Are you now getting itchy feet and looking for some dog-friendly vacation destinations in the US you can travel to with your dog?
If you're a hodophile, who loves to travel, staying in your home during the COVID-19 pandemic probably made you thirsty for an adventure.
But when things get better, where would you love to explore with your fido?
In this article, we compiled the:
- top dog-friendly vacation destinations in the US you can enjoy with your dog
- risks and benefits of traveling with your canine
- and eight helpful tips for a safe travel
So, before you hit the road, check this list and the sneak peek of the adventures waiting for you.
What to Consider Before Visiting Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations
1. Your itinerary when visiting dog-friendly vacation destinations
Before anything, it's imperative to consider what you and your dog want to do first.
Whether you'd like to go to the beach, try hiking or explore the cities, you need to plan your itinerary.
You also need to consider the activities you can share with your dog and your limitations and adjust when necessary.
For example, a stroll in a busy and crowded city may not be an ideal location for you to relax.
However, there are many dog-friendly vacation destinations with green spaces where your dog can play and explore.
But, if you prefer a relaxing place away from the hustle and bustle of the city, we got lots of recommendations for you too.
2.Accommodation in dog-friendly vacation destinations
If you're planning for a long trip, then you'll need to think about where you will stay too.
Some famous destinations may have dog-friendly hotels around their vicinity.
But, destinations with natural surroundings may require you to camp or rent an Airbnb for you and your fido.
If you prefer the camping route, it's worth noting that you can't leave your canine companion in the camper all day.
It will only upset your fido and make him depressed when left alone for a long time.
So, as we reiterated earlier, you need to ensure that the place and activities in your itinerary will work both for you and your fido.
If you already have an activity in mind, here are some dog-friendly vacation destinations worth checking out.
Top Dog-friendly Vacation Destinations in the US for You and Your Dog
1.South Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
This place tops the list for a reason.
It offers different attractions such as pristine blue waters and stunning mountain peaks in one place.
You can also find top-rated ski routes here and sun-drenched beaches in this paradise.
No other destination provides an experience as wholesome as what South Lake Tahoe can give.
It has something unique to offer for everybody, even for your furry companion.
Best dog-friendly spots you may visit:
Regan Beach Dog Water Park
If you're having your vacay during summertime, you can take your fido to this water park for a fun swimming experience.
Just bring your towel and favorite floating toy, and you'll be apt for fun.
If your dog isn't fond of swimming, then you can take a stroll at the lakeside.
It'll be as fun as swimming.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a big freshwater lake that nestles in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the California-Nevada border.
It is a world-renowned alpine skiing destination in the winter and early spring.
Sierra Nevada Mountains are also famous for their vast terrain, warm weather, and powdery slopes.
It might be tricky to bring your canine here during winter, but you can enjoy the breathtaking view in this dog-friendly vacation destination during summertime.
Dog-friendly vacation destination's accommodation option:
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
This pet-friendly accommodation welcomes pets except in its casino.
But the good news is they offer daycare, overnight care, companion walks, and dog massages.
So, if you're planning to go skiing, looking for someone who would look after your fido is not a problem.
Location: 50 US-50, Stateline, NV
Forest Suites Resort at Heavenly Village
This resort is steps from Heavenly Village, the Ski Gondola, Nevada Casinos, and a few short blocks from Lake Tahoe.
So, it has an ideal location, perfect if you're planning to try skiing or exploring the lake's crystal clear water.
They welcome two dogs of any size, but you need to pay an additional fee of $50 per night.
Location: 1 Lake Pkwy, South Lake Tahoe
Cozy places you can eat at:
FiRE + iCE Interactive Grill & Bar
This resto isn't your typical grill bar because, as its name suggests, it's an interactive one.
You can pick your favorite meat, vegetables, sauces, and garnishes in a bowl at this “interactive” grill.
Then let the chefs create your concoction sizzling on the enormous hot iron grill.
If you want to experience a new kind of dining, it's worth checking out.
Location: 4100 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe
Sprouts Cafe
If you’re a fan of organic foods, you'll love the fresh, organic foods served in a warm, relaxing ambiance of Sprouts Cafe.
