Spot And Luna Are Coming On Vacation! Head To One Of These Pup-Friendly U.S. Cities
Once you get a dog, traveling gets a bit tricky. Maybe keeping your chihuahua in your purse is an option, but for most dog owners, traveling means hiring a dog sitter or finding a local boarding center.
Finding dog-friendly travel can take time and cause you tons of stress.
Plus, there’s separation anxiety – for you and your dog!
But if travel’s your first love, you can absolutely make it work across the United States. We found exceptional dog-friendly vacation spots in the United States so you two can make memories together and meet plenty of four-legged friends along the way.
So pack up their water bowl and head to one of these spots with your pup:
Bend, Oregon
Photo by McKayla Crump
Known locally as Dog Town, USA, about 49% of people in central Oregon own a dog, so you’ll be in great company with locals.
There are 40 dog-friendly restaurants, 51 miles of urban walking trails, 13 off-leash areas in city parks and forests, and so many-many events your dog will be totally thrilled. In summer catch the Bend Pet Parade every July 4th and in fall, the wiener dog racing during Bend’s Oktoberfest.
Try Deschutes National Forest if you and your pup are serious hikers who want to get kinda lost among the Douglas Firs. You can even rent a canoe for two at Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe.
Sedona, Arizona
Photo by Anthony Melone
Welcome to red rock country, where you’ll find the ultimate, jaw-dropping views. Time to snap-n-send out those stunning photographs of you and your best friend.
There are over 200 hiking trails, state and national parks, and plenty of puppy-friendly wineries, too. Activities include safari jeep tours, Magic Trolley Tours, and painting events.
Tip: Always bring lots of water and try to avoid the summer months – Arizona is a hot one!
Lake Placid, New York
Photo by Brendan Wiltse
Approximately 5 hours from New York City, this beloved vacation spot in the Adirondacks is celebrated for its spectacular views. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and all the big summer activities are on the table.
The 2.7 mile trail around Mirror Lake is a must – if you wake up early enough, you might even catch the sunrise reflection.
Take a drive up to Whiteface Mountain for breathtaking views in the summer or skiing in the winter. In town you’ll find dog-friendly breweries and creameries for all day fun.
Austin, Texas
Photo by Karsten Winegeart
Dog heaven! From the Texas State Capitol building’s dog-friendly lawn to a 10-mile trail and boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake, there’s so much to do in this artsy city. All dogs can enjoy a day on the water!
Check out the Austin Terrier’s dog-named sandwiches and pizzas, Doga studios (dog yoga!), a concentration of waterfalls, and the unofficial dog park, Barking Springs.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Photo by Frankie Mish
The only spot in CO that might have Denver beat is Colorado Springs. Home to the first and only dog park, bar, and restaurant, Pub Dog Colorado has human and canine menus. Dine inside with your dog! Plus, there’s a 3,000-square-foot off-leash outdoor area, making it a pup paradise.
For views and exercise, check out the Garden of the Gods – a national landmark red rock formation park with 20 miles of hiking trails. There are also dog-friendly resorts for when you’re ready to hit the hay.
San Diego, California
Photo by frank mckenna
To the dog-friendly beaches! Fiesta Island, Ocean Beach, Mission Bay Park, and Dog Beach are a mere few of the options for you and your furry friend to soak up some sun.
Stop by in the month of July to catch the Imperial Beach Unleashed Surf Dog Competition, the largest dog surfing competition in the nation. Year-round, sunny CA has hiking trails on Cowles Mountain where you can view the city and the ocean.
Asheville, North Carolina
Photo by Blue Ridge Traveler
The Blue Ridge Parkway will introduce you to those lush mountain views before you hit the national forests and trails.
This gorgeous city is home to The Biltmore Estate, French Broad River Park, and North Carolina Arboretum, which all allow dogs in many locations. So you two can do the tourist-thing together, side by side.