dog friendly travel destinations

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Sweepstakes
• Living with Pets
• Traveling with Pets

20 Top Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations for You and Your Best Travel Buddy

Calling everyone who can't bear the thought of not being with your dog for more than 24 hours... here's the perfect guide to exploring the world with your furry companion.

• Choosing a Destination
• International

It was mid-2008 when Amy Burkert and her husband Rod found themselves adopting a stray German shepherd . The puppy was found near their home in Philadelphia, and after a few weeks of looking for his family to no avail, they decided to adopt him as their own and name him Buster. The issue? The couple, who at the time had a small dog named Ty, was planning a huge trip up to Canada about a month later and hadn't accounted for two dogs coming along.

Burkert searched online for dog-friendly hotels and dog parks along their route but didn't come up with much. The trip went well, but the experience taught her that other people probably were also looking for the same information.

In 2009, she launched GoPetFriendly.com , a comprehensive pet travel platform that quickly took off. Soon after, she and Rod, both who work remotely for their CPA firm, sold their place in Philly, hit the road in an RV, and haven't looked back since.

"In a few months, we will have been on the road for 11 years," Burkert says, adding that Ty and Buster have sadly passed, and they now have a new pup named Myles. "We love it, and by doing that with our dogs, we are walking the talk."

Since we're all attached to our dogs at the hip, here are some of Burkert's recommendations for how you can bring them along for a vacation.

How to Choose a Dog-Friendly Vacation Destination

Consider your itinerary.

There are many things to consider when traveling with your dog , from where you'll go to how you'll get there to fun activities to do along the way. While in the decision-making phase, Burkert recommends thinking about what you and your dog like to do together first.

"Do you like to go to the beach?" she asks. "What about hiking? Exploring cities? Or sitting at a coffee shop watching people walk by? It's important to think about how much your dog physically can and would want to do and what you'd want to do together."

And be prepared to make a few sacrifices for your four-legged companion. Dog-friendly vacation spots can come in various forms. Taking a road trip with your dog to New York City, for example, may not seem like a good spot because of the population density, but there are actually tons of great green spaces for your dog to play.

"That said, you might consider sacrificing your trip to the Guggenheim if you're with your dog," she says.

Think About Where You'll Stay

Your choice of accommodations is another important thing to keep in mind when planning your trip. While some locations have hotels that allow pets , other destinations with more natural surroundings might require flexible arrangements like renting a unique Airbnb or camping.

"A lot of people think that camping is a wonderful thing to do with a dog on vacation, but not if you're planning on leaving him or her in the camper all day," Burkert says. "That isn't much of a vacation for your pet. Instead, try to find a place that will work for you both."

As you decide the best vacation destination for your family (fur babies included), these Burkert-recommended places both domestic and international might just do the trick.

Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations on the East Coast

Eastern vermont.

Among the places on the East Coast to take your dog on vacation, a place called Dog Mountain in the Eastern Vermont town of St. Johnsbury ranks highly for Burkert.

"The people managing it have turned what was a dairy farm into an off-leash dog heaven," she says. "There is a pond, trails, even a dog chapel."

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

The town of Jim Thorpe , Pennsylvania, is home to the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway , which offers breathtaking trips through the Pocono Mountains. According to Burkert , the trip is a must for dog owners and is among the best dog-friendly vacation spots in the eastern U.S.

Bar Harbor, Maine

The 5,500-person town of Bar Harbor, Maine on Mount Desert Island is a great place to bring your pet companion, especially if you're interested in hiking at Acadia National Park . This island is the best of both worlds with mountains and sandy beaches within the park, and pet-friendly patios for eating in town. Doggie visitors are encouraged and there are tons of trails both you and your pup will enjoy.

Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations on the West Coast

Bend, oregon.

The 100,000-person town in central Oregon is so obsessed with dogs that they are allowed almost everywhere. Dog-friendly hiking trails are abundant at the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range, and within the city limits, you'll find many outdoor food carts , food truck parks, and breweries (including the award-winning Deschutes Brewery ), all of which welcome dogs.

San Diego, California

Sunny San Diego is among one of the best dog-friendly vacation spots thanks to its many open areas that accommodate them. If your pup likes to play on the beach, there are plenty of dog beaches and off-leash dog parks in and around this SoCal city. Check out Fiesta Island in Mission Bay, or Morley Field Dog Park in San Diego's famed Balboa Park .

If you're a lover of the sea, take advantage of SD's coastal location and rent a boat or a yacht to let your dog feel the wind in her hair. If you're looking for an activity that will satisfy your pup's competitive nature, catch a Padres baseball game at Petco Park where they have a special viewing area called The Barkyard just for people and their pets.

Northern Arizona

Many people are surprised to learn that Grand Canyon National Park , located in Northern Arizona, is a vacation spot that allows dogs. As Burkert explains , the South Rim is your best bet if you're bringing your furry friend.

Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in the Midwest

Chicago, illinois.

"I love going to Chicago with dogs ," says Burkert. She suggests checking out the trails along Lake Michigan and exploring Navy Pier, as just a few examples of things to do.

When you get hungry, grab a slice on the patio with your pup at Paradise Park or a pint at Empirical Brewery , which is also home to a colony of beloved brewery cats .

Grand Haven, Michigan

Grand Haven is a picturesque town on Michigan's West Coast loved by tourists and their dog companions alike, mainly for the number of greenspaces and beaches. Grand Haven City Beach is a great place to go with your pup on a warm summer day. The vacation town even boasts the Must Love Dogs Boutique & Spa , a pet-friendly shopping spot where you can bring your pup to sniff around the store.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis is filled with great places to take your dog on vacation, including breweries, outdoor restaurants, and open spaces like White River State Park . The city's growing number of outdoor dining spots that allow dogs makes Indy a no-brainer for foodies bringing along their fur babies.

Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in the Southern U.S.

Asheville, north carolina.

The sprawling Biltmore Estate in Asheville, N.C., allows dogs on its grounds and outdoor patios (but not inside buildings). Still, at more than 8,000 acres to explore, it's absolutely worth bringing along the pooch, especially on a beautiful day. Once you've gotten your steps in stomping around the mansion gardens, the nearby town of Asheville has a ton of pet-friendly activities for the two of you to take on, as well. Check out the street art in downtown Asheville, or sniff out some local goodies at one of the town's many bustling outdoor farmer's markets. After you've gotten your fix of city life, head out to explore the miles of trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains and book a camping spot for your and your furry friend to soak in the sounds of nature.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is one of the most dog-friendly U.S. cities on our list, featuring many pets-allowed restaurants like Brown Dog Deli and Poogan's Porch , named after the friendly neighborhood dog who greeted guests until he passed in 1979.

If your dog wants to live like a princess for a day, Charleston Carriage Works offers historical tours of the city and allows dogs to come along for the ride in style. When you're ready to stretch your legs, check out Charleston's beaches at Sullivan's Island and Morris Island . If the weather isn't favorable, take your dog for a dip in the indoor dog pool at Wag-n-Splash .

Sarasota, Florida

Brohard Beach and Paw Park is among the top places to go in Sarasota if you have a pup in tow. The beach is especially accommodating for pet parents with its dog showers and fire hydrants for puppy bathroom breaks, according to Burkert.

International Dog-Friendly Vacation Ideas

Before you head out on an international adventure with your favorite travel buddy, keep in mind that there can be potential health risks when taking your dog on long flights . It may make more sense to explore the spots where you can safely bring your dog along in the car on a road trip, or even via train travel , before booking a trip to one of these pet-friendly international cities. As always, it's best to talk with your veterinarian about whether it's safe for your dog to accompany you on long flights or to visit other countries. Your vet will help you understand the risks and what you need to know before your pup gets a new passport stamp.

Venice, Italy

While may not be many sprawling greenspaces in Venice, dogs are still welcome in the charming Italian city limits. Pups are allowed in many water boats and are able to stroll the street with you. Just be aware that sometimes the small alleyways can be crushingly busy, so it's best to go in the off-season in November–March so your pup's not overwhelmed with the crowds.

Tokyo, Japan

Japan celebrates six native dog breeds , called the Nihon Ken, which have been designated as national monuments. So as you can imagine, the country is incredibly dog-friendly . Dogs are allowed in hotels, stores, and some restaurants, and there are tons of dog parks for them to run in cities like Tokyo. Some of the best of the capital city include Yoyogi Park Dog Run , Honmoku Sancho Park , and Ueno Park .

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Recognized as one of North America's most dog-friendly cities, Vancouver is well-known as a great destination for dogs and their human counterparts looking for an adventure. While here, make a stop at any (or all!) of the great beaches or off-leash parks throughout the city, and don't miss a day playing at the world-renowned Stanley Park and Arboretum.

When you get hungry, take an afternoon stroll through the Mainstreet Station Farmer's Market on Wednesdays in the summer months. Or explore all that Granville Island public market has to offer, from food to art to some pretty cool historical architecture, any day of the week. Outside of the city limits, Vancouver also has a lot to offer nature lovers, including some of the best hiking you'll ever do in every season.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Best Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations: 37 Pawesome Places

Dog Care Pet Travel

WRITTEN BY:

Kate Brunotts

July 14, 2022

No Comments

K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

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 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kiva the Mini Aussie (@fluffybuns.kiva)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Oreo & Toffee (@oreo.toffee.cookies)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 4 Colorado Dogs (@4coloradodogs)

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 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by High Peaks Resort, Lake Placid (@highpeaksresort)

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 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shadow & Dijon 🐾 (@thelopespack)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honey🐝 Mallard (@honeyshoundstagram)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alabama Outdoors (@alabamaoutdoorsofficial)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by FairyDogmotherHHI (@fairydogmotherhhi)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maple 🍁 (@miss_maple_may)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bri Kay (@brikay2)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Beyond the Fence (@dogsonadventure)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by DOG PACK COLLARS (@dogpackcollars)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tucker 🐶👑 (@princetuckercavapoo)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jen | MKE Dog Photographer (@dogsofmke)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Clover.go.Lightly (@clover.go.lightly)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tito Teet Teeters (@titospuppymade)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carrie Strehlau (@cstrehlau)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ⚪️⚫️🐾Talas The Dalmatian 🐾⚪️⚫️ (@talas_is_king)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Scott Curts (@scottcurtsmusic)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dogs of Timisoara (@dogsoftimisoara)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Walter ウォルター (@walterblackstaffy)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mocha | City dog lifestyle (@mocha.bestdog)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bertolli (@bertolli.italiano)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Benny Wigglebottom (@bennythebravestboi)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lakeland Florida Photographer (@claretinsleyphotography)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Piper (@piperpotamus)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by River Grace & Costa Bean (@river.grace_and_costa.bean)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cooper & Crosby (@cooperandcrosby)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ✵ BERNIE ✵ (@bigcitybernie)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sarah Mcgraw Photography (@sarah_mcgraw_photography)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Milo And Friends Pet Boutique (@miloandfriendspetboutique)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Moosethegoldenretriever (@moosethegoldenretriever)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ROWAN (@rowanwithhishomies)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ✨ LILO ✨ (@lilo_lovebug)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stormy (@stormy_potato_dog)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Waffles 🧇 (@waffles_the_wonder_dog)

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

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tara Schneider (@dr_tara_schneider)

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! 

Like it? Share it!

Recommended For You

Puppy Blues: 17 Tips for Dealing with the Puppy Blues

8 Tips for RV Traveling With Dogs

Join our pup pack!

Get tons of great dog training tutorials, canine gear guides, and the latest doggy discounts.

No comments

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Also Worth Your Time

The 17 Most Vocal Dog Breeds: A Shelter Worker’s Answers

Should You Get a 2nd Dog? How to Expand the Pack Safely!

12 Best Dog Car Barriers: Keeping Pups in the Back Seat!

19 Essential Tips to Know Before Flying With Your Dog

19 Ways to Cure Dog Car Anxiety

Beginner’s Guide to Kayaking With Your Dog

Dog Boating Safety Tips: What to Know Before Setting Out to Sea [Infographic]

+1 (512) 720-6136

[email protected]

Marrsipan Media LLC 5900 Balcones Drive #17677 Austin, TX 78731, USA

© Copyright 2024 by K9 Of Mine / Marrsipan Media LLC

USEFUL LINKS

About K9 of Mine

Privacy Policy

Terms of Use

K9ofMine.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Additionally, K9ofMine.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links.

K9ofMine.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. While we provide information resourced and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance.

20 perfect pet-friendly vacation spots across America

Our pets become members of the family the moment we take them home. They keep us endlessly entertained with their adorable antics, cheer us up when we’re feeling down, and somehow manage to eat up our phone’s memory with cute photos. For all the joy your beloved companion brings you, don’t leave him or her in the kennel on your next vacation—take them along with you on a pet-friendly getaway!

We’ve compiled a list of locations around the United States that offer attractions and accommodations perfect for both humans and pets. Your furry BFF will thank you for this vacation from his or her grueling daily routine of walks, pats, and kibble. Pack up some treats and let us help you plan a pet-friendly vacation you’ll want to remember forever (and maybe add a few gigs of data to your phone before you leave).

No matter where you’re heading, Tripadvisor can help plan your whole itinerary. We check up to 200 booking sites to bring you the lowest price on hotels, plus we have thousands of bookable tours, excursions, attraction tickets, and more directly on our site. Our new 24-hour cancellation policy (for in-destination experiences) means you can pre-book before arriving, but still have the flexibility to cancel if your itinerary changes.

Wilmington, NC

A historic city by the beach, consider Wilmington for a fun-filled and pet-friendly vacation . You and your canine BFF will enjoy a visit to Halyburton Park for its beautiful walking trails, complete with a playground for the kids. Just a short drive away is Freeman Park , a large and dog-friendly beach. The Java Dog Coffee House is a dog-friendly spot with an artsy atmosphere and delightful cafe fare. For lodging, the TownePlace Suites welcome dogs and are located just a short walk from Wrightsville Beach. For a quainter vibe, Camellia Cottage Bed and Breakfast is also dog-accommodating!

Albuquerque, NM

New Mexico’s oldest city in the heart of the southwest, Albuquerque is a dog-friendly getaway with tons of attractions for you and your beloved pup . Nature lovers will enjoy a hike on La Luz Trail , which offers incredible views of the Sandia Mountain Range. If you happen to be visiting in October, the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival is a once-in-a-lifetime attraction both you and your dog will love. The Backstreet Grill offers Mexican fare with a dog-friendly patio, and for some of the best breakfast in town, bring your pup along to The Grove Cafe and Market . Rest comfortably in the centrally located and pet-friendly Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown .

Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown

Fort Myers, FL

Warm, sunny Fort Myers may be just what you’re looking for while planning your pet-friendly getaway! Enjoy the sand and surf with your dog in tow at Bonita Beach Dog Park , or go for a scenic walk through trails, lakes, and gardens at Lakes Regional Park . Dine with a view at casual, dog-friendly Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Cafe , or indulge at LaMotta’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria . The boutique Hotel Indigo will comfortably accommodate you and your pet in historic and lively Fort Myers River District.

Hotel Indigo Ft Myers Dtwn River District, an IHG hotel

Asheville, NC

For an active and scenic pet-friendly vacation, bring your beloved companion to Asheville . Take in breathtaking mountain views with several look-out points on a drive up Blue Ridge Parkway (while Fido’s tongue flaps happily in the wind). There are plenty of tours that start right in Asheville . Visit the pet-friendly North Carolina Arboretum , a location famous for its beautiful and diverse gardens. For a delicious bite, Asheville Pizza and Brewing is a pet-friendly local favorite. The Cambria Hotel and Suites offer comfortable lodging for you and your pet right in the heart of downtown Asheville.

Blue Ridge Parkway

South Lake Tahoe, CA

Dog-friendly beaches and more await you and your barking best friend in South Lake Tahoe . Take your dog to Kiva Beach for a splash with views of the mountains across the lake, or hike Rubicon Trail to see its spectacular natural beauty. The Brewery at Lake Tahoe is a famous and dog-friendly spot for craft beer and classic American cuisine. Hotel Azure , located right across from the lakeshore, is a great option for pet-friendly lodging.

The lively city of Austin is a dog-friendly getaway with seemingly endless pet-friendly activities. Red Bud Isle Park is an easy-to-get-to off-leash island park where your dog can splash in the water while you take in the beautiful views on foot or by kayak! The Domain is a downtown shopping neighborhood that is almost completely dog-friendly, so worry not as you shop to your heart’s content. For a dining experience to remember, the historic Scholz Garten is a can’t miss—dogs are welcome in the outdoor biergarten. Last but not least, Omni Austin Hotel Downtown is just one of several completely pet-friendly lodging options in a great, central location.

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown

Key West, FL

Key West is a pet-friendly trip idea for human and canine beach lovers alike. Let your pup go free at no-leash-required Key West Dog Beach . You can even bring him or her along to view the fascinating aquatic life at the expansive Key West Aquarium . Be sure to visit Island Dogs Bar for live music, local fare, and—as its name implies—dogs! A stay at the waterfront Margaritaville Key West Resort and Marina will leave you and your dog relaxed and ready to take on the city together.

Opal Key Resort & Marina Key West

Huntington Beach, CA

Tons of dog-friendly beaches are available to you in beautiful Huntington Beach , including Huntington Dog Beach or the smaller Rosie’s Dog Beach . Several concerts and community events are held throughout the year at dog-friendly Huntington Central Park . Beach-themed Mexican restaurant Seafood Zone is a local favorite, or indulge in comfort food from around the globe at the Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar ! Stay comfortably without breaking the bank at the pet-accommodating Hotel Huntington Beach .

Rosie's Dog Beach

Block Island, RI

Your dog will love sniffing the salty air in gorgeous Block Island , a pet-friendly vacation idea worth considering. Go for a scenic walk or bike ride with the pup at Mohegan Bluffs with stunning views of the sea and the island’s rocky cliffs and windmills. Block Island also offers dog-friendly beaches, including quiet and serene Mansion Beach . For some of the freshest seafood around, bring your family (both human and canine) to waterfront and dog-friendly Kimberly’s . There are several pet-friendly hotels and inns in Block Island; the Blue Dory Inn and the Darius Inn are two options for beach-themed and quaint lodging.

Mohegan Bluffs

Edisto Island, SC

Edisto Island is a beautiful and unspoiled island off the coast of Charleston, and a perfect choice for a dog-friendly getaway. At dog-friendly Edisto Beach , you and your dog can splash around and soak up the sun together. Botany Bay Ecotours allows dogs to come along on guided tours through Edisto Island’s waterways, where guests almost always spot dolphins and other wildlife. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, SeaCow Eatery is a reasonably priced and dog-friendly dining option. Vacation rentals are great options for lodging on Edisto Island; three bedroom Beach Tan cottage or four bedroom Sea Breeze home are both pet-friendly.

