Ready to relax with Rover? Our precious pups not only deserve vacations of their own, but they can also make amazing traveling companions!
Luckily, there are plenty of dog-friendly vacation ideas and destinations owners can visit. From the exotic to the familiar, we’ll discuss the best dog-friendly vacation destinations for you and your furball below!
No matter where you plan on visiting with your pooch, you’ll need somewhere to stay that’ll welcome your woofer with open arms.
We share some dog-friendly hotels for some of the destinations below, but if you’d like a little more elbow room, check out Take Paws — a site that advertises pet-friendly vacation homes.
It’s kinda like Airbnb, but it’s solely dedicated to rentals that allow four-footed visitors.
Our List of the Best Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations
Most of these vacation spots are in the United States, but there are a couple of international destinations for far-fetched furballs.
Just make sure that your pup’s passport is ready to go (no, pets don’t need actual “passports,” but they do need some key documents for international travel) and that you have an airline-approved carrier for your canine companion if you’re planning to fly on one of the best pet-friendly airlines!
Without further ado, check out these dog-friendly vacation destinations!
1. Seattle, Washington
The Emerald City is full of dog-friendly activities for you and your furball.
Among other attractions, you and your pooch can check out the trees growing at the beautiful Washington Park Arboretum or get your art appreciation on at Olympic Sculpture Park. The city is rich in dog-friendly parks, so there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after beautiful views, outdoor activities, or miles of hiking trails.
You could also check out any of the many dog-friendly restaurants or bars in Seattle. Not thirsty? No worries — there are tons of great traditional dog parks in Seattle.
Seattle also offers plenty of pet-friendly lodging and transportation options too. For example, the Monaco Hotel allows you to stay with up to two dogs for no extra charge, and your pooch can accompany you on the Seattle Center Monorail while you shuttle from one area to the next.
The sheer volume of pup-friendly places make Seattle a top destination for dogs and dog lovers on vacation. Just keep the wet weather in mind, plan ahead, and you’re sure to have an awesome time in this beautiful city.
2. Sedona, Arizona
Want to enjoy some nature-themed fun with your floof? Sedona, Arizona may be the perfect place!
This hound hotbed is home to a number of dog-friendly hiking trails that snake through Arizona’s trademark red rocks. After a long walk, you can cool off at the Canyon Breeze Restaurant, which offers breathtaking views and water bowls for your pooch.
As with most of the other dog-friendly locations we’re sharing here, Sedona offers great lodging opportunities, such as the luxurious El Portal Sedona Hotel. This establishment not only allows you to side-step pet fees, but it also offers a welcome “doggie basket” complete with treats, dog bags, and a blanket to keep your canine comfortable.
Your dog can accompany you at the Oak Creek Vineyards to enjoy endless wine and live music. And if you want a little more traditional four-footer fun, the Sedona Dog Park is another great choice for owners and pups visiting the area.
The miles of trails around the city and scenic views make Sedona a dream stop for outdoor adventures with your floof. The only major drawback is the heat, with the summer months a no-go for safe, outdoor fun with your pup.
3. Colorado Springs, Colorado
If you and your hound love to hike, it’s hard to find a more fitting vacation destination than Colorado Springs. You and your pooch can relax at the SCP Colorado Springs Hotel or enjoy a whole host of pet-friendly AirBnBs and VRBO properties (or, if you’re doing van life with your dog, there are plenty of camping spots, too!) This city’s plentiful pet-friendly accommodations make it a great stop while on a road trip with your Rover.
Your leashed pooch is welcome to accompany you to the gorgeous Garden of The Gods trail. For an off-leash adventure, your dog can dive into Bear Creek dog park complete with an agility area and refreshing creek.
For a bite to eat, head to the Pub Dog where you can dine indoors with your pooch or enjoy the onsite dog park. Cerberus Brewing Company also welcomes pups while offering delicious eats like truffle parmesan pub fries or Colorado lamb sliders to pair with a local beer.
