All Articles 20 perfect pet-friendly vacation spots across America

20 perfect pet-friendly vacation spots across America

By TripadvisorJul 24, 2020 8 minutes read
A dark brown dog with a white belly stands with his paws in the waves of a large body of water; there is a distant mountain in the background
Image: Ruxandra Arustei/Getty Images

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.

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.

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.

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.

Austin, TX

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Napa, CA

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.