Plus a 1 Day Sample Itinerary!
Looking for a dog-friendly adventure in Apex, NC? You’re in the right place!
Whether you’re a local or visiting from nearby cities, you’ll find variety of things to do in Apex, NC that you and your furry friend will love.
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I’ve been eager to start adding dog-friendly itineraries to my blog for a while now, and I’m thrilled to kick things off with my very first itinerary about dog-friendly things to do in Apex, NC.
As a dog lover since childhood and having the pleasure of sharing life with dogs ever since, I’m thrilled to share a slice of dog-friendly heaven in Apex, NC.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this charming town offers plenty of activities to enjoy with your furry friend.
With my office located in Apex and my frequent visits to see my mother and enjoy the charming historic Downtown, I couldn’t think of a better place to start. Apex is definitely the type of town that needs to be on your NC Bucket list whether you’re with a dog or not!
Though Downtown Apex is just one street spanning several blocks, it’s brimming with unique shops and delightful restaurants, all wrapped up in a quaint small-town feel that makes it a must-visit.
To make this post even more special, I’ve partnered with the Orange County Animal Rescue and their Dog Day Out Program.
Together, we’re giving one of their adorable adoptable pups a fun day out, while showcasing the wonderful dog-friendly spots in Downtown Apex.
Plus, you can follow along on a sample one-day itinerary that we journeyed on ourselves, to show you first-hand how you can make the most of your visit!
Let’s dive into the itinerary and explore how you and your furry friend can make the most of a day in this delightful town!
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Meet Shamley, My Dog Day Out Buddy!
But first, before we get into our fun-packed day, meet my buddy, Shamley!
She’s a brown and white Australian Cattle Dog and German Shepherd mix, boasting all the curiosity and friendliness of a young pup with the calm and gentleness that come with age and wisdom.
Shamley is not only my trusty companion on this adventure but also a remarkable dog in search of her forever home.
She was surrendered to the shelter through no fault of her own—just an unfortunate situation of too many dogs in too little space without proper care.
Shamley’s adoption fee has been paid, so whoever the lucky family is that belongs to her only needs to do the paper work before picking her up with no adoption fee involved!
Despite her past, her friendly disposition remains untainted, and she’s ready and eager to help me explore dog-friendly things to do in Apex, NC.
Let’s dive into a day of fun in Apex with Shamley leading the way!
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Where is Apex NC From Me?
If you’re wondering where Apex is in relation to some of North Carolina’s major cities, here’s a quick guide:
- Raleigh: 15 miles
- Durham: 24 miles
- Greensboro: 69 miles
- Charlotte: 153 miles
- Wilmington: 163 miles
- Asheville: 254 miles
Apex NC is located in Central North Carolina with Easiest Highway Access form HWY 64, NC 55, 540 and US1
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Now, let’s dive into a sample one-day itinerary that will make your pup’s tail wag with joy.
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Morning:
Dog-Friendly Coffee Shops In Or Near Apex, NC
Since you may not actually be in Apex in time for breakfast, it’s a great idea to stop at a dog-friendly coffee shop along the way.
When I picked up Shamley from the Orange County Rescue in Chapel Hill, we made a pit stop at Cafe Driade, just about five miles from the rescue center.
Cafe Driade was the perfect place for us to get acquainted. They have a fairy-like setting (I felt like I was in a scene of the Hobbit) With plenty of outdoor seating and a short trail surrounded by trees and ivy.
Shamley burned off some energy, and I got familiar with her leash manners and how she reacted to other dogs at the cafe along with sipping our drinks and fueling up with treats.
Cafe Driade is fantastic for dogs and humans going solo with their pet.
Since dogs aren’t allowed in area’s where there’s a kitchen in NC, ordering can be tricky especially when there’s only one human in your party.
This cafe offers online orders and has an outdoor table where they place your order for convenient pick-up.
*A text message will alert you when your order is ready.
They even offer free dog treats on the menu, and there are other items available for purchase.
Plus, they have a free water carafe, so I was able to fill up Shamley’s collapsible water bowl provided by the shelter.
If you’re on the road, you can stop at a Starbucks along your route. They offer a FREE Pup Cup for your dog if you ask.
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Afternoon:
Spend The Afternoon Hiking, Then On To Downtown Apex
Here’s a paw-some afternoon plan to keep both you and your furry friend entertained!
Start by working up an appetite at Apex Nature Park.
This fantastic park boasts:
✅ multi-use trails, picnic shelters,
✅ a disc golf course,
✅ and a huge dog park with separate enclosures for large and small dogs. (Reservations Required!)
A quick tip: to use the dog park, you’ll need a key card, which requires registering in advance and paying a small annual fee. With these amenities, it’s a tail-wagging good time for everyone!