The winter months can be brutal with the cold and snow, but it’s still a popular spot for cold-weather sports. This is also the perfect time to explore skijoring with your husky or malamute.
4. Lake Placid, New York
For a peaceful lakeside getaway, check out Lake Placid, New York. You and your dog can enjoy the comforts of High Peaks Resort, complete with complimentary beds and bowls, and a pet relief area in the resort courtyard.
Catch a bite at the dog-friendly restaurant Lisa G’s and order a puppy burger for your best buddy. Your pooch can also join you for drinks at Goose Watch Winery or Big Slide Brewery during the summer months.
When you’re not enjoying the lake or delicious bites, head with your hound to the Peninsula Nature Trails for some breathtaking views.
Lake Placid is great for all-season travel, though small pups and short-coated breeds may find the winter months too nippy.
5. Chicago, Illinois
The best way to get a sense of The Windy City is to hitch a ride on a dog-friendly cruise to explore the city’s waterways. Human and pooch provisions are served on board so that neither you nor your pooch will get parched.
Pet-friendly accommodations are easy to find, too, as the Downtown Aloft allows dogs up to 40 pounds to stay without any additional fee. They’ll even give you a dog kit complete with a bed, treat, bowls, and waste bags upon check-in.
Be sure you and your pooch check out some of Chicago’s best dog parks, cruise by Montrose Dog Beach, and then get a snack at The Perch Kitchen & Tap. You can also take in historical landmarks for a scenic stroll with your sniffer, like the Chicago Riverwalk, Navy Pier area, and the Magnificent Mile.
As with some other destinations, Chicago is best enjoyed outside of winter. The wind’s whipping in off Lake Michigan can be bone-chillingly cold, and the snows aren’t anything to sneeze at. That said, cold-weather breeds will be in their glory.
6. St. Augustine, Florida
This ancient city is a gorgeous beach destination for you and your fur baby. Whether you’re enjoying the dog-friendly North Beach or exploring America’s First Colony with your dog, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
There are plenty of dog-friendly hotels in the area, including the Smart Stay Inn, which welcomes dogs of all sizes.
After hanging out at some of Florida’s best dog-friendly beaches, you and your dog can grab a bite at the Beachcomber, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and delicious tacos. Several area bars and restaurants have dog-friendly patios, letting you take in the area’s awesome offerings with your best buddy in tow.
St. Augustine is perfect for year-round adventures, though some may find the summers too steamy to enjoy. Still, you can always cool off with your canine at one of the area’s dog-friendly, beautiful beaches.
7. Birmingham, AL
Think Spot would enjoy the Deep South? Consider heading down to Birmingham, Alabama. Although Birmingham may not be the most top-of-mind vacation destination, it offers a ton of dog-friendly attractions and opportunities.
For starters, make pup pit stop at the Cahaba Beach Dog Park. Here, your pooch can enjoy a large fenced-in space complete with trees, trails, and streams to explore. Like most parks, your doggo must be up to date on his vaccinations to enter, but he must also have a temperament check before being permitted to enter this particular pup entering the park.
You can also check out the 20 miles worth of scenic hiking trails at Red Mountain Park (just be sure to keep Lassie on a leash). Afterward, you can grab a craft beer at the dog-friendly Good People Brewing Company.
Lodging opportunities are also plentiful, and the local La Quinta Inn welcomes up to two dogs weighing 70 pounds or less for no additional fee.
Birmingham is a solid choice for year-round pawed adventures, though passing storms can make for dicey travel in March, April, and May.
8. Hilton Head, South Carolina
If you’re dreaming of beach days with your dog, head on down to Hilton Head with your canine companion. You can enjoy the dog-friendly beaches, take your dog out on a dolphin boat tour, or enjoy some time kayaking with your canine.
After having some fun on the beach, you can check in at the Palmera Inn and Suite which welcomes small and medium dogs for a small fee.
