Wake Forest, North Carolina

Published on 2 March 2025 at 09:22

Wake Forest is a northern suburb of Raleigh, the capital of NC. During this travel assignment, we lived about 25 minutes north of Wake Forest. We drove into town for groceries, bookstores, coffee, and other daily things. It's very charming and extremely dog friendly!

 

While driving around one day we saw a LARGE dog park and wanted to take the pups one Saturday morning. So, we made a whole day of it! Here are some dog-friendly places and things to do if you ever find yourself in Wake Forest!

  • E. Carroll Joyner Park
    • This park is 117 acres. It has a NICE walking path that winds through the park. The dogs loved walking around and seeing other pups. There were many children on bicycles and families on blankets sunbathing. You can tell it's the "it park" in town. 
    • Make sure you bring a large towel or sheet to lay in the grass and enjoy the scenery. It's beautiful and there is plenty of space in the sun or in the shade.
    • We brought our own water bottles and poop bags.
    • There is a nice public restroom area.
  • Dirty Dogs Spa
    • This place is AWESOME! It's another lucky find while driving around. This place has a self-help dog cleaning station. WHAT!? Cory and I have only heard about self-help cleaning stations at places like Tractor Supply. 
    • The first time we went, I packed everything (our shampoo, brushes, towels, etc.) When we got there, we learned that EVERYTHING is provided! How incredible is that?!? 
      • Variety of shampoos and a conditioner
      • Variety of brushes
      • Towels
      • Aprons for us so when the shakes happen, we don't get too wet.
    • The self-help station is walk-in and they will also do walk-in nail trims. 
    • It can get busy, especially on Saturdays. But so far Cory and I haven’t had to wait for a tub. 
    • They also offer full-service grooming, but that is by appointment only.
    • The price for the self-help station is by weight of the dog. We didn't think it was too expensive and worth it for our living situation.
    • They also have MANY, MANY, MANY treats, toys, and bandanas for sale. This is Rosie's favorite, as you can tell by the big smile in her pictures.
    • As luck would have it, there is a mediterranean restaurant next door that is divine! 
  • Page 158 Books
    • This is a little bookstore near downtown. It's more of a "mom and pop" bookstore. It’s very darling & compact inside. I’ve only taken Rosie inside because of the small space. Everyone was so kind to us and loved seeing how good Rosie was. 
    • There is a connecting cafe and picnic benches outside. However, pets are not allowed inside the cafe. Note: This is not a cafe with coffee. They recommended Black and White Coffee up the road.
    • During the week they have different events and fun things happening like different themed book clubs. 
    • Because of the space and amount of people, this wouldn't be the place to take Archer since he is still training on a leash. But it is perfect for dogs who are fully trained. 

These next two places we haven't taken the dogs, but we highly recommend going if you are ever in Wake Forest.

  • Paul & Jack Bakery and Cafe
    • This is a hidden gem in Wake Forest. Dogs cannot go into the bakery, but outside there is a sitting table with chairs and an umbrella.
    • Cory and I love this bakery because of the coffee and pastries. It is some of the best we have ever had. On a Saturday morning, busy is an understatement.
  • Black & White Coffee Roasters, Downtown Wake Forest
    • Marvelous coffee!  
    • Inside seating

 

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