Dog-friendly luxury vacation homes
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- Block Island, Rhode Island
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Nantucket, Massachusetts
- Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
- Long Island, New York
- Lake Placid, New York
- Stowe, Vermont
- Bar Harbor, Maine
- Chicago, Illinois
- Madison, Wisconsin
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Grand Haven, Michigan
- Cleveland, Ohio
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- St. Augustine, Florida
- Key West, Florida
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Hilton Head, South Carolina
- Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
- Birmingham, Alabama
- Austin, Texas
- Sedona, Arizona
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- San Francisco, California
- South Lake Tahoe, California
- Huntington Beach, California
- San Diego, California
- Napa, California
- Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Kanab, Utah
- Boise, Idaho
- Seattle, Washington
- Bend, Oregon


1. Block Island, Rhode Island
When it comes to dog-friendly vacations, Block Island is one destination you won’t want to miss. From scenic walks to water taxis, there's so much for you and your pup to enjoy together.Brenton Point State Park offers beautiful views of the bay, with kite fliers taking advantage of the gusty ocean winds. Have a picnic at Point Judith Lighthouse or bodysurf at Mansion Beach. (The mansion burned down decades ago, but the sand and surf still remain.) Grab a bite to eat at Windjammer Surf Bar, where your dog can order food from its own menu, and you can both enjoy the sight and sound of crashing waves.
2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The City of Brotherly Love extends its hospitality to four-legged friends. Visit Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, where you and your dog can view large mosaic artwork and a sculpture garden. For a break from the concrete jungle, head to the Wissahickon Valley Park to traverse the hiking trails that span the forest and meadows. Stop by Wedge+Fig, where you and your dog can get a bite to eat in their enclosed gravel patio.
3. Nantucket, Massachusetts
This Northeast pet friendly vacation spot has beaches, brewskies and bogs to entertain you and your dog. Surfside, Brant Point and Cisco Beaches all provide sandy ocean fun.Take a ride on the Steamship Authority ferry, where your pet can ride free of charge, to visit nearby Martha’s Vineyard and soak in the sights. The Milestone Cranberry Bogs give your dog a chance to burn off some energy, playing fetch on its dirt paths. When it’s time to rehydrate and replenish your calories, head to Easy Street Cantina or the Sandbar at Jetties Beach for fresh food and refreshing drinks. In terms of dog vacations, this one is hard to top.
4. Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
What may at first seem like a sleepy town in the Poconos is a must-see place to go with your dog. Fido is welcome on the vintage Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for a trip through the state park and breathtaking views of the mountains. Country Junction general store is billed as the world’s largest of its kind, with a petting zoo and restaurant to boot. The Retriever Brewing Compound has five acres of entertainment, with a beer hall, pool deck and rotating food trucks to explore with your leashed friend.
5. Long Island, New York
The largest island in the country offers pet-friendly beaches, hiking trails and more. Take your dog walks up a notch by strolling around Gold Coast and marveling at the historic mansions. De-stress with a doggy yoga session, where your pal can accompany you. Long Island has plenty of dog-friendly breweries, and there’s even a tour that takes you to all of the best neighborhood taprooms. American Brass is a dog-friendly waterfront restaurant that uses local ingredients to deliver creative dishes.
6. Lake Placid, New York
There’s so much to experience in Lake Placid. Enjoy a convenient stay at the pet-friendly Town House Lodge, just a stone's throw away from the lake and a short walk from Main Street. Rent a boat from Captain Marney’s to go fishing, tubing or water skiing — with your pet as first mate. The business takes its name from a golden retriever whose descendants still stroll their dock. The Peninsula Nature Trails and John Brown Farm are sources of peaceful entertainment with pets. And when it’s time for food, Tail O’ The Pup serves delicious smoked BBQ and has an outdoor seating area for dogs. Plus, the Rivermede Farm Market sells locally sourced produce, gifts and animal treats.