Once your stomach starts rumbling, you’ll want to check out The Sandbar Beach Eats, which welcomes four-footers and offers water bowls to visiting four-footers.
The city’s pleasant climate and beautiful beaches are ideal for year-round travel, but if you want to make the most of your fun in the sun, visit during the summer.
9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The City of Brotherly Love also serves as a great vacation spot for pet parents. It’s loaded with pet-friendly places and quite walkable, with historic parks and landmarks to explore.
For starters, we’d recommend grabbing a brew at Chesnut Hill Brewery with your pooch. They not only provide people with craft beverages, but this hound hub also offers water bowls and treats for your precious pup.
For a more artisanal flare, head to Pizzeria Vetri for a slice with Spot. After finishing lunch, consider strolling through Philly’s Magic Gardens or any of Philadelphia’s great dog parks with your floof.
There are also plenty of pet-friendly hotels available, but the Kimpton Palomar is one of the best for dogs. Furry friends are welcomed with open arms with treats, food bowls, and beds to keep your dog comfortable.
Philadelphia is best enjoyed in the spring, summer, and fall, as Pennsylvania winters can be bitter.
10. Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Are you more fond of the mountains than the beach? Well, be sure to check out Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania (which is named for the famous Native American athlete).
Among other things, you and your dog can enjoy the delicious eats and drinks at Fegley’s Brewpub. And then, after getting a bite, you and your pooch may want to explore the Leigh Gorge Scenic Railway or relax at the Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Later, when you’re ready to put your feet up and call it a night, be sure to check out the local Doubletree Hilton, which welcomes pets for a small fee.
Like Philadelphia, Jim Thorpe is best enjoyed during the spring, summer, and fall. Autumn especially offers stunning scenery thanks to the area’s changing foliage.
11. Bar Harbor, Maine
Your pooch can rest comfortably in Bar Harbor, Maine, at Gallagher’s Travels cabins, complete with a grassy pet relief area and complimentary waste bags. This nature lover’s paradise features plenty of sites for you and your furry friend to enjoy along the Ocean Path trail at Acadia National Park.
Make a point to stop by Stewmans’ Lobster Pound before leaving Bar Harbor. You and your pooch can dine to seaside views while chowing down on luscious lobster.
Bar Harbor is the ideal stop for a relaxing retreat with your retriever rather than a go-go rush of high-octane activities. It’s best enjoyed during the spring, summer, and fall, as Maine winters are harsh.
12. Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon is an amazing summer escape for you and your pooch, hosting endless dog-friendly craft breweries like 10 Barrel. When you and your dog aren’t enjoying the gorgeous mountains with hiking adventures, you can take a trip to the Big Sky dog park to make new four-footed friends.
Dogs are welcome to rest comfortably at stays like charming LOGE Bend hotel for a small fee that includes toys, beds, and treats for your furball.
Bend, Oregon, is a fun stop year-round, though plan accordingly for the region’s wet weather.
Stopping by Portland during your Oregon vacation? Check out some of Portland’s best dog parks, bars, and restaurants!
13. San Diego, California
Sunny San Diego, California is a great place to visit with your pupper.
In addition to all of the obvious sun-and-sand attractions, San Diego also happens to be home to the Original Dog Beach, one of the first beaches in which well-behaved pups can roam off-leash at any time of day. Fiesta Island is another favorite stop, along with Balboa Park.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you and Fido can sample some of the fresh catch at the Pacific Beach Fish Shop, or you and your pooch can visit one of San Diego’s dog-friendly bars or pet-friendly restaurants to chow down on an outdoor patio. Then, head back to Hotel Indigo, a spot that rolls out the welcome wagon for dogs by offering complimentary food, treats, bowls, and beds upon request.
San Diego is an excellent choice for year-round travel, as this city experiences stunning weather month to month. Just be sure to pack sun protection and stay hydrated!
14. Milwaukee, WI
Want to head to the midwest with your mutt? Check out dog-friendly Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
This often-overlooked vacation destination is full of off-leash dog parks like Granville Dog Park.
