Petals & Pups

Petals and Pups is the official dog-friendly program of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, dedicated to hounds and their humans, honouring Toowoomba’s first canine Ambassa-dog, ‘Puppy’ the Pomeranian.

Toowoomba is a dog-friendly community and furry friends are absolutely welcome at many Carnival events and parks, with over 27 off-leash parks, plus plenty of dog-friendly accommodation, cafes and restaurants. 

Check out these itineraries to plan the the perfect Petals and Pups weekend: 

For Cultured Canines 

If spending a weekend strolling through perfectly manicured gardens, taking in amazing art, and indulging in a long lunch (all with your canine companion by your side) sounds like your perfect day, then this is the paw-fect option for you. Start the day getting lost in the laneways of Toowoomba, exploring the fantastic street art scene before visiting the iconic Picnic Point parkland (164 Tourist Rd, Toowoomba) - a must do on the Cultured Canine list!

After a busy morning, stop in at Park House Café (92 Margaret St, Toowoomba) opposite Queens Park to enjoy a delicious long lunch. Make sure you request an outdoor table so your pup can join you right at the table. Following your long lunch, stroll directly across the road to Queens Park (43-73 Lindsay St, Toowoomba) where the off-leash dog park is a social hub for both small and large breeds.

For Pampered Pups

Start the day right with a puppuccino (and cappuccino) from Grinds Espresso Rail (2/255 Margaret St) in the heart of Toowoomba’s CBD. Get your puppuccino to go or enjoy it al fresco before setting off on a day of indulgence. 

Book in for a quick wash and blow dry at Toowoomba Grooming (6/100 Hill St, Newtown) to make sure your pup is looking their best. Make sure you book well in advance as clients travel from interstate to get a signature cut with the experienced team. 

Following a busy day of salons, shopping and snacks, visit Laurel Bank Park (50 Hill St, Toowoomba); stop and smell the flowers and take some selfies to send to friends. 

For Adventure Dogs 

Following a hearty breakfast, head to Garnet Lehmann Park (1A Aberdeen St, Rangeville) for a bushland adventure. Here your BFF (best furry friend) can explore the designated off-leash area featuring bridges, natural waterways and stepping stones. This beautiful park is always filled with like-minded adventure dogs who love the freedom to stretch their legs and get back to nature.

If rolling hills as far as the eye can see and the freedom to roam are your thing, then Dr Alex Horn Park (55 Stuart St, Harlaxton) is for you! Expert tip – go in the late afternoon when the sun is setting over the hills; it's the perfect end to a big day of adventures!

Toowoomba locals will tell you the café scene is worth sticking around for! Plan your day around stopping in for fresh local produce filled eats and master-brewed coffee at some of the region’s best dog-friendly cafés.

• 95 Mary Street – 95 Mary St, Toowoomba
• Burrow Café – 117a Bridge St, East Toowoomba
• Cafe Valetta – 96 Margaret St, Toowoomba
• Gip’s Restaurant – 120 Russell St, Toowoomba
• Ground Up Espresso Bar – 501 Ruthven St, Toowoomba
• New Brew Café – 102 Taylor St, Toowoomba
• Ortem Café & Events – 15 Railway St, Toowoomba
• Park House Café – 92 Margaret St, Toowoomba
• Picnic Point Restaurant – 165 Tourist Rd, Toowoomba
• The Chocolate Cottage – 10475 New England Hwy, Highfields
• The Finch – 2/469-473 Ruthven St, Toowoomba
• Urth Cafe – 195 Hume St, Toowoomba

To ensure your pooch day is pawsome make sure you pack a water bottle, bowl, leash, harness, poop bags, familiar food and snacks, and a ball or frisbee to chase.

Having a great time and need another night to enjoy the activities? There are several dog-friendly accommodation options in Toowoomba and the surrounding areas, from cute cottages and farm stays to caravan parks, motels and more.

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com