grateful for their support and commitment to creating opportunities for the Rochester community to come together, get outside and enjoy Downtown.
Event Map of Vendors
Grab the leash, round up your favorite four-legged friend and make plans for an afternoon at Dogs Downtown!