They have excellent healthy choices, including salads, fruit smoothies, tuna burritos, hummus melts, and baked tofu.
Location: 3123 Harrison Ave, South Lake Tahoe
Base Camp Pizza Co.
If you prefer a pizza party after a long day of skiing at Lake Tahoe, Base Camp is the way to go.
Their extensive menu includes pasta and Italian food.
They warmly welcome canines, too, with water and treats.
Location: 1001 Heavenly Village Way #25A, South Lake Tahoe
2.Bozeman, Montana
Albuquerque is a unique vacation spot for you and your dog, with plenty of sunshine and a pleasant year-round environment.
In October, you can attend the International Hot Air Balloon Festival or visit some of the “Breaking Bad” TV program filming locations.
There are many dog parks as well as pet-friendly hotels and restaurants in this area.
Dog-friendly vacation destinations you may visit:
White Sands National Park
If you're looking to hike among beautiful dunes, then you don't have to look further.
This park is like no other. The glittering white sands, wave-like dunes of gypsum sand made it the world's largest gypsum dune field.
And it's worth a visit when you travel with your dog.
Albuquerque
You can witness how the hot air balloons conquer and bring color to the sky during the festival.
This breathtaking sight only lasts around eight days, so it's something you shouldn't miss out on on your vacay if it fits your schedule.
Dog-friendly vacation destination's accommodation option:
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
This relaxation haven has essential amenities in-store and an ideal location from the attractions of the city.
It's only a few-minute drive from downtown Albuquerque, Historic Old Town, and Balloon fiesta park.
You won't have to worry about your pup, too, because they are welcome, but there's an additional $25 pet fee for them.
Location: 1921 Yale Blvd SE, Albuquerque
Sheraton Albuquerque Airport Hotel
After a long day of adventure, you deserve to check-in in a stylish room and relax.
And Sheraton will not disappoint in that aspect.
They welcome two dogs of any size, but you need to pay $25 per pet for their stay.
Location: 2910 Yale Blvd, Albuquerque
Cozy places you can eat at:
Nexus Brewery & Restaurant
If you're craving southern cuisine, this resto is the place for you.
Aside from their freshly-brewed craft beer, they pride themselves on delicious menus like New Orleans gumbo and fried tacos.
Location: 4730 Pan American Fwy E, Albuquerque
Flying Star Cafe Paseo
They're especially popular with dog owners, with locations throughout Albuquerque.
The eateries have outside “petios” (pet-friendly patios) with water and complimentary snacks for your dogs.
According to one of their customers, this cafe's foods are very New Mexico style and definitely tasty.
Location: 8000 Paseo Del Norte NE, Albuquerque
3.Sedona, Arizona
The red rock buttes, steep canyon walls, and beautiful pine forests surrounding this town in Arizona are more than enough to take your breath away.
This beautiful place which Native Americans believe as sacred is a famous spiritual haven due to the unique vortex energy they have experienced here.
The healing and calming energy you can enjoy in this city make it a magical place straight out of an old Western movie.
But aside from that, there's a gazillion of activities you can try in here that can make your stay memorable.
Fun activities you can enjoy in this dog-friendly vacation destination:
Hiking
With seven hiking trails to explore and loads of pristine views waiting to be discovered, you'll never run out of things to do in Sedona.
Whether you take the Woods Canyon trail that boasts mesmerizing red mesas covered with green vegetation or Sedona's oldest but impressive Schuerman Mountain Trail, your eyes will indeed be blessed.
Biking
You may think it’s not an ideal activity if you're with your fido, but biking with your dog is possible, and it’s worth trying.
You have seven trail options, including the Dead Man's Pass, Aerie, Ridge, Girdner, Mescal, Llama, and Scorpion trail.
No matter what trail you take, Sedona always has a scenic view in store for an adventurous person like you.
Stargazing
You can witness the magnificent beauty of starscape in various locations in Sedona too.
A canvas of stars nearly unsurpassed by any other site in Sedona can be found over the silhouette of Cathedral Rock located along the Baldwin Trailhead.