Edisto Island

Seattle, WA

Visitors looking to take a pet-friendly vacation to the seaport city of Seattle will be pleased with all of the opportunities for fun. The Washington Park Arboretum is a lovely spot for a stroll or even a canoe ride, and it’s also dog-friendly. In the heart of Seattle, Magnuson Park is an always bustling and beautiful outdoor park for you and your pet to enjoy. Try Norm’s Eatery & Ale House for delicious American fare; the restaurant even offers a separate menu for your pup! For a luxurious stay, the Kimpton Alexis Hotel is dog-friendly and was named one of Travel and Leisure’s 500 Best Hotels in the World. For a more wallet-friendly option, La Quinta Inn and Suites is also pet-accommodating.

Washington Park Arboretum

Flagstaff, AZ

Get the best of the mountains and the city on your next pet-friendly vacation in Flagstaff . Bring your pup along to Coconino National Forest to hike, camp, or simply take in the spectacular views of Arizona’s red rocks. Flagstaff is a popular spot for breweries, and what is better than drinking a beer with man’s best friend? Do just that at pet-friendly Hops on Birch or Dark Sky Brewing . For overnighters, Sonesta ES Suites Flagstaff and La Quinta Inn and Suites are two good value options for pet-friendly accommodations.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Flagstaff

Lake Placid, NY

A village in the heart of the Adirondack Mountain range, Lake Placid is a pet-friendly getaway for nature lovers. Mirror Lake lives up to its name; its calm waters are pristine and has a dog-friendly beach on the shore. For a short but satisfying hike, bring your four-legged family member for a two-mile trek up Mount Jo . Dog-friendly Lisa G’s offers classic American cuisine, and Great Adirondack Steak & Seafood is also totally dog-accommodating. Consider spending the night at the pet-friendly Lake Placid Summit Hotel in a central location to all of Lake Placid’s attractions.

A visit to beautiful Napa wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the city’s famed wineries, and Bouchaine Vineyards is a great choice for those hoping to bring the dog along for the fun. Alston Park is a large pet-friendly park with multiple no-leash areas for dogs to play together and walking trails for exploring Napa’s natural beauty up close and personal. Check out Angèle Restaurant and Bar to enjoy delightful French fare with your pet in tow. The Napa Winery Inn is a quaint, dog-friendly choice for lodging complete with an outdoor pool and views of the vineyards.

Napa Winery Inn

Cleveland, OH

A pet-friendly getaway to Cleveland will have you exploring the city and its surrounding natural beauty with your beloved furry friend by your side. Edgewater Park is a dog-friendly beach on the shores of beautiful Lake Erie, so feel free to ditch the leash for a while. Among the multiple pet-friendly dining options are Luxe Kitchen and Lounge , which serves American fare with an outdoor patio, and Banter Beer and Wine (be sure to try the poutine!). You and your pet will feel welcomed staying the night at the centrally located Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown .

Edgewater Park

Milwaukee, WI

In Milwaukee , your dog will feel like the king of the world cruising along the Milwaukee River on one of the city’s Boat Line Cruises , which are open to well-behaved pups of all sizes! Follow that adventure with a burger and french fries at Stack’d Burger Bar , or go for slightly more luxurious dining at Balzac —both are pet-friendly. For lodging, check out the Intercontinental Milwaukee , a hotel located right on the Milwaukee RiverWalk , a lively strip of shops, parks, and restaurants.

Milwaukee RiverWalk

Winter Park, CO

Whether you’re going in the summer or the snowy season, Winter Park is one of the pet-friendliest destinations in Colorado. Vasquez Peak Wilderness Park has gorgeous views of the Arapaho National Forest, and offers 17 pristine miles of hiking trails for you and your dog to explore. If you’re feeling like sipping a cold beer after your trek, the Hideaway Park Brewery offers craft beers and is dog-friendly. Deno’s Mountain Bistro is another dining option offering rustic mountain vibes and delightful bites. Rest comfortably at pet-friendly Snow Mountain Ranch , a family resort where you can choose to stay in your own cabin or a lodge room.

Vasquez Peak Wilderness

Sanibel Island, FL

An ideal choice for a family and pet-friendly vacation, Sanibel Island is a small and gorgeous island just a short distance off the Fort Myers coast. Bring your dog to the Sanibel Island Farmers Market each Sunday to peruse over 40 vendors offering baked goods, fresh seafood, crafts, and most importantly, pet treats! At Pond Apple Park , take a stroll through beautiful waterfront trails and watch for local birds. For cuisine, The Island Cow is a pet-friendly favorite of locals offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Finally, Sanibel Island has several beautiful waterfront lodging options, including the Waterside Inn on the Beach or the Beachview Cottages —both dog-friendly!

Beachview Cottages

Portland, OR

If you’re visiting the Northwest and want to take your favorite animal companion along, consider Portland, Oregon for your pet-friendly getaway. Sellwood Riverfront Park is a beautiful no-leash-required area on the shores of the Willamette River, perfect for taking in some of Oregon’s stunning natural beauty. If you’re planning to be in Portland for the weekend be sure to stop by the Portland Saturday Market , the largest continually operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the nation with tons of food stands throughout. The Tin Shed Garden Cafe is dog-friendly and a favorite of locals for its brunch. For overnighters, the historic Heathman Hotel is a great option for those with pets in tow.

Portland Saturday Market

Birmingham, AL

Birmingham is a stunning southern city at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The Ruffner Mountain National Preserve offers 11 miles of pristine trails for hikers and nature lovers; you’ll forget that you are in downtown Birmingham! Grab a pint with the pup at Avondale Brewing Company , a pleasant space with tons of craft beers to try. The Westin Birmingham is one of several pet-friendly lodging options located inside The Marketplace , a popular dining and entertainment complex right in downtown Birmingham.

The Westin Birmingham

The Most Dog-Friendly Vacations in the United States

By Matt Kirouac

For some travelers, a family vacation isn’t complete without the the family pet, making dog-friendly vacations the main priority. Whether traveling via road trip or plane, vacationing with furry family members can be fun for the whole gang, as long as precautions and preparations are taken . For some, the idea of leaving their dog home with a sitter or boarder can hinder the enjoyment of vacation, thus necessitating the need for a dog-friendly destination, complete with dog-friendly hotels (or Airbnbs ), dog-friendly restaurants , and maybe even a dog-friendly beach or two .

Not every vacation is perfect for your pooch, though. When mapping out dog-friendly vacations, there are important factors to consider, to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of your dog—and that of the rest of the family, of course. One of the main things is weather and season. Is the journey (be it by plane, train, or automobile) likely to be prone to cancellations? Will the forecast at your destination restrict your dog to indoor solitude? When planning a dog-friendly trip, that means including your pup in those plans and ensuring they’re able to partake in activities, be welcome in hotels, and be allowed to travel with you—because certain breeds may not be allowed to fly at all , many airlines limit the number of pups onboard, and some hotels either charge exorbitant pet fees, limit specific breeds or sizes, or prohibit them entirely. Fortunately, there are plenty of dog-friendly vacation spots across the U.S., offering a wide range in geography, travel style, and activities for the whole family—canines included. From a coastal national park community to a Midwestern woodland retreat, here are 11 of the most dog-friendly vacation spots in the country.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Black Hills, South Dakota

Home to quintessential American destinations like Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park, the Black Hills of South Dakota have “family fun” etched all over them. Rapid City is the urban hub, home to the historic pet-friendly Hotel Alex Johnson . It’s allegedly haunted, but as one of the more ornate dog-friendly abodes in town, with a pampered pooch package that includes a dog bed and biscuits, it’s worth the spooks. There are numerous dog-friendly patios in town, including Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews and diner-style Tally’s Silver Spoon , and local attraction Reptile Gardens allows pups inside to marvel at the snakes, frogs, and botanical gardens. In the Black Hills, dogs are allowed on many hiking trails, including the trek up Black Elk Peak, the highest point in South Dakota, and those around Sylvan Lake, conveniently culminating with an overnight in a dog-friendly cabin at Sylvan Lake Lodge . While dogs aren’t allowed inside Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Blackberry Trail across the road offers great views and a descent into the fragrant pine-filled forest, while Crazy Horse Memorial allows dogs outside and on leashes.

Snowmass, Colorado

Dogs are just as welcome to bask in Colorado mountain towns as humans, but rather than visit a comparatively busier—and more expensive—town like Aspen or Vail, the pastoral paradise of Snowmass offers upscale amenities, cozy ambience, and pet-friendly fare in a more modest setting. The Limelight Hotel offers spacious dog-friendly rooms in a part of town that’s close enough to main Snowmass Village, without being in the thick of the crowds. The hotel offers free water bowls, treats, and pet mats upon check-in, and most nearby trails are dog-friendly, including the Brush Creek Trail, a paved route that starts at the Snowmass Mall. For more elevation, dogs are allowed on certain gondolas from the Snowmass Ski Area, leading to more tranquil hikes and lakeside picnic opportunities up-mountain. In need of more treats and toys? Stock up at GuapoDog Pet Supply in the Snowmass Mall, and dine outside at Venga Venga , a dog-friendly Mexican cantina serving up everything from bacon guacamole to steak fajitas.

Tucson, Arizona

Rolling into Tucson with pup in tow, the best place to hunker down is Hotel McCoy , an artist-inspired retrofitted motel that greets guests with a rainbow mural proclaiming “Tucson Is Magic.” The colorful, inclusive desert oasis features an outdoor pet area towards the front of the property, and welcomes up to two dogs at no extra charge. Located on the west side of town, the accommodations also put you close to the majestic Saguaro National Park , where dogs are welcome on roadways, picnic areas, and paved trails, like the Desert Discovery Trail. Dogs can also visit the Tucson Botanical Gardens and the Pima Air & Space Museum , along with breweries, bars, and restaurants like Borderlands Brewing Co. and the patio at Boca Tacos y Tequila , a Top Chef -driven hot spot slinging mole de pollo tacos, ancho butter-rubbed octopus, and banh mi quesadillas. The MSA Annex , an outdoor mercado on the west side spotlighting POC- and women-owned businesses, offers ample dog-friendly seating and takeout spots for places like plant-based Beaut Burger , sushi-slinging Kukai , and Westbound cocktail bar for al fresco margaritas.

Asheville, North Carolina

Filled with mountains, trails, and brewery patios, Asheville is like Disney World for outdoorsy dogs. The city is so accommodating that dogs are allowed just about everywhere, from the grounds around Biltmore Estate to the riverside trails at Chimney Rock State Park. Restaurants like Twisted Laurel are so dog-friendly that they offer a dedicated menu for dogs, while Woof Gang Bakery is a mecca for treats and trinkets. Famed for its breweries, Asheville beer spots that allow patio pups include Wicked Weed Brewing , Wedge Brewing Co. , and the sprawling lawn at New Belgium Brewery , while places like Urban Orchard and Burial Beer Co. also allow dogs indoors. For lodging, the Aloft hotel doesn’t just allow dogs, they feature an adoptable dog program, wherein rescued pups clad in “Adopt Me” vests greet guests in the lobby.

CNT Editors

Blane Bachelor

Kyler Alvord

Pensacola, Florida

It’s the dog days of summer all year long in Pensacola, an underrated pup-friendly Florida city in the panhandle, home to myriad pet shops, dog-friendly restaurants, hotels, and outdoor recreation for miles. Dogs are welcome on trails, park roads, and multi-use paths at Gulf Islands National Seashore , along with Big Lagoon State Park and Pensacola Scenic Bay Bluffs Preserve , while Bayview Park is a good spot for dogs to frolic in the sand and splash in the water. To get even further out on the water, introduce your pups to dolphins on a dog-friendly tour with Jolly Sailing & Dolphin Cruise . Dog-friendly restaurants are all over town, from the famed Flora-Bama Yacht Club to Red Fish Blue Fish on Pensacola Beach. The Oar House is another fun spot offering fresh seafood and tiki cocktails on Bahia Mar Marina. Dog-friendly abodes run the gamut from Pensacola Beach RV Resort , an affordable campground where customers can BYO RV or rent a trailer suite, to the retro-chic Surf & Sand Hotel , a bayside property where dogs are welcome in first-floor rooms.

Portland, Oregon

Teeming with parks, patios, breweries, and hip hotels, Portland is as much a playground for dogs as it is eccentric humans. Off-leash dog parks include Delta Park, Gabriel Park, and Brentwood Park, and dog-friendly trails can be found all over, like Tryon Creek State Natural Area , offering eight miles worth of shaded pathways a stone’s throw from downtown. Bars, breweries, and restaurants throughout the city welcome pups, including vegetarian comfort nook Bye & Bye , the pretty picnic table-filled patio at Victoria Bar , all-day Elevator Cafe , and White Owl Social Club , where dogs are welcome inside through a dedicated side entrance, or on the patio with beer pong and a fire pit. Then there’s the aptly dubbed Lucky Labrador Brewing Company , which is so dog-friendly that they host Dogtoberfest every September. Dog-friendly hotels are just as prolific, with options like the hip Ace Hotel , which doesn’t have any fees or breed restrictions, and the Dossier , with pet beds, bowls, and treats at check-in, plus pet-centric books that owners are free to borrow.

Texas Hill Country

With its wide open spaces, vast farmland, rolling hills, meandering trails, and breweries the size of the Mall of America, Texas Hill Country is a lush haven for dog-friendly vacationers. Located just outside of Austin (an exceedingly dog-welcoming city in and of itself), Hill Country is home to “Barking Springs” dog park by Barton Springs and pup-friendly patios like Beerburg Brewing. The area boasts leisurely hikes at Pedernales Falls State Park and dog-friendly canoe rentals at South Llano River State Park , plus a sea of wineries, distilleries, and breweries where dogs are welcome on enormous patios, like Chisholm Trail Winery , Treaty Oak Distilling with its folksy music stage and on-site barbecue restaurant, and Jester King Brewery , an enormous brewery and farm-fresh kitchen that’s so entrenched in nature it has hiking trails through the woods. In Fredericksburg, Dogologie Haus is an inn that puts pups first, offering dog beds, bowls, treats, indoor crates, and an outdoor kennel. Back in Austin, Lone Star Court is a Hill Country-inspired hotel that offers a “Pawsitively Pet Package,” including welcome treats, snack credits, late checkout, and retro-inspired accommodations.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Artists aren’t the only ones mystified by the splendors of Santa Fe , one of the most historic, captivating cities in the nation. Dogs are sure to be just as dazzled by its magnetic beauty, with ample outdoorsy locales to explore, restaurant patios to peruse, and lodging that’s just as comfy for humans and pups. As dog-friendly as Santa Fe, the thing to be mindful of is elevation—at about 7,000 feet, it’s also the highest capital city in the country, meaning you and your dog will need to acclimate to the altitude, especially on hikes and trails. This also means winter days can be quite cold, but the almost-endless sunshine should make up for it. Some areas to explore include the downtown Plaza, an area so pet-friendly that it’s adjacent to the ornate Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. Although the inside cathedral isn’t open to dogs, the La Fonda on the Plaza hotel nearby is, offering pet treats upon check-in, along with dog-friendly restaurants La Fiesta Lounge and La Plazuela. Other accommodating restaurants include burger-slinging Shake Foundation with its sprawling patio, and Cafecito , a trail-adjacent eatery where your dog can guilt you into sharing bites of your empanada. Numerous dog-friendly hiking trails in and around the city include Atalaya Mountain in Santa Fe National Forest, the leisurely Santa Fe Rail Trail that traipses off into the serene desert, and the paved River Trail that meanders along the small Santa Fe River for miles, with parks, benches, and picnic tables along the way. In the famed Canyon Road gallery district, many outdoor galleries, like Canyon Road Contemporary Art , allow dogs.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Wildly underrated as a vacation destination, there’s much more to do and see in Oklahoma City than Twister screenings. A low-key cultural mecca, it’s got industrial-chic digs like the 21c Museum Hotel , an art museum-hotel hybrid with lofty dog-friendly rooms (pet fees have been waived for the rest of 2022), and The National , a new downtown high-rise hotel that allows two dogs per guest. Pups are welcome at restaurants throughout the city, like Picasso Cafe , an artsy and vegan-friendly restaurant that offers a “Bone Appétit” menu for dogs, including chicken risotto and ground beef stew. The quirky Pump Bar down the street has a huge pet-friendly patio, Angry Scotsman Brewing allows dogs both indoors and on its enormous skyline-viewing patio, and Aurora is a stylish brunch spot in the Plaza District where dogs are welcome on the cute back patio while you chow down on salted caramel cinnamon rolls and pulled pork hash. Beyond patios, there are plenty of places to explore in Oklahoma City, from downtown’s whimsical Scissortail Park ( which just doubled in size with the opening of a lower half ) to Lake Hefner, a massive park that features a nine-mile paved trail around the perimeter.

Oconto County, Wisconsin

A few hours north of Milwaukee lies a swath of foliage-filled forests, rolling hills, ranches, cozy log cabins, and pristine ponds strewn with swans. The quiet enclave of Oconto County, anchored by towns like Mountain and Lakewood, is the ultimate Midwestern retreat—for humans and dogs alike. For all-natural serenity and quaint Americana charm, the region offers comfy confines all year long, with nearly 1,000 miles worth of trails for hikers, horses, ATVs, and yes, dogs. Nicolet National Forest contains many of said miles, including the flat, shaded Nicolet State Trail between Mountain and Lakewood, and the 4-mile loop around Black Lake. The community of Mountain is a particularly bucolic place to cozy up, especially when staying in a dog-friendly cabin at Spur of the Moment Ranch . The homey, family-run ranch offers horse carriage rides, campfires, and ATV and snowmobile trail access, along with plenty of space where dogs can frolic off-leash. For a home-away-from-home vibe, stock up on pet treats and things to cook—including the all-important cheese curds—from Mike’s Supermarket in Townsend, or dine at dog-friendly Mulligans Sports Bar & Grill , with a huge patio, live music, and a true-blue Wisconsin fish fry on Fridays.

Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, Maine

National parks are among the most spectacular destinations to vacation with pups. Compared to big cities, they’re typically less crowded and expensive, ensuring a more stress-free experience for dogs in unfamiliar environments (and less fees for you), with plenty of room to prance around. Many national parks, however, restrict dogs to a few specific trails, if any, or certain areas only during quieter times of year. But Acadia National Park is one of the most dog-friendly parks in the country, with 100 miles of hiking trails open to dogs, as long as they’re leashed at all times. The flat Jordan Pond Path, a 3-mile loop around a shimmering lake, is a particular standout, as is the out-and-back Ocean Path Trail that begins at Sand Beach, where dogs are allowed during the off-season (mid-September to June). There’s also a Bark Ranger program that teaches owners about the Rules of B.A.R.K. (Bag your pet’s waste, Always leash your pet, Respect wildlife, Know where to go) and rewards dogs with special Bark Ranger collar tags. In the gateway town of Bar Harbor, you’ll find dog-friendly eateries, like Beal’s Lobster Pier , Peekytoe Provisions , and Side Street Cafe for all your lobster roll and haddock Reuben needs, while pet-friendly lodging runs the gamut from the casual, like Belle Isle Motel with its six acres of field space for your pup to explore, to the luxe, like Balance Rock Inn , where they’re welcome around the outdoor common grounds.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

14 Best Dog-Friendly Vacations in the United States

Written by Lavanya Sunkara and Becca Blond Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Your vacation is going to be exponentially better when you bring your dogs along, and thankfully there are plenty of dog-friendly destinations in the United States to visit.

