In this article
Dog-Friendly Destinations Only Well-Traveled Owners Will Explore
Traveling with your four-legged companion adds an unparalleled layer of excitement and bonding to your journey. Discovering hidden gems where both you and your pup are welcome can make for unforgettable adventures.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, finding the perfect dog-friendly destination requires a bit of research and creativity.
Accommodations that cater to furry friends are becoming more numerous, offering amenities that go beyond the basic. Connoisseurs of travel with their pups look for those unique spots that invite both them and their dogs to relax and explore.
From quaint cottages in the countryside to vibrant cities with canine-centric attractions, there are endless opportunities to create wonderful memories with your loyal companion.
Here’s a table showing the key features of top dog-friendly destinations well-travelled ownsers will explore:
1. Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island provides an escape with its pet-friendly beaches and accommodations. Dogs can run off-leash on the sandy shores or join you for a coastal walk.
- Attractions: Mohegan Bluffs, Southeast Lighthouse
- Accommodations: The Island Home Inn, Block Island Beach House
- Activities: Beach walks, ferry rides
2. Nantucket, Massachusetts
A quintessential New England getaway, Nantucket is known for its laid-back lifestyle and beautiful landscapes, making it perfect for dog-friendly vacations.
- Attractions: Brant Point Lighthouse, Cisco Brewers
- Accommodations: The Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin, White Elephant
- Activities: Sconset Bluff Walk, dog-friendly patio dining
3. Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Steeped in history with a charming downtown, Jim Thorpe welcomes pet travelers with open arms, offering numerous outdoor activities and historic sites.
- Attractions: Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, Asa Packer Mansion
- Accommodations: The Inn at Jim Thorpe, Harry Packer Mansion Inn
- Activities: Hiking the Glen Onoko Falls, exploring the downtown area
4. Lake Placid, New York
Known as a winter sports haven, Lake Placid also offers year-round dog-friendly activities, combining luxury with nature.
- Attractions: Mirror Lake, Adirondack Mountains
- Accommodations: Lake Placid Lodge, The Whiteface Lodge
- Activities: Canoeing, dog-friendly snowshoeing
5. Stowe, Vermont
Adventure awaits in Stowe, where the Green Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for a variety of dog-friendly hikes and cozy accommodations.
- Attractions: Stowe Mountain Resort, Smugglers' Notch State Park
- Accommodations: Topnotch Resort, Trapp Family Lodge
- Activities: Hiking the Pinnacle Trail, visiting Stowe's dog park
6. Bar Harbor, Maine
Maine is synonymous with lobster and scenic coastal walks. Bar Harbor offers these and more, with numerous pet-friendly parks and accommodations.
- Attractions: Acadia National Park, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
- Accommodations: Bar Harbor Inn, West Street Hotel
- Activities: Carriage roads walks, Diver Ed's Dive-In Theater
7. Chicago, Illinois
Known for its bustling city life, Chicago also prides itself on being inclusive to four-legged visitors, with pet-friendly restaurants and parks.
- Attractions: Navy Pier, Millennium Park
- Accommodations: The Talbott Hotel, Hotel Lincoln
- Activities: Lakeshore Drive walk, Montrose Dog Beach
8. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee's beer gardens and park system make it a paradise for dog owners seeking a city experience with plenty of outdoor spaces.
- Attractions: Milwaukee RiverWalk, Estabrook Beer Garden
- Accommodations: Ambassador Hotel, The Iron Horse Hotel
- Activities: Oak Leaf Trail, visiting the city's dog parks
9. Grand Haven, Michigan
Grand Haven's sunset views and pet-friendly beach areas are ideal for travelers seeking a blend of lake life and small-town charm.
- Attractions: Grand Haven Lighthouse and Pier, Rosy Mound Natural Area
- Accommodations: Looking Glass Beachfront Inn, Harbor House Inn
- Activities: Walks by the beach, Grand Haven State Park
10. Cleveland, Ohio
With a rich rock 'n' roll history, Cleveland offers dog-friendly attractions and a vibrant downtown perfect for pet travel enthusiasts.
- Attractions: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, West Side Market
- Accommodations: Kimpton Schofield Hotel, Aloft Cleveland Downtown
- Activities: Visiting Edgewater Park, Downtown walks
11. Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis combines city life with green spaces, offering dog parks and pet-friendly accommodations in the heart of the Midwest.
- Attractions: Indianapolis Cultural Trail, White River State Park
- Accommodations: The Alexander, Ironworks Hotel Indy
- Activities: Canal Walk, Broad Ripple Dog Park
12. St. Augustine, Florida
As one of the nation's oldest cities, St. Augustine's pet-friendly environment and historical sites ensure a good time for history buffs and their dogs.
- Attractions: Castillo de San Marcos, Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
- Accommodations: Casa Monica Resort & Spa, St. Francis Inn
- Activities: Ghost tours, Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Park
13. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head is a slice of paradise with its dog-friendly beaches and golf courses where pets are allowed, offering southern charm and relaxation.
- Attractions: Harbour Town Lighthouse, Sea Pines Forest Preserve
- Accommodations: Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort, Sonesta Resort
- Activities: Bike rides, beach days at Burkes Beach
14. Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
In Shenandoah Valley, dog owners can immerse themselves in pet-friendly hiking trails and scenic views, all embraced by historic southern charm.