And a paved path at the Beaverhead Flat Scenic Overlook surrounded by mountains will lead you to a spectacular combination of earthly and cosmic landscape.
In total, there are seven trailheads in Sedona where you can spot shooting stars and enjoy such celestial scenery.
Dog-friendly vacation accommodation options:
Hilton Sedona Resort
This resort takes being dog-friendly on a different level by greeting canine guests with delicious treats, toys, and a bandana.
They also offer pet therapy treatment.
So, if you want to pamper your canine, it's one of the best places to stay for you.
Location: 90 Ridge Trail Dr, Sedona
Sky Rock Inn of Sedona
A cozy place overlooking the red rock formations is what this inn can offer.
They also provide a 20% discount on their guided hikes for guests who books a room and intimate packages for romantic couples.
Location: 1200 West Highway 89A
Sedona, Arizona
Prices start at $185
Cozy place you can eat at:
Hideaway House
If you're looking for a hearty Italian meal with an out-of-this-world view, this is the place to go.
This top-rated restaurant welcomes canines and serves Italian staples with unique twists like a roasted peach and caramelized pancetta pizza.
Location: 231 AZ-179, Sedona
4. Bend, Oregon
Legend says that Bend has the highest per capita dog population in the world.
Around 49% of its residents own a dog, and this obsession with canines reflects on the place itself.
Dogs are allowed almost everywhere in Oregon, from outdoor food carts to food truck packs and breweries.
Dog hiking trails also await you in this dog-friendly vacation destination.
Top dog-friendly spots you may visit:
Farewell Bend Park
This 22-acre park along the Bend's Deschutes River provides an opportunity to enjoy a refreshing walk with your pup.
If your fido wants to cool off after a long walk, there's a vast body of water he can enjoy.
Deschutes National Forest
Deschutes National Forest contains various trails and Douglas firs for experienced hikers, including the famous North Fork Trail.
Cross-country ski and snowshoe trails at Wanoga
In case you're looking for a skiing place in Oregon, Wanoga got your back.
In the winter, the Wanoga, Edison, and Kapka Sno-Parks feature cross-country ski and snowshoe trails where you may make snow angels with your dog.
Dog-friendly vacation accommodation options:
Element Bend Hotel
This dog-friendly hotel was designed with environmental sustainability and visitor's well-being in mind, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of nature.
In their guest rooms and public areas, you'll find efficient and flowing architecture that maximizes space.
Waypoint hotel
The Waypoint nestling at Bend's mid-town is a freshly remodeled boutique hotel.
It has a large lobby with eight local beers and ciders on tap, outdoor fire pits, and a food truck on site.
Whether you're traveling plainly for business or pleasure with your dog, this location is excellent for getting together and relaxing.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
You deserve a refreshing break after going through a long hike.
Since famous local shops and resto are within walking distance from the inn, it's an ideal place to stay in if you're planning to hike.
Cozy places you can eat at in this dog-friendly vacation destination:
Sunriver Brewing Company
This Galveston brewpub welcomes dogs at all outdoor tables and serves all-natural foods paired with their unique beers.
Their menu includes Soft pretzels with beer cheese dip, tasty chicken wings, black bean taco salad, and more.
Location: 1005 NW Galveston Ave, Bend, OR
Chi Chinese & Sushi Bar
Located in downtown Bend and overlooking the Deschutes River, this bar features modern Chinese food and inventive sushi.
Chi has an extensive draft beer selection and cocktails, wine, and a full bar.
On top of that, their sushi selection is also delectable and reasonably priced.
Location: 3118 N Hwy 97, Bend
5.St. Augustine, North Florida
This historic city in North Florida is among the most dog-friendly vacation destinations in the US as it exudes an old-world charm you won't find anywhere else in the country.
It features a unique tropical vibe with its pristine beach town and historical sites, giving you the best of both worlds.
There are lots of dog-friendly restaurants, shops, and hotels you can explore with your fido.
Fun activities you can enjoy in this dog-friendly vacation destination:
Boating tour
St. Augustine Eco Tours offers a kayak or guided boat tour where you can enjoy the city's scenic views.