From frolicking on the golden beaches of San Diego and Florida to hiking the mountains of Oregon, Maine, and North Carolina, your dogs will have endless fun on the road with you. Cities embrace canines, offer doggie spas and off-leash parks , and welcome them into stores and alfresco restaurants.

To see the look of contentment as they traverse hills with their tails wagging, run off-leash on a pristine beach with their ears flopping, or savor the last bits of ice cream at a roadside shop is worth every moment spent planning your dog-friendly vacation.

Whether you are road-tripping or flying with Fido for a fun getaway, there are beautiful landscapes and dog-friendly urban centers across the country to choose from. Book yourself a pet-friendly hotel , pack your pet's food, favorite toys, vaccination records, and travel gear, and you are all set for a trip of a lifetime.

If you are driving, restrain your dog with a harness seatbelt (it's illegal to drive with an unrestrained dog in some states). For your air journeys, check airline regulations and get the proper carrier, along with a comfortable mat and enough water for the duration of the flight.

For ideas on where to go with your furry friend, read our list of the best dog-friendly vacations in the United States.

1. Bend, Oregon

2. sedona, arizona, 3. bar harbor, maine, 4. lake placid, new york, 5. kanab, utah, 6. austin, texas, 7. san diego, california, 8. asheville, north carolina, 9. long island, new york, 10. colorado springs, colorado, 11. portland, oregon, 12. tampa, florida, 13. seattle, washington, 14. san francisco, california, tips for traveling with your dog, map of dog-friendly vacations in the united states.

Highlight: Bend has 13 off-leash areas for dogs to play, plus hiking trails and a river for swimming

Outdoor lovers will be in heaven in Bend, Oregon, the city on the Deschutes River surrounded by National Forests, alpine lakes, and extinct volcanoes.

Legend has it that Bend has the highest per capita dog population in the world , with an estimated 49 percent of residents owning dogs. The scenic Central Oregon city boasts 51 miles of trails within its limits, 13 off-leash areas for your best friend to roam around in, and hiking trails in the lush forests.

Take your pup on a refreshing walk on the Deschutes River Trail or the Farewell Bend Park path. If Fido needs to cool off, there are plenty of opportunities to jump in the water for a swim. Or you can rent a canoe from Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe.

For serious hikers, Deschutes National Forest has many trails along Douglas firs, including the fan favorite of North Fork Trail . And in the winter, you can make snow angels with your pooch on cross-country ski and snowshoe trails at Wanoga, Edison, and Kapka Sno-Parks.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Bend, OR

Highlights : Doggos love playing amid a red rock backdrop in Slide Rock State Park or hopping on a pup-friendly trolley tour.

Get some incredible shots of your four-legged friend against the backdrop of red rock country in Sedona, Arizona.

Active dogs will love venturing into Slide Rock State Park , a 43-acre park in Oak Creek Canyon located just outside the city or Coconino National Forest , known for iconic red rocks, Ponderosa Pine Forests, and alpine tundra. Many of Sedona's best hiking trails are suitable for dogs.

You can also sign up for pet-friendly tours, which offer backpacking, camping trips, and visits to Indian ruin sites. Pooch-friendly Red Rock Magic Trolley Tours also offers tours such as Boynton Canyon Tour and Bell Rock Tour. Reward your pooch after all that adventuring with a delicious treat at the Whiskers Barkery at Sinagua Plaza.

Those looking to stay within the city limits can make an afternoon out of a visit to Sedona Dog Park , the city's first and only dog park, featuring wonderful views and separate areas for small, large, and senior dogs. It even has a large natural area for traipsing off-leash.

Several hotels in Sedona offer pet-friendly accommodations. Many campgrounds in and around Sedona also welcome pets.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sedona
• Best Mountain Biking Trails in Sedona

Highlights : One of the country's most dog-friendly national parks, Acadia, is here; it's home to 120 miles of hiking trails that woofers are welcome on.

Maine's Bar Harbor is within a short driving distance to Acadia National Park , a 47,000-acre wilderness area on Mount Desert Island with 120 miles of dog-friendly hiking trails along the scenic glacier-sculpted coast.

Acadia is one of the most pet-friendly national parks in the country , with most of its hiking trails (with the exception of those that involve ladders) and carriage roads open to four-legged explorers.

Drive the Scenic Park Loop Road to Cadillac Mountain summit road, stopping along the way at lookout points for pictures and potty breaks for your pups. Pets are also welcome on the shuttles that take you to scenic vistas throughout the park.

The seaside New England city allows dogs on its buses, making it easier to get around if you don't have your own transportation. Even better, Bar Harbor has outfitters like the Downeast Windjammer that allow you to bring your pets on a boat cruise around Frenchman Bay . There's also no shortage of dog-friendly eateries in downtown Bar Harbor.

• Read More: Acadia National Park: Top Hikes & Things to Do

Highlight : Dogs love strolling the 2.7-mile paved trail around Mirror Lake

Located a five-hour drive from New York City in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is a quintessential romantic getaway. Bring your four-legged friend along and make memories along the lake's beaches and at luxury lodges like the Lake Placid Lodge .

Lake Placid is an all-around outdoor destination, where you can go skiing, hiking, biking, and fishing all in just one trip. A must-do is a stroll along Mirror Lake on a 2.7-mile paved trail for lovely views and fresh air. Located on the west side of the lake, the path has some shops that welcome dogs .

If Rover likes riding in the car, take a drive up to Whiteface Mountain along the Whiteface Veterans Memorial Highway (open only in the summer), stopping along the way for some Instagram-worthy pictures with stunning backdrops.

After all that exploring, take a break with a relaxing stroll on Main Street, stopping by Lisa G's for classic American dishes.

• Accommodation: Top-Rated Resorts in the Adirondacks

Highlight : Staying at the pet-friendly Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile, which has an onsite dog park and splash zone

Kanab is a small town located in Southwestern Utah bordering Arizona, but the main attraction here is the Best Friends Animal Society's sanctuary , the largest no-kill companion animal shelter in the country. Spread across 3,700 acres, the sanctuary houses adoptable dogs, cats, bunnies, farm animals, horses, and orphaned and injured wild animals.

Best Friends has shelters all across the country, but the main location is a must-see, where animal lovers can spend time with adoptable animals and volunteer to clean kennels and socialize with and train the pets. If you've left your dog at home, you can borrow one to have a sleepover within your hotel room or in one of the on-site cottages (as long as you dedicate a few hours to volunteer during your stay).

Best Friends' new pet-centric hotel, Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile , located five miles from the sanctuary, has 40 guest rooms featuring pet introduction doors, elevated furnishings, and areas with pet mattresses. The premises include a fenced-in dog park , splash zone, and a pet washing station . It also offers pet-sitting and dog-walking services, as well as sanctuary tours.

Highlight : Booking a session at Austin Doga, where you and your pup do yoga together

When traveling to one of the best dog-friendly cities in the country, expect nothing less than the best, from restaurants that roll out the red carpet to green spaces right in the middle of downtown for your dog to romp around in.

Go on a thrilling hike or a bike ride on the 10-mile trail and boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake . If you've got your water-loving retriever, rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard for a relaxing time on the lake.

The Texas State Capitol building's lawn is open to pets, and so are dozens of restaurants, including the aptly named Austin Terrier, serving dog-named sandwiches and pizzas, and Kerbey Lane Café serving delicious brunch all day at seven locations.

Austin also gives new meaning to the word downward dog with its unique offering of Austin Doga . That's right, you can now do your asanas with your faithful pet by your side. The studio offers group and solo lessons and even helps you organize a party for your dog.

A short drive from the city center, you and your active pup can explore the woods and check out the waterfalls at the Barton Creek Greenbelt Preserve , often referred to simply as the Greenbelt.

Nearby, at the Barton Creek Farmers Market, support local farmers and vendors, some of whom sell dog food and accessories. Meet like-minded folks at the Red Bud Isle lakefront off-leash dog park , and have a lovely time swimming in the lake and enjoying scenic views.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Austin & Easy Day Trips

Highlights : Surfing doggos dig San Diego — it has great waves year-round and the country's largest dog surfing competition each July

Sunshine, surf, and miles of sandy shoreline make San Diego an ideal destination for your beach vacation with your sidekick. Delight in picture-perfect vistas along the cliff-lined coasts of La Jolla and Del Mar communities and choose a different beach every day, from Fiesta Island, Mission Bay Park, Ocean Beach, and Dog Beach among many others.

If you are visiting in July, don't miss the Unleashed Surf Dog competition at Imperial Beach, the largest dog surfing competition in the nation. When you've had your fun on the beaches , head to the dog parks at Balboa Park to socialize with other pets and their owners.

The prominent Cowles Mountain , located within the city of San Diego, has a hiking trail to the summit where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the city and the ocean beyond; of course, your pet will just love being with you and sniffing all the scents along the way.

Other popular dog-friendly activities in this SoCal city include walking the streets of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and shopping at the open-air Westfield UTC Center . Sports lovers can head to Petco Park's Barkyard , a private area for pet owners in the left-center field.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Diego

Highlights : Lots of luxe dog-friendly hotels and hiking trails throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains

Set aside time in autumn to see colorful foliage in Asheville's countryside with your favorite family member. This North Carolina bohemian city has abundant opportunities to experience the great outdoors with your dog. Take in serene mountain views on a leisurely drive up the Blue Ridge Parkway and choose from hiking trails in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains and national forests.

Stay in luxurious pet-friendly hotels and walk the grounds of top attractions like the Biltmore Estate , North Carolina Arboretum , and the French Broad River Park . The River Park has a winding, shaded path along the river; a wildflower garden; and a well-visited, fenced-in dog park. The Biltmore Estate provides kennels, so you can browse the interiors.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Asheville

Highlight : Bougie dogs love hanging out in the Hamptons, home to mansions and dog-friendly beaches

While New York City's Central Park is a haven for dogs, the larger playground just an hour drive from the city lies in Long Island. The U.S. mainland's largest island has beaches , Gold Coast mansions, hiking trails, and, of course, the famed Hamptons .

Bring your nature-loving pet on hikes at Sagamore National Historic Site, Sands Point Preserve, Gardiner County Park, Belmont Lake State Park, and Sunken Meadow State Park among others. Drive out to the Hamptons' and Montauk 's dog-friendly beaches in the South Fork or visit pumpkin patches and lavender fields in the North Fork.

Take the ferry from Patchogue to the Watch Hill campgrounds on Fire Island National Seashore and watch the fireworks go off across the length of Long Island during July 4th festivities. The landscaped gardens of Old Westbury Gardens become available to pets twice yearly during Dog Days, so you and your pets can smell the flowers and make memories. Walk the Nautical Mile in Freeport, stopping by to get ice cream at Ralph's Italian Ices and food at various dog-friendly establishments.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on Long Island, NY

Highlight : Grabbing a bite at Pub Dog Colorado, where humans are fed out of dog bowls and dogs have their own menu

Colorado Springs is home to the first and only restaurant in Colorado that allows dogs to dine inside with their people.

Pub Dog Colorado has indoor seating, as well as a 3,000-square-foot off-leash outdoor area where pups can socialize. The menu caters to humans and canines with separate sections. Your dog will get a kick out of the fact that the human entrees are served in dog bowls.

Located at the base of Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is also an outdoor paradise for pups. You can take your doggo hiking amid the famous red rocks of Garden of the Gods park, which has more than 20 miles of hiking trails. If your pup likes car rides, take him on a drive to the summit of 14,000-plus-foot-high Pikes Peak for some different scents.

The city is also home to a number of dog-friendly hotels and resorts, from the five-star The Broadmoor to the recently opened, boutique Kinship Landing .

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Colorado Springs, CO

Highlight: Pups love Portland, which has walking trails, swimming rivers, and dog-friendly dining options

With more dog parks per capita than any other U.S. city, Portland is another great place for a dog-friendly vacation. If your pup loves to swim, you'll want to head to Sellwood Riverfront Park , with plenty of opportunities to splash around. For more sedate strolls with less muddy paws check out Forest Park , where there are miles of walking paths for leashed doggos to sniff around on.

If your dog enjoys social media photoshoots, you can take her to the International Rose Test Garden . It is home to more than 10,000 rose bushes that make for gorgeous photo backdrops along with walking trails.

Afterwards grab a bite at the Tin Shed Garden Cafe . There is a menu for pups, with chicken and beef entrees served over rice or sweet potatoes and even peanut butter banana ice cream for canines with a sweet tooth.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Portland, Oregon

Highlight: Picnic Island Beach Dog Park, where your pup can frolic on the sand or go for a swim in the ocean

With warm temps year-round and pretty beaches, Tampa is where to take an ocean-loving dog. Picnic Island Beach Dog Park offers the best of both worlds for pups that like to socialize. The beach here is off-leash, and the water is shallow enough for less confident swimmers to still have fun.

After a day at the beach, enjoy a relaxing sunset boat cruise to the barrier islands south of Pass-A-Grill. The dog-friendly Shell Key Shuttle Sunset Cruises last 1.5 hours, and reservations are required. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies, Bordetella, and distemper.

By this point, your pup has probably worked up quite an appetite. Luckily Square 1 Burgers serves a dog menu along with a human one. Dogs can enjoy chicken patties and steamed broccoli with a side of ice water.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tampa, FL

Highlight: Having a pup cup at the original Starbucks

Does your dog always beg you for a Pup Cup from Starbucks? Then he will want to visit Seattle, which is home to the coffee brand and its very popular Puppuccino. Overall, Seattle is a very dog-friendly vacation spot.

The Warren G. Magnuson Park Off-Leash Dog Area is not far from downtown and is a great sniff spot for local and visiting canines alike. The 8.6-acre park is fully fenced for worry-free play. Afterwards head to the Seattle Barkery for all sorts of handmade treats.

If your dog has always wanted to fly, Kenmore Air is a seaplane company that runs pet-friendly tours.

Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Seattle, WA

Highlights : Canines that enjoy swimming will love all the dog-friendly beaches; walking across Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco is another one of the best dog-friendly vacation spots in the United States. The city has dog-friendly beaches, as well as attractions. Baker Beach is a popular spot for canines to run off leash in the sand and frolic in the waves – look for other dogs before letting your pup run free, however, as only stretches of this beach are off-leash. Golden Gate Park is also in the vicinity and also has an off-leash section.

Canines that enjoy walking will love crossing the Golden Gate Bridge . Its walkway becomes dog-friendly between 5pm and dusk daily. Other attractions for doggos include exploring the Embarcadero , Fisherman's Wharf , and checking out the handmade dog pastries at Le Marcel.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Francisco

If your dog isn't used to traveling, you'll want to do some advance prepping. If you are taking a road trip, one top tip is to make sure your dog is comfortable riding in the car for longer periods of time.

If your doggo gets car sick, for instance, put him in a plastic crate with solid walls so he can't look out the car windows. Also, avoid feeding your dog before a long car ride if car sickness is an issue. You can also ask your vet about medication to help with motion sickness.

Before arriving at a hotel, check its policies regarding pets. Many hotels charge pet fees, but some, like the Kimpton brand, do not. Also, check the resort's policy on leaving dogs unattended in the room.

Another tip is to bring some favorite toys to keep your pup entertained if you are heading out to dinner without him. And, always make sure your dog is wearing a collar with a tag that identifies her by name and lists your contact info.

More on California

10 best dog-friendly destinations to explore this summer

Summer is officially here, which means it's time to unplug and embark on a new, exciting adventure.

Whether you're road-tripping , booking a flight or hopping on a train, why not bring your barking bestie along for the fun? It's time to flip the switch on "dog days of summer," get packed with your pup in tow and explore.

From the beaches and breweries of San Diego to the parks and pup-loving restaurants of Park City, Utah, here are some of our favorite dog-friendly destinations in the U.S.

California 

San Diego is home to Liberty Station, a former naval station that now serves as the perfect spot to stroll and enjoy some quality time with your four-legged friend.

Additionally, Dog Beach — located at the west end of the San Diego River — has welcomed owners and their pooches for over 40 years. It sits close to several dog-friendly hot spots popular with locals, including the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier and Belching Beaver Brewery.

Where to stay

Hotel Indigo San Diego–Gaslamp Quarter : Known as the heart and soul of San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is a one-stop shop for everything you could need, as it has a plethora of dining, entertainment and rooftop options.

This mid-tier IHG hotel welcomes dogs with pet beds, treats and an outdoor pet relief area. Best of all, there is no pet fee.

Rates start at $190 or 29,666 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Related: The best hotels in San Diego

Huntington Beach

The dog-friendly vibe of this California city lands Huntington Beach toward the top of our list. It is famous for Huntington Dog Beach, where dogs can run leash-free. Plus, there are annual dog-themed events like the monthly Wiener Dog Races at Old World Village, Corgi Beach Day in August and Surf City Surf Dog in September.

Of course, being the dog-friendliest destination means plenty of pet-welcoming cafes are available, too. Top picks include Fred's Mexican Cafe and Park Bench Cafe. Don't forget to stop for a special treat at Top Dog Barkery while in town.

Paséa Hotel & Spa : Conveniently located less than 2 miles from Huntington Dog Beach, this property is ideal for those interested in attending the city's dog-related events. Your tail-wagger can run laps at the 1,100-square-foot outdoor pup play area, where a doghouse that resembles a lifeguard station and a local artist-commissioned mural are some of the amenities available.

If you choose this property for you and your furry friend, opt for the VIP Paw-séa Package, which comes fully loaded with a doggy meal, toys and leashes, a bed and waived pet fees (which otherwise cost $150 per stay). The package starts at $450 per night.

Rates start at $364 per night (without the package).

Palm Springs

Follow the markers down Bear Creek Nature Trail, a path in the greater Palm Springs area that highlights native plants and wildlife, while shade structures and drinking fountains provide comfortable pit stops. Then, recharge with a java at Koffi Coffee before running around at Palm Springs Dog Park and hiking the trails at Mission Creek Preserve.

If you and your pooch are looking for a more mellow way to enjoy Palm Springs, curate a pup picnic with stunning views of the Salton Sea along the Coachella Valley. Also save time for a nice drive out to Joshua Tree National Park, where desert plants and towering rock formations create an otherworldly scene ripe for exploration.

La Quinta Resort & Club : This is a great desert stay for your pooch.

Located in the greater Palm Springs area, this sprawling Hilton-affiliated property offers the Paws La Quinta Canine Experience to all guests with pets. It includes amenities like food bowls and a dog bed inside the dog-friendly casitas, plus access to 45 acres of grounds with dog-friendly trails and relief stations. Pet fees are $150 per stay.