And don’t worry if your pooch gets a little messy! The Community Bark and Bath allows you to wash your pooch and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee at the same time.
In terms of canine-friendly accommodations, your dog is welcome at the Milwaukee Westin, where pups of any size are allowed to stay for no additional fee.
Milwaukee is best enjoyed during the late spring, summer, or early fall, as its winters are cold and snowy.
15. Grand Haven, Michigan
Want to enjoy the Great Lakes with your lapdog? Check out the beautiful Eastpoint Park and Resort in Grand Haven, Michigan. This pet-friendly paradise provides access to swimming, trails, kayak launches, and plenty of power if you’re traveling via RV with your dog.
For a bite to eat, head to Odd Side Ales with your hound for craft drinks and delicious eats. And after a long day of exploring, rest your head at the canine-friendly Rodeway Inn.
As with other midwest destinations, Grand Haven is best to visit during the late spring, summer, or early fall to avoid winter’s bite.
16. Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis, Indiana is a vibrant college town that’s full of good eats, fun sites, art galleries, and dog-friendly spaces with ample outdoor seating.
Kick off the fun with a visit to the 16-Bit Bar and Arcade where well-behaved woofers can stand by while you enjoy some radical retro games, ranging from Donkey Kong to Asteroids!
After vanquishing malevolent monkeys and meteors, you can load up on delicious eats from Fire by the Monon where your dog will be welcomed with treats and a bowl of fresh water.
Lodging is no problem, either, as your dog is welcome to stay with you at the Baymont Hotel for a small feel.
When should you visit this midwestern stop? Spring, summer, and fall are best, as the city does experience some snow and cold weather during winter.
17. Asheville, North Carolina
For an escape to the mountains with your mutt, check out Asheville, North Carolina with your furball. Here, you can rest easy at the canine-friendly Comfort Suites near the downtown arts district.
Your pooch may not be allowed in the local museums, but he can accompany you at various dog-friendly spots like the Malaprop’s Bookstore and the Universal Joint Asheville for good drinks and grub.
Spring and summer are popular times to visit this stop, though autumn can be even better, as the area’s foliage is downright breathtaking.
18. Charleston, South Carolina
Also know as the Holy City, Charleston, South Carolina has plenty for you and your pooch to enjoy.
For starters, your dog is welcomed at the fittingly named Barksdale House Hotel, which provides treats for your pooch and a grassy pet relief area on the premises.
Once you’re checked in and settled, you’ll have to turn your attention to chow time. For some good eats, take your pooch to the dog-friendly Taco Boy for some tasty tacos and magnificent margaritas.
And because it is always important to enjoy the specific things available in any vacation destination, we’d recommend taking your dog with you on an Old Charleston Ghost Tour for some frights with Fido.
Charleston’s weather makes year-round travel possible for you and your pup. Just be mindful of hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
19. Sarasota, Florida
In Sarasota, Florida you and Spot can enjoy a wealth of nature-oriented attractions!
Start at the Red Bug Slough Preserve where you and your dog can enjoy trails and picnic shelters for a midday snack.
Later, cool off with a frozen daiquiri alongside your pooch at Siesta Key Village, where your furball will be given a refreshing bowl of water while you chow down on local seafood.
Once it’s time to catch some Zs, check out the local Courtyard Hotel, where dogs are welcome for a small fee.
Sarasota’s weather makes year-round visits a breeze, but the summer months can be too hot and humid for some pet parents and pups.
20. Venice, Italy
Seeking a European getaway? Get swept off your feet in Venice, Italy!
A city famous for being super dog-friendly, Venice offers delicious eats at restaurants like Bacarretto, where your pooch is welcome to join you. Your dog can also accompany you on Venetian Water Taxi for some unfurgettable views of the city.
Whenever you need a break from strolling the picturesque city streets, you can recharge at the centrally-located Alloggi Barbaria Hotel where your pet is welcome at no additional cost.