If you want your furry companion to meet beautiful dolphins or manatees, you can also rent a kayak at Florida Water Tours.
Walking tour
Historical sites of the city like the Spanish Military Hospital Museum are also worth a visit with your pup.
If you wish to take a break, you can set a blanket on the lawn of Castillo de San Marcos.
However, the management does not allow pets inside the fort, but you can also enjoy the breeze and relaxing view outside.
Attend concerts
Does your pup like live music?
Local and regional musicians perform concerts at the Plaza de la Constitucion every Thursday evening from 7 to 9 pm from May through September.
So, don't miss the chance, bring a chair or blanket with you, and have a listen to such performances with your dog.
Dog-friendly vacation accommodation options:
Saint Augustine Beach House
The oceanfront you can overlook at this beautiful beach house is one of its key features.
This chic coastal hotel has loads of amenities but a reasonable price, and they welcome dogs.
However, you must pay an additional pet fee of $35 for one dog and $60 for two.
Location: 10 Vilano Rd, St. Augustine, FL
Prices start at $99
La Quinta Inn & Suites
This inn has everything you need for a pleasant stay, from an outdoor pool to a business center and on-site fitness center.
It's a beautiful haven for refreshment and is conveniently located along Highway A1A.
Location: 215 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL
Prices start at $123
The Cozy Inn
This place is as cozy as its name, welcoming dogs up to 20 lbs. for an additional pet fee of $25.
It's just a 15-minute walk away from the Davenport Park and Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.
Location: 202 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL
Prices start at $94
Places you can eat at:
Florida Cracker Cafe
The seafood dishes, fresh salads, sandwiches offered in this cafe are something to die for.
It has been a local favorite for 20 years and keeps attracting furry parents because of its dog-friendly staff and area.
Location: 81-B St George St, St. Augustine, FL
Harry's Seafood, Bar & Grille
In this dog-friendly bar, you can enjoy a casual date with your fido under the shade of trees.
As its name suggests, they offer a variety of mouth-watering seafood menus.
Their staffs are welcoming to dogs, but it's worth noting that feeding your fido is prohibited here.
Location: 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL
Salt Life Food Shack
If you want a fantastic ocean view and a more extensive menu offering delicious sushi, fresh fish, sandwiches, tacos, and raw bars, this is the place to go.
Just like the previous resto, their accommodating staff loves and warmly welcomes fidos with a bowl of water to hydrate them.
Location: 321 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL,
6.Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Another city enriched with colonial history, Philly extends its brotherly love toward our furry companions, offering over 30 dog-friendly walking tours and parks.
There are many modern cultural experiences in store for you too that make your vacation more memorable.
This populous city is among the most dog-friendly vacation destinations in the US, and it has so much to offer, more than you could imagine.
Fun activities you can enjoy in this dog-friendly vacation destination:
Hiking
A 1,800-acre Wissahickon Valley Park visit with over 50 miles of trails with your fido is undoubtedly one for the books.
You'll witness many historic structures along the trail, including Philly's only remaining covered bridge, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Walking tours
There are countless walking routes in Philly you can enjoy with your fidos, such as Franklin Square, Rittenhouse Square, and Ridley Creek State Park.
There’s always an IG-worthy activity and place you can take photos along the route wherever you go.
So, your eyes will surely be pleased with scenic views and exciting adventures.
Dog-friendly vacation accommodation options:
Sofitel Philadelphia
The eclectic French elegance combined with American Style is visible in Sofitel's ambiance and radiates in rooms imbued with warmth.
Since it nestles between Philadelphia's French Quarter and Rittenhouse Square in Center City, it provides easy access to the city's heart.
They warmly welcome pets and provide a cozy environment for your stay.
Hyatt Centric Center City
Hyatt has a lot to offer for every fur parent and their pets, from diverse city views to unique creative spaces.
At Hyatt, you'll be just a few steps away from acclaimed restaurants, unique shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
So, if you're looking for accommodation near Rittenhouse Square, this place is worth considering.