Rates start at $268 or 78,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Related: World's top pet-friendly Hilton hotels for animal lovers

At Lake Tahoe , Kiva Beach offers an idyllic snapshot of Tahoe's charm, which is great to share with your barking bud. While the shore and water are leash-required spots, you'll find plenty of pups cooling off in the shallows or lounging on land. For more beach fun, there are also Zephyr Cove (where well-behaved dogs are welcome) and Skylandia State Park & Beach (the place to go if you want to beat the crowds).

To enjoy an adventure together, use the Echo Lake water taxi to move from point A to point B, taking in the stunning scenery as you go. Or, to burn off some energy, discover the off-leash trails along Carson Pass and the Mokelumne Wilderness.

Coachman Hotel : At this renovated motel nestled between the vistas of Heavenly Mountain and Lake Tahoe, you can cozy up around the fire pit with your upper.

While the property permits pets, note that only select rooms are dog-friendly, so you'll want to be sure to request the appropriate accommodation when booking your stay. All guests with dogs will need to pay a pet fee of $50 per day.

Rates start at $151 per night.

The Mile High City is known for welcoming pups with open arms at its many breweries, cafes and restaurants, all of which have plenty of outdoor seating.

Dog park options are endless, from Railyard Dog Park in LoDo to Fuller Dog Park in Five Points. Don't miss Cherry Creek State Park in nearby Aurora; it offers a 107-acre fenced area for unlimited off-leash play.

Denver is also known for its abundance of parks — like Washington Park and Cheesman Park — so you can enjoy lots of scenic, active walks before grabbing a bite to eat at a local spot like Denver Biscuit Company or Postino LoHi. Know that you'll never have to do happy hour alone thanks to Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, Recess Beer Garden and many other watering holes allowing pups.

Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver : Centrally located in downtown Denver, this Hyatt outpost is a great option for dog owners, as pet amenities like dog bowls are available upon request and several guest facilities welcome dogs.

During your stay, you and your four-legged member of the family can take in the beautiful Denver skyline, stunning sunsets and impressive mountain views from the hotel's dog-friendly rooftop terrace. Additionally, as if the scent of fresh popcorn at check-in wasn't tempting enough, there's the farm-to-table lobby restaurant, Apple Blossom, which invites pups to join their companions for all meals and happy hours in the bar and lounge area.

Rates start at $379 or 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Related: The best Denver hotels to experience when staying in the Mile High City

As you might imagine, Aspen offers countless parks, trails and streams for pup-friendly playtime alongside unparalleled mountain views.

Play Frisbee and fetch at Aspen's Wagner Park, Paepcke Park and Rio Grande Park, or go for a dip in the Roaring Fork River. For an adrenaline rush, take an adventurous ride up the Silver Queen Gondola (look for the cabins marked with paw prints!) and pose for postcard-worthy photos at the top of Aspen Mountain before hiking back down.

When your furry pal needs some sustenance and goodies, score tasty treats, plush dog beds and fun toys — along with a self-service dog wash for those dirty paws — at Rocky Mountain Pet Shop. Then, head to the posh Hotel Jerome, which is fur baby-friendly at the outdoor Garden restaurant and inside the cozy Living Room bar, for locally sourced fare and a cocktail. If you're craving something more casual, like a cold beer, check out Aspen Tap House's pup-friendly patio.

Aspen Meadows Resort : A Bauhaus-inspired hideaway just a few minutes outside the center of town, this lush oasis offers a 40-acre campus with never-ending dog-friendly walks, trails and swimming — with some off-leash options. You can get lost in nature for days within Aspen Meadows without ever leaving the grounds.

Those with pets will be charged a fee of $25 per night, per dog. While you can bring more than one dog, know that there's a two-dog maximum per room.

I Prefer member rates start at $439 per night.

St. Augustine

Outside of the obvious Florida hot spots, consider stopping at the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine, when road-tripping through Florida.

To start, there are more than 40 miles of dog-friendly beaches — St. Augustine Beach is a great place to play fetch in the sand. Plus, pet-friendly tourist attractions — including the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where peacocks roam and your pup can take a slurp from the famous fountain — abound. Don't miss the Oldest Wooden School House and the Spanish Military Hospital Museum, both of which offer pet-friendly tours.

Dogs cannot enter historic Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, but that doesn't mean you should skip this iconic sight. You can set up a picnic on the fort's lawn and then grab a glass of vino together on the rooftop at San Sebastian Winery.

Casa Monica Resort & Spa : This Autograph Collection hotel sits in the heart of town, making it ideal for sightseeing and walks in areas full of old-world charm.

Check into the townhouse-style Anastasia suite for ample space to stretch out. When you're ready to venture outside your digs, stop for bites and sips in the dog-friendly lounge, stroll the on-site art gallery and soak up some rays together on the pool deck. Keep in mind that there are a few policies that apply for guests with dogs, including a two-dog maximum per room, a 40-pound weight limit and a $150 pet fee per stay.

Rates start at $349 or 287,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Related: Top pet-friendly Marriott hotels for animal lovers

South Florida

From West Palm Beach to the iconic Magic City, there's plenty of dog-friendly fun available in bustling South Florida.

Upgrade from dog park to dog beach at Jupiter Dog Beach (the only free dog beach in the Palm Beaches), or cruise over to Bark Park Dog Beach at Spanish River Park in Boca Raton for sandy paws and sunshine for a fee ($15 per dog for a non-resident weekend pass). From popular Clematis Street in West Palm Beach to action-packed Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach to posh-for-pooch Mizner Park in Boca Raton, there's an array of dog-friendly spots to hit up while visiting the Sunshine State.

If you wish to see more of the area, head south to Fort Lauderdale, where pups and their humans can enjoy scenic, sun-kissed walks at sunrise and sunset. Stroll the shops along lively Las Olas Boulevard, where you'll find plenty of dog-friendly patio seating at cafes, restaurants and bars (try waterfront Casa Sensei or the iconic Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar).

Continue on to Miami to peruse the famous, luxurious Bal Harbour Shops, where dogs are welcome to join you on the patio for high-end dining, as well as inside designer boutiques like Chanel and Ferragamo. A stop at nearby Haulover Park Beach is also a must before venturing over to the mainland for fun in Miami's Design District and mural-hopping in Wynwood.

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa : Along with endless ocean views, your pup will appreciate the designated dog bed (bowls come, too) and the soothing balcony egg swing available at this luxe beach retreat. We're particularly fond of the free dog teepees and strollers provided for bringing your furry friend to the pool deck for an afternoon of sun and fun.

Dog stays here are complimentary, though note that there's a 50-pound weight limit and only two dogs are permitted per room. In addition to the aforementioned beds and bowls, guests with dogs can request loaner bandanas to use during their stays.

I Prefer member rates start at $479 per night.

Loews Miami Beach Hotel : When checking into this Loews hotel, which charges a pet fee of $50 per stay, you and your furry companion are enrolled in the property's Loews Loves Pets program, which includes a "Pet-in-Room" sign, food and water bowls, a pet placemat, collars, leashes, waste bags and more. Plus, there's a gourmet room service menu to enjoy when you're not trying out the hotel's recommendations for dog-friendly restaurants and cafes (we personally love the dog-friendly patio at the on-site Bar Collins).

For walks, a designated dog park is conveniently located in front of the hotel for quick and easy potty stops. However, the real highlight is the hotel's easy access to Miami Beach's boardwalk, where you can enjoy sunrise and sunset strolls along the lively South Beach strip.

Rates start at $350 per night, plus a $32 daily resort fee.

Virginia is also for dog lovers, especially those who enjoy time imbibing — there are loads of dog-friendly breweries, wineries and distilleries. Some of the dog-friendliest destinations to bookmark include Loudoun County, Staunton, Harrisonburg, Waynesboro and Middleburg.

When it comes to the great outdoors, don't skip out on walks and hikes to Hazel Mountain, Hungry Mother State Park, Hawksbill Mountain, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve and Newport News Park, home to Fido Field Dog Park.

Salamander Middleburg Resort : A timeless getaway in historic Middleburg that's steeped in equestrian roots, this upscale resort sits among the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and is easily accessible by way of Washington, D.C.

As a guest of the resort, your leashed fur child can stroll the expansive grounds, which are easily accessible via designated terrace-level rooms. In-room amenities include a cozy bed, food and water bowls, organic dog treats, a special toy and pet waste bags. The pet fee is $150 per stay.

I Prefer member rates start at $737 per night.

Newport, Rhode Island

How about a "Rhode" trip to New England to explore Newport?

Take a stroll along the Cliff Walk for incredible views of the city, or visit dog-friendly state parks like Brenton Point and Fort Adams. Less than an hour away, Providence has its own paw-some features, including ample dog parks and pup-friendly breweries.

The Vanderbilt : For doggos looking to vacation in the lap of luxury, book a stay at this boutique Newport hotel. Set in a 1909 mansion, this charming property has stylish yet modern rooms and suites in a coastal blue color scheme.

Fur babies weighing up to 75 pounds are welcome at this member of the Auberge Resorts family. The $150 pet fee includes several dog amenities, such as beds, bowls and loads of treats.

Rates start at $1,149 per night. While Auberge-affiliated properties do not take points, you can transfer points from the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal and the American Express Travel Portal when booking.

Park City, Utah

Park City (aka "Bark City") offers plenty of daily doggy excursions, walking trails, hikes and paddleboarding opportunities in scenic spots like Empire Pass, Guardsman Pass, Lackawaxen Lake, Armstrong Trail and Round Valley. Willow Creek Dog Park, in particular, provides more than 2 acres of fenced grass for your pooch to run around, as well as a pond, an agility course with views of the Canyons side of Park City Mountain and sheltered areas for owner relaxation.

When you and your pal need to satisfy grumbling stomachs, check out the numerous pup-loving restaurants, bars and shops along Main Street. Many owners love to hand out treats, so your pup is sure to find something tasty to munch on.

Waldorf Astoria Park City : Just steps from the Frostwood Gondola for all-day mountain fun, this Waldorf Astoria offers a mix of rooms, suites and two-story residences.

Unparalleled mountain views await, as do cozy fireplace vibes and a helping of canine luxury. There's an in-room welcome amenity with bowls and a monogrammed bed for dogs, though keep in mind that a $100 pet fee per stay applies. You may even spot other furry friends out and about during your stay thanks to the hotel's partnership with Nuzzles & Co., a local no-kill shelter that regularly brings dogs to the property for walks.

Rates start at $470 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Related: The best Waldorf Astoria hotels and resorts in the world

Asheville, North Carolina

Start with the incredibly scenic drive up the Blue Ridge Parkway when visiting Asheville. You'll find plenty of great stops with mountain backdrops for those pup-clad photo-ops, as well as great hiking trails, like Craggy Gardens.

Dogs are invited to enjoy the grounds of the historic Biltmore estate, which includes expansive, lush gardens and trails. While they are not permitted inside any of the property's buildings (including the famous house), they can join on certain patios. There are outdoor kennel rental options on-site, too, but be mindful of warm summer temperatures and leaving them unsupervised.

Beyond the Biltmore, Asheville is particularly great for dogs due to its walkability. Numerous shops and restaurants are available in neighborhoods like downtown, the River Arts District, West Asheville and Biltmore Park, so you can spend hours strolling the town's streets.

The Foundry Hotel Asheville : Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, this dog-friendly Curio Collection property is ideal for city center strolls, dining and brewery visits with your pooch.

Take advantage of the Pup-arazzi Adventure Package during your stay. It includes doggy goodies, a furry friend photo shoot and DIY dog bath vouchers from nearby Patton Avenue Pet Company, among other amenities. Know, though, that unlike most hotel pet packages, this one does not include overnight accommodations or the $150 per pet, per stay pet charge in its $460 fee.

Rates start at about $183 or 53,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park : For a dog-friendly stay that's about 10 miles outside the city hustle, try this Hilton located in Biltmore Park Town Square. Full of shops, dining spots and even a Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming outpost, this property offers a nice respite if you're looking for a quieter retreat.

Pets up to 75 pounds are welcome to stay here. If you plan on bringing your dog, factor in the $75 per stay pet fee into your trip expenses.

Rates start at $162 or 47,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Related: The best Hilton hotels in the US, from luxury to budget stays

Charleston, South Carolina

It's only fitting that dogs are more than welcome in Charleston, which is widely considered one of the friendliest cities in the U.S.

Join Bulldog Tours for a historic two-hour walk along the city's iconic cobblestone streets and through its hidden alleys. Then, take a walk along the grounds of Drayton Hall, which has 125 acres of gardens, greenery and riverbanks, before stopping by Charleston Tea Plantation for a dog-friendly stroll around the grounds.

To enjoy the waterside scenery, head to Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, Sullivan's Island or Isle of Palms. Also check out the lively, famed Waterfront Park, which offers endless harbor views, the iconic Pineapple Fountain and an easy path to East Bay Dog Park.

Hotel Bennett : Charlestonian heritage meets European delight at this charming hotel on lively King Street, where two dogs weighing up to 25 pounds each are welcome for a $200 cleaning fee per stay.

Enjoy upscale dining with your doggo on the patios of two of the on-site restaurants, Gabrielle and La Pâtisserie. Be sure to take advantage of the Preferred Hotels-affiliated property's dog-friendly amenities, too, which include dog bowls, beds, biscuits and a dog-friendly walking route upon request, along with dog-sitting referrals.

I Prefer member rates start at $500 per night.

The Vendue : Charleston's two-building art hotel has an award-winning rooftop lounge with sweeping views. It's conveniently located steps from Waterfront Park, which offers scenic walks with views overlooking Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River, and dog-friendly dining options are around every turn.

No weight or breed restrictions apply here, but note that there is a one-time pet fee of $95 per stay.

Rates start at $369 per night.

Portland, Oregon

Portland is known for its commitment to dog-friendliness.

Let's begin with pet-welcoming breweries. The McMenamins company is known for its collection of more than 20 brewpubs, many of which offer sidewalk seating for pets — try Tavern & Pool, White Eagle Saloon & Hotel and Hal's Café (formerly Zeus Café) at the Crystal Hotel to start, as well as Gigantic Brewing Company in southeast Portland and Breakside Brewery and Migration Brewing in northeast Portland.

Should you crave one more brew, take a field trip to Cycle Dog Tavern and Dog Park to enjoy a pour while shopping for doggy goods made from recycled materials. There's also great mural browsing available in the Alberta Arts District, as well as plenty of shops and restaurants to discover along historic Mississippi Avenue.

Of course, there's a never-ending list of parks to bookmark, too, including Wallace Park, Gabriel Park and Delta Park. Remember to also check out the trails at Powell Butte Nature Park, Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge and Tryon Creek State Natural Area.

Hyatt Centric Downtown Portland : With great walkability to Nob Hill, this Hyatt Centric makes it possible to stay with your pup in the heart of downtown while enjoying stunning views in every direction from oversized windows.

The urban-chic hotel, which showcases an updated twist on Pacific Northwest design (think: cozy plaid rugs, two-toned curtains and eye-catching wood details on the walls), welcomes dogs that weigh up to 50 pounds. A $100 per stay pet fee applies for visits lasting up to seven nights.

Rates start at $154 or 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland : This historic hotel is committed to "keeping it weird" for you and Spot during your stay.

At no extra cost, your pup can enjoy complementary goodies, ranging from dog food and water bowls to plush mats and door hangers — there's even a doggy greeting at check-in. Plus, dogs are welcome at the nightly happy hour in the hotel's living room.

Rates start at $164 or 34,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Related: Top IHG pet-friendly hotels for animal lovers

Greenwich, Connecticut 

Ever wanted to BYO pup to the polo match? In Greenwich, you can bring Fido to the Greenwich Polo Club and then mosey around dog-friendly Greenwich Avenue for good shopping and great outdoor eats at places like Happy Monkey from acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

Next, get lost in the wild together via some off-the-beaten-path exploring in Mianus River Park, or take advantage of a more leisurely visit and throw the Frisbee around at Bruce Park or Binney Park.

The J House Greenwich : Check into this charming boutique hotel in Greenwich's Riverside neighborhood for high-tech guest rooms and a rejuvenating spa.

Dogs are welcome so long as they weigh under 50 pounds. They are permitted in a block of designated pet-friendly rooms, which are subject to availability and must be booked in advance, for a fee of $65 per night.

Rates start at $299 per night.

Related reading:

• The 15 best dog-friendly hotels in the US you need to know about
• The 10 best road trips to take with your family this summer
• What you need to know about traveling with dogs on a plane, including where they can sit and how much it costs
• Pet-friendly airlines: The best airlines for pets in the US

Featured Posts

7 of the Most Fun Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Charleston

With its gas lamp-lit streets, steeple studded skyline, and antebellum charm, Charleston, SC has captured the hearts of visitors from all over the world and made itself one of America’s must-visit destinations. Multiple publications like Travel and Leisure have recognized this Lowcountry gem as the […]

8 Pet-Friendly Places in Asheville, NC That Your Dog Will Love

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, NC is a city that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. The vibrant streets of downtown are always filled with the sound of live music and the aromas of the local cuisine. […]

Memorable and Pet-Friendly Things to Do in Sedona, AZ

As frequent travelers, Lady and I have seen many incredible places and cities. However, never have I been so entranced and awe-struck by a destination as I was when we visited Sedona, AZ during our cross-country move. Believe me when I say that the Red […]

It’s Lady’s Birthday! Here Are Her Favorite Homemade Dog Treats and Recipes

How time flies! My baby girl turned one-year-old on March 11th, 2018. (Cue Mommy tears!) To celebrate Lady’s special day and commemorate her one year on this Earth, I went all out and baked all of her favorite homemade dog treats, including a fabulous (if […]

Recent Posts

• 10 Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains That You Need to Know About Right Now

Finding a pet-friendly place to stay with our fur babies can be one of the most difficult steps in the trip-planning process. I confess that when I first started traveling with Lady, I spent a decent percentage of my time searching for dog-friendly accommodations.  Don’t […]

• 6 Easy Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

Tis’ the season for long days on the beach, bonfires, afternoons by the pool and backyard BBQ’s with friends! Summer is one of my favorite times of the year, and not just because I have even more of an excuse to drink iced coffee and […]

• Doggone DIY | Dog Wine Toppers

Welcome to Doggone DIY! Over the COVID-19 lockdown, I searched high and low for DIY projects to keep us busy at home, and I was so excited to find this cute yet simple craft from Pretty Fluffy! Dog wine toppers make great gifts for your […]

• Pet-Friendly Resorts and Hotels by Loews for the Pawfect Vacation

Pet-friendly travel is on the rise, and in response to the new trend, more well-known hotels are opening their doors to our four-legged friends.  Nonetheless, one common misconception about pet-friendly travel is that staying in luxury hotels and resorts is out of the question when […]

• 12 Things to Do With Your Dog in Lakeland, FL

Rated as one of the top cities in the U.S. by National Geographic, Lakeland, FL is a true hidden gem of the Sunshine State. It’s also recognized for its wide array of unique pet stores and dog-friendly restaurants per capita. With that in mind, the […]

How Traveling With My Dog Saved Me During My Battle With Anxiety and Depression

If you’re reading this right now, you can bet I’ve already read this line and the following post a million times over just to ensure everything is right. I’ve obsessed over the tiniest details and wondered if I should say this or if you would […]

Doggone DIY | Lady’s Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Dog Cake

Welcome to Doggone DIY! For Lady’s 3rd birthday, I found awesome inspiration for a peanut butter and pumpkin dog cake from Love From the Oven. After making just a few of my own modifications, I had the perfect recipe for a delicious and healthy pup […]

Doggone DIY | Frozen Coconut Oil and Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Welcome to Doggone DIY! Remind your pup what a good boy/girl they are with homemade treats made with love…and peanut butter! These delicious (and healthy) dog treats only require three simple ingredients and only take a few minutes to whip together. Ready to get baking? […]

The Pawfect Coworker: A Guide to Working From Home With a Dog

“I work from home and my dog is bored.” I’ve seen this statement in several group chats and forums lately, and due to the status of current events, it’s not surprising.  If you’re one of the many who have found themselves working from home, you’re […]

DIY Natural Dog Baths and Rinses to Make Your Your Pup Feel Like Royalty

Whether or not your pup is a fan of bath time, staying clean is just part of being a house pet, and the evidence shows each time you walk down the shampoo isle at the pet store. There are literally thousands upon thousands of dog shampoos, […]

Meet the Dynamic Duo

Follow Us on Facebook

Follow on Instagram

Follow me on twitter, what’s new, what are you looking for.

