Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience, but finding destinations that welcome your furry friend with open arms can be a challenge. Fortunately, the United States is home to a variety of pet friendly cities, parks, and attractions that cater to both you and your four legged companion. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, luxurious accommodations, or vibrant urban experiences, this guide will introduce you to the top 10 pet friendly destinations in the U.S. for your next vacation. Pack your bags, grab your pet's leash, and get ready to explore!
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Why It’s Pet Friendly
Asheville is a haven for nature lovers and their pets. This charming city in the Blue Ridge Mountains offers a variety of pet friendly activities, from hiking trails to breweries.
Top Attractions for Pets
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Explore scenic trails and overlooks with your pet.
- Biltmore Estate: Walk through the expansive gardens and grounds with your furry friend.
- Pritchard Park: Enjoy live music and outdoor events in this pet friendly park.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- The Omni Grove Park Inn: Offers pet friendly rooms and a pet concierge service.
- Aloft Asheville Downtown: Welcomes pets with complimentary beds and treats.
Tips for Visiting
Check for seasonal events that are pet friendly, and always keep your dog on a leash in public areas.
2. San Diego, California
Why It’s Pet Friendly
With its year round mild weather and abundance of outdoor spaces, San Diego is a paradise for pets and their owners.
Top Attractions for Pets
- Dog Beach: Let your dog run off leash and splash in the ocean.
- Balboa Park: Explore miles of pet friendly trails and gardens.
- Fiesta Island: A popular spot for off leash play and water activities.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- Hotel Del Coronado: Offers luxurious pet friendly rooms and amenities.
- Kimpton Solamar Hotel: Welcomes pets with no size or breed restrictions.
Tips for Visiting
Make sure your pet is comfortable around crowds, as many of San Diego’s attractions are popular with tourists.
3. Austin, Texas
Why It’s Pet Friendly
Known for its vibrant culture and outdoor lifestyle, Austin is a top destination for pet owners.
Top Attractions for Pets
- Zilker Park: A large urban park where dogs can run off leash in designated areas.
- Lady Bird Lake: Enjoy a pet friendly paddleboarding or kayaking experience.
- Austin Doga: Practice yoga with your dog at local studios.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- Hotel Saint Cecilia: Offers pet friendly suites and a peaceful courtyard.
- Lone Star Court: Welcomes pets with complimentary treats and water bowls.
Tips for Visiting
Austin is known for its live music scene, so consider bringing ear protection if your pet is sensitive to loud noises.
4. Seattle, Washington
Why It’s Pet Friendly
Seattle’s pet friendly culture extends to its parks, restaurants, and even its public transportation system.
Top Attractions for Pets
- Discovery Park: Explore miles of pet friendly trails and beaches.
- Kerry Park: Enjoy stunning views of the Seattle skyline with your pet.
- Dogwood Play Park: A dog park with indoor and outdoor play areas.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- The Alexis Royal Sonesta Hotel: Offers pet friendly rooms and a welcome package for furry guests.
- Kimpton Hotel Vintage Seattle: Welcomes pets with no additional fees.
Tips for Visiting
Seattle’s weather can be unpredictable, so bring a raincoat for your pet and dress in layers.
5. Sedona, Arizona
Why It’s Pet Friendly
Sedona’s red rock landscapes and pet friendly trails make it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and their pets.
Top Attractions for Pets
- Red Rock State Park: Hike through stunning desert scenery with your pet.
- Slide Rock State Park: Explore pet friendly trails along Oak Creek.
- Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village: Browse shops and galleries with your furry friend.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- Amara Resort and Spa: Offers pet friendly rooms and a dog walking service.
- Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa: Welcomes pets with complimentary beds and bowls.
Tips for Visiting
Sedona’s trails can get hot, so hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon and bring plenty of water for your pet.
6. Key West, Florida
Why It’s Pet Friendly
This tropical paradise is as welcoming to pets as it is to humans, with plenty of outdoor activities and pet friendly beaches.
Top Attractions for Pets
- Dog Beach: Let your dog play in the sand and surf.
- Hemingway Home and Museum: Visit the former home of Ernest Hemingway, where six toed cats roam freely.
- Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory: Explore the gardens with your pet.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- The Marker Key West Harbor Resort: Offers pet friendly rooms and a pet concierge.
- Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa: Welcomes pets with no additional fees.
Tips for Visiting
Key West is a popular tourist destination, so book accommodations and activities well in advance.
7. Portland, Oregon
Why It’s Pet Friendly
Portland’s laid back vibe and love for animals make it a top destination for pet owners.
Top Attractions for Pets
- Forest Park: Hike through one of the largest urban forests in the U.S. with your pet.
- Powell’s City of Books: Browse the shelves with your furry friend in this iconic bookstore.
- Tin Shed Garden Cafe: Dine at this pet friendly restaurant with a dedicated dog menu.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- Hotel Monaco Portland: Offers pet friendly rooms and a nightly wine reception for pets and their owners.
- Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel: Welcomes pets with no additional fees.
Tips for Visiting
Portland is known for its rain, so bring a waterproof jacket and doggy boots for your pet.
8. Charleston, South Carolina
Why It’s Pet Friendly
This historic city is as charming for pets as it is for humans, with pet friendly parks, restaurants, and accommodations.
Top Attractions for Pets
- James Island County Park: Explore pet friendly trails and a dog park with a lagoon.
- Waterfront Park: Walk along the harbor with your furry friend.
- Poe’s Tavern: Dine at this pet friendly restaurant with a dog menu.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- The Restoration Hotel: Offers pet friendly rooms and a welcome package for furry guests.
- Belmond Charleston Place: Welcomes pets with luxurious amenities.
Tips for Visiting
Charleston’s cobblestone streets can be tough on paws, so consider bringing doggy shoes or a stroller for smaller pets.
9. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Why It’s Pet Friendly
With its breathtaking mountain views and pet friendly trails, Colorado Springs is a perfect destination for adventurous pets.
Top Attractions for Pets
- Garden of the Gods: Explore iconic rock formations and pet friendly trails.
- Cheyenne Mountain State Park: Hike through scenic landscapes with your pet.
- Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Enjoy off leash areas and stunning views.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- The Broadmoor: Offers pet friendly rooms and a dog park on site.
- Garden of the Gods Resort and Club: Welcomes pets with complimentary treats and bowls.
Tips for Visiting
Colorado Springs is at a high altitude, so monitor your pet for signs of altitude sickness, such as lethargy or shortness of breath.
10. New York City, New York
Why It’s Pet Friendly
Despite its urban setting, New York City offers plenty of pet friendly parks, hotels, and attractions.
Top Attractions for Pets
- Central Park: Explore miles of pet friendly trails and open spaces.
- Shake Shack: Dine at this pet friendly restaurant with a dog menu.
- Boris & Horton: Visit this dog friendly cafe and event space.
Pet Friendly Accommodations
- The Ritz Carlton Central Park: Offers luxurious pet friendly rooms and amenities.
- Kimpton Muse Hotel: Welcomes pets with no additional fees.
Tips for Visiting
New York City can be overwhelming for pets, so stick to quieter parks and neighborhoods to help your furry friend feel more comfortable.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pet doesn’t have to be stressful. With so many pet friendly destinations across the U.S., you and your furry companion can enjoy unforgettable vacations together. From the scenic trails of Sedona to the vibrant streets of New York City, these top 10 destinations offer something for every pet and their owner. Remember to plan ahead, check pet policies, and always prioritize your pet’s comfort and safety. Happy travels!
