7 Dog-Friendly Vacation Spots to Explore
Vacations mean family time and if you are a pet parent, there’s no reason why you can’t take your pup with you. There are actually a lot of dog-friendly vacation destinations in the US.
You can travel to national parks, to beaches, or cities that have restaurants that offer dog parks and pet-friendly places to eat, according to PlanetWare. To find accommodations or campgrounds that welcome pets, you can plan your trip with Go Pet Friendly.
Here are seven dog-friendly spots to visit but there are many more from coast to coast.
Portland Oregon
This city has pet-friendly trails and 34 dog parks, according to a travel guide from AARP. One of the most popular dog parks is located in Mt Tabor Park. After playing with the other pups, you and your fur baby can walk to the top of a dormant volcano and enjoy the view of the city and afterwards, you can have a picnic at the nearby reservoir.
Portland is also known for pet-friendly restaurants and breweries with more than 70 having outdoor patios where you can bring your pup. The Lucky Labrador Brew Pub hosts an annual “Dogtoberfest,” which features a dog wash for charity. In 2022, it will be held on Saturday, September 16.
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Bar Harbor, Maine
This island town may be small in size but is very close to Acadia National Park, according to Daily Paws. There are trails for you and your pup to hike and you can drive the Scenic Park Loop Road to the summit of Cadillac Mountain for a breathtaking view. Dogs are welcome on the park shuttles and also on buses in the town, according to Planet Ware.
The Downeast Windjammer allows you to bring pets on a boat cruise around the harbor and there are many places to eat that have outdoor patios that welcome fur babies.
Austin, Texas
Austin is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the US, reported PlanetWare. The Texas State Capital is open to pets as well as dozens of restaurants. The Austin Terrier serves dog-themed sandwiches and pizza. You can even do the downward dog with your dog at Austin Doga.
You and your pup can go on a hike or bike ride on the 10-mile trail at Lady Bird Lake or you can rent a paddleboard or kayak if your pooch doesn’t mind getting wet. Just outside the city, you can visit the Red Bud Isle lakefront off-leash dog park or explore the woods at the Barton Creek Greenbelt Preserve.
Lake Placid, New York
Located in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is more than just a winter wonderland. The town is an all-year outdoor destination where you can go hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing. Visit Mirror lake on a 2.7-mile paved trail that features beautiful views and shops that welcome pups. If your fur baby loves car rides, take a drive up to the top of Whiteface Mountain. You can find nearby pet-friendly campgrounds or stay at the luxurious Lake Placid Lodge.
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Ashville, North Carolina
This southern town has many pet-friendly places to go, according to Daily paws. The 800-acred Biltmore Estates allows pups on the grounds and outdoor patios. If you want to view the interior of the historic mansion, there are kennels available to doggy sit your fur baby.
You can also walk around the North Carolina Arboretum and the French Broad River Park, which has a winding, and shaded path around the river and features a dog-park for your pup to socialize and play. In the downtown area, check out the street art and the many farmers’ markets.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is an ideal vacation spot for traveling with your fur baby. Planet Ware suggests that you take pet-friendly tours which offer camping trips, backpacking, and canyon tours. Visit Slide Rock State Park, a 43-acre space that is located just outside the city limits. Most of Sedona’s hiking trails allow dogs. Many campgrounds in the area allow pets.
If you want to stay in the city, you can visit the dog park which has separate areas for small, large and senior dogs to play off leash. You can then get your pup a treat at the Whiskers Barkery, the ultimate toy and treat store, located at Sinagua Plaza.
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San Diego, California
This city has the sunshine, sand and surf and is a great beach vacation spot for you and your fur baby. Many of the beaches allow dogs including Dog Beach, Ocean Beach, and Fiesta Island. If you vacation in July, you can watch the Unleashed Surf Dog Competition.
The city has numerous dog parks and you can take your pup to the Old State Historic Park for a stroll. Sports fans can take their pets to Petco Park’s’ Barkyard, a unique private area in left-center field. There are also a number of pet-friendly accommodations in the city.
(Janson George / Shutterstock.com)