• Juliet by LyraThemes.com

Every dog deserves a vacation too.

We want to help you find the best dog friendly vacation destinations, through our first hand dog travel tips, hacks and more!

At The Dog Vacation, we’re all about inspiring and helping pet owners travel the world with their pet.  Our resident traveling mini dachshund, Bodhi, has traveled to 8 countries and 40+ cities so our guides explore both domestic and international dog travel! 

Explore our guides!

Want to travel with your dog? Or maybe you're just curious about how you can travel with your pet. Then don't miss our ultimate pet-friendly guides for many major destinations all over the world! We do not gatekeep here! You'll find travel tips and hacks, insider information, and all the logistically need to knows on how to jet-set with your dog both domestically and internationally.

Top 5 Instagrammable Things To Do With Your Dog in London 2024

Tail wags guaranteed! Unleash your pup’s inner influencer at London’s top 5 Instagrammable dog spots in 2024!

How to Bring Your Dog to the UK using the Le Shuttle Eurotunnel 2024

Traveling through the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle is the best option when traveling with your dog to England.

Bring Your Dog Around Greece Easily & For Free With Blue Star Ferries

Dogs ride for free on Blue Star Ferries! Best way to travel around Greece with your dog is on Blue Star Ferries.

6 Paw-some Instaworthy Things to Do in Lake Como with Your Dog

Visiting Lake Como with your dog will be an unforgettable experience that will strengthen your bond.

8 Unique Things You’ll Do in Europe With Your Dog if You Really Love Them

Top 8 petfriendly European destinations and things to do, for an unforgettable adventure.

Pet Owners Always Forget This Essential Travel Must Have

Faye Travel Insurance offers pet travel insurance — a travel must have. This gives you peace of mind for your pet friendly adventure.

Don't miss out on our latest dog friendly travel tips! Follow us on social for more.

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Join the Dog Vacation Pack for an adventure of a lifetime!

Get exclusive access to insider info, new product releases, pawsome posts, and insightful guides, including a free checklist on how to fly with your dog (in airplane cabin) when you subscribe to our newsletter.

Email Address*

First Name*

The 10 Best Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations

By: Kristen Arendt Updated: April 5, 2023

Home / BeInspired / Culture / The 10 Best Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations

J ust about everyone deserves a vacation this year—you and your dog included. So why not book a dog-friendly vacation you can both enjoy? Whether you're planning a road trip with a dog or a flight to an exotic locale, you can make vacationing with a dog a stress-free and fun experience at one of these 10 best dog destinations for travel in the U.S.

We spoke to travel agents, hoteliers and other experts to get their top vacation picks for pets and their parents this year. The big takeaway? Whether you’re in the mood for a posh mountain resort or a beach escape, you’ve got plenty of dog destinations to choose from. These 10 top spots will make for a pawsitively memorable dog-friendly vacation.

When traveling, remember to review current CDC guidelines and double-check the rules of your dog destination before visiting, including leash requirements for any places that are dog-friendly.

1 Seattle, Washington

Where to Stay

Hotel FIVE StayPineapple

• 2200 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
• (206) 441-9785

This boutique hotel in the Belltown neighborhood boasts “dog obsessed” accommodations. Your pup will enjoy a comfy pineapple-themed dog bed along with their very own treat tins and dog bowl. The hotel offers plenty of people perks too, from colorful rooms and cozy robes to the complimentary (and stylish!) beach cruisers you can use to cycle around the city.

Where to Eat

Norm’s Eatery & Alehouse

• 460 N 36th St, Seattle, WA 98103
• (206) 547-1417

Dog-friendly Seattle eatery Norm’s is a local favorite, serving up classic American fare like burgers and fries with a solid rotation of craft beer on tap. Plus, Norm’s welcomes your furry sidekick with open arms, from their dog-themed decor to their special dog menu . For a special treat, order up a bacon pupcake or, if you’re traveling with a pack, dish up the Hound Dog Cake which serves six.

Seattle Water Tours Sunday Ice Cream Cruise

• 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
• 206-422-0036

During the summer months, you and your dog can hop aboard the M/V Fremont Avenue tour boat for a 45-minute trip around Lake Union. From the deck, you can spot shipyards, wharves, shoreline parks and floating homes as you learn about the local history. And yes, this is an ice cream cruise, with varieties for both you and your pup to enjoy as you cruise.

Take a walk to the Seattle Barkery

• 2225 8th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
• (206) 851-1549

During your stay, be sure to take your pup for a sightseeing walk along Puget Sound and through the alleys of Pike Place Market. Dogs aren’t allowed in the market buildings but you can still enjoy the local flair from the streets and sidewalks. Continue your walk through the grassy area of the Seattle Center and cross the Space Needle off your sightseeing list before visiting the Seattle Barkery to buy your pup their very own tasty treat—delivered to your dog via the Barkery’s one-of-a-kind treat chute!

2 Sedona, Arizona

Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock

• 90 Ridge Trail Dr, Sedona, AZ 86351
• (928) 284-4040

For a dog-friendly vacation resort, book a room at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock. The resort greets their canine guests with a special welcome package including a delicious treat, a pet bandana, collar tag and a toy. In addition to their full pet menu , which even includes non-alcoholic doggy wine or beer, you can also pamper your pooch with an a la carte pet energy therapy treatment performed by the Hilton’s in-house energy therapist.

Hideaway House

• 231 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86336
• (928) 202-4082

In the mood for a hearty Italian menu with an out-of-this-world view? Head to the Hideaway House to enjoy pizza, pasta and more from their open-air patio. Serving unique takes on Italian classics, like a roasted peach and caramelized pancetta pizza, this top-rated restaurant welcomes every member of the family, pups included. Pet parents love that the wait staff greets dogs with a treat and water bowl.

A Day In The West Jeep Tours

• 2900 W State Rte 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
• (928) 282-4320

Strap on your seat belt and buckle in your pup for a day of sightseeing from the back of a Jeep. A Day in the West Jeep Tours offer a variety of dog-friendly tour options where you can bring your furry co-pilot along for the ride. The heart-pumping Diamondback Gulch Jeep Tour, for example, takes you on rugged terrain with views of seven canyons and iconic rock formations like Capitol Butte and Chimney Rock.

Hike to the Bell Rock Vortex

• SR-179 between Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek, AZ 86351

Bell Rock is one of the most popular Sedona vortex sites. The trail that loops around the base of this stunning rock formation is open to dogs, so you can enjoy this distinctly Sedona experience with your pup by your side. For this and other hikes in the area, be aware that hiking in the desert is a bit more challenging than a walk in the park. Your dog should be used to walking outdoors and over rocky terrain. Consider packing a pair of dog booties if your dog has tender paws.

3 Colorado Springs, Colorado

The Broadmoor Resort

• 1 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
• (800) 755-5011

If you want a sophisticated dog-friendly stay, book the Broadmoor, a historic hotel that has been associated with luxurious Rocky Mountain getaways since it was founded in 1981. You and your dog will love exploring the sprawling grounds and classy buildings of this “Grande Dame of the Rockies.” And your best friend in residence will be properly pampered as part of the Broadmoor’s Pitty Pat Club , which entitles pups to luxury pet beds and food dishes during their stay, along with a complimentary pet treat upon arrival.

Pub Dog Colorado

• 2207 Bott Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
• (719) 375-0771

Tasty food, great beer and a fenced off-leash dog area? Pub Dog Colorado has it all. You can even dine indoors with your dog, making this the only place in Colorado where your furry friend can join you inside. As you might expect, the pub also dishes up a variety of tasty meals for canines from their dog menu , including “puppy patties” (2 oz. beef patties) and “bark bowls” with brown rice, sweet potato and beef. You can even order a round of Bowser Beer Dog Beer, a non-alcoholic brew that your dog will find pawsitively delightful after a romp with their new friends in the off-leash park.

Garden of the Gods

• 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
• (719) 634-6666

If you and your dog love hiking, plan a day at Garden of the Gods to see the towering sandstone rock formations and the stunning backdrop of Pikes Peak. The dog-friendly park has 21 miles of well-maintained trails available for you and your leashed pup to explore, plus an off-leash area where your dog can stretch their legs. Be sure to take plenty of water, sun protection ( for you and your dog ) and your camera. You aren’t going to want to miss these photo ops.

Looking for more Western vacation inspo? Check out these dog-friendly dude ranches .

4 Lake Placid, New York

Saranac Waterfront Lodge

• 250 Lake Flower Ave, Saranac Lake, NY 12983
• (518) 619-4000

Fifteen minutes from downtown Lake Placid, the Saranac Waterfront Lodge is a picturesque hotel for people and pups looking for a full-service stay that connects them to nature. The lodge welcomes dogs up to 75 pounds, and provides a plush dog bed, complimentary dog treat on arrival, and a toy for your dog to take home as a souvenir. As a bonus, for every dog who books a stay, the lodge donates $40 to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society , a New York State registered no-kill shelter.

Emma’s Lake Placid Creamery

• 2507 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946
• (518) 523-8201

In the summer months, you can satisfy your sweet tooth at this old-fashioned ice cream shop, which also dishes up a special doggie treat—a small vanilla dish with a bone on top. The shop also sells Pawlickers peanut butter, which they serve with a side of dog biscuits. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat of your own, order the “wafflewhich” — two Belgian waffles filled with hot fudge and maple syrup and topped with Maple Creme soft serve.

Mirror Lake

• 49 Parkside Dr., Lake Placid, NY
• (518) 523-2445

Mirror Lake is a year-round destination for dogs and their parents alike. In the spring and summer months, you can canoe or kayak on the calm, clear waters (no motorized boats are allowed) or hit up the dog-friendly beach on the lake’s southwest shore. In the autumn, take a stroll on the 2.7-mile path around the lake and snap some pics of the fall colors. In the winter, bring your cross-country skis or snowshoes and your dog’s favorite sweater for an over-the-snow outing.

5 Chicago, Illinois

Staypineapple, An Iconic Hotel

• 1 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
• (312) 940-7997

A National Historic Landmark building located in Chicago’s theatre district, the Staypineapple has lots of charm. Your time at the hotel, as with StayPineapple’s other boutique hotels, is all about the pups—from the knowledgeable, dog-loving staff to the decked-out dog-friendly room. And with its location in the heart of downtown, this is an ideal starting point for exploring the city. It’s practically guaranteed your pup will enjoy the stay just as much as you.

• 65 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654
• (312) 940-9900

An upscale eatery with a dog-friendly patio, Barrio serves Mexican fare with an American twist (no deep-dish pizza or Chicago-style hot dogs on the menu here). For your pup, they offer an exclusive “Barkio” menu with tasty meat entrees that can be followed up by a doggy “Woof Cream” dessert. And you can feel good about buying your dog another round, as a portion of the proceeds is donated to PAWS Chicago animal shelter. Barrio’s sister restaurants, Bar Siena and Siena Tavern also offer dog menus and dog-friendly seating.

Mercury’s Canine Cruise

• 112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
• (312) 332-1353

In the summer, explore Chicago’s waterways with Mercury’s canine-friendly cruises. Their cruise boats offer plenty of safe, dog-friendly seating on deck as well as dog bowls and even a newspaper-lined restroom, should your pup need it. Once onboard, all you have to do is sit back, relax and soak in the views as you’ll be treated to fascinating tales from Chicago’s history—complete with dog-related details. The company’s summer tours are expected to resume July 10.

Walk the Lakefront Trail

• Along the Chicago waterfront from W. Ardmore Ave. to 71st St.

Enjoy Chicago’s iconic Lake Michigan waterfront on foot on the 18.5-mile Lakefront Trail. This multi-use path is popular with walkers, runners, bikers and, of course, puppers. The path also connects to several dog-friendly parks and play areas along the shore, including the Montrose Dog Beach and Lakeshore East Dog Park .

6 St. Augustine, Florida

Saint Augustine Beach House

• 10 Vilano Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• (904) 217-3765

There’s a wide range of cozy beach houses and cute B&B’s in town, but the Saint Augustine Beach House is one of the best for dog parents. Dogs of all sizes are welcome in all the rooms, and the beach house even has a small dog run on the property. The complimentary dog rinsing stations, dog towels and furniture covers will come in handy after a day out digging in the sand at Vilano Beach, one of the top-rated dog-friendly beaches in the area.

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grill

• 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• (904) 824-7765

A perennial favorite of locals and tourists alike, Harry’s gets top marks from visitors for top-notch fresh seafood and great ambiance. Their outdoor dog-friendly patio space is a scenic garden-like courtyard. And yes, the restaurant welcomes both people and pets, providing water and treats for your dog.

St. Augustine Eco Tours

• 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• (904) 377-7245

When you need a break from the beach, take your pup out for a boat ride. St. Augustine Eco Tours offer dog-friendly small nature tours and private expeditions. One of their most popular dog-friendly tours combines dolphin and bird watching with historic sights and an amazing boat ride. If you plan to bring your pup, call ahead to book your tour.

7 Dana Point, California

The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel

• One Ritz Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629
• (949) 240-2000

The Ritz Carlton at Laguna Niguel, a seaside resort with panoramic Pacific Ocean views, will add a little glam to your vacation. Pups will be treated to the “posh pooch experience” with a plush doggy bed, water bowl, in-room dining pet menu and Ritz-Carlton toys and treats. Watch the hotel calendar for unique dog-centered events like the annual Yappy Howl-O-Ween contest, Yappy Howlidays celebration, and a Yappy Hour charitable event that benefits Canine Companions for Independence .

Dogs are just as welcome at the Ritz Carlton’s restaurant 180blũ, where a spacious outdoor rooftop lounge offers expansive views of the ocean. Plus, they have a full doggie menu so your pup can chow down while you enjoy their Pan-Latin-inspired human fare and signature cocktails. A visit on a Thursday evening will give you and your dog the added treat of live music.

Outlets at San Clemente

• 101 W Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente, CA 92672
• (949) 535-2323

If your idea of a great time includes shopping for some major bargains, check out the Outlets at San Clemente. This open-air walking mall has pet stations, and you can pick up a free dog treat at customer service. Though your dog won’t be allowed in every store, window-shopping with your pet by your side can be just as rewarding.

8 Hilton Head, South Carolina

Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

• 23 Ocean Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• (843) 842-8000

This resort welcomes pups up to 50 pounds, and you can even book a special MVP (Most Valuable Pup) Package that includes treats, two gift bowls, a mat and their very own brand of dog “champagne”–Pawrignon. (Don't worry, you’ll get a bottle of Champagne to pop too.) During your stay, you can also enjoy the resort's full-service Ocean Tides Spa, three pools and two beach-side hot tubs for a rejuvenating weekend.

Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks

• 1 Hudson Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
• (843) 681-2772

If you’re hankering for seafood, it doesn’t get much fresher than at Hudson’s, a dog-friendly restaurant right on the water. Grab a seaside seat with your pup on their dock, order up some fresh-caught oysters, shrimp or soft shell crabs, and settle in to catch the sunset.

Visit Chaplin Park & Burkes Beach

• 11 Castnet Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• (843) 342-4580

Pack some snacks and your pup’s favorite frisbee, because a trip to Chaplin Park and Burkes Beach will likely be an all-day outing. Chaplin Park has a fenced-in, off-leash dog playground where your pup can get those zoomies out. Back on leash, you can head to Burkes Beach for some fun in the surf.

9 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia

• 433 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• (215) 925-2111

Located within Philly's most historic square mile, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco is great for sightseeing or taking a pet-friendly walking tour. Steps from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, this location couldn’t get much better. Plus, this dog-friendly hotel offers additional amenities like pet-sitting, grooming and walking services. You can even book a Bark Package to score your dog a special bandana designed by a local artist so they can be strut in style on your self-guided tour of the historic downtown.

• 205 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• (215) 732-6622

For great downtown dining, head to Rouge, one of the trendiest restaurants in the neighborhood. A popular spot in Rittenhouse Square, the bistro got a makeover in 2019 that revamped the space and the menu. Staff welcome pets with dog treats and fresh water at both of their dog-friendly outdoor dining spaces. Along with great people-watching from your street-side table, you can enjoy a signature cocktail or order up the popular Rouge Cheeseburger.

Wissahickon Valley Park

• Valley Green Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19128
• (215) 247-0417

This 1,800-acre park boasts over 50 miles of trails where dogs are allowed on leash. For an easy stroll, head out along Wissahickon Creek in search of the park’s historic structures, including Philadelphia’s only remaining covered bridge.

10 South Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe

• 50 US-50, Stateline, NV 89449
• (844) 588-7625

Is your dog a rock star? They’ll fit right in at the Hard Rock, which delivers top-notch in-room dog-friendly amenities, pet-friendly rooms and a dog-friendly restaurant. Though pets are not allowed in the casino, the full-service Hair of the Dog concierge offers daycare, overnight care, complete grooming services, companion walks and even pet massages.

FiRE + iCE Interactive Grill & Bar

• 4100 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
• (530) 542-6650

Be sure to stop by the pet-friendly patio of FiRE+iCE which welcomes dogs of all sizes and has complimentary water bowls. At this “interactive” grill, you can grab a bowl and pick your favorite meat ,veggies, sauces and toppings, then let the chefs get your custom creation sizzling on the large hot iron grill.

Regan Beach Dog Water Park

• 3199 Sacramento Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
• (530) 542-6056

In the summer, take your water-loving pup to the Regan Beach dog water park for a dip in Lake Tahoe. Pack their favorite floating toy and a towel. For dogs who aren’t jazzed about swimming, a lakeside stroll followed by a nap in the shade will be equally enjoyable.

If you’re ready for a vacation—and let’s be honest: who isn’t?—visiting one of these top-rated dog destinations with your pup could be just the ticket. Happy travels!

Need more travel inspo? Check out the best winter vacation destinations for you and your pup .