Make the most of your Venice trip by visiting during the spring or summer.
21. Tokyo, Japan
Japan’s bustling capital city of Tokyo is surprisingly dog-friendly, and there are tons of things to do.
For starters, we’d recommend checking out the peaceful Yoyogi Park. This sprawling green space is full of forests and trails to keep you and your canine companion busy.
Dine in style at gourmet restaurants like Yasaiya, which provides gourmet food for you and your dog. Pups are also welcomed at the gorgeous Sheraton Grande, once you’re ready to rest from the excitement of the city.
The best time to visit Tokyo depends on your particular plans, though March, April, September, and November are the most popular months with travelers.
22. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
If you’ve never visited Canada, you’ll want to take this opportunity to head north with your pooch! And while there are plenty of great Canadian spots to visit, you should probably start by checking out the lively seaport of Vancouver.
Vancouver is one of the rare spots where you can enjoy the city, the mountains, and several beaches all in the same day! And you can do so while letting your four-footer tag along.
For example, your dog can enjoy bay views and off-leash fun at Hadden Park (don’t forget to snap a pic next to the Centennial Totem Pole with your pooch). Next, settle in with a beer with your best buddy at Black Kettle Brewing Company.
After a long day, you can relax in the vibrant heart of the city at the Sylvia Hotel with your pooch.
Best time to visit? Late spring, summer, and early fall make for magical trips.
23. Wilmington, NC
Wilmington, North Carolina is home to beautiful dog-friendly beaches and a long boardwalk that welcomes pups in the off-season. But if you’re vacationing in the busy season, dogs are welcome yearround at Flytrap Brewing, where you can enjoy craft beers in the lively arts district.
For a meal with your mutt, head to the delicious Bento Box Sushi. When you’re not enjoying the sandy shore, your pooch can join you at the Downtown Aloft Wilmington, where dog blankets, bowls, and frisbees (along with typical human hotel amenities) are provided.
Wilmington’s weather makes year-round adventures possible, though spring, summer, and fall offer the most fun.
24. Albuquerque, NM
Want to check out the desert with your dog? (Insert “hot dog” joke here.)
Albuquerque, New Mexico is a premium summer spot with lots of neat things to enjoy with your Spot.
For example, your pooch can join you on the open air Albuquerque Trolley to see the sites in style. For a play break, stop by the large Santa Fe Village Dog Park where you can enjoy views of the mountains while your dog enjoys off-leash play.
Seasons Rotisseries & Grill offers dog-friendly fine dining where you can enjoy grilled steak and scallops. The Shearton of Albuquerque welcomes pets for no extra fee and provides bowls and beds for your bestie.
The best time to visit Albuquerque depends on your trip’s agenda but be warned: summers get stifling. Use plenty of sun protection for you and your dog, and focus on hydration.
25. Fort Myers, FL
Fort Myers, Florida is a great place for you and your pooch to catch some rays alongside the Gulf of Mexico.
Start your visit by soaking up some sunshine during astroll at the quaint Green Market Farmer’s Market. Then, check out Buckingham Dog Park, where your pooch can enjoy off-leash fun or stretch his legs out on the many walking trails.
Later, when you get hungry, head to the dog-friendly Fat Katz Bistro for good drinks and yummy eats. You and your pooch can hen head over to the La Quinta Inn to recharge for no extra charge.
Fort Myers is the perfect place for year-round visits, though some may find the summer months too hot and sticky to enjoy.
26. Austin, TX
For the perfect blend of sun and city, check out Austin, Texas. Austin is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the United States, offering an entire pet-friendly peninsula at Red Bud Isle, where dogs are welcome to socialize off-leash and enjoy the trails and swimming holes.
For a drink, head to Dog House Drinkery, where you can enjoy a beer while Fido enjoys the extensive ½ acre dog park. Hotel accommodations are also plentiful in this hip little Texas town. For example, dogs of any size are welcome at gorgeous downtown spots like the South Congress Hotel for no additional fee.
