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A Guide to Pet-Friendly Vacations in Every State

Content Specialist

Olivia Bornemeier, MBA

Exploring new places is fun — bringing your pet along for the ride is even better. But, before you start your next adventure check out these travel tips and dog-friendly vacation destinations.

This complete guide to dog-friendly vacations includes:

  • 5 tips for planning pet-friendly vacations
  • Types of dog-friendly vacation destinations
  • A state-by-state dog-friendly travel guide
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5 tips for planning pet-friendly vacations

Pet-friendly vacations can be tricky to plan. But don’t worry, we have five tips dog owners should consider before planning a dog-friendly vacation.

1. Make sure your dog’s vaccines are current.

Before you head to your pet-friendly destination, make sure your pet's vaccines are up-to-date. Current vaccines means your pup can have all the off-leash fun they want while on your dog-friendly getaway.

2. Bring your pet's wellness essentials.

If your pet takes any medications or supplements, be sure to bring enough doses for the trip. Having your pet's wellness essentials on-hand ensures both you and your pet will stay happy and healthy on your vacation.

Be sure to bring your pet’s:

  • Flea and tick treatment
  • Supplements
  • Treats

3. Pack extra supplies.

Your furry friend will need to rest, eat, and exercise while on vacation. Bring essential supplies like food, dog beds, dog bowls, and leashes on your dog-friendly vacation.

4. Do your research.

Whether you plan to visit a dog-friendly restaurant, beach, or national park, do your research before you arrive. Ensure your destination welcomes furry friends and take note of any pet fees at dog-friendly hotels.

Pay attention to which areas are off-leash areas and which require leashes. Doing your research beforehand will help keep your furry friend safe while enjoying your vacation.

5. Keep these guides on hand.

While you visit a dog-friendly patio or restaurant with your pet, keep our complete food guide handy. This guide will come in handy just in case you want to slip your pup a bite of your delicious food.

Unexpected health problems can occur while you’re on vacation. So, be on the lookout for any signs of illness in your pet so you can take action right away. Our common dog health problems guide and common cat health problems guide can help you along the way.

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Types of dog-friendly vacation destinations

Every pet owner’s idea of the perfect vacation looks different. Unsure where to start? Check out these dog-friendly vacation spots that you can enjoy with your furry friend.

Pet-friendly lodging

While you’re away, you’ll need a place to stay. Finding pet-friendly hotels in your desired location can be tricky. But, there are plenty of dog-friendly hotels in every state. And, most hotels advertise their pet-friendly accommodations on their website.

Here are some tips for staying at pet-friendly hotels and lodging:

  • Research hotels, rental properties, and bed and breakfasts beforehand
  • If you have two dogs, be sure they will allow both
  • Call ahead if you are unsure about their pet policy
  • Book a room on the first floor (these rooms typically have easy outdoor access for potty breaks)

Dog-friendly hiking trails

Looking for an outdoorsy getaway? Before you start climbing the scenic hiking trails, be sure there is an onsite dog park for your pet to play off-leash. After all, you’ll need to keep your pup on-leash while on walking trails.

Here are some tips for adventuring on dog-friendly hiking trails:

  • Stop for frequent water breaks
  • Keep your pet leashed unless signage says otherwise
  • Watch the weather
  • Avoid tall grass and flowers
  • Look out for injured wild animals

Dog-friendly parks

The good news is, there are dog parks all over the country. So, you’re sure to find a fenced-in dog park close to your vacation destination. Off-leash dog parks are great for well-behaved pups to socialize and exert any pent-up energy from traveling.

Here are some tips for visiting dog-friendly parks:

  • Bring toys for your pup to play with
  • Be mindful of other owners and pets
  • Find shaded areas to rest
  • Pick up after your pup

Dog-friendly beaches

If you’re traveling to the coast, look for a dog-friendly beach to try. Then, your pup can join in on the summer fun.

Here are some tips for exploring dog-friendly beaches:

  • Bring plenty of food and water
  • Pack a towel for your dog to rest on
  • Avoid hot sand and deep water
  • Find a pet washing station to bathe your pet
  • Lookout for dangerous sea animals

Dog-friendly restaurants and bars

Pet parents can find dog-friendly eateries in almost every city. Many have patios that welcome dogs where you can enjoy a meal or craft beer with your pet by your side.

Restaurants and bars can be enjoyable for pet parents and dogs alike. Here are some tips for pet parents trying dog-friendly eateries:

  • Be sure the restaurant welcomes dogs
  • Keep your pet close
  • Bring toys and treats to keep them occupied
  • Avoid hot pavement
  • Bring food and water

Dog-friendly wineries and bars

A bar or winery are great places to visit after a long day of adventures. Here are some popular dog-friendly bars around the US:

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State-by-state dog-friendly travel guide

No matter where your vacation takes you, there’s a place for your pup. Here are the best pet-friendly vacation destinations across America. Plus, dog-friendly cities, restaurants, and activities in every state. 