7. Stowe, Vermont
Stowe has no shortage of pet-friendly vacation ideas. The gondolas at Mount Mansfield let your canine ride at your side, while the Stowe Mountain Auto Toll Road offers scenic views of the Adirondacks while giving your feet and paws a rest. The Alchemist Brewery allows leashed dogs to accompany patrons on a tour of the facilities, and your furry friend can stay by your side while you finish with a beer tasting. To stretch all six of your legs, head to Hubbard Park for off-leash fun.
8. Bar Harbor, Maine
If you and your furry friend share a love for the ocean, the seaside town of Bar Harbor has everything you need. This quiet town of 5,000 provides nature cruises for leashed pets, so you both can try spotting a variety of sea creatures, like porpoises and seals. Take a picturesque walk around dog-friendly Acadia National Park with over 158 miles of hiking trails and multiple campgrounds. Then go for a wine tasting at Bar Harbor Cellars, or treat your pet to something special at Bark Harbor pet boutique.
9. Chicago, Illinois
Bring your pet to this lakeside city for fun on and off the water. Multiple tour boats provide dog-friendly services, so everyone can enjoy the sights of the city from Lake Michigan or the Chicago River. Montrose Dog Beach allows your pet to dip their paws in the lake and even provides free waste bags and a dog wash area. The pet-friendly Gangsters and Ghosts Tours give visitors the opportunity to learn about the city’s sordid past by walking through the old vice district.
10. Madison, Wisconsin
Sitting on an isthmus between two lakes, Madison has a whole lot of green space perfect for traveling dogs, including nine fenced off-leash city parks. For two-legged visitors, The Boneyard has a biergarten with 16 beers on tap, plus an outdoor play area for dogs to socialize. There’s even an on-site groomer if your dog is overdue for a trim. The BarleyPop Tap and Shop provides another dog-friendly taproom with an extensive craft beer selection. If spirits are more your thing, the State Line Distillery welcomes dogs inside the cocktail lounge. The seasonal Hilldale Farmers Market provides a healthy alternative to the bar scene, with fresh food and baked treats.
11. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Stroll Milwaukee’s winding RiverWalk with your dog in tow, stopping at the pet-friendly brewpubs and shops along the way. The RiverSculpture is an outdoor art gallery with permanent and rotating installations celebrating artists from across the nation. Treat your good dog to a spa day at Community Bark pet groomers. Or chill at their Barker Lounge, where your dog can make furry friends while you drink coffee and stock up on planet-friendly pet supplies.
12. Grand Haven, Michigan
This cozy western Michigan town offers plenty of fun for you and your pup while avoiding the overwhelming crowds of some better-known dog-friendly getaways. Take your time as you stroll down the boardwalk, window shopping and gazing at boats in the harbor. Rent your own pontoon for a relaxing cruise or a water skiing excursion. Then step back into a time capsule at Ray’s Drive-In restaurant for a classic burger and root beer shake with your dog riding shotgun.
13. Cleveland, Ohio
This Lake Erie city blends freshwater fun with urban attractions. The downtown dog park offers 3,500 square feet of off-leash play space. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail provides multi-use paths for you and your dog to explore amidst a plethora of greenery. Then head to the Taps & Tails Dog Bar, known for its indoor and outdoor play areas, with food and drinks for both dogs and owners. They even offer a daycare service if you want a day to yourself.
14. Indianapolis, Indiana
This dog-friendly getaway blends city entertainment with natural attractions. The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park can be visited from sunrise to sunset, with contemporary art installations scattered throughout its 100 acres. Enjoy the Downtown Canal Walk’s three-mile loop, or rent a pedal boat for a unique view of the city. Treat your pup to a movie at the Tibbs Drive-In theater and experience the feel of a bygone era. Visit the 16-Bit Bar + Arcade, where you can wet your whistle and play free video games with your dog by your side.