• 15 Dog-Friendly Campgrounds for Happy (and Furry) Campers
• Hit the Trail With Our 16 “Dog-Approved” Hikes
• 11 Tips for Surviving a Road Trip With Your Dog
• 9 Secrets for Traveling With a Dog on a Plane
• The Best Dog Car Seat Covers to Protect Your Ride

Related Posts

The Best Dog-Friendly Coffee Shops in Each State

Flying With Pets: Pet Air Travel Guide and Pet-Friendly Airlines

The 50+ Best Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patches in the U.S.

Dog-Friendly Restaurant Etiquette

This Man Travels the US in an RV with 11 Dogs, All for a Good Reason

16 Things Not to Do When Traveling With Dogs

• Health & Nutrition
• View all in be well
• Style & Decor
• View all in be home
• Get Answers
• View all in be smart
• People X Pets
• View all in be inspired
• Chewy Gives Back
• Shelters / Rescues
• View all in be generous

Most Popular

By: BeChewy Editors Updated: October 10, 2023

Learn what to feed a puppy at every stage in their development with this veterinarian-approved puppy feeding guide for new puppy parents.

More Details

By: Linda Rodgers Updated: October 13, 2023

Some plants can give your pup diarrhea, others are extremely poisonous and can cause serious problems.

By: Irith Bloom, CPDT-KSA Updated: October 10, 2023

Want to know how you can potty train your dog in 7 days? Follow along on one family’s potty training journey and learn how you can housetrain your dog, too.

Pets Dog World

13 Dog Friendly Travel Destinations: Exploring the World with Your Furry Friend

Traveling is an adventure that’s even better when shared with our furry companions. Taking your beloved dog on vacation can create lasting memories and strengthen your bond. But finding dog friendly travel destinations that cater to human and canine needs can be challenging. Fret not! This extensive guide’ll explore many dog-friendly destinations worldwide, ensuring you and your four-legged friend have the time of your lives. So pack your bags, leash up your pup, and embark on a journey of exploration, tail wags, and unforgettable experiences!

Table of Contents

Best Dog Friendly Travel Destinations

We have short-listed some of the amazing destinations to travel with your furry friend. They are listed as below :

1. California Dreamin’ in Carmel-by-the-Sea, USA:

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of California , Carmel-by-the-Sea is a paradise for dogs and their owners alike. The city is renowned for its dog-friendly attitude, boasting numerous pet-friendly hotels, restaurants with dog-friendly patios, and off-leash dog beaches. Your furry companion can frolic freely at Carmel Beach or explore the scenic trails at the nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Don’t miss out on visiting “Doris Day’s Cypress Inn,” a dog-friendly hotel named after the legendary actress and animal rights activist, where pets are pampered with gourmet treats and cozy beds.

2. Embracing Nature in Lake District, United Kingdom:

For nature enthusiasts and their canine pals, the Lake District in the United Kingdom is a haven of unparalleled beauty. With its tranquil lakes, rolling hills, and charming villages, this national park offers countless opportunities for scenic walks and adventures. Dogs are welcomed in many accommodation options, and there’s no shortage of dog-friendly pubs where you can relax after a day of exploration. Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Windermere or hike the dog-friendly trails at Grizedale Forest for a memorable experience.

3. Island Paradise in Maui, Hawaii:

If you dream of sun, surf, and sand, Maui in Hawaii is the ultimate tropical getaway for you and your pup. Many dog-friendly beaches, such as Baldwin Beach Park and Kanaha Beach Park, allow dogs to enjoy the waves and sandy shores. Treat your pet to a hike along the Waihee Ridge Trail or a stroll through the lush gardens of the Kula Botanical Garden. Don’t miss out on “Kula Bistro,” a pet-friendly restaurant offering delectable Hawaiian cuisine where you and your furry friend can relish the island flavors together.

4. Adventure Awaits in Banff National Park, Canada:

For active outdoor enthusiasts, Banff National Park in Canada is a dream come true. This breathtaking wilderness offers pet-friendly activities, including hiking, snowshoeing, and canoeing. Take your dog on a stroll along the scenic Bow River Loop or hike the Johnston Canyon trail to witness stunning waterfalls. Many lodges and cabins in the area are dog-friendly, providing a cozy retreat after a day of outdoor fun.

5. Exploring History and Culture in Rome, Italy:

For history buffs and furry companions, Rome is a captivating destination with its ancient ruins, iconic landmarks, and dog-friendly charm. Many historical sites like the Roman Forum and the Colosseum allow leashed dogs to accompany their owners. Enjoy a leisurely walk with your pup through Villa Borghese, a vast park where dogs can roam freely. Rome is also home to several dog-friendly cafes and restaurants where you can savor authentic Italian cuisine while your dog rests comfortably.

6. Coastal Beauty in Cape Town, South Africa:

Cape Town is a dog-friendly gem that seamlessly blends stunning coastal landscapes with vibrant city life. Take your furry friend for a walk on the scenic Camps Bay Promenade, or let them play off-leash at the dog-friendly Sea Point Promenade. For a more adventurous outing, hike up Table Mountain, where dogs on leashes are welcome. Many cafes and eateries in Cape Town have outdoor seating areas where dogs are allowed, so you can indulge in local delicacies without leaving your pup behind.

7. Winter Wonderland in Whistler, Canada:

Whistler, Canada , is a must-visit destination if you and your dog love winter sports. During the winter season, this charming ski resort town turns into a snowy wonderland where dogs are warmly welcomed. Explore the scenic dog-friendly trails in Lost Lake Park or snowshoe along the groomed trails at Whistler Olympic Park. Many accommodation options in Whistler are pet-friendly, ensuring your dog’s comfort throughout your stay. After a day of snowy adventures, cozy up with your pup by the fireplace and relish the serene winter ambiance.

8. Tropical Bliss in Bali, Indonesia:

Bali’s tropical beauty and warm hospitality also extend to its furry visitors. While many of Bali’s beaches are not pet-friendly, there are still numerous activities you and your dog can enjoy together. Head to the lush greenery of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, where your pup can encounter friendly monkeys and explore the serene temple grounds. Relax at pet-friendly cafes like the “Café Organic” in Seminyak or explore the rice terraces in Tegalalang together for a tranquil experience.

9. Coastal Adventures in Sydney, Australia:

Sydney is a vibrant city that embraces dogs, making it an ideal destination for pet owners seeking a mix of city life and coastal beauty. Enjoy a walk with your dog along the iconic Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Many beaches in Sydney have designated dog-friendly areas, including Sirius Cove and Rose Bay Beach, where your pup can dip their paws in the water. Sydney also offers various pet-friendly accommodation options, ensuring a comfortable stay for you and your furry friend.

10. Cultural Enchantment in Kyoto, Japan:

Known for its rich history and traditional charm, Kyoto is a dog-friendly destination that offers a unique cultural experience for humans and their canine companions. While many historical sites have restrictions on dogs, you can still explore the city’s beautiful parks and gardens together. Take your dog for a stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or visit the peaceful Kamo River for a leisurely walk. Some pet-friendly temples and shrines, such as Tenryu-ji Temple, welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs, allowing you to experience the tranquility of these sacred places.

11. Alpine Beauty in Zermatt, Switzerland:

If you and your pup are avid mountain lovers, Zermatt in Switzerland is a dream destination. Surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps, Zermatt offers a plethora of dog-friendly hiking trails with breathtaking views. Explore the Five Lakes Walk or hike to the Gornergrat summit for an unforgettable adventure. Many hotels and chalets in Zermatt are pet-friendly, providing a cozy retreat after an exhilarating day in the mountains.

12. Serenity in Santorini, Greece:

For a serene and picturesque getaway, Santorini is an excellent choice for dog-friendly travel. While dogs are not allowed on the popular Red Beach, there are still many tranquil spots where you and your pup can enjoy the island’s beauty. Take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Oia or relax at one of the dog-friendly cafes in Fira. Santorini’s idyllic sunsets are best admired from pet-friendly terraces, where you and your dog can unwind after a day of exploration.

13. Unspoiled Nature in the Azores, Portugal:

For those seeking unspoiled natural beauty, the Azores archipelago in Portugal is a hidden gem that warmly welcomes dogs. The islands offer a paradise for nature lovers, with scenic trails, volcanic landscapes, and stunning coastal vistas. Explore the dog-friendly trails of Sete Cidades on São Miguel Island or hike through the mystical forests of Pico Island. Many guesthouses and cottages in the Azores are pet-friendly, providing a tranquil retreat amid the island’s serenity.

Conclusion:

Traveling with your furry friend is an enriching experience that strengthens your bond and creates cherished memories. Whether you seek adventures in the mountains, leisure on sunny beaches, or cultural immersions in historical cities, there are countless dog-friendly destinations worldwide that cater to both human and canine needs. Remember to plan ahead and check local regulations, accommodations, and transport options to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip with your four-legged companion. Embrace the joy of exploring the world together, savor the breathtaking views, and relish the moments of pure happiness shared with your loyal and loving travel buddy. Bon voyage and happy tails!

Related Posts

10 Common Dog Health Issues and How to Keep Your Furry Friend Healthy

Dog Breeding: Important Considerations and Responsible Practices

The Importance of Socialization for Dogs: How to Raise a Well-Adjusted Pup

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Auto Insurance Best Car Insurance Cheapest Car Insurance Compare Car Insurance Quotes Best Car Insurance For Young Drivers Best Auto & Home Bundles Cheapest Cars To Insure
• Home Insurance Best Home Insurance Best Renters Insurance Cheapest Homeowners Insurance Types Of Homeowners Insurance
• Life Insurance Best Life Insurance Best Term Life Insurance Best Senior Life Insurance Best Whole Life Insurance Best No Exam Life Insurance
• Pet Insurance Best Pet Insurance Cheap Pet Insurance Pet Insurance Costs Compare Pet Insurance Quotes
• Travel Insurance Best Travel Insurance Cancel For Any Reason Travel Insurance Best Cruise Travel Insurance Best Senior Travel Insurance
• Health Insurance Best Health Insurance Plans Best Affordable Health Insurance Best Dental Insurance Best Vision Insurance Best Disability Insurance
• Credit Cards Best Credit Cards 2024 Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards Best Rewards Credit Cards Best Cash Back Credit Cards Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards Best 0% APR Credit Cards Best Business Credit Cards Best Credit Cards for Startups Best Credit Cards For Bad Credit Best Cards for Students without Credit
• Credit Card Reviews Chase Sapphire Preferred Wells Fargo Active Cash® Chase Sapphire Reserve Citi Double Cash Citi Diamond Preferred Chase Ink Business Unlimited American Express Blue Business Plus
• Credit Card by Issuer Best Chase Credit Cards Best American Express Credit Cards Best Bank of America Credit Cards Best Visa Credit Cards
• Credit Score Best Credit Monitoring Services Best Identity Theft Protection
• CDs Best CD Rates Best No Penalty CDs Best Jumbo CD Rates Best 3 Month CD Rates Best 6 Month CD Rates Best 9 Month CD Rates Best 1 Year CD Rates Best 2 Year CD Rates Best 5 Year CD Rates
• Checking Best High-Yield Checking Accounts Best Checking Accounts Best No Fee Checking Accounts Best Teen Checking Accounts Best Student Checking Accounts Best Joint Checking Accounts Best Business Checking Accounts Best Free Checking Accounts
• Savings Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Best Free No-Fee Savings Accounts Simple Savings Calculator Monthly Budget Calculator: 50/30/20
• Mortgages Best Mortgage Lenders Best Online Mortgage Lenders Current Mortgage Rates Best HELOC Rates Best Mortgage Refinance Lenders Best Home Equity Loan Lenders Best VA Mortgage Lenders Mortgage Refinance Rates Mortgage Interest Rate Forecast
• Personal Loans Best Personal Loans Best Debt Consolidation Loans Best Emergency Loans Best Home Improvement Loans Best Bad Credit Loans Best Installment Loans For Bad Credit Best Personal Loans For Fair Credit Best Low Interest Personal Loans
• Student Loans Best Student Loans Best Student Loan Refinance Best Student Loans for Bad or No Credit Best Low-Interest Student Loans
• Business Loans Best Business Loans Best Business Lines of Credit Apply For A Business Loan Business Loan vs. Business Line Of Credit What Is An SBA Loan?
• Investing Best Online Brokers Top 10 Cryptocurrencies Best Low-Risk Investments Best Cheap Stocks To Buy Now Best S&P 500 Index Funds Best Stocks For Beginners How To Make Money From Investing In Stocks
• Retirement Best Gold IRAs Best Investments for a Roth IRA Best Bitcoin IRAs Protecting Your 401(k) In a Recession Types of IRAs Roth vs Traditional IRA How To Open A Roth IRA
• Business Formation Best LLC Services Best Registered Agent Services How To Start An LLC How To Start A Business
• Web Design & Hosting Best Website Builders Best E-commerce Platforms Best Domain Registrar
• HR & Payroll Best Payroll Software Best HR Software Best HRIS Systems Best Recruiting Software Best Applicant Tracking Systems
• Payment Processing Best Credit Card Processing Companies Best POS Systems Best Merchant Services Best Credit Card Readers How To Accept Credit Cards
• More Business Solutions Best VPNs Best VoIP Services Best Project Management Software Best CRM Software Best Accounting Software
• Manage Topics
• Investigations
• Visual Explainers
• Newsletters
• Abortion news
• Coronavirus
• Climate Change
• Vertical Storytelling
• Corrections Policy
• College Football
• High School Sports
• H.S. Sports Awards
• Sports Betting
• College Basketball (M)
• College Basketball (W)
• For The Win
• Sports Pulse
• Weekly Pulse
• Buy Tickets
• Sports Seriously
• Sports+ States
• Celebrities
• Entertainment This!
• Celebrity Deaths
• American Influencer Awards
• Women of the Century
• Problem Solved
• Personal Finance
• Small Business
• Consumer Recalls
• Video Games
• Product Reviews
• Destinations
• Airline News
• Experience America
• Today's Debate
• Suzette Hackney
• Policing the USA
• Meet the Editorial Board
• How to Submit Content
• Hidden Common Ground
• Race in America

Personal Loans

Best Personal Loans

Auto Insurance

Best Auto Insurance

Best High-Yields Savings Accounts

CREDIT CARDS

Best Credit Cards

Advertiser Disclosure

Blueprint is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service focused on helping readers make smarter decisions. We receive compensation from the companies that advertise on Blueprint which may impact how and where products appear on this site. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Blueprint. Blueprint does not include all companies, products or offers that may be available to you within the market. A list of selected affiliate partners is available here .

Pet Insurance

The top 20 dog-friendly vacation destinations

Whether you want a West Coast adventure, a Florida beach break or a Rocky Mountains getaway, there’s a place for you and your pup. 

These destinations also offer an array of climates, ranging from the semi-arid conditions of Flagstaff, Arizona to the annual average of 300 sunny days in Denver. 

The table below shows how many dog-friendly features each city in our rating has, rounded to the nearest whole number. The scaled score demonstrates how the cities performed in our rating. See our methodology for full details.

Top 10 dog-friendly vacation destinations

1. flagstaff, arizona.

At an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet, Flagstaff is a four-season climate town with more than 260 days of sunshine each year. Based on available data, Flagstaff:

• Averages nearly 56 dog-friendly accommodation options per 100,000 residents, the highest concentration of dog-friendly accommodations.
• Offers around 132 dog-friendly trails.
• Has around 39 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents for you to choose from. 

2. San Luis Obispo, California

Named the "Happiest Town in the USA" by Oprah in 2008, San Luis Obispo — or SLO as locals call it — sits between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Hailed as the place where motels were invented, this quirky town offers plenty of outdoor adventures as well as:

• The highest concentration of vet offices in our analysis, with nearly 700 per 100,000 businesses.
• Nine local beaches within 50 miles, making it a hot spot if you're looking to enjoy some waterfront time with your dog.
• 32 dog-friendly accommodations per 100,000 residents.

3. Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate, offering average temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Located just 92 miles north of Los Angeles, it provides a quick getaway to SoCal residents who want an escape with their pup. If you’re visiting Santa Barbara with your pet, you can take advantage of:

• Nearly 29 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents.
• Around 19 dog-friendly accommodation options per 100,000 residents.
• 57 trails that allow canine companions. 

4. Austin, Texas

Austin's nearly one million residents enjoy 300 days of sunshine annually. The capital of Texas boasts tons of activities, restaurants and leisure opportunities, including the annual SXSW festival. A trip to this Texas hot spot will give you and your dog access to:

• About 21 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents. 
• Approximately 562 vet offices per 100,000 businesses, should your dog get injured or sick during your getaway.
• Plenty of options to get active with 94 dog-friendly trails. 

5. Portland, Oregon 

Portland is the largest city in Oregon and often has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate. If you and your pup enjoy outdoor pursuits, Portland has much to offer:

• The second highest number of dog-friendly trails — an impressive 171 options.
• About 18 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents.
• Around 541 vet offices per 100,000 businesses, ensuring easy access if your dog needs veterinary care. 

6. San Diego, California

San Diego has mild weather and plenty of outdoor activities for you and your dog to enjoy. San Diego is decently dog-friendly:

• San Diego has many restaurants that welcome your furry friend, averaging around 21 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents.
• If you enjoy hiking, be sure to check out a few of the city's 102 dog-friendly trails. 
• You can also take advantage of 10 dog-friendly beaches within 50 miles of San Diego.

7. Naples, Florida

Naples is one of the top-scoring cities for dog-friendly restaurants in our analysis. It also has plenty of outdoor activities and warm weather. This Gulf Coast city:

• Ranks second for the highest number of restaurants that welcome dogs.
• Provides about 27 pet-friendly accommodations per 100,000 residents.
• 13 dog-friendly trails available for you and your pup to explore.
• Eight dog-friendly beaches within 50 miles. 

8. Nashville, Tennessee

While Nashville made its name in country music, today this diverse city offers plenty of activities in the state's capital. It also has a pet-friendly culture that includes:

• 18 walking trails where your pup can tag along.
• Nearly 14 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents — a must in a city known for its culinary offerings.
• 612 veterinary offices per 100,000 businesses, the second highest number of offices in our study. 

9. Denver, Colorado

Frequently referred to as the Mile High City, this town is exactly 5,280 feet above sea level. Hailed as home to a highly walkable downtown, you can find plenty of activities around the city to enjoy with your pet. If you’re traveling to Denver with your pet, here’s what you can expect:

• At the base of the Rocky Mountains, Denver offers 55 dog-friendly trails.
• About nine dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents.
• Around nine dog-friendly accommodations per 100,000 residents. 

10. Key West, Florida

Although Key West is an island, there are 42 bridges connecting it to mainland Florida. The city has many dog-friendly bars and restaurants. Here’s what to know if you’re planning an island adventure:

• Around 17 dog-friendly bars per 100,000 residents, making it the place to go if you're fond of a nice vacation drink.
• Nearly 122 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents, earning the number one spot by a landslide for dog-friendly dining among the cities we analyzed.
• Only two dog-friendly trails, fewer than other cities in our study.