Alabama

alabama

Best city for pets: Gulf Shores

If you’re traveling to Alabama, consider Gulf Shores. It’s a lively beach town and a great dog-friendly vacation destination.

Alaska

alaska

Best city for pets: Anchorage

Get ready to hit the road as you explore the great outdoors in Anchorage, Alaska. Vacationing in Alaska typically means lots of driving. Make sure your pet is safe and comfortable during your road trip.

Arizona

arizona

Best city for pets: Tucson

Be mindful of the heat while exploring Arizona. Tucson has plenty of dog-friendly vacation spots that pet owners can visit.

Arkansas

Best city for pets: Little Rock

Check out restaurants, coffee shops, and dog parks with your pet in Little Rock. Take a road trip to Fayetteville for a sporting event while you visit. 

California

san diego california

Best city for pets: San Diego

California has numerous pet-friendly cities to visit, but San Diego tops the list. Along with enjoying the beaches in sunny San Diego, a pet owner could splash around at South lake Tahoe. Or, see the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco with their pet.

Colorado

colorado springs

Best city for pets: Colorado Springs

Colorado welcomes pets with open arms. So, you can’t go wrong with any destination you choose. But, exploring the mountains and enjoying live music in Colorado Springs is extra special.

Connecticut

Best city for pets: East Haddam

East Haddam is just a short drive to the Connecticut coast and serves as a great option for pet-friendly vacations.

Delaware

Best city for pets: Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Beach is a beach town with year-round events and attractions. Visit dog beaches and plenty of restaurants with your pet while you vacation in Delaware.

Florida

florida

Best city for pets: St. Petersburg

Just a short drive over the bay from Tampa, St. Petersburg is an exciting place to visit. Enjoy fresh seafood on the bay, shop along Central Ave, and enjoy the dog beach with your best friend.

Georgia

georgia

Best city for pets: Savannah

This coastal city is a great place to visit with your pet. Bring your pet to a dog park or try one of the historic walking trails during your pet-friendly vacation. 

Hawaii

hawaii

Best city for pets: Honolulu

Be sure your pet is comfortable on the plane ride to beautiful Hawaii. While you’re on the island, take your pup to a dog beach and walk along the scenic shoreline.

Idaho

Best city for pets: Idaho Falls

Explore the hiking trails and enjoy delicious seafood in Idaho Falls, Idaho. This pet-friendly vacation spot is full of activities for you and your pup.

Illinois

illinois

Best city for pets: Chicago

Check out the Windy City with your furry friend for your pet-friendly vacation. While you enjoy deep dish pizza and a craft beer, your pup can relax and enjoy the views of the city.

Indiana

indiana

Best city for pets: Indianapolis

Walk along the 26-mile long Monon Trail and enjoy a meal downtown with your best friend by your side in Indy.

Iowa

iowa

Best city for pets: Des Moines

Take your pet to a dog park, enjoy a drink at the local dog bar, and shop local vendors at the downtown farmer’s market in Des Moines, Iowa.

Kansas

Best city for pets: Kansas City

Try a local barbecue joint while you visit Kansas City on your vacation. For baseball fans — the Kansas City Royals host Bark at the Park games on select Tuesdays every season.

Kentucky

Best city for pets: Louisville

Explore Louisville, the city along the Ohio River, with your pup. There are plenty of dog parks and dog bars to bring your pup while you enjoy your vacation.

Louisiana

louisiana

Best city for pets: New Orleans

There are plenty of sights to see in NOLA. Our suggestion – try the pet-friendly ghost tour in the French Quarter.

Maine

maine

Best city for pets: Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor, Maine on Mount Desert Island offers stunning views of Acadia National Park and plenty of pet-friendly accommodations. 

Maryland

Best city for pets: Ocean City

See the beautiful views of the East Coast and hang out with your pup by the water in Ocean City, MD.

Massachusetts

massachusetts

Best city for pets: Boston

After exploring all Boston has to offer, find a pet-friendly place to eat. Afterwards, do as Bostonians do and stop for a frappe on your way back to your hotel.

Michigan

michigan

Best city for pets: Muskegon

Muskegon offers plenty of dog-friendly attractions for pet owners visiting Michigan. Take a short, 20-minute drive to Grand Haven to see beautiful Lake Michigan with your pup.

Minnesota

minnesota

Best city for pets: Duluth

Choosing just one dog-friendly vacation spot in Minnesota is tough, but Duluth is great for nature lovers. Our pro tip is to visit in the fall when the leaves are changing.

Mississippi

mississippi

Best city for pets: Gulfport

Gulfport is a quaint town right on the Gulf of Mexico. Take a short drive east to Biloxi to go shrimping and see the Biloxi Lighthouse with your pup.

Missouri

Best city for pets: Lake Ozark

Take your pup out on the lake and pull up to one of the many pet-friendly restaurants with your best friend. Try pet-friendly kayaks and paddle boards at Super Dave’s.

Montana

montana

Best city for pets: Great Falls

Explore a local state park with your pup in Great Falls, MT. Try fishing, hiking, and mountain climbing, then cool off at a local brewery.