Austin is a pawesome place to visit any time of the year with your pup, but the summer months definitely get hot. If you have a double-coated doggo or cold-weather breed, skipping a summer stop may be best to truly enjoy your visit.
27. Key West, FL
Key West is a popular U.S. vacation destination where you and your pooch can enjoy gorgeous beaches while soaking up the sunshine. When you’re not enjoying dog-friendly beaches like Higgs Beach, you can make your way to the Key West Aquarium to learn about marine life with your mutt (yup – the aquarium is dog friendly too!).
There are plenty of good island eats you can enjoy alongside your pooch, whether it’s the fish tacos at Geiger Key Marina or wood-fired pizza at Roostica. And Key West has no shortage of dog-friendly hotels, including the gorgeous Old Town Manor, which welcomes dogs of any size for a small fee.
Key West is a dream destination year-round, though hurricane season runs from June to November. You’ll also want to consider the heat, as it can get steamy and sticky like the rest of Florida.
28. Huntington Beach, CA
Want to check out the west coast with your woofer? Make your way to Huntington Beach, California, home to one of the best Dog Beaches around, Huntington Dog Beach! This public beach has grassy areas for your four-foot to enjoy, along with waste stations to help accommodate canine companions and keep things clean.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you and your pooch can chow down at The Bread Crumb, a delicious Hawaiian-themed diner. Then, consider trying out a craft beer at the dog-friendly Riip Beer Company while taking in the gorgeous palm trees.
For a relaxing stay, check out the Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel. Here, dogs are welcome to stay at no additional cost, and the hotel provides things like a bed, waste bags, and treats.
Huntington Beach’s pleasant weather makes it a great choice for year-round travel.
29. New York, NY
Should you and your pooch crave an urban vacation environment, you can always make your way to the Big Apple.
There’s certainly no shortage of things to do there, starting with the numerous dog parks located in and around the city. There are also tons of great dog-friendly restaurants and dog-friendly bars in New York City. We can’t forget about the walkable sites, either, including Central Park and Times Square.
Finding accommodations shouldn’t be difficult, as your pooch is welcome at several local historic hotels, such as The Roxy. And spots like the Kimpton Muse Hotel roll out dog beds, bowls, and treats to help your dog feel right at home.
New York City is best enjoyed during the spring, summer, and fall. Winters are bitterly cold, snowy, and packed with holiday travels that can turn your pupper trip into a hassle.
30. Edisto Island, SC
For a private and scenic getaway, check out the quiet Edisto Island, full of seaside views and southern hospitality.
If you have a water-loving pup, we’d recommend taking him for a romp around the off-leash dog beach, grassy area, and fenced-in run at James Island County Park. Then, after running, jumping, and playing all day, relax and chow down on fresh seafood from the dog-friendly Flowers Sea Food. From there, you can wash it all down with a craft beer from Palmetto Brewing Company.
In terms of accommodations, we’d recommend booking a spot for you and your pooch at the dog-friendly Best Western. Just be sure to take a moment and enjoy one of those gorgeous South Carolina sunsets at some point during your stay.
Great weather makes Edisto Island an excellent place to visit year-round with your woofer.
31. Napa, CA
Head to wine country with your woofer! Napa Valley is an endless source of natural-world wonder, where you can also enjoy great drinks alongside your furball. There are tons of dog-friendly wineries to choose from, so you can easily hop from oneto the next (but we’d recommend starting with the historic Regusci Winery).
If your pooch needs to release some energy, you can make your way to the fenced area of Alston Park for a quick game of fetch. Later, for a bite to eat, stop at the Napa General Store Restaurant to enjoy dinner by the river.
There are plenty of dog-friendly AirBnBs and VRBO properties around Napa, but if you’d prefer a more traditional hotel experience, pups of all sizes are welcome to stay at the Napa River Inn for a small fee.
The best time to visit Napa is during the harvest, which runs from August to November. Just expect peak crowds. Looking to skip the crowds? Visit off-season, but plan accordingly, as some accommodations may not be up and running.