- Attractions: Skyline Drive, Luray Caverns
- Accommodations: Mimslyn Inn Historic Hotels Of America, Hotel Laurance
- Activities: Hiking in Shenandoah National Park, visiting wineries
15. Birmingham, Alabama
The heart of Alabama offers dog-friendly parks and a love for music and food, presenting a perfect mix of urban excitement and green spaces.
- Attractions: Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Vulcan Park and Museum
- Accommodations: Elyton Hotel, The Redmont Hotel
- Activities: Exploring Railroad Park, attending local food festivals
16. Austin, Texas
Austin's greenbelt and rivers provide an incredible setting for outdoor adventures with your dog, including hikes, park visits, and enjoying the music scene.
- Attractions: Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Metropolitan Park
- Accommodations: South Congress Hotel, Austin Motel
- Activities: Paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, exploring the Greenbelt
17. Sedona, Arizona
Renowned for its vortexes and scenic views, Sedona is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, complete with dog-friendly trails and stunning red rock vistas.
- Attractions: Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock
- Accommodations: Amara Resort and Spa, L'Auberge de Sedona
- Activities: Hiking in Sedona's red rocks, visiting the dog park
18. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque offers a unique blend of history, desert landscapes, and dog-friendly activities, from hot air ballooning to exploring ancient ruins.
- Attractions: Petroglyph National Monument, Sandia Peak Tramway
- Accommodations: Hotel Chaco, Hotel Parq Central
- Activities: Ballooning, hiking in the Sandia Mountains
19. Huntington Beach, California
Surf City USA is not just for surfers but also welcomes dogs with open arms, featuring dog-friendly beaches and sunny adventures.
- Attractions: Huntington Dog Beach, Huntington Central Park
- Accommodations: The Waterfront Beach Resort, Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel
- Activities: Dog surfing competitions, beachside strolls
20. Colorado Springs, Colorado
For the mountain-loving dog, Colorado Springs offers outdoor activities ranging from hiking to adventures among the iconic red rocks.
- Attractions: Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak
- Accommodations: The Broadmoor, Garden of the Gods Club and Resort
- Activities: Exploring Red Rock Canyon Open Space, visiting Bear Creek Dog Park
Off-The-Beaten-Path Treasures For Dog Owners
Traveling with dogs offers more than just company; it's about creating an unbreakable bond between you and your four-legged friend.
And when the usual dog parks and trails become too familiar, venturing off-the-beaten path can lead to hidden treasures that are both enriching for your pet's health and personality.
Hidden Surfing Gems in California For those with sea-loving dogs, embrace the waves and coastal charm with Good Kharma Surf instruction in Huntington Beach, CA.
- Always keep a water dish handy
- Bring a sturdy leash for safety on the sand
Back Road Adventures in Utah and Texas Utah's Grosvenor Arch and Texas's Big Bend State Park offer isolated spots perfect for camping and hiking with dogs. These locales require some effort to reach but reward with peace, beauty, and spacious campsites.
- Pack medications and ensure a rabies vaccine is up-to-date
- Contact a local veterinarian beforehand
Luxurious Escapes for Posh Pups Certain destinations cater to owners wanting to pamper their pets. Cabo San Lucas’s Nobu Hotel Los Cabos offers an exotic, upscale experience for sophisticated canines.
- Plan the route carefully, considering stops for exercise and rest
- Check for dog-friendly amenities before booking
Michigan's Coastal Retreat Grand Haven, Michigan, boasts dog-friendly beaches and green spaces. The Must Love Dogs Boutique & Spa further invites dogs for a day of pampering.
- Remember, variety is the spice of life, also for your dog
- Exploring new terrains can be stimulating for your pet
Aspen and Kimpton are known for their pet-friendly accommodations, but exploring local New Hampshire trails or historic Route 66 can offer just as much joy. Their open spaces and scenic beauty make for a perfect setting to travel and explore with your canine companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Embarking on an adventure with your furry friend is not just a joy but a special way to strengthen bonds. This frequently asked questions section provides you with insights into the best dog-friendly destinations that cater to both your needs and those of your four-legged companion, ensuring that every escapade is fun-filled and hassle-free.
What cities in Europe roll out the red carpet for pups and their owners?
Europe is a wonderland for canine companions, with cities like Amsterdam and Berlin leading the pack when it comes to welcoming dogs. Cafes, parks, and even some shops in these cities open their doors to dogs, offering water bowls and treats to make sure your pet feels just as cherished as you do.
I'm curious, which states would you say are the most inviting for four-legged travelers?
Colorado and Vermont stand out for their pet-friendly attitude. They offer an array of outdoor activities perfect for dogs who love to hike, swim, and explore the great outdoors alongside their owners.
Are there any cities on the East Coast where my dog can enjoy a vacation as much as I do?
Absolutely. The East Coast is dotted with pet-welcoming cities, with Boston and Savannah being prime examples. Dog-friendly beaches, parks, and even tours make these cities delightful for your dog to discover.
I'm planning a trip around the USA, which cities should I consider for a tail-wagging good time?
When touring the USA, be sure to drop by dog-loving cities such as Portland, Oregon, and San Diego, California. They are known for their inclusive vibe, with pet-friendly hotels, eateries, and parks that are perfect for playtime and relaxation.
Let's travel the globe! Which countries are known for embracing our furry friends with open arms?
Countries like Canada, France, and Norway are celebrated for their pet-friendly policies. Dogs are often allowed in public transport and dining spaces, making these countries fantastic for a global adventure with your pup.
