December 17, 2025

Zoomies: Chicago's First Indoor Dog Park and Bar Coming to Avondale

Chicago is getting its first indoor dog park and bar. Zoomies, planned for 3455 N. Elston Ave in the Avondale neighborhood, is expected to open in early-to-mid 2026.

November 15, 2025

Wicker Bark Reopens After Major $600K Renovation

Wicker Park’s beloved dog park, affectionately known as “Wicker Bark,” reopened on November 15, 2025 after a months-long renovation that transformed the space.

September 24, 2025

New Ordinance Would Allow Chicago Restaurants to Welcome Dogs

A new Chicago ordinance proposed in September 2025 would allow restaurants to opt in as “dog-friendly,” permitting dogs in outdoor dining areas.

September 16, 2025

Lakeview's First Dog Park Set to Break Ground in Spring 2026

After years of community advocacy, Lakeview is finally getting its first dedicated dog park. The new park, located where Oakdale Avenue meets Lake Shore Drive, is set to break ground in spring 2026.

February 28, 2025

Dog Parks Planned Under CTA 'L' Tracks as Part of Red Line Rebuild

As part of the $2 billion Red Line rebuild on Chicago’s North Side, new renderings reveal plans for two dog parks to be built under the elevated train tracks, along with paved walking paths, benche...

September 21, 2023

WBEZ Investigation Reveals Enforcement Gaps at Chicago Dog Parks

A WBEZ Curious City investigation published in September 2023 highlighted a persistent challenge at Chicago dog parks: while the rules are straightforward, enforcement is essentially non-existent.