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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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. Being up-to-date on 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.
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
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.
- Where to eat: The Beach House Kitchen & Cocktails
- Where to stay: Gulf State Park Campground
- Where to visit: Fort Morgan Historic Site Bayside Beach
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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.
- Where to eat: Ak Alchemist
- Where to stay: The Lakefront Anchorage
- Where to visit: Denali National Park
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.
- Where to eat: Zinburger
- Where to stay: Bed and Bagels of Tucson
- Where to visit: Smiling Dog Ranch Dog Park
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.
- Where to eat: ZAZA Fine Salad & Wood-Oven Pizza Co.
- Where to stay: Rosemont B&B Cottages
- Where to visit: Pinnacle Mountain State Park
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.
- Where to eat: Sally’s Fish House & Bar
- Where to stay: Ocean Beach Hotel
- Where to visit: The Original Dog Beach
Colorado
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.
- Where to eat: Pub Dog Colorado
- Where to stay: Homewood Suites Colorado Springs North
- Where to visit: Garden of the Gods
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.
- Where to eat: La Vita
- Where to stay: Wolf’s Den Family Campground
- Where to visit: Devil's Hopyard State Park
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.
- Where to eat: Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats
- Where to stay: Inn at Rehoboth
- Where to visit: Delaware Seashore State Park
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.
- Where to eat: The Dog Bar
- Where to stay: Fort De Soto Campground
- Where to visit: Dog Park Peach at Fort De Soto Park
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.
- Where to eat: Mellow Mushroom
- Where to stay: Kimpton Brice Hotel
- Where to visit: Oliver Bentleys Historic Dog Walk Tour
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.
- Where to eat: Nico’s Pier 38
- Where to stay: Hotel Renew
- Where to visit: Kaiwi State 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.
- Where to eat: Smokin Fins
- Where to stay: Snake River RV Park and Campground
- Where to visit: Caribou-Targhee National Forest
Illinois
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.
- Where to eat: Flatwater
- Where to stay: Westin Indianapolis
- Where to visit: Monon Trail
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.
- Where to eat: Paws & Pints
- Where to stay: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Des Moines Downtown
- Where to visit: Des Moines Downtown Farmers’ Market
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.
- Where to eat: Slap’s BBQ
- Where to stay: Vacation Rental Properties
- Where to visit: KC Royals Bark at the Park
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.
- Where to eat: Mark’s Feed Store Bar-B-Q
- Where to stay: Aloft Louisville Downtown
- Where to visit: Club K9 Dog Bar
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.
- Where to eat: The Smiling Dog
- Where to stay: New Orleans Vacation Rentals
- Where to visit: Witches Brew Tours
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.
- Where to eat: Stewman’s Lobster Pound Downtown
- Where to stay: Bar Harbor Airbnb Rentals
- Where to visit: Acadia National Park
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.
- Where to eat: Tailchasers Restaurant & Dock Bar
- Where to stay: La Quinta Wyndham Ocean City
- Where to visit: Ocean City Beach
Massachusetts
Best city for pets: Boston
After exploring all Boston has to offer, find a pet-friendly place to eat. Afterward, do as Bostonians do and stop for a frappe on your way back to your hotel.
- Where to eat: Pete's Dockside
- Where to stay: Aloft Boston Seaport District
- Where to visit: Boston Public Garden
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.
- Where to eat: The Deck
- Where to stay: Duck Creek RV Resort
- Where to visit: Lake Michigan at Grand Haven
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.
- Where to eat: Duluth Cider
- Where to stay: Fitger’s Inn
- Where to visit: Superior National Forest
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.
- Where to eat: Aztecas Restaurant & Cantina
- Where to stay: Best Western Plus Seaway Inn
- Where to visit: Chandeleur Island Brewing Company
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.
- Where to eat: Dog Days Bar & Grill
- Where to stay: Lake Ozark Vacation Rentals
- Where to visit: Super Dave’s Paddle Craft Adventures
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.
- Where to eat: Mighty Mo Brewing Company
- Where to stay: Best Western Plus Riverfront Hotel and Suites
- Where to visit: Giant Springs State Park
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.
- Where to eat: La Buvette Wine & Grocery
- Where to stay: The Magnolia Hotel
- Where to visit: Omaha Dog Bar
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.
- Where to eat: Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
- Where to stay: Westin Las Vegas Hotel Casino & Spa
- Where to visit: Seven Magic Mountains
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.
- Where to eat: Flatbread Company
- Where to stay: Saco River Camping Area
- Where to visit: White Mountain 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.
- Where to eat: Wonder Bar
- Where to stay: Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel
- Where to visit: Asbury Park Dog Beach
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.
- Where to eat: Nexus Brewery & Restaurant
- Where to stay: The Abiquiu Inn
- Where to visit: ABQ Trolley Company
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.
- Where to eat: Barking Dog NYC
- Where to stay: Freehand Hotel
- Where to visit: Lake Placid New York
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.
- Where to eat: Twisted Laurel
- Where to stay: Kimpton Hotel Arras
- Where to visit: Blue Ridge Mountains
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.
- Where to eat: Wild Terra Cider and Brewing
- Where to stay: ClubHouse Hotel & Suites Fargo
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.
- Where to eat: Eli’s BBQ
- Where to stay: Cincinnati Airbnb Rentals
- Where to visit: RJ Cinema Distillery & Taproom
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.
- Where to eat: Roosevelt’s
- Where to stay: Aloft Tulsa
- Where to visit: Admiral Twin Drive-In
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.
- Where to eat: Lucky Labrador Beer Hall
- Where to stay: Woodlark
- Where to visit: Dog Park at Luuwit View Park
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.
- Where to eat: Tria
- Where to stay: The Alexander Inn
- Where to visit: Pet Friendly Dog Bakery
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.
- Where to eat: Rogue Island Local Kitchen & Bar
- Where to stay: The Dean Hotel
- Where to visit: Books on the Square
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.
- Where to eat: Old Oyster Factory
- Where to stay: Hilton Head Island Airbnb Rentals
- Where to visit: Vagabond Cruise
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.
- Where to eat: Monks Ale House
- Where to stay: Staybridge Suites Sioux Falls at Empire Mall
- Where to visit: Falls Park
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.
- Where to eat: The Stage on Broadway
- Where to stay: Virgin Hotels Nashville
- Where to visit: Cooter’s Place Nashville
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.
- Where to eat: Lakewood Brewing
- Where to stay: W Dallas - Victory
- Where to visit: MUTTS Canine Cantina
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.
- Where to eat: Log Haven
- Where to stay: Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City East
- Where to visit: Tanner Park
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.
- Where to eat: Casey’s Caboose
- Where to stay: Killington Mountain Lodge
- Where to visit: Killington Resort
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.
- Where to eat: The Whiskey Kitchen
- Where to stay: La Quinta by Wyndham Virginia Beach
- Where to visit: First Landing State Park
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.
- Where to eat: Portage Bay Cafe
- Where to stay: Ace Hotel Seattle
- Where to visit: Washington Park Arboretum
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.
- Where to eat: Table9
- Where to stay: Holiday Inn Morgantown University Area
- Where to visit: Coopers Rock State Forest
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.
- Where to eat: Copper State Brewing Company
- Where to stay: Aloft Green Bay
- Where to visit: Mountain-Bay State Trail
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.
- Where to eat: Turtle Rock Coffee & Cafe
- Where to stay: Vedauwoo Campground
- Where to visit: Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests
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.
About the author
Olivia Bornemeier, MBA
Content Marketing Specialist
Olivia Bornemeier is a marketing whiz by day, dog mom by night to her Fox 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.