15. St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the U.S., is brimming with history for you and your pet to experience together. Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park includes a planetarium, Timucua Native American village and an observation deck. Wild peacocks roam the park, so be sure to keep your dog leashed. In town, you can take your dog on a wine-tasting tour in a horse-drawn carriage or ride on Red Train Tours (so long as your dog weighs 20 pounds or less). For an out-of-the-ordinary stop, visit the Perky Pelican, a shop selling handcrafted Christmas baubles year-round.
16. Key West, Florida
Key West is renowned for its wild six-toed cats, so prepare your pooch. If your dog is willing to extend the olive branch, they can join you on snorkeling trips, dolphin charters and walks through the botanical garden. Your leashed dog can stay by your side as you tour the local aquarium and witness shark feeding and alligator exhibits. You won’t want to miss your chance to dine on fresh seafood like fish tacos at Geiger Key Marina Fish Camp Restaurant. (They’ll even cook fish you’ve caught that day!)
17. Asheville, North Carolina
If the Southeast is more your style, grab the leash and head to Asheville, North Carolina. Take a stroll through Grovewood Village, where art and history converge with beautiful sculpture gardens and tales of the city’s history. Asheville has trolley tours for dogs up to 25 pounds, or you can scratch nature’s itch with a walk through Craggy Gardens’ rhododendron tunnel. Afterward, quench your thirst at Catawba Brewing Company or grab a bite to eat at Brixx Wood Fired Pizza.
18. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is well-known for its charming city streets lined with live oak trees and colorful buildings. Take a pet-friendly carriage tour to learn about the city in an old-timey style. Fans of the macabre won’t want to miss the city’s ghost tours that have both family-friendly and adults-only offerings that allow leashed pets. Rest and replenish your calories at the covered patio of the Lowdown Oven and Bar or enjoy the outdoor seating of Queology Barbecue.
19. Hilton Head, South Carolina
You can stick to living on island time at pet-friendly Hilton Head. This East Coast attraction will provide you and your canine with ocean fun and dog-friendly beaches galore. The Audubon Newhall Preserve allows you and your leashed friend to observe alligators, birds and turtles. Stop by the Island Winery to taste grapes off the local vines — the proprietors will even give your dog its own water bowl so it won’t feel left out. (And remember: Grapes aren’t good for dogs.)
20. Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
Virginia may be for lovers, but it’s also great for your fur baby. Shenandoah Valley has dog-friendly wineries, nature trails and other activities. The Staunton Farmers’ Market offers aisles of fresh produce, live music and freshly roasted coffee. The restaurant Table 44 has a special patio for pets (the doggio) and will even provide a water bowl and a special menu for your extra guest.
21. Birmingham, Alabama
Red Mountain Park in Birmingham has plenty of fun to offer you and your pet. There are 20 miles of hiking trails, treehouse views and the six-acre off-leash Remy’s Dog Park. Or maybe the trails of Ruffner Mountain are calling your (dog’s) name. The park provides weekend activities and educational programs with beautiful city views. Get a taste of Southern comfort food at Crazy Cajuns’ Boiling Pot, the punk rock-friendly Black Market Bar and Grill or Back Forty Beer Company.
22. Austin, Texas
Austin is one of the best pet-friendly vacations in the United States! Prepare for sensory overload at the Zilker Botanical Garden, where you can walk your leashed pet through the themed exhibits, viewing (and probably smelling) exotic plants. When you need a little extra energy to make it through the day, or maybe just to burn some of your pet’s energy, head to the Neighbors Dog Park & Coffee Shop for some off-leash fun. When you’re ready for a taste of BBQ, you and your best bud can dine at Terry Black’s BBQ, Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q or Green Mesquite.
23. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s striking vistas of red sandstone attract visitors from all over the world. There are a number of dog-friendly options to see the area, with guided and self-guided jeep tours. You can also take a Red Rock Magic Trolley tour if your dog is small enough to sit on your lap. Mesa Grill offers a dog-friendly outdoor eating area where you can view the scenery and watch planes at the nearby airport. Sedona Beer Company serves small-batch craft beer and food and accommodates dogs on the patio.
