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Are Dogs Allowed on 16th Street Mall in Denver?
- Christina Frapasella
- Oct 10
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 14
Are Dogs Allowed on 16th Street Mall in Denver?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the 16th Street Mall in Denver, but there are a few important rules to follow.
Key details:
Leash Requirement: Dogs must be on a leash at all times while on the 16th Street Mall. This is part of Denver’s city leash law, which applies to all public areas.
Pet Etiquette: Owners must clean up after their pets and keep dogs under control due to the high pedestrian traffic.
Outdoor Patios: Many restaurants and cafes along the mall have outdoor patios that welcome dogs. Some even provide water bowls or treats.
Public Transit: The Free MallRide shuttle that runs along 16th Street does not allow pets, except for service animals.
Events and Crowds: During large events or weekends, the mall can get very crowded, so quieter times are better for walking dogs comfortably.
Summary:Dogs are welcome on Denver’s 16th Street Mall if leashed and well-behaved, but they are not allowed on the MallRide shuttle.
Rules for Bringing Dogs to the Mall
Bringing your dog to the 16th Street Mall is easy if you follow basic Denver leash and public safety laws.
Keep your dog on a leash at all times. Denver’s leash law requires pets to be on a leash no longer than six feet in all public spaces unless you are in a designated off-leash park.
Clean up after your pet. Waste bags are expected, and not cleaning up can result in fines.
Be mindful of crowds and noise. The mall can get busy during lunch and evenings. If your dog is anxious or reactive, try visiting earlier in the morning or later at night when the area is quieter.
Service dogs are always permitted. Under federal ADA guidelines, service animals are allowed in all areas open to the public, including indoor stores and restaurants.
These rules help keep the 16th Street Mall enjoyable and safe for everyone, especially in a space that sees both heavy pedestrian traffic and regular city events.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Patios Nearby
Denver’s downtown dining scene makes it easy to include your dog in your plans. Many restaurants along or near the 16th Street Mall feature patios where dogs are welcome. Colorado’s outdoor dining laws allow dogs in patio or sidewalk seating areas as long as food isn’t prepared in the same space and there’s an entrance that doesn’t go through the main dining room.
Popular dog-friendly spots around the 16th Street Mall include:
Cheba Hut Toasted Subs – Casual sandwich shop with outdoor seating perfect for a quick lunch.
Rock Bottom Brewery – Known for its large patio that often hosts dog owners.
Sam’s No. 3 – A Denver favorite serving classic diner food with outdoor tables.
The Yard House – Offers patio dining near the mall’s central stretch.
Coffee shops like Ink! Coffee or Starbucks locations with outdoor seating also tend to welcome dogs. Always confirm with staff before settling in, as some patios are shared with other tenants and may have separate pet rules.
If you’re visiting in summer, bring a collapsible water bowl, some patios provide water for dogs, but it’s good to have your own on hand.
Other Dog-Friendly Spots in Downtown Denver
If your dog needs a break from the bustle of the mall, several parks and trails are nearby. Civic Center Park, just a short walk south, offers wide lawns and shaded areas for rest. Confluence Park and Commons Park are also close, located near where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, both are ideal for a longer walk or playtime.
Downtown also has a few pet-friendly retailers, including outdoor gear brands and local boutiques that cater to dog owners. You can stop by City Bark or Bentley’s Pet Stuff for supplies if needed. For off-leash exercise, the Railyard Dog Park is about a 10-minute drive from the mall, offering fenced areas and water stations.
These nearby spaces make it easy to combine a visit to the 16th Street Mall with a full day out with your dog.
FAQs About Dogs at the 16th Street Mall
Can dogs go inside stores on 16th Street Mall? Some stores allow dogs, but not all. It’s best to ask before entering. Service animals are allowed everywhere by law.
Are dogs allowed in Denver restaurants? Dogs are generally not allowed indoors due to health codes, but many restaurants and breweries have outdoor patios that welcome them.
Is Denver a dog-friendly city? Yes. Denver consistently ranks among the most dog-friendly U.S. cities, with dozens of parks, walking trails, dog bars, and outdoor events designed for pets.
Can dogs ride the MallRide shuttle? Only service dogs are allowed on the free RTD MallRide buses that run the length of the mall. Non-service pets must remain on the sidewalk areas.
Final Words
The 16th Street Mall is one of Denver’s most walkable and pet-friendly downtown destinations. Dogs are welcome along the outdoor pedestrian areas as long as they’re leashed and well-behaved. While indoor access varies by business, the mall’s many patios, open-air seating options, and nearby parks make it an easy place to enjoy with your dog.
Plan ahead, bring waste bags, and respect local rules, your dog can absolutely join you for a stroll through the heart of downtown Denver.
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