32. Cleveland, OH
C-town is a midwest artist hub that’s full of dog-friendly spots for you to enjoy.
For example, you and your dog can unwind at the famed Taps and Tails dog bar. With a fenced-in dog park and plenty of treats for pooches, your dog will adore stopping off here. Or, if you’re looking for a larger meal, your dog can accompany you to the delicious Luxe Kitchen or enjoy sunset views at the farm-to-table Lindey’s Lake House.
Swanky suites at The Kimpton welcome dogs of all sizes with open arms. In addition to designated pet relief areas, this hotel makes bowls, treats, and beds available at the front desk, in case your pooch needs anything during his stay.
Cleveland’s midwestern location makes spring, summer, and fall visits ideal. Winter weather can make traveling to and from the city a real headache.
33. Sanibel Island, FL
For a quaint east-coast beach vacation, check out Sanibel Island – a tucked away and picturesque island. From dawn to dusk, you and your furball can enjoy the Sanibel Dog Beach, which features a number of dog amenities, including a doggie shower for rinsing off sandy paws.
Once you and your pupper have worked up an appetite, consider checking out Island Cow – a delicious, dog-friendly eatery with foods ranging from stuffed French toast and cow-a-bunga quesadillas. There are even dog-appropriate foods on the menu, so your pooch can enjoy an island bite.
As for lodging, you and Spot can stay down by the shore at the dog-friendly Anchor Inn & Cottages, though there also reportedly a ton of dog-friendly AirBnB and VRBO properties in the area too.
Sanibel Island is best to visit during the spring, summer, or fall with your pooch. Summers can be too humid for some pawrents and pups.
34. San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a mecca of muttastic activities, from visiting dog parks like Bernal Heights Park Off Leash Area and Fort Funston to kicking back with a cold one and your canine at a dog-friendly bar. Park Chalet is a fun stop for outdoor time and drinks with your doggo at your side, for example.
Stomach rumbling? No worries! San Francisco is home to heaps of dog-friendly restaurants, too. Brunch it up at Kitchen Story or dig into dinner at Pizzeria Delfina. Once you’re ready to settle in for the night, you’ll need a pup-welcoming hotel, and there are plenty in the city, including the Argonaut Hotel.
San Francisco is enjoyed year-round by visitors from around the world, though the best months to stop in are September, October, and November.
35. Cape May, NJ
Cape May, New Jersey, offers the ultimate Jersey shore escape for you and your canine with its beautiful beaches, charming architecture, and nostalgic feel. The town isn’t as hoppin’ with hound-friendly activities as other stops on our list, but Cape May is home to a walkable promenade for relaxing Rover strolls and Cape May Point State Park for more remote excursions with your canine.
Pet-friendly accommodations in Cape May include the Marquis de Lafayette Oceanfront Hotel and the more laidback Sun Outdoors campground.
Visiting Cape May during the summer is a human’s favorite, but the local beaches don’t permit barkers during this stretch. If you’re after beach access with your pup, you’ll have to visit between November and March when the weather isn’t at its warmest.
36. San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, Texas, offers loads of fun for you and your pawed travel buddy. From winding trails for hiking with your hound to shopping areas made for mutt exploration, this southern city has it all. Grab a bite in the dog-friendly seating area of Landry’s Seafood, or sip on something delicious with your pooch and make new two and four-legged friends at Hops and Hounds, an innovative bar-meets-dog-park.
If you’re more interested in unplugging with your pooch, head to Comanche Lookout Park or Government Canyon State Natural Area for a more rugged hike. Just be sure to pack plenty of water and keep your canine leashed.
Tired after a long day? Stay at a pup-friendly hotel, like The Westin Riverwalk or Crockett Hotel. Both are located in walkable areas perfect for exercising your floof before turning in for the night.
San Antonio summers sure can get stiflin’, so it’s best to visit this city in spring, fall, or winter.
37. Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma City, OK, isn’t everyone’s first thought of a dog-friendly destination, but this cowboy corner of the country offers ample canine fun, too! One of the coolest places to visit within the city is the Myriad Botanical Gardens, with leashed Rovers permitted on the outside grounds as you take in the area’s beauty. Another awesome stop is the Bert Cooper Trail, a 9.1-mile paved path around Lake Hefner.
If you work up an appetite with your woofer, head to one of the city’s dog-friendly restaurants, including HunnyBunny Biscuit Co. More interested in a liquid lunch? Venture to an area pet-friendly bar or brewery like Roughtail Brewing Company.
Rest up at one of Oklahoma City’s dog-friendly accommodations, such as the Fordson Hotel or the Skirvin Hilton. Pet fees apply, and extra may be charged if your doggo damages anything or the room needs special cleaning after your stay.
Skip visiting the city during tornado season, which runs from April to June yearly.
One Other Possibility: The Dog-Friendly Staycation
Some pups might not enjoy life on the road, but that’s OK! You and your pooch can save some cash and opt for a dog-friendly staycation, instead!
You can spend time at the dog park, go adventuring, set up an agility course, or whip up some DIY goodies for your furball. A staycation is an excellent opportunity to bond with your best buddy in new ways all from the comfort of your pooch palace.
Things to Look for in a Dog-Friendly Vacation Destination
This list contains a bunch of dog-friendly vacation spots, but it isn’t exhaustive! Here are some of the key components you’ll want to look for when headed to a dog-friendly destination:
- Are there dog-friendly facilities? Remember that not all hotels are dog-friendly. Some hotels will host pets for free, others will charge a fee, and some may impose weight limitations or evaluate dogs on a case-by-case basis. Just be sure to do your homework before hitting the road.
- Does the destination have dog-related services available? Hopefully, you never have to use these services, but your destination should have a veterinarian and emergency pet hospital nearby in case something goes awry. You should also plan on finding a local sitter or boarding facility to watch over your dog if you plan on spending any time apart.
- Are there enough activities to keep your dog engaged? Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean that your pup’s daily routine stops! He’ll need plenty of fun things to do! So, make sure you can keep up with your dog’s normal routine and keep him entertained with various activities at your desired destination.
- Are there dog-friendly eateries or breweries in the area? We have a list of our favorite dog-friendly restaurant chains that allow pups to eat alongside you, but it’s always nice to see if there are local-specific options as well.
Vacationing with Your Dog: Comfort and Safety Tips
Are you set on hitting the road with your furry friend? Here are some important comfort and safety tips to keep on your radar:
- Make sure your pooch is ready for a long trip. Try to build up to long travel with your dog gradually. Dogs may need practice in the car or staying in new places before committing to a long vacation in an unfamiliar environment.
- Plan out your route and incorporate your dog’s daily routine. Going to new places can be more challenging for some dogs than others, so you’ll need to be mindful of your mutt’s wellbeing.
- Double check that your dog is up to date on vaccinations. A pre-trip vet check is always wise to make sure your dog is ready for the road. This is not only a good idea for your dog’s well-being, but it is also necessary for some hotels, dog parks, and other attractions.
- Keep your dog safe in transit. If you’re road tripping with your dog, you need to make sure he’s secure and comfortable while traveling. Your pooch needs access to fresh water, and it’s essential to be mindful of sweltering temperatures when traveling in the hot summer months. Keep a doggie first aid kit and don’t forget to pack activities to keep Fido entertained.
- Be a good temporary neighbor. Your pooch needs to be on his best behavior while visiting other spots. Abide by the local leash laws, pick up your dog’s waste, and make sure your mutt has good manners before setting out.
Vacationing with your dog can be a magical experience for you and your mutt. Enjoy exploring these beautiful dog-friendly vacation destinations!
Do you travel with your dog? Which of these destinations is your favorite? Tell us about your experiences in the comments below!
Leave a Comment