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to head to downtown Apex!
Grab some lunch at the Tap Station, a former gas station that has been transformed into a buzzing restaurant while still paying homage to its nostalgic past.
They promptly brought out a bowl of water for Shamley, and I couldn’t resist getting her a burger, which she devoured with delight.
The waitress fell in love with Shamley and she surprised us with a cup of bacon bits just for her—no request needed!
While downtown Apex boasts several outdoor, dog-friendly spots, the Tap Station stands out with its ample space for you and your pup to kick back and enjoy a meal.
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Evening:
Socialize & Have Dinner In Downtown Apex, NC
Extend your night with a leisurely stroll around Downtown Apex and the historic district. The quaint charm of this area, with its unique architecture and dog-friendly shops, sets the perfect scene.
Some stores welcome pets inside, and even those that don’t often have outdoor racks for browsing.
Next, take a break at Carey C. Jones Memorial Park, a small but charming park behind First Baptist Apex and next to the C.C. Jones Community Building.
It offers a peaceful shelter where you can relax and enjoy the scenery, plus a playground if you have children tagging along.
If you need to stock up on pet supplies, head over to the Petsmart at Beaver Creek Commons, just a short drive away. It’s convenient and has everything you might need for your day out.
As evening approaches, the nightlife in Downtown Apex may not be bustling with dog-friendly options, but HighCraft Brewery stands out as a top choice.
While they do have outdoor picnic tables in the back, they also welcome dogs inside and allow you to bring in food from restaurants.
It’s a perfect spot to unwind with your pup after a day of exploration to get out of the heat, cold or rain and a great place to socialize with locals or catch a local sports game on the t.v.
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Restaurants in Downtown Apex, NC
Some nearby restaurants where you can order and easily bring in to HighCraft Brewery include:
- Anna’s Pizza
- Tap Station
- La Rancherita Mexican Restaurant
- Provincial
- Peak City Bar & Grill
- Salem Street Pub
So, grab your leash, and get ready for an enjoyable day with your furry companion in Apex, NC!
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Do you need a place to stay in Apex?
Dog Friendly Hotels in Apex, NC
Luxury Hotel: Homewood Suites by Hilton Raleigh/Cary is less than 3 miles from downtown Apex, has a $50 pet fee with a 2 pet maximum. Fees are exempt for service dogs. Get more info on Homewood Suites by clicking here.
Mid-range Hotel: Hampton Inn Raleigh/Cary is less than 3 miles from dowtown Apex, includes breakfast. Up to 2 pets are welcome with a $75 fee. Fees are exempt for service animals. Get more info on the Hampton in by clicking here.
Budget-friendly Hotel: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Raleigh Cary is less than 4 miles from downtown Apex and includes breakfast. Up to 2 pets under 75lbs are welcome. The pet fee is only $25. Service animals are exempt from fees. Get more information on La Quinta Inn & Suites by clicking here.
Home Rental: Luxury Design, Friends & Family Townhome. Walkable, Central, Backyard, Sleeps 5. Only a walkable .41 miles from Downtown Apex and a 7 minute drive to Apex Nature Park. Get more info on this property by clicking here.
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Packing Tips For A Dog Friendly Trip
Some of my favorite things to bring along on a doggie day out are:
a retractable leash, so I can control how far or close I want the dog to be. A collapsible water bowl to make it easy for the dog to hydrate. A pet friendly fanny pack makes it convenient and easy to keep essentials nearby and easy to access and other items that help clean up and “oopsie” moments easier to handle.
Cover for Back Seat Bed for Car Travel
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Related Articles
North Carolina Dog Adoption Info
I’d like to extend a warm “Thank you” to the Orange County Animal Shelter for putting together this amazing Dog Day Out program that allows shelter dogs a chance to get out, receive loves, treats, socialization and improves their chances of adoption!
If you’re not in a position to adopt a dog, like me, there are other ways you can help.
❤ Consider donating time, money or items to your local shelter,
❤ Become a foster
❤ Or see if they have a program that allows you to spend time with one of these amazing dogs for a few hours, a day or even overnight.
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Here are some of the Shelters and Rescue’s in the NC Triangle Area:
Orange County Animal Shelter (Doggie Day Out Program)
APS of Durham (Doggie Day Out Program)
Collie Rescue of the Carolina’s
Great Dane Friend of Ruff Love
Fifi’s Friends Rescue at Laughing Dog Farm
Franklin County Animal Shelter
Almost Home Dog Rescue Cedar Mountain
4 Directions Rescue
Johnston County Animal Protection
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OMG I Can’t Believe It!
Great News!
Shamley was adopted only a couple of days after our Dog Day Out!!!!!!!!!
I’m Soooo happy for the lucky family and Shamley!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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