5 tips for traveling with a dog

Before hopping in a plane, train or automobile with your dog, make sure you're following these tips to travel safely with your best canine friend — and ensure their comfort along the way.

Consider pet insurance

If the unthinkable happens and you need to take your dog to the vet while on vacation, be prepared with pet insurance . An unlimited accident and illness pet insurance plan costs approximately $55 a month for dogs and can save you thousands of dollars if your dog gets sick or injured.

Travel safely

Regardless of your travel method, make sure your dog has what they need to get from point A to B safely. This includes an appropriately sized crate, a method of securing the crate and ample ventilation.

If flying with your dog, read the airline's guidance and requirements in advance so you know what to expect at the airport. You should also make sure your dog has all necessary vaccinations.

Vaccinating your dog before travel? How much do dog vaccinations cost

Plan dog-friendly activities

Map out pit stops along the way so your pet can get plenty of exercise and use the bathroom. You should also research your destination to find activities you can both enjoy. 

Make a list of dog-friendly beaches, trails and local dog parks and make reservations at dog-friendly restaurants. In places like California, you may even find some vineyards that welcome your pet.

Pack comfort items from home

If your dog has a favorite blanket or toy, pack these for the trip, as they will help them feel cozy and calm. If you plan for a hike or beach trip, consider bringing balls as well as appropriate collars and leashes. Other items to bring include a bed, food, water, medication, disposable bags and a first-aid kit.

Microchip/update identification

If your dog isn't already microchipped, make an appointment with your vet before traveling. It's easy for dogs to get lost in unfamiliar locations, but microchipping can help you reunite with your pet. If your dog is already microchipped and/or has identification on its collar, make sure the contact details are up to date.

A pet insurance wellness plan may cover microchipping: The best pet insurance companies of 2024

Methodology

To uncover the best dog-friendly vacation destinations, we analyzed the top 50 most visited cities by overseas tourists in 2022 according to the U.S. International Trade Administration. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with 100 representing the most favorable vacation destination for dogs. Each city’s weighted average across all metrics was calculated to determine its overall score.

We used the six metrics below:

• Number of pet-friendly accommodations per 100,000 residents: 30 points. We analyzed data from Hotels.com to determine the number of pet-friendly accommodations in each city.
• Number of pet-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents: 25 points. We analyzed data from BringFido.com to determine the number of pet-friendly restaurants per capita in each city.
• Number of pet-friendly bars per 100,000 residents: 10 points. We analyzed data from BringFido.com to determine the number of pet-friendly bars per capita in each city.
• Number of veterinarian offices per 100,000 businesses: 15 points. We analyzed data from the United States Census Bureau to determine the number of vet offices per capita in each city.
• Number of dog-friendly beaches within 50 miles: 10 points. We analyzed data from BringFido.com to determine the number of dog-friendly lakeside and seaside beaches in each city.
• Number of dog-friendly trails: 10 points. We analyzed data from Alltrails.com to determine the number of dog-friendly trails in each city.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Katy McWhirter has written professionally since 2012, garnering bylines in publications such as U.S. News & World Report, MoneyGeek, and Noodle. She is also the author of three historical biographies, including a forthcoming Spring 2023 publication. She lives in Louisville with her husband and three very bad cats.

Kara McGinley is deputy editor of insurance at USA TODAY Blueprint and a licensed home insurance expert. Previously, she was a senior editor at Policygenius, where she specialized in homeowners and renters insurance. Her work and insights have been featured in MSN, Lifehacker, Kiplinger, PropertyCasualty360 and more.

Survey: 81% of pet owners buy holiday and Christmas gifts for dogs, cats and other pets

Pet Insurance Kara McGinley

Survey: 91% of dog owners have experienced financial stress over the cost of pet ownership 

Pet Insurance Heidi Gollub

Best cities for a happy and healthy dog in 2024

How much do dog vaccinations cost?

Pet Insurance Stephanie Nieves

Animal abuse facts and statistics 2024

Pet Insurance Mandy Sleight

Top 23 largest dog breeds

Pet Insurance Katy McWhirter

Prudent Pet insurance review 2024

Costco pet insurance review 2024

Nationwide pet insurance review 2024

Best pet insurance in New Jersey (NJ) in 2024

Outlook for pet insurance in 2024

How to make a pet insurance claim in 2024

Best pet insurance in Florida (FL) in April 2024

Best pet insurance for multiple pets of April 2024

The Best Dog-Friendly Travel Destinations Around the World

D og owners are nothing if not loyal to their furred companions. So it makes sense that their ideal travel destinations are ones that welcome dogs. With their book, Fifty Places to Travel With Your Dog Before You Die, Chris Santella and DC Helmuth set out to provide a road map and inspirational guide for those who would take Fido along wherever they go. Helmuth and Santella came up with their list by interviewing experts in the canine community, and each place is presented as the recommendation of one of these experts. From their book, here's a selection of top venues to travel around the globe with your dog. Happy Trails!

Dog-Directed Sports Anchorage, Alaska

"Culturally in Alaska, there's an acceptance that if you're going to do something, you're more likely than not to bring your dog," explains dog-supply store owner Mark Robokoff. "Whether you're going four-wheeling, snow machining, fishing or hunting, the dog is coming." Why? It has to do with the official state sport—dog mushing, which some may know as dog sledding. Variants now include skijoring in the winter and bikejoring and canicross in the summer.

Outdoor Adventures Bend, Oregon

"Bend is a great place to visit, or live, with your dog," Dani Reese, the community manager of an outdoor performance dog gear company, says. "Most of the businesses are dog-friendly, and so are the breweries." She continues, "In the summer, I like to take my dog out on a stand-up paddleboard" on the Deschutes River.

National Park Adventure Yosemite National Park

All drive-in, non-group campgrounds in Yosemite National Park welcome dogs on-leash and a network of paved paths weave through the park's famous valley, allowing you to see nearly all the most iconic viewpoints with your dog by your side. Generally speaking, if the path is paved, you can take your pup. "Our favorite hike was probably Tenaya Lake," reflected Kate Sumser, an aspiring public defender who's traveled far and wide with her dog Luna. "There were other dogs playing in the water there...I think that is one of my favorite places on the planet."

Nature Lovers Jasper, Alberta

Jasper National Park has miles of majestic dog-friendly trails and lakes. It is a protected evergreen paradise that is almost double in square mileage and half as populated as its southern sister, Banff. "Jasper is really an all-season destination," says Instagrammer Matt Campbell, pet-parent of Dogtor Ellie Sattler. "You can hike and canoe in the spring and summer, but in the winter you can ski, rent snowshoes and enjoy acres of fresh powder."

Community Oriented Atlanta

Dog-friendly beer gardens and outdoor patios decorate Atlanta's cityscape. Instagrammer Julie Chabot, dog mom of Ernie says, "There are so many dog-friendly events. There are hikes, meetups at breweries, walks on the BeltLine"—a 22-mile-long network of former railroad tracks. "It's very easy to get into the dog community here...I feel like you can take your dog just about everywhere."

Commuting Companion Madrid

With about one dog for every 11 residents, Madrid is proud to be the most dog-friendly city in Spain. It was the first city in the country to allow dogs on the Metro, outside of commuting hours. Many restaurants are dog-friendly, too. "At El Perro y la Galleta the inside is all dog-themed. They let dogs sit with you right at the table," says Instagrammer Caitlyn Nissim and parent to Remy.

Floating Friend Venice, Italy

A little-known fact about Venice is that dogs are typically welcome on gondola rides. "One aspect I quickly noticed about Italian culture is that it is quite dog-friendly," says Shandos Cleaver, founder of a dog-friendly travel blog in Australia and Europe. "One of our miniature dachshund Schintzel's favorite things was to visit Saint Mark's Square. If you go earlier in the morning, there are usually huge flocks of pigeons. Schnitzel used to dive into them, and they would scatter everywhere, like a pile of leaves that keeps filing up."

Elegant Invitation Vienna

Vienna's elegant cafés serve decadent coffees, grand pastries and luxurious cakes to humans—and dogs are welcome guests. "It's not just that you can bring your dog. It's that your dog is invited," stresses Amanda Klecker, advocate against kill shelters and dog mom to Jonathan Warren. Be sure to check out Cafe Landtmann in particular. This plush, wood-paneled 19th-century coffeehouse is famous for its artful espressos and has been frequented by Sigmund Freud and Paul McCartney.

Royally Speaking Koyaru, Japan

Japan is the only country in the world where pets outnumber children. Dogs are treated like royalty in Japan's resort town of Koyaru. Doggy's Island Resort is dedicated equally to (if not more so than) the comfort and health of its canine guests and its human ones. The experience for dogs is "like a kindergarten," says Kimiko Takemura, PR executive and pet-rescue advocate. "At Doggy's Island, he can be a dog, he can be free." Each mealtime includes a chef's handmade dog menu and the grounds feature multiple swimming pools and splash ponds.

Wine Country Martinborough, New Zealand

A key stop on the nearly 292-mile Classic New Zealand Wine Trail is Martinborough— "extremely charming, provincial and so dog-friendly," says Rachel McIndoe, cofounder of a dog-friendly travel blog. "My favorite may be Palliser Estate. The family loves dogs. They recently started releasing some vintage wines and named each of them after one of the family's beloved dogs." Other especially dog-friendly wineries include Colombo Martinborough and Luna Estate.

Adapted from Fifty Places to Travel With Your Dog Before You Die © Chris Santella and DC Helmuth. Published by Abrams.

Related Articles

• Dog's First Trip to the Beach Backfires in Funny Clip: 'It's Not Quicksand'
• Heat Up Your Summertime Barbecue With These Global Grill Greats
• Dog Comes Home With Adorable Report Card From Daycare: 'Bestest Girl Ever'
• Which Global Dog Breed Is Your Perfect Match? This Factor Is Key

Start your unlimited Newsweek trial

• United States
• Restaurants & Bars
• Dog Beaches in the U.S. | Dog Friendly Beaches
• Dog Beaches — Canada
• Pet Friendly Campgrounds and RV Parks U.S.
• Pet-Friendly Campgrounds — Canada
• Pets in U.S. National Parks & Forests
• Pet Friendly State Parks and Forests U.S.
• Dog Parks — United States
• Dog Parks — Canada
• Pet-Friendly Shopping Malls
• Pet-Friendly Activities & Attractions
• Private Jet Charters
• Pet-Friendly Airports — United States
• Animal and Pet Relief Areas at Airports in Canada
• International Pet Travel

Train Travel

• R.V. Travel

Boat Travel

• Pet Travel Tips
• Pet Evacuation & Emergency Shelters
• Pet Friendly Timeshares and Timeshare Resorts
• Hotel Chains Pet Policies
• Travel with Pet Birds
• Pet Adoption / Animal Rescue
• Purchasing a Pet Online
• Pet Travel Products
• Pet Friendly Travel in the News
• Friends of PetFriendlyTravel.com
• List Your Property on PetFriendlyTravel.com
• Property Listing FAQs
• Testimonials
• Customer Log In / Register

Cart is empty

Where do you want to go with your pet?

Our pet friendly travel guide makes it easy to travel and vacation with your pet, and find pet friendly vacation rentals, hotels & lodging in the U.S. and Canada. We offer quality accommodations that welcome pets, including RV resorts, boutique hotels, bed & breakfast inns, cabin rentals & camping cabins, dog-centric retreats and more!

You can also find dog friendly beaches; pet friendly campgrounds & RV parks; pet relief areas at airports; dog parks; pet friendly travel products; pet policies for national and state parks; pet friendly evacuation shelters; and just about everything you need to know about traveling with your dog, cat, bird, or other pet.

Do You Have a Property that Welcomes Pets? Sign Up Now!

Litchfield Real Estate & Vacation Rentals

Inn At Lake Joseph

Beach Bungalow Villas

Pinebrook Vacation Rentals

  recreation — things to do with your pet.

Restaurants & Bars

Find pet friendly restaurants, bars, breweries & wineries in the U.S. and Canada.

Dog Beaches U.S.

Find dog-friendly beaches, off-leash dog beaches, and dog swim areas in the U.S.

Dog Beaches Canada

Find dog-friendly beaches and dog swim areas in Canada.

Campgrounds U.S.

Find pet-friendly campgrounds and RV parks in the U.S.

Campgrounds Canada

Find pet-friendly campgrounds and RV parks in Canada.

National Parks

Find pet policies for national parks, forests, recreation areas, preserves, and historical sites in the U.S.

State Parks

Find pet policies for state parks, forests, recreation areas; county, regional, city parks and trails in the U.S.

Dog Parks U.S.

Find dog parks and off-leash dog areas in the U.S.

Find shopping malls and stores in the U.S. where pets are welcome.

Activities & Attractions

Find pet-friendly sightseeing and walking tours, cruises and boat trips, scenic railways, museums, botanical gardens and more!

  Pet Travel Information & Resources

Air Travel with Pets

Find airlines’ pet policies, and tips for flying with pets.

Airports U.S.

Find pet and service animal relief areas at U.S. airports.

Airports Canada

Find pet and service animal relief areas at Canadian airports.

International Travel

Find rules and regulations for taking pets to a foreign country.

Find pet policies for trains, including commuter railroads and public transport in the US; national railroads; and international trains.

Find pet friendly limousine & car service; tips for traveling with pets by car.

Find tips for traveling with pets by RV.

Find pet friendly ferries in the U.S. and Canada; tips for traveling with pets by boat.

Pet Evacuation & Disaster Preparedness

Find pet friendly evacuation shelters; tips for keeping pets safe in an emergency.

Hotel Chains

Find pet policies for chain hotels.

 Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains

Aloft Hotels Pet Policy

Best Western Hotels & Resorts Pet Policy

Candlewood Suites Pet Policy

Canopy by Hilton Pet Policy

Choice Hotels Pet Policy

Econo Lodge Pet Policy

Element by Westin Pet Policy

Extended Stay America Pet Policy

Hilton Hotels Pet Policy

Holiday Inn Pet Policy

Home2 Suites Pet Policy

Homewood Suites by Hilton Pet Policy

Hotel Indigo Pet Policy

IHG Hotels & Resorts Pet Policy

Kimpton Hotels Pet Policy

La Quinta by Wyndham Pet Policy

Loews Hotels Pet Policy

Marriott Hotels Pet Policy

Motel 6 Pet Policy

Moxy Hotels Pet Policy

Red Roof Inn Pet Policy

Residence Inn by Marriott Pet Policy

Sonesta Hotels Pet Policy

Staybridge Suites Pet Policy

Staypineapple Hotels Pet Policy

Virgin Hotels Pet Policy

Pet friendly travel, llc, more information.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

• Travel with pets

Your Guide To The Most Pet-Friendly Travel Destinations For Your Next Vacation

If the thought of leaving your four-legged friend at home while you’re sunning yourself on holiday is too much for you to bear, fear not!

At Kiwi.com, we know that pets are a part of the family, so we do our best to make traveling with your furry companions as straightforward as possible. We’re here to provide you with all the need-to-know information about the best places to travel with dogs, cats, and other animals.

In this article, we want to give you a rundown of the top spots for your next pet-friendly getaway, from beachside locations where your dog can roam free to cities full of cat-friendly cafes.

• Where Can I Go On Holiday With My Dog Or Cat?

This is perhaps the first question many pet owners will ask themselves when planning their vacation. In short, you’ll have a wide range of places to bring your beloved pet, including spots in the U.S.A., U.K., Europe, and Asia.

Each country or region has its own rules and requirements for entering with a pet, making some destinations more challenging to visit than others. For example, if you’re traveling with your dog to Hawaii, your pet may face quarantine on arrival, while flying with big dogs in the cabin won’t be possible on flights to the U.K. unless you’re flying with service dogs.

Anyone flying with their dog or cat internationally from the U.S.A. will likely find European countries among the easiest places for a pet-friendly trip. However, traveling domestically will also give you access to plenty of ideal vacation destinations for both beach bums and city lovers with their fur babies.

Although we have detailed guides for what to expect when flying with animals to a range of locations and advice for traveling with your dog, cat, or exotic animal on a plane, this post will focus on pet-friendly travel destinations that offer the best experiences for you and your canine and feline friends.

• What Are The Most Dog-Friendly Cities In The World?

Let’s kick things off with some of the most dog-friendly vacation spots that you’ll find Stateside.

Denver, Colorado – Not only does Denver have 12 dog parks, but you’ll also be able to bring your pup for walks along the city’s nearby hiking trails.

With multiple hotels and rental properties welcoming dogs, you won’t have any trouble finding a place for you and your doggie to rest up.

Portland, Oregon – Consistently ranked as one of the finest places to vacation with your pooch, Portland has heaps of parks where your dog can burn some energy off their leash.

Also in plentiful supply in Portland are dog-friendly restaurants, some of which even have a separate menu for canines!

Austin, Texas – Speaking of eateries that cater to furry friends, Austin has enough to rival any American city. Spots like Dog House Drinkery and Yard Bar even have annual memberships for dog owners, though if you’re visiting, you can just pick up a daily pass.

Austin has more than just parks and pet-friendly restaurants, though, boasting water parks that welcome dogs when your pet needs a break from the Texan sunshine.

• Take a flight to Denver with your furry friend.
• Explore Portland alongside your beloved pet.
• Experience Austin with your four-legged companion.

Most European countries are crazy about their pets, but here are some of the top holiday spots for a smooth pet travel experience.

Paris, France – Parisians have a serious love for their pups and some of the most relaxed property regulations in Europe. As a result, you’ll have no problem finding somewhere to stay with your pet.

Small dogs can travel on public transport for free, while larger breeds may need a ticket. Your furry friend can even do some sightseeing with you, as dogs are welcome at the Luxembourg Gardens and the gardens at the Palace of Versailles.

Berlin, Germany – When you’re looking for vacation ideas with pets, don’t skip out on Berlin. With many outdoor attractions, your dog can easily explore this historic city with you.

Once your dog is in a crate or on a leash with a muzzle, they can ride with you on metros and buses. Dog-friendly hotels and restaurants are also super easy to come by.

Milan, Italy – It might be a little too warm for your pooch during the summer, but Milan is a fantastic place to holiday with your pet during the cooler months of the year.

Lots of hotels, vacation rentals, cafes, and even shopping malls welcome dogs, and they can also hop on all forms of public transport as long as they’re leashed and muzzled.

• Discover Paris together with your pet.
• Berlin adventure awaits you and your pet.
• Wander Milan’s beauty with your pet.

Some of the best-rated places for people to live are also among the finest locations for pets.

Vancouver, Canada – Canada’s nature-lovers paradise of Vancouver has an abundance of parks, beaches, and hotels that accommodate dogs, including popular spots like Stanley Park and Kitsilano Beach.

Many restaurants and bars also allow dogs inside or on the patio. Check out Uncle Abe’s, where your pup can sip on a dog-friendly cocktail!

Toronto, Canada – Canadians love their doggies, so it’s no surprise to see a second city feature on this list.

