Paws on the Patio | Pet Friendly Dining in Billings

July 2025

Article and photos by Jamie Blotske

Summer in Montana is short, so when patio season arrives, locals, furry friends included, are eager to soak it up. Luckily, many Billings eateries welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs on their patios, making it easy to enjoy coffee, a meal, or a sweet treat without leaving your pup behind. Here’s where to dine with your dog this summer.

Morning Cup of Joe

Rail//Line is a “laid-back, community-minded” co!eehouse serving breakfast, burritos, and pastries. “We love everything about patio season!” says manager Joel Leischner. “And we really love getting to interact with people and their dogs. Rail//Line is a very relational place. We also love giving dogs a pup cup and seeing them get really excited to have that.”

Dogs must be leashed, and owners should “be respectful of those around them and be cognizant of their dog's behavior.”

As the only south side co!ee shop with a patio, it’s a summer favorite. “Patio season is the start of cold brew season for us. Our cold brew is our hot ticket item right now. Our special iced bee sting is a for sure fan favorite.” Cold brew for you, pup cup for them—everyone wins.

BLACK DOG COFFEE HOUSE

With a name like Black Dog Co!ee House, it’s no surprise that dogs are welcome. Their About Us says it all: “We love good co!ee, people, and dogs.” With three locations, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a seasonal drink and fresh-baked treat with your pup.

BIG SKY COFFEE ROASTERS

“Locally owned co!ee shop, where freshly roasted beans meet unbeatable good vibes,” is the slogan at Big Sky, and who wouldn’t want to hang out at a place like that all summer long? Providing a shaded patio, pup cups with treats and water bowls, dogs are more than welcome at this mid-town co!ee shop. Don’t have time to sit? Bring your furry friend through the drive-thru, where they will happily treat them to a pup cup regardless of being able to stick around!

Happy Hour

Whether it’s been a long week or just a long day, a craft beer or cocktail on the patio can be a great way to unwind and relax. There are several places to do just that, with your dog, of course!

THIRSTY STREET BREWING CO.

With one of the largest patios in town, Thirsty Street is the place to be this summer, with live music, trivia, ping pong club, and pint nights. There is always something going on, so bring your dog and join in on all that is taking place on 1st Avenue North!

CRAFT B&B

Hosting events like Monday night bingo, Taco Tuesday, weekend steak nights, and more, Craft B&B would love to treat you and your pup to a drink or delicious meal on the patio this summer season!

BAR MT

Located on historic Montana Avenue, Craft B&B is in the heart of downtown, making it a convenient pit-stop when out and about strolling the art galleries, boutiques, and incredible eateries that the area has to o!er. Dogs on the patio are welcome! welcome!

Local Eats & Treats

Most people would agree that food always tastes better when eaten outside, which is why restaurant patios are so popular. You and your doggo can enjoy a delicious meal followed by a sweet treat at the following patio places:

THE WINDMILL & BAR 51

“Our patio is truly unique,” said manager Felicia Sanchez. “It is centered around a beautiful two-acre pond, overlooking beautiful greenery. A 10-foot long firepit takes the chill o! any summer evening, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy Montana’s finest patio well into the evening hours.”

“Furry friends are definitely welcome! We just ask for them to be well-mannered and behaved,” she added. “We love meeting new friends and learning about their stories and travels… We have been lucky to also have four-legged regulars that we have seen grow from young pups.”

As for the menu? “Seasonal salads and hand-crafted cocktails with weekly features are always in demand on our patio,” Felicia said. A scenic setting and dog-friendly vibe make The Windmill a perfect summer spot.

BIG DIPPER ICE CREAM

Whether it’s a mid-day treat or an after-dinner craving, Big Dipper Ice Cream o!ers a variety of flavors to keep all di!erent types of taste buds happy! “Serving up handcrafted ice cream since 1995”, Big Dipper Ice Cream deserves a spot on your summer to-do list. The outdoor patio area is somewhat limited, so grab your puppy-pal and get there early to beat the rush of the after-dinner crowd.

The dog days of summer are here. Take advantage of these pet-friendly establishments and make some fun memories with your favorite furball, just don’t forget the leash!

Originally printed in the July 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Check this article out in the digital issue of Simply Local here!

Jamie Blotske

Jamie Blotske and husband, Chet, have three small children and happily call Billings their home. She is extremely passionate about the great outdoors. She is a graduate of MSU-Billings with a bachelor's degree in Outdoor Adventure Leadership. Her family is currently in pursuit of hiking in all 50 states, and you can follow along on the family blog (thebackpackingblotskes.com) or Instagram (@thebackpackingblotskes). 

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