Sheraton Suites Philadelphia Airport
You deserve to unwind after a long day of sightseeing with your dog, and one of the best homes away from home is Sheraton.
Its location is 5 minutes away from the Philadelphia International Airport, and you can easily access downtown for shopping and strolling.
This elegant suite accepts two dogs up to 40 lbs., but you'll have to pay an additional $75for your pet's stay.
Prices start at $139
Places you can eat at:
Spasso Italian Grill
If you're looking for comfort foods from Italy at the heart of Philly, Spasso is worth checking out.
Rated as “excellent” in Zagat's Guide since 2002, this Italian resto's foodie is guaranteed tasty and light at the pocket.
Location: 34 S Front St, Philadelphia, PA
Honey's Sit n Eat
The fusion of Southern and Southwest cuisine is a mouth-watering combo worth trying in this dog-friendly resto.
Their menu includes enfrijoladas, fish tacos, and country-fried steak.
Their dog-friendly outdoor seating is available every summer.
Location: 800 N 4th St, Philadelphia, PA
Rouge
This bistro located at Philly's downtown is a popular spot and well-loved by furry parents for its dog-friendly outdoor dining spaces.
You can enjoy the famous Rouge Cheeseburger and their signature cocktail here while you reward your pet and getting him hydrated.
Location: 205 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA
7.Seattle, Washington
This city surrounded by water, prominent mountains, and evergreen forests in Pacific Northwest's cultural epicenter is among the most dog-friendly vacation destinations in the US too.
It has a lot to offer for you and your furry companion, from mountain hikes to stand-up paddle-boarding in its calm waters.
This emerald city is also packed with instagrammable sceneries, dog-friendly restaurants, and parks you can enjoy with your dog.
Let us show you what we mean.
Top dog-friendly spots you may visit:
Puget Sound
You can enjoy a memorable sightseeing walk along Puget Sound with your fido and witness its beauty and the flair of the alleys of Pike Place Market.
Seattle Center
The Seattle center also deserves a spot on your itinerary, for it doesn't just offer a fantastic view day and night.
It also offers educational and tourism activities for you and your pup.
Lake Union
If you want a trip around Lake Union, you can hop aboard tour boats like the M/V Fremont Avenue.
Onboard this ice cream cruise, you can overlook shoreline parks and floating homes in the city and learn about its history.
Seattle Barkery
After having a long walk with your pup, it's time for a treat he rightly deserves.
In this barkery, you can find tasty treats for your pup delivered through a unique treat chute.
Dog-friendly vacation accommodation options:
Sheraton Grand Seattle
This hotel is as grand as its name, and on top of that, it's dog-friendly.
You can bring two dogs up to 80 lbs. with no additional fee.
Prices start at $124
Thompson Seattle
If you want a place near Nordstrom or Space Needle, this hotel located at the heart of Seattle is a good option.
Dogs of any size are also welcome here with no additional fee.
Prices start at $161
La Quinta Inn& Suites
This budget-friendly place also welcomes two pets of any size with no additional fee.
However, pets aren't allowed on the third and fourth floors.
But they offer treats at their front desk and a grassy pet relief area with designated waste stations.
Prices start at $74
Cozy places you can eat at:
Norm's Eatery & Alehouse
This dog-themed cuisine is named after a dog. No wonder why staffs welcome pups with open arms.
It's among the local favorites serving classic American foods like fried steak, eggs, pepper burgers, and chicken marsala.
Opening time: 11 am Monday to Friday, 9 am on weekends.
The Duchess Tavern
This traditional pub cuisine has a wide selection of draft and bottled beer. Outdoor tables are dog-friendly, except at busy times such as game days.
Summit Public House
This local dive bar offers drinks and a free pool and welcomes dogs on their outdoor patio.
However, dogs aren't allowed inside on Friday and Saturday nights.
Tips for Traveling with Your Pet in Dog-friendly Vacation Destinations
Traveling is fun until your dog behaves aggressively or suffers from motion sickness.
So, before you pay a visit to dog-friendly vacation destinations in the US, consider taking the following preparation tips to make your travel one for the books.