Much like its West Coast counterpart, Toronto has countless dog parks with off-leash areas, cafes with spaces for dogs, and pet-friendly hotels. Better yet, it also hosts festivals like the famous Woofstock to celebrate all things canine-related!

Melbourne, Australia – Melbourne has a much milder climate than many Australian cities, making it the top spot in the country for four-legged companions, especially now that the country has slightly looser import regulations than before.

Lots of green spaces in the city are excellent for strolling with your pup on a leash, but many of the beaches, like St. Kilda, also have designated time slots for dogs to get their zoomies out of their system.

• Travel to Vancouver hand in paw with your pet.
• Roam Toronto’s streets with your furry travel buddy.
• Your Melbourne getaway starts with your pet.
• What Are The Most Cat-Friendly Cities In The World?

Those living in the States are pretty enamored with their cats.

Miami, Florida – Most of us associate Miami with pristine beaches and wild nightlife, but this city doesn’t get enough credit for its status as a cat-friendly vacation spot.

Thanks to its array of cat cafes, pet-loving lodgings, and adoption centers, Miami is regularly ranked as one of the best places to vacation with cats. The only downside is their super sticky summers, but this tends to be more of an issue for dogs.

Atlanta, Georgia – Aptly nicknamed Catlanta, Georgia’s capital is home to hundreds of accommodations for cat-owners.

Cats are free to join you in tons of cafes and restaurants across the city, and you’ll even find cat-themed haunts like The Catfe.

New York, New York – Feline friends in New York have it all, from cat-friendly hotels to funky eateries where they can join their owner for lunch.

Many New Yorkers choose to rescue cats, so you’ll find cat-focused amenities in each of the city’s five boroughs.

• Discover pet-friendly beaches in Miami.
• Explore Atlanta alongside your loyal pet companion.
• Wander through New York with your trusted furry friend.

Europe has its fair share of cat-loving cities, too.

Rome, Italy – Dogs aren’t the only ones who can live it up in Italy, as public transport in Rome permits kitties to explore the city with you once they travel in a carrier. You’ll just need to pick up a ticket for your cat, which is usually pretty cheap.

If your pet is happy to stay in a carrier, you can even take them around sites like the Pantheon, too.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands – The Dutch adore their cats just as much as their dogs, and Amsterdam has some gorgeous pet-friendly hotels.

The city is even home to a Catboat that you can visit, where dozens of abandoned cats can get shelter.

London, England – From Westminster to Notting Hill, London has a wide range of inns where your cat can enjoy the high life, too.

Also dotted around the city are endless restaurants and cafes that permit cats, making London a pretty great destination for traveling pets.

• Create cherished memories with your furry friend in Rome
• Explore Amsterdam alongside your loyal pet companion
• Fly to new horizons with your beloved pet in London

No matter what corner of the globe you reach, you’re sure to encounter some cat enthusiasts!

Tokyo, Japan – The Japanese make no secret of their deep love of cats, so your feline friends will feel at home in Tokyo.

As the birthplace of Hello Kitty, there’s no shortage of hotels, rental properties, and eateries where your fur baby can accompany you.

Sydney, Australia – Sydney has jumped on the much-loved cat cafe trend where you can spend time in a coffee shop populated by adorable felines, but also has plenty of spots where you can bring your own kitty along with you.

Hotels with designated guest rooms for pets are also easy to come by.

Taipei, Taiwan – Taipei has its very own cat village, so you can rest assured that this city holds their kitty-kats in high regard.

Cats can travel in style on Taipei’s trains as long as they stay put in their carriers and are welcome in many guesthouses.

• Cherish blissful moments in Tokyo with your furry co-adventurer
• Make Sydney your pet’s playground for unforgettable adventures
• Enjoy serenity in Taipei with your furry travel buddy
• What Are The Top Pet-Friendly Beach Destinations?

San Diego, California

When you’re asking yourself ‘where can I go on holiday with my dog,’ you definitely need to consider sunny San Diego.

This Southern California hotspot is a haven for beach-goers and pet owners. Playing host to the most pet-friendly restaurants in the country, San Diego also has an incredible line-up of activities for dogs, with everything from stand-up paddleboarding, an off-leash portion of Ocean Beach, and even kayak tours that allow pets on board!

St. Petersburg, Florida

With dog-friendly beaches like Fort De Soto, green spaces like North Shore Park, and piles of bars, cafes, and hotels catering to pet parents, Florida’s laidback city of St. Petersburg will be your go-to when you’re looking for pet-friendly vacation spots in Florida.

To avoid the sweltering humidity and hurricanes, steer clear of the June to November season.

San Francisco, California

The City by the Bay is among the best dog-friendly vacation spots in the world, partly due to its mild temperatures. Parts of Golden Gate Park and Chrissy Field have off-lead areas for well-behaved pups, as does the northern part of the scenic Baker Beach.

Dogs are even welcome on public transport, provided they’re on a leash on the Municipal Railway and in a carrier on the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit).

Nice, France

Paris isn’t the only city in France that has a soft spot for pets. The picturesque beach destination of Nice has some dog-friendly beaches where your canine can frolic in the sand.

Bring your best friend to Site de la Lanterne or Lenval Beaches to cool off when the weather gets warm.

Barcelona, Spain

For the perfect city-meets-beach getaway, head to Spain’s dog-obsessed city of Barcelona.

When your pup isn’t  running around beaches like Llevant or Cala Vallcarca, you guys can visit tourist attractions like Parc Guell or Montjuic.

Santorini, Greece

Not an island most of us typically think of when looking for dog or cat-friendly vacation spots, Santorini has an impressive selection of hotels where you can bring your pet along for a reasonable fee.

If you’re traveling with a dog, you won’t be able to let your pooch off the leash, but they’ll be welcome on most of the island’s beaches.

Byron Bay, Australia

This oh-so-casual coastal town in New South Wales is where you’ll come across the gorgeous Tallow Beach, which happens to allow dogs to join in on the fun.

This is a pretty quiet beach where your dog can roam freely, provided they behave themselves! A plethora of pet-friendly accommodation options are nearby.

Phuket, Thailand

The largest island in the Land of Smiles is one of the most stunning beach destinations for animal lovers.

Hotels accepting pets are positioned throughout the coast, some of which are close to beaches like Karon and Pa Tong, where your pet can roll around in the sand.

Okinawa Island, Japan

The idyllic Japanese island of Okinawa has got to be among the most breathtaking places for a pet-inclusive getaway.

As well as hosting a wonderful variety of hotels and guesthouses where dogs and cats are welcome, your pet will also be able to play in the sand at Torii Beach.

Just be sure your dog is well trained and you clean up after them if necessary!

Some Other Dog-Friendly Beaches To Consider

• Rosie’s Dog Beach, Long Beach, California
• Jupiter Dog Beach, Jupiter, Florida
• Montrose Dog Beach, Chicago, Illinois
• Hayle Beach, Cornwall, England
• Durdle Door, Dorset, England
• Le Touquet Beach, Le Touquet, France

• Where Are The Least Pet-Friendly Travel Destinations?

Unfortunately, some of the vacation spots we all dream about may not be the best places to travel with pets. This can be due to a variety of reasons, from a lack of pet-friendly lodgings to limited dog parks and restaurants that don’t permit animals.

Here are some locations where you might be best leaving your little companion with a sitter if you’re planning to visit.

Hawaii – Unless you plan on spending a considerable amount of time here, it’s best to avoid traveling with your dog to Hawaii due to the quarantine risk.

Bali – Indonesia’s tourism hub takes things a step further, as no cats or dogs can currently enter the island.

Fiji – With a 30-day quarantine period and costly import permit fees, taking your pet to Fiji is not always feasible.

Iceland – Similar to Fiji, Iceland’s quarantine program and associated costs make traveling here with pets extremely taxing.

Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia , along with other Middle Eastern countries, views pets as unclean, and bans on dog ownership are active in some cities.

• What Are The Best Countries And Cities Overall For Travel With Animals?

Below, you’ll find a round-up of the best pet-friendly spots for your next trip. These picks are based on both the ease of entry process for your pet after your flight and the amenities available to animals in these countries and cities.

As a result, some countries with many dog-friendly facilities may not be included if it’s a little more complicated to enter with a pet than the following destinations.

U.S.A. – San Francisco, California

Canada – Vancouver, British Columbia

France – Paris

Germany – Berlin

Italy – Rome

Spain – Madrid

United Kingdom – Cornwall

Switzerland – Zurich

Want more interesting tips and information on traveling? Read more Kiwi.com articles!

• Introduction
• Want more interesting tips and information on traveling?

Frequently asked questions

• Travel with kids

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

This Is the No. 1 Dog-friendly Vacation Spot in the U.S.

Seattle is the most dog-friendly city, according to a new analysis.

Cavan Images/Getty Images

When you hit the road for vacation, there’s absolutely no reason to leave your best friend behind. Just choose a destination where dogs are very welcome.

Maybe start with the Pacific Northwest, as Seattle is the most dog-friendly city, according to a USA Today Blueprint analysis of 46 of the most populated cities in the U.S.

Scoring was based on the number of veterinary offices and dog parks per 100,000 residents, as well as average annual vet costs. It considered the percentage of residents who live within a 10-minute walk to a park, and the city’s overall walkability. The study factored in the number of days when the weather was above 65 degrees, which could be unpleasant for dogs.

The weather was just one reason Seattle topped the list. The city was second only to San Francisco with the fewest number of days when you might need to cool off your dog. In Seattle, 99 percent of residents live within a 10-minute stroll to a park.

Here’s the full top 10 list:

• Portland, Oregon – This city has the most dog parks, with nearly six for every 100,000 residents. Plus, 90 percent of residents live within a short walk to a park.
• San Francisco – One of three California cities on the list, San Francisco has the best weather for dogs and 100 percent of residents live within a short stroll to a park. However, the city has high annual vet rates, at $881 per year.
• Boston – Boston has a high walkability score and all residents live within a 10-minute walk to a park. 
• Minneapolis – About 98 percent of residents live within quick walking distance of a park.
• Long Beach, California – This city ranks highest for the most veterinary offices per 100,000 residents. However, it is also one of the more expensive cities for vet care.
• Washington, D.C. – The capital has the best walk score, so you and your pup can’t sightsee easily. And 99 percent of the residents live within a few minutes’ walk from a park.
• Denver – The Colorado city has the most inexpensive vet costs on the list.
• Sacramento – There are about four dog parks per 100,000 residents and 84 percent of residents live a short stroll from a park.
• Atlanta – It’s not as walkable as most of the other cities on the list, but about three-quarters of residents live within a 10-minute walk to a park.

HAVE YOU EVER TRAVELLED WITH YOUR DOG?

Hi! I’m Shandos Cleaver and I’ve travelled to 35 countries around the world with my Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel.

I’ve got lots of tips on travelling with a dog, from dog-friendly destinations to pet-friendly accommodation to flying with a dog. I hope I can inspire you to travel with your dog!

Ultimate Guides to Travelling with a Dog

Travelling in Europe, the United Kingdom, the USA or Australia for the first time with your dog? Or about to fly with your dog or go on a road trip with your dog for the first time? Get started with my ultimate guides to travelling with a dog.

Dog-Friendly Europe

Dog-Friendly USA

Dog-Friendly Australia

Dog-Friendly UK

Flying with a Dog

Road Trips with a Dog

Popular posts on dog-friendly travel.

The most popular posts on Travelnuity

Which UK Airlines Allow Pets Onboard?

Best Dog-Friendly Walks & Hikes in Sydney

How to Travel to Spain with a Dog from the UK

How to Travel with a Dog Between the UK and Europe

Flying to Europe with a Dog from the USA

Dog-Friendly Days Out Around Melbourne

Latest posts.

Check out the latest posts published or updated on Travelnuity about dog-friendly travel

5 Dog-Friendly Hikes in Red River Gorge, KY

Dog-Friendly You Yangs: Visiting with a Dog

Can You Visit the Twelve Apostles with a Dog?

Dog-Friendly Magnetic Island: Visiting with a Dog

6 Dog-Friendly Snow Destinations in Australia

Dog-Friendly Croatia: Visiting with a Dog

What is the Weight Limit for Dogs on Planes?

Are Dogs Allowed in the Botanic Gardens in Sydney?

Dog-Friendly Penzance: Visiting with a Dog

Top 5 summer vacation destinations for 2024

Grab your sunscreen and get excited for your upcoming summer adventure in one of these incredible destinations around the u.s..

April 11, 2024

It's that time of the year. You know what we mean: the weather alternates between gray, drizzly skies and sunny yet chilly; you have a burning desire to start making tomato salads, but the tomatoes aren't there yet; and the internet keeps targeting you with swimsuit ads. Yes, you guessed it. Summer travel-planning season is officially here! Not to worry if you haven't started thinking about it yet because we've done the research for you. Read on and discover the most popular summer vacation destinations in the U.S. for 2024:

San Diego boasts a riviera atmosphere and laid-back SoCal charm, including a diversity of neighborhoods and natural surroundings. Take in the seaside beauty at San Diego Bay, enjoy the pristine beaches of La Jolla and the vintage allure of the Gaslamp Quarter. A stroll along the Embarcadero, San Diego’s waterfront social hub, includes everything from shops, grassy parks and restaurants to Navy aircraft carriers that now house museums. For wildlife encounters, the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are internationally known attractions that also add to the city’s family-friendly reputation. Green spaces abound and joining the locals to bask in the lush surroundings of Balboa Park is never a bad idea. While exploring the park’s multiple gardens, don’t forget its top-notch museums, too. The San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Air & Space Museum and The San Diego Museum of Art are fascinating and memorable and filled with exhibits that will appeal to a wide range of ages.

Portland, Maine

Portland fits the bill for any traveler who wants a bit of everything in their summer getaway: outdoorsy fun, great food, history and intriguing art. Start by acquainting yourself with the city’s Old Port. With cobblestone streets, 19th-century brick buildings and dozens of boutiques, this riverfront part of town is oozing with New England charm. Positioned at the heart of Old Port and only four blocks from downtown, Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront is ideally located and shows off Portland’s chic, modern side. Venturing outside of the city’s central area, a stop at Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse, is a must. If you’d like another quintessential Maine experience, and you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, then hop on a tour with Lucky Catch Cruises for a hands-on look at lobstering. Continue the seafood experience at Luna Rooftop Bar where the menu selections include fresh-from-the-ocean Maine oysters and other shareable dishes like wagyu sliders, tuna tartare and truffle fries.

If you’re able to get an early start on your summer vacation, head to Boston in June. With area schools typically in session until later in the month, visitors get to enjoy the city’s attractions without the crowds. Of course, the other months have their perks, too. In July, the city hosts Boston Harborfest, one of the biggest Independence Day festivals in the country. The weeklong celebration includes parades, live music, fireworks, Chowderfest and other special events that are mostly free to the public. For travelers who love a great deal and the chance to savor award-winning cuisine, visit in August, when Dine Out Boston offers discounted prix fixe meals at some of the city’s top restaurants. That same month, the August Adventures program grants free admission to several museums and attractions. No matter when you’re in town, the Boston Children’s Museum, the New England Aquarium and the popular-for-all-ages Boston Duck Tours make the city particularly welcoming for families.

Bend, Oregon

Bend is arguably the hottest travel destination in all of Oregon right now. The city sits on the eastern side of the Cascades, putting it squarely in the high desert. The mile-long (1.6-kilometer) Lava River Cave at Newberry National Volcanic Monument is the longest lava tube in Oregon and is accessible to the public. Visitors descend 55 steps into the cave and the tour takes about two hours. Inside the cave can be as cool as 42 F (5 C), even in summer, so bring warm clothes and sturdy shoes to traverse the sharp and potentially slippery rocks. Learn more about the area by visiting Bend’s High Desert Museum. The museum brings regional wildlife, culture, art and natural resources together to promote an understanding of natural and cultural heritage of North America's high desert country. Another local highlight is the dozens of tiny breweries all over town. Stop in for a pint at the Deschutes Brewery, known for being a community gathering place since 1988.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is split up into four sections: the South Rim, the North Rim, the West Rim and the East Rim. The South Rim and the North Rim are operated by the National Park Service, and the West Rim is on Hualapai Indian Tribal Lands. The West Rim, home to the Skywalk and rushing waterfalls, makes for a doable day trip from Las Vegas (some visitors even opt for helicopter tours of the West Rim, which leave from Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas and take only a few hours). The South Rim and the seasonal North Rim work best as overnight trips, but you can’t go wrong exploring any part of the Grand Canyon and its striking rock formations.

Need more inspiration? Discover more incredible summer vacations

It's all included.

Find your ideal all-inclusive stay and have the summer of a lifetime with these unique experiences around the globe.

Awesome Austin

This summer, the party is in Austin. Head to Texas for a long weekend getaway filled with good eats, live music and Instagrammable artwork.

Pet-friendly

Enjoy the dog days of summer (literally) with a road trip through the Deep South.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Find pet-friendly hotels in moscow city centre, moscow.

Most hotels are fully refundable. Because flexibility matters.

Save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide as a One Key member.

Search over 2.9 million properties  and 550 airlines worldwide.

Check availability on Moscow City Centre Pet-friendly Hotels

Pick from Moscow City Centre Pet-friendly Hotels and compare room rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Moscow city centre pet-friendly hotels information, frequently asked questions.

• Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Find More Hotels near Moscow City Centre

• Pet-friendly Hotels in Presnensky

More Hotel Options in Moscow City Centre

• Business Hotels (192)
• Cheap Hotels (36)
• Family Hotels (125)
• Hotel Wedding Venues (28)
• Hotel with a Concierge (78)
• Hotels with Balconies (11)
• Hotels with Bars (101)
• Hotels with Connecting Rooms (45)
• Hotels with Fireplaces (2)
• Hotels with Free Breakfast (49)
• Hotels with Free Parking (73)
• Hotels with Kitchenettes (12)
• Hotels with Laundry Facilities (192)
• Hotels with Restaurants (207)
• Hotels with a View (37)
• Hotels with an Indoor Pool (26)
• Hotels with smoking rooms (39)
• Luxury Hotels (38)
• Resorts & Hotels with Spas (54)

Hotels near popular Moscow Attractions

• Hotels near Red Square
• Hotels near Moscow Kremlin
• Hotels near Bolshoi Theatre
• Hotels near St. Basil's Cathedral
• Hotels near Moscow City
• Hotels near Lenin's Mausoleum
• Hotels near Arbat Street
• Hotels near Armoury Chamber
• Hotels near Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• Hotels near State Tretyakov Gallery

Top 20 destinations for Pet-friendly Hotels

• Pet Friendly Hotels in Las Vegas
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Virginia Beach
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Savannah
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Pigeon Forge
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Asheville
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Gatlinburg
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Charleston
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Ocean City
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Myrtle Beach
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Atlanta
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Cape May
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Reno
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Wilmington
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Charlotte
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Niagara Falls
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Duluth
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Los Angeles
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Bend
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Jacksonville
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Wildwood

Expedia's Latest Trends

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.