24. Albuquerque, New Mexico
This Southwest city is well-known for its delicious food and lively festivals, but its reputation as a pet-friendly destination is also noteworthy. Your leashed dog can join you on an outdoor adventure along the La Luz Trail, much of Petroglyph National Monument and Rinconada Canyon Trail. If you need to give your paws a break, hitch a ride on the open-air ABQ Trolley and observe the sights in comfort. Please be aware that the ABQ Trolley X, the luxury option, does not allow pets. Pet-friendly restaurants include the Ponderosa Brewing Company and Flying Star Cafe Paseo for cold beers and hot tacos.
25. San Francisco, California
San Francisco makes our list of best pet-friendly vacation spots thanks to its gorgeous scenery and dog-friendly accessibility. Your dog can splash in salt water at Crissy Field while you take pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge from the beach. Golden Gate Park’s off-leash section is a viable alternative for dogs wanting to keep sand out of their fur. For an added activity, try the modern treasure hunt known as geocaching, which is great for dogs and children alike.
26. South Lake Tahoe, California
South Lake Tahoe sits on one of the largest freshwater lakes in the country, with the Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop.Bring your dog with you as you try your hand at sport fishing, kayaking or paddleboarding. Lake Tahoe’s dog-friendly beaches also provide the option for a restful day soaking up the sun. Stop at the Sprouts Cafe for fresh, mostly organic food to replenish your energy, or MacDuff’s Pub, which offers English pub food with dog-friendly outdoor dining areas.
27. Huntington Beach, California
Huntington Beach — aka Surf City, with its 10 miles of coastline — is an evergreen pet-friendly vacation destination, thanks to its sunny Southern California weather. Huntington Dog Beach provides grassy picnic areas and water fountains for humans and dogs alike. After a day of frolicking on the beach, try some fresh seafood at Wahoo’s Fish Taco or experience the California classic In-N-Out Burger. The Kimpton Shorebreak Resort accommodates cats and dogs of any size for no extra charge, going so far as to provide pet beds and bowls.
28. San Diego, California
Make your dog’s ocean dreams a reality by taking a pet-friendly vacation to San Diego. Take a private paddleboard lesson at SUP Pups to learn the basics before heading out on your own. For a more sure-footed activity, spend the afternoon at the Original Dog Beach, where your dog can run off-leash with other canines. When you’re done, there’s a dog wash station just two blocks away. After you’re both cleaned up, head to Original Paw Pleasers Dog Bakery for a sweet treat.
29. Napa, California
Napa is practically synonymous with wine, and while your dog can’t partake, there’s no reason they shouldn’t join you on a dog-friendly getaway. Walk or jog along the Napa Valley Vine Trail to get your daily dose of exercise, while the historic Silverado Trail is a scenic driving route with valley views. Stock up on necessities or treats for you and your dog at the Napa General Store Restaurant, or grab a hearty meal with a micro-brewed beer at pet-friendly Downtown Joe’s American Brewery.
30. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Get away from big-city vibes and get back into nature in Colorado Springs. The impressively named Garden of the Gods is a free national landmark with hiking trails through the red rock formations. For the less adventurous, Colorado Springs has plenty of places to go with a dog. Pub Dog Colorado has a pet-friendly indoor area for eating and drinking and a fenced-in off-leash area for dogs to socialize.
31. Kanab, Utah
You have to see Kanab to believe it. Known colloquially as “Little Hollywood,” dozens of movies and television series are filmed in and around the area’s national parks due to the striking scenery. Your dog can join you as you walk remote trails, or you can both jump in a 4x4 for a guided desert safari. Be sure to stop by the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, where nearly 2,000 animals are ready for adoption. It’s the largest no-kill shelter in the country, and visitors can volunteer to clean kennels and socialize with the animals, including bunnies, farm animals and injured wild animals. The shelter’s on-site lodging provides specialized pet amenities like pull-out beds, a pet washing station and splash zone.
