Dogs are loyal, laid-back, and eager to explore – yes, they are man’s best friend, but they also make man’s best travel companions! Cities across the country are becoming more pet-friendly within minutes, as they open dog-welcoming attractions, offer special dog menus, and designate beaches specifically for four-legged. The Most Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in the US.
Because Fido deals with all of your adventures, we’ve brought in some of the most dog-friendly cities in the U.S., these destinations include attractions, tours, and restaurants that offer the greatest dog vacation ideas. According to Ryan, owner of Crusoe the Celebrity Dachshund, “especially for us, California, Texas, and Florida have all been dog-friendly,” so you’ll definitely see some of those destinations on our list. Ditch our recommendations and let the fur fly!
San Diego, California
If you’ve never seen the tail-wagging, tongue-flying excitement that occurs when a puppy sees Dog Beach, it’s time to head to San Diego. People aren’t alone in sniffing San Diego for its sandy beaches and idyllic climate—even the pups can’t get enough. The SoCal spot has a handful of off-leash beaches and parks – just wait until your dog sees Fiesta Island!
According to Smart Assets, there are more than 530 dog-friendly restaurants in San Diego, not to mention countless breweries where you can knock back some local craft beer with your pup in tow. San Diego is easily One of the most dog-friendly cities in the U.S., as it hosts many dog-focused events, from the Surf Dog Series at Imperial Beach to the Dog Days of Summer Padre Games at Petco Park. And if your dog’s eye is always on the ball, you can also head to Backyard, a private doggie viewing area in the left-central area at the stadium.
Austin, Texas
You take man’s best friend everywhere, and Austin should be no exception. From home backyard bars and open-air eateries, this hot spot was practically made for you and your pup. The Yard Bar, which has a dodgy (and human!) menu and an off-leash dog park, is one of nearly 500 wonderful pet-friendly restaurants around town.
Like to break a sweat? Take a yoga class with Austin Doga and practice your downward-facing dog pose together, or toss the Frisbee around in Red Bud Isle. If temperatures are high, Barkin Springs, outside Barton Springs Pool, is the perfect place for your pup to make a splash. Once the sun sets, settle in for a doggie date night at the Blue Starlight Mini Urban Drive-In, where calm, well-behaved pups are welcomed.
Key Largo, Florida
When it comes to vacationing in tropical Key Largo you’ll be pressed to find the stuff you can’t do with your dog. In fact, says resident pet expert Samantha Schwab of Chewy.com, “The best vacation I’ve ever taken with my dog was a road trip to Key Largo, Florida. Here, we spend most of our time on their dog-friendly beaches.” And spent hanging out with paddleboarding.” Her French Bulldog, Royce, even went for a dip to cool off!
Of all the dog-friendly vacation spots, mark your territory in Key Largo. At Tropic Water Sports, rent a clear kayak or SUP paddleboard to glide along the inlet with your dog-o, or bring your pup on a Key Largo Princess Glass Bottom Boat Tour and have someone else do the steering. (Just don’t forget to pack a doggy lifejacket!) Next, put your paws in the sand at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and then head to the Pilot House restaurant for a sunset dinner for two, which overlooks the marina.
Alexandria, Virginia
There have to be more than a few dog parks for a place to grace our list, and it’s no wonder Alexandria has made the cut. Take a walk down King Street, and chances are you won’t find a block or two in a dog before oh-ing and ah-ing. Bowls of water (and treats!) line the street, where your four-legged can stop for a sip as you window shop and walk along the waterfront. Stop at The Dog Park, a pet-focused boutique, and dine at local venues around town.
“Sit” and “stay” won’t be the only things your pup knows during your Alexandria adventures. Add Presidential trivia to your dog repertoire when you join the All the President’s Pills Walking Tour in Mount Vernon. Next, pack a doggy life vest and go sightseeing around the harbor on a canine cruise with the Potomac Riverboat Company. For some good old-fashioned fun, there are about 20 fenced and no-fenced dog parks in town, so your furry friend can go wild.
Bar Harbor, Maine
A solid hike with sweeping views is something you and your dog both agree on, and in Bar Harbor, you’ll find endless trails wagging your tail. In fact, Acadia National Park has 120 miles of dog-friendly hiking trails, and 45 miles of carriage roads—surely, you’ll capture some great footage for Instagram of your pup. Bar Harbor not only invites you and your four-legged friend to explore its rugged scenery, but the city allows dogs to board city buses, making getting around the city easier than ever. becomes easier.
While you’re out exploring one of Americans’ favorite destinations, let your pup tap into their salty canine potential with an adventure on the Downeast Windjammer. Together, you’ll find your sea legs as you cruise around Frenchman Bay. When it’s time for grub, head to one of the city’s many pet-welcoming eateries, from The Chart Room to Steveman’s Lobster Pound Downtown.
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