10+ Dog-Friendly Vacation Ideas
Does the thought of leaving your pup behind while you take a trip make you sad? You don’t have to! Choose to go on a dog-friendly vacation!
While you can take your dog with you to most places, there are numerous destinations across the United States that are especially welcoming to dogs.
These destinations have hotels, restaurants, and activities that are geared toward dog-loving families.
The next time you start trip planning, consider one of these dog-friendly vacation ideas.
Chicago, Illinois
If the idea of heading to a big city sounds like fun, consider visiting Chicago with your pup. In addition to dog-friendly hotels, you’ll find dog-friendly lake beaches and plenty of restaurants welcoming to dogs. You can even take your dog along on one of Mercury’s canine-friendly cruises along Chicago’s waterways.
Sedona, Arizona
If the idea of taking your dog to see some of the canyons and stunning rock formations sounds appealing, consider Sedona, Arizona. Here you will find dog-friendly hotels and restaurants. Plus, you can take your dog hiking at the Bell Rock Vortex or along for a jeep tour of the terrain.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Whether you want a summer or winter dog-friendly vacation, Lake Tahoe may fit the bill. It is a great place for skiing, as well as visiting beautiful beaches. In particular, you’ll enjoy Regan Beach Dog Wate Park in the summer months.
Asheville, North Carolina
For a mountain trip, check out Asheville, North Carolina. Asheville is a very dog-welcoming town, where it is common to find dog water bowls outside of all the downtown shops. Dogs are welcome to major tourist destinations, including the Biltmore Estate and Chimney Rock State Park. There are also numerous dog-friendly local breweries.
Pensacola, Florida
While not one of the most popular destinations in the panhandle, Pensacola is a great choice for dog-loving families. It has many dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and shops. Even better, dogs are welcome to enjoy the many trails, paths, and parks in the city, as well as visit dog-friendly beaches.
Texas Hill Country
Head outside of Austin, Texas to discover a dog-friendly area that includes “Barking Springs” dog park. In addition to the many dog-friendly restaurants and breweries, your dog can even enjoy a canoe ride with you at South Llano River State Park.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Located in Maine, Acadia National Park is one of the most dog-friendly national parks in the United States. It has 100 miles of dog-friendly hiking trails! Conde Nast Traveler adds, “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.” You’ll find plenty of dog-friendly hotels in nearby Bar Harbor.
Key West, Florida
For a dog-friendly beach vacation, check out Key West, Florida, where dogs can enjoy the no-leash-required Key West Dog Beach. Dogs are welcome at many hotels, restaurants, bars, and even the Key West Aquarium.
St. Johnsbury, Vermont
Enjoy a cooler dog-friendly vacation in the Eastern Vermont town of St. Johnsbury, home to Dog Mountain. It is an off-leash dog heaven, complete with a dog chapel!
Sun Valley, Idaho
Do you love the idea of taking your dog with you on a ski vacation? Check out Sun Valley, Idaho! Here, dogs are allowed on the North Valley Trail System. According to The Wildest, “Today, more than 50 percent of North Valley’s skiers take their pups with them. Passes provide access to North Valley and two other systems with more than 60 miles of dog-friendly trails. There’s a small fee for a doggie pass — $5 for a day or $49 for the season.”
Yosemite National Park, California
Your dog can go with you to see many of the iconic sites at Yosemite National Park and there are many dog-friendly trail loops. There are several dog-friendly hotels, including Tenaya Lodge, which provides dog beds and bowls and even offers dog massages.
Make sure you also read 12 Tips for Vacationing with a Dog as you plan your next trip.
Don’t have time to scoop the poop before your dog-friendly vacation? Contact Super Scoopers for pooper scooper service.