Top 10 Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations in the U.S.

 

Taking a family vacation means taking the whole family, including man’s best friend. Luckily for those who can’t bear the thought of being away from their furry companion for more than 24 hours, there are a host of vacation spots across the states that are more than happy to accommodate your pooch. Find adventure and relaxation for you and your furry friend at these dog friendly vacation destinations across the United States.

Sunny San Diego is a vibrant city by the water, but many of its beautiful beaches are open to dogs. The aptly named Dog Beach is an off-leash paradise for your canine pal to splash around, while Fiesta Island at Mission Bay Park offers large sand dunes to run around on. If you find yourself near downtown, the Grape Street Dog Park is 5 acres of unfenced doggy heaven. Hotels like Hotel Solamar San Diego allow dogs unattended in rooms, so you can hit the beach and drop your pup off for a night on the town.

This small town on Mount Desert Island is a phenomenal place to bring your canine companions, especially if you plan on hiking at the breathtaking Acadia National Park. The island has a little something for everyone, with mountains and sandy beaches within the park, and pet-friendly patios for eating around the town. Many of the town’s cottages and bungalows are pet-friendly, so you and your pup can easily hit the trails at one of the country’s premier dog friendly vacation destinations.

There’s no shortage of scenery for your barking best friend in the picturesque Sierra Nevada mountains. Your dog can splash around at Kiva Beach with a view of the mountains across the lake, or you can hike over on the Rubicon Trail to see them for yourself. Hotel Azure, just a short distance from the lakeshore, is a great option for pet-friendly lodging.

This treasure of the Pacific Northwest is seemingly obsessed with dogs, so much so that they are allowed practically everywhere. Dog-friendly hiking trails litter the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range, and within the city you’ll find many outdoor food carts, food truck parks, and breweries, all of which welcome dogs.

The lively city of Austin is perfect for a city vacation with your favorite travel buddy. Red Bud Isle Park has swimming spots for swimmers with two or four legs, and beautiful views accessible by foot, paws, or kayak. The Domain is a shopping neighborhood that is completely dog-friendly, so you and your dog can find everything you need to enjoy your vacation. 

The cobblestone streets of this storied city are more than welcoming to dogs, with many pets-allowed restaurants like Brown Dog Deli and Poogan’ Porch. If you’re looking to take in some of Charleston’s history and scenery, Charleston Carriage works offers historical tours, and allows dogs to ride along in style. As far as dog friendly vacation destinations go, this city has it all. 

The camping around the scenic gulf coast is spacious, beautiful, and more than accommodating of four-legged friends. The Fort De Soto Campground features a dog beach, and over a thousand acres of land to run around in. Whether Fido is hanging out on the white-sand Paw Playground, or making friends in one of two fully fenced dog parks, he is welcome for no extra fee.

Your dog will love the fresh air and cool water of this charming locale. Go on scenic walks with your pup by the towering Mohegan Bluffs, or relax on the quiet and serene Mansion beach. For quality fresh seafood, make sure you bring your dog along to the waterfront Kimberly’s.

With many breweries, outdoor restaurants, and outdoor spaces like the lovely White River State Park, Indianapolis is a veritable puppy playground. Hotels like Le Meridien Indianapolis even let dogs in rooms unattended, with beds and bowls provided.

For a tropical vacation with your canine friend, Maui is home to the Hosmer Grove Campground in famous Haleakalā National Park, a gorgeous space where you can pitch your tent and stargaze with Fido. The trails might not allow dogs, but sharing a view of the sunrise or sunset is not an experience to miss.