Nebraska

nebraska

Best city for pets: Omaha

Downtown Omaha is the perfect place to vacation with your pup. There are plenty of activities and parks to choose from in the largest city in Nebraska.

Nevada

nevada

Best city for pets: Las Vegas

See the sights and flashing lights with Fido. But, be mindful of the weather. When it gets hot, be sure to keep your pup cool while out and about.

New Hampshire

new hampshire

Best city for pets: North Conway

A great option for a pet-friendly vacation in every season is North Conway, NH. In the winter, try skiing in the White Mountains. In the summer, camp and hike at the national forest.

New Jersey

Best city for pets: Asbury Park

The beach allows dogs in the early morning or evening hours in Asbury. In the off-season, explore the boardwalk and beach anytime with your pup.

New Mexico

Best city for pets: Albuquerque

Take a narrated tour of Old Town Albuquerque on the ABQ Trolley with your pup. If you visit in the summertime, be sure to keep your pet safe in the heat.

New York

new york

Best city for pets: New York City

Enjoy delicious restaurants and walks on Pier 46 on the Hudson River while you visit the Big Apple. When you’re ready to leave the concrete jungle, travel a few hours north to Lake Placid, a dog-friendly destination for nature lovers.

North Carolina

Best city for pets: Asheville, North Carolina

Explore the Blue Ridge Mountains or take a short drive to the beach in Asheville, North Carolina. This city is a great option for your dog-friendly vacation destination.

North Dakota

Best city for pets: Fargo

Fargo is a great place to bring your pup on vacation, even in the winter months. Check out Rainy Days Indoor Dog Park (among other attractions) with your dog.

Ohio

ohio

Best city for pets: Cincinnati

Cheer on the Reds while you visit Cincinnati with your pooch. This lively, urban area has plenty of pet-friendly activities to choose from.

Oklahoma

Best city for pets: Tulsa

Tulsa is the 2nd largest city in Oklahoma and offers numerous pet-friendly activities for pet owners and their best friends.

Oregon

oregon

Best city for pets: Portland

Portland is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the U.S. With numerous dog-parks and attractions, Portland is sure to be a perfect destination for you and your furry friends.

Pennsylvania

Best city for pets: Philadelphia

Philly is an exciting place to explore with your pup. There are plenty of awesome places to hang out with your pooch, including a dog-friendly bakery.

Rhode Island

rhode island

Best city for pets: Providence

Providence, RI has plenty of pet-friendly excursions to offer. Check out Thayer Street for shopping, good eats and places to see with your pup.

South Carolina

south carolina

Best city for pets: Hilton Head Island

Explore Hilton Head’s dog-friendly destinations including dog beaches, shopping, and eateries with your best friend. Our honorable mention for dog-friendly cities in South Carolina is Charleston.

South Dakota

south dakota

Best city for pets: Sioux Falls

Believe it or not, there aren’t only farm animals to see in the great state of South Dakota. Visit the state’s largest city and explore Falls Park and Palisades State Park with your pup.

Tennessee

tennessee

Best city for pets: Nashville

Nashville is an exciting destination for humans and pets alike. Enjoy live country music and great food on Broadway with your pooch.

Texas

texas

Best city for pets: Dallas

From farmer’s markets to trolley rides, traveling around Dallas with your pup is a breeze. Try shopping, eateries, and activities with your best friend on your pet-friendly vacation.

Utah

utah

Best city for pets: Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City’s beautiful scenery and dog-friendly activities make it a great option for pet-friendly vacations.

Vermont

Best city for pets: Killington

Visit the beautiful city of Killington in the wintertime with your pup. Enjoy plenty of winter activities like sledding, hiking, and snow-shoeing with your dog.

Virginia

Best city for pets: Virginia Beach

Take your pup to the beach for some fun in the sun while you vacation in Virginia. There are plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and bars to visit with your pet.

Washington

washington

Best city for pets: Seattle

Plan a trip to the Pacific Northwest for your next pet-friendly vacation. Seattle is a great place to stop along the way, with plenty of activities to do.

West Virginia

Best city for pets: Morgantown

Known as one of the best small cities in the country, Morgantown is sure to amaze you with its stunning views and dog-friendly accommodations.

Wisconsin

Best city for pets: Green Bay

Travel up North to Wisconsin with your pooch for your pet-friendly vacation. Enjoy dog-friendly restaurants, breweries, and hiking trails.

Wyoming

wyoming

Best city for pets: Laramie

Surround yourself with breathtaking mountains and vistas in the great state of Wyoming. Laramie is our recommended destination for your pet-friendly vacation.

No matter where you decide to vacation with your pup, you can be confident with the tips and tricks you need to navigate your destination. Enjoy the sights and sounds of your adventure, and remember to keep your pup happy and healthy along the way.


Author

Meet Olivia Bornemeier

Olivia Bornemeier is a copywriter and photographer by day, dog mom by night to her red lab, Hank. With an MBA from Augustana University, she conducts intentional research and crafts meaningful content to help pet parents stay educated on all things pet wellness.