32. Boise, Idaho
If you and your hound are tired of being confined indoors, Boise is a perfect pet-friendly escape. Tree-lined paths link the Boise River Greenbelt so you and your dog can enjoy miles of scenery and wildlife. Winstead Park offers designated off-leash hours throughout its 11 acres of green space. The Spacebar Arcade lets you drink and game with your dog by your side. And your pup is welcome at the Freak Alley Gallery, the largest open-air gallery in the Northwest.
33. Seattle, Washington
Beat the heat with a pet-friendly vacation to the Pacific Northwest. Visit the city’s largest downtown green space at Olympic Sculpture Park. You can walk with your dog, observing works from renowned artists, then stroll along Elliott Bay in Myrtle Edwards Park. If you’re heading to Seattle Center, leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds but not in the buildings, and the monorail to downtown allows dogs if they’re carried by their owner. Along the shores of Lake Washington, you’ll find the 230-acre Washington Park Arboretum, where leashed dogs are always welcome. Round out your visit with a Seattle Water Tours Ice Cream Cruise to enjoy a cold treat while learning about the city.34. Bend, Oregon

Planning your next dog-friendly vacation
Taking a vacation with man's best friend requires some extra planning, but with some careful preparation — it'll give both you and your pup something to wag about.Prepare for the road
Before you hit the road, make sure your pet is primed for the journey. Pack essentials like food, water, bowls, a leash, and any necessary medications to set your pack up for success. Ensure your pet's identification and vaccinations are current, and consider a microchip for extra safety. If traveling by car, secure your pet with a harness or carrier, and plan for frequent breaks for potty stops and exercise. After all, a tired pup is a happy pup!Choose the right destination
When selecting a dog-gone great destination, consider the climate and specific activities you and your pet will enjoy. Research pet-friendly parks, beaches, trails, and attractions ahead of time so you won't have to pivot on the fly based on an unexpected "No Pets Allowed" sign. Look for destinations with a welcoming atmosphere for dogs, where you can find pet-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and services.Book pet-friendly accommodations
Sites like BringFido, Petswelcome, and GoPetFriendly specialize in pet-friendly accommodations. They have filters to narrow your search based on pet size, breed, and any extra fees. For example, on BringFido, you can filter for hotels with no size restrictions, which is perfect if you have, say, a Great Dane.Sites like Airbnb and Vrbo also offer various pet friendly homes and apartments—so it's easy to book for both you and your pup if you know where to look.Pet-friendly activities to enjoy
Now that you've planned your destination and travel, it's time to nail down an itinerary that will also include your furry friend. Here are some of the best types of activities to share with your dog on vacation:Outdoor adventures
The great outdoors is almost always a safe bet for dog-friendly vacations. Hike scenic mountain trails, splash in the waves at dog-friendly beaches or stroll through picturesque parks. Many national and state parks welcome leashed pets, offering opportunities for exploration and bonding. For example, in Austin, Texas, you and your furry friend can explore the Barton Creek Greenbelt, a scenic trail with swimming holes and plenty of spots for you (and your dog) to cool off.Cultural experiences
Who says pups can't be cultured? Many experiences, such as museums, zoos or historical tours, are pet-friendly. For instance, in Charleston, South Carolina, you can take a pet-friendly carriage tour through the charming city streets, learning about its rich history with your furry copilot by your side.Dining and relaxation
After a day of exploring, treat yourself and your furry friend to some delicious eats, a local beverage, or some cozy relaxation. If you're in the mood for a craft beer or local wine, check out pet-friendly breweries and wineries like Crux Fermentation Project in Bend, Oregon, which boasts a spacious outdoor area where dogs can roam freely while you enjoy a refreshing beverage. Remember to always confirm pet policies beforehand to ensure an enjoyable experience for you and your pet.Tips for a pet-friendly vacation
