Where to travel with your best furry friend: Top Vacations for Dog Lovers

Embarking on a journey with your four-legged companion can be a rewarding and heartwarming experience. If you're a dog lover seeking pet-friendly destinations, look no further! We'll take you on a virtual tour of some fantastic places in the United States where your furry friend is not just welcome but embraced with open arms and extra treats.

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a haven for dog lovers. Known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and breathtaking landscapes, Asheville offers many pet-friendly activities. Take your pup for a stroll through the historic gardens or explore the numerous hiking trails along the Appalachian Mountains. Many breweries are also dog-friendly.

Pet-friendly accommodation

Aloft Asheville Downtown: Offers dog-friendly rooms and a rooftop dog walk area.

The Omni Grove Park Inn: Provides pet-friendly rooms and beautiful outdoor spaces.

Pet-friendly activities

Visit the Biltmore Estate gardens with your dog.

Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway and its scenic hiking trails.

Enjoy a meal at Wicked Weed Brewing Pub, which has a dog-friendly patio.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor is an ideal destination for a coastal adventure with your canine companion. The picturesque town on Mount Desert Island welcomes dogs with open paws. Enjoy the stunning Acadia National Park together, where your dog can accompany you on many hiking trails and even join you for a scenic boat tour. There are even some wine cellars, lighthouses, and gift shops happy to see a furry friend.

Pet-friendly accommodation

Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center: Features dog-friendly rooms with ocean views.

The Primrose: Offers pet-friendly rooms and easy access to local parks.

Pet-friendly activities

Hike the Acadia National Park trails that allow dogs.

Take a Scenic Cruise with Acadian Boat Tours, which welcomes dogs.

Walk along the Shore Path for breathtaking ocean views.

Carmel by the Sea, California

Carmel is a charming seaside town that has earned a reputation for being exceptionally dog-friendly. With its pristine beaches and pedestrian-friendly streets, Carmel provides the perfect setting for leisurely walks with your four-legged friend. Many shops, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms also welcome dogs, making it a delightful destination for both of you.

Pet-friendly accommodation

Cypress Inn: Co-owned by Doris Day, this inn is famously dog-friendly.

Carmel Garden Inn: Offers dog-friendly rooms and a lovely garden.

Pet-friendly activities

Enjoy the off-leash Carmel Beach.

Stroll through the Carmel Plaza Shopping Center.

Dine at Forge in the Forest, which has a dog-friendly patio.

Key West, Florida

If you're dreaming of a tropical getaway with your pup, Key West is the place to be. This laid-back island paradise is not only known for its vibrant nightlife and historic sites but also for its pet-friendly attitude. Enjoy the dog-friendly beaches, explore the scenic neighborhoods, and even take a boat tour or fishing trip with your furry first mate.

Pet-friendly accommodation

La Concha Hotel & Spa: Welcomes dogs and offers luxury amenities.

Kimpton Fitch Lodge: Offers dog-friendly rooms with no extra fees.

Pet-friendly activities

Relax at the Dog Beach on Vernon Avenue.

Visit the Key West Aquarium with your dog on a leash.

Take a Sunset Cruise with Sunset Sail Key West.

Lake Tahoe, California

For an adventure in the great outdoors, head to Lake Tahoe, where your dog can revel in the stunning landscapes just as much as you do. With numerous pet-friendly hiking trails, dog-friendly beaches, and even pet-friendly boat tours, Lake Tahoe offers a diverse range of mostly outdoor activities for you and your canine companion to enjoy together.

Pet-friendly accommodation

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe: Offers pet-friendly rooms and outdoor areas.

Basecamp Tahoe South: Features dog-friendly rooms and outdoor space.

Pet-friendly activities

Hike the Eagle Lake Trail.

Visit the dog-friendly Kiva Beach.

Take a Lake Tahoe Boat Tour with your pup.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, with its breathtaking red rock formations, is a dog-friendly destination that combines natural beauty with spiritual serenity. Many hiking trails in the area allow dogs, and some even lead to pet-friendly vortex sites. There is a trolly tour and different art classes that your dog can join you for. Explore the artsy downtown area with your pup, and don't forget to capture the picturesque moments.

Pet-friendly accommodation

El Portal Sedona Hotel: Offers luxurious pet-friendly rooms.

Sedona Real Inn & Suites: Features dog-friendly amenities.

Pet-friendly activities

Hike the Bell Rock Pathway with your dog.

Visit the Sedona Dog Park.

Explore the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village with your furry friend.

Bend, Oregon

Bend is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry friends. With an abundance of dog-friendly hiking and biking trails and parks and rivers to explore, Bend provides a diverse range of activities for you and your dog. The welcoming atmosphere of this Pacific Northwest gem ensures a memorable experience for pet owners and their companions alike.

Pet-friendly accommodation

The Oxford Hotel: Offers pet-friendly rooms and amenities.

McMenamins Old St. Francis School: Features pet-friendly rooms and courtyards.

Pet-friendly activities

Hike the Deschutes River Trail.

Visit the GoodDog off-leash dog park.

Dine at 10 Barrel Brewing, which has a dog-friendly patio.

Long Story Short...

From the vibrant streets of Asheville to the coastal beauty of Bar Harbor, these dog-friendly vacation destinations in the United States cater to the needs of both you and your furry friend. So pack your bags, leash up your pup, and embark on a pawsitively perfect journey to create lasting memories together in these dog-friendly havens. Happy travels!

 

Written by Andrea Jeschke