1.Pick the right crate for the travel
Airlines require dog owners to pet owners to put their dogs on a crate for safety purposes.
But, even if you'll travel in a car, you still need a comfortable crate for your pup.
So, get the best and durable crate out there and make sure he can stand up and spin around comfortably.
Don't forget to keep it well-ventilated to get adequate fresh air and label the container with a “live animal” sticker.
Placing a phone number and address in it is also helpful in case of loss.
2.Get your dog checked.
Making sure your dog is healthy can help avoid issues along the way.
Furthermore, health and vaccine certifications are necessary if you'd take him on a plane.
So, before embarking on any journey, it'd be best to take your canine companion to a veterinarian for a checkup.
3.Prepare their food and meds.
Don't forget to bring your fido's usual food, portable food bowl, and bottled water so he can stay hydrated when traveling to dog-friendly vacation destinations.
If he's taking some meds, you need to prepare them and give them to your pet as you usually do.
4.Prepare for motion sickness.
Just like people, dogs can also experience car sickness.
So, to lessen the likelihood of nausea and vomiting, it'd be best to keep your dog's stomach empty before the travel.
5.Get them accustomed to car rides.
If you're on a road trip, try to make stops frequently for pee and water breaks. It will help prevent car accidents.
However, you have to keep in mind that traveling can be stressful for dogs, and they may accidentally vomit or pee.
Allowing your dog to ride in the back of an open truck is also not a good idea.
To keep your dog safe, he should be tethered in some way as you travel toward your chosen dog-friendly vacation destination.
You shouldn't leave your dog alone in a hot or chilly car, too, when you are sightseeing since they're available to heatstroke and other health conditions.
6.Check the airplane or public transportation rules.
Public transport dog rules like airlines in a flight may vary from one to another.
So whatever means of transportation you choose in your journey, make sure to educate yourself about their rules.
It is also your responsibility as an owner to ensure your dog's health and safety in a flight as you travel towards dog-friendly vacations in the US.
Therefore, you also need to check the temperature of your starting point and destination to know it's safe for dogs to travel as live cargo.
If not, you may have to put its crate under your seat if the airline permits.
7.Make sure your accommodation is pet-friendly
Aside from ensuring the place you're visiting is a dog-friendly vacation destination, you have to make sure your accommodation is pet-friendly too to avoid issues.
Remember that it takes time for dogs to adapt to a new environment, too, so they might feel stressed and create a mess.
So, bring a crate with a comfy dog bed and your furry companion's favorite toy to keep him happy.
8.Don't forget their identification docs.
Lastly, you need to secure your dog's health and vaccination certifications and recent photos and identification tags.
It's essential in case your fido gets lost during the travel.
Pros and Cons of Traveling with Dogs on Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations
Traveling with your canine companion has lots of benefits, but it also comes with some risks.
Peek at them before you gear up for the long journey so you can be informed about the challenges you might face along the way,
Benefits of Traveling in Dog-friendly Vacation Destinations
- Dogs can make your vacation more memorable
- Bringing your pet gives a sense of security
- You won't have to pay boarding fees or dog sitters
- If your pet is with you, you can give your pet the care they deserve
- Your dog can explore new surroundings and see and hear new sounds
- Traveling together can closer your bond
- Dogs can help you connect with people since they attract attention and lead you to a conversation with others.
- You can get share-worthy photos with your fido.
Downsides of Bringing Your Canine on a Travel Towards Dog-friendly Vacations Destinations
- It can be stressful for you and your dog.
- You'll need to deal with unpleasant behavior, accidents. and unsafe weather
- Pets might have an adverse reaction when boarding a plane, car, or with crate and strangers
- You'll have to pay extra costs and fees
- You can't leave your dog alone anywhere
Final Thoughts About Travelling in Dog-friendly Vacation Destinations
Traveling with your dog can help strengthen your bond and unwind, but you need to take lots of considerations before embarking on a journey.
However, with the right preparation and basic command training, you can make the travel less stressful, and the pros could outweigh the cons.
So, which dog-friendly vacation destination do you plan to visit with your fido?
Share it with us in the comment section below.
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