Dog Friendly Vacations In The Us – When you travel, you definitely want to take your partner with you to experience new places. Dog parents are often put off by traveling with their beloved pets, but taking a dog-friendly vacation is easier than many people think.
I’m a freelance photographer and travel writer, and since adopting my rescue dog Quigley 6 years ago, we’ve traveled the world together to 34 states and 6 countries! Our pet-friendly vacations include camping in the wilderness, cocktails at the Waldorf Astoria and pretty much everything in between.
Dog Friendly Vacations In The Us
Traveling with Quigley is one of my greatest joys, and I hope these tips help you experience the same joy with your pet. No matter where you want to go in the United States, from the Northeast to the Midwest, there are plenty of dog-friendly vacations you can enjoy with your four-legged friend.
Dog-friendly Experiences In Greenville, Sc
The Northeast is a region of contrasts. From the rugged countryside of Maine to New York’s exciting arts scene, the region’s diversity has long attracted visitors of all cultures.
Boston is a destination that truly has it all. Quigley and I lived in the city for a few years, exploring every nook and cranny together, moving easily from the bustling city center to the bustling great parks and beautiful suburbs. The area is beautiful year-round, but summer and fall are the area’s best seasons for dog lovers, who teach Bostonians how to enjoy the sunshine.
Feeling romantic? Many of America’s most important historical landmarks are located on the Independence Trail, a brick path that guides visitors past historic monuments that tell the story of the American Revolution. Boston Common is home to the Trail Piano Hotel, which has a free dog park. Hikers can visit other historic sites nearby, such as Acorn Street on Acon Hill (one of the most photographed streets in America), or the Public Garden, where Make Way for Ducklings” statue with Mrs. Mallard duck inside.
Boston is known for its traditional and themed outdoor festivals, like the annual Dog Fiesta, a celebration of dogs!
Portland Is The No. 2 City For Vacationing With Your Dog
Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Let your dog wear a cute life jacket and join one of the many guided tours in Provincetown, a very dog-friendly town. Quigley had his first big swim here and still has a long way to go.
For the more sophisticated dog couples and parents, P-Town features a dog park with an art gallery. Explore the wonderful dining and retail scene at your own leisure, with more than 20 restaurants and countless shops to cater to your pet’s needs.
If you want to enjoy foliage instead of fishing, visitors will find plenty of options nearby. Nashoba Valley Winery is one of the few wineries that allows dogs to pick apples. For example, those willing to get lost for a few hours among colorful trees can visit one of the many nearby nature reserves, such as the Blue Hills.
New York City has it all – landmarks, great restaurants, parks, shopping, and art, to name just a few highlights. Those who enjoy walking around the city and taking in the sights will be happy to hear that New York City streets are dog-friendly.
Best Pet-friendly Hotels
Bring your camera and visit the city’s main attractions. Landmarks like thesda Terrace, Grand Central Terminal, the New York Public Library, and DUMBO (a pet-friendly neighborhood in Brooklyn) are all pet-friendly places you and your dog can stop and explore. If your dog wants some off-leash time, New York offers several dog parks.
No trip to New York is complete without a visit to the mall. Thankfully, your dog can join you on your shopping spree! Gin is accepted at Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, rgdorf’s and Barneys, which all accept well-behaved, leashed dogs, though you should call ahead to confirm. If you have a small dog and want to keep one, you can go to Macy’s in Herald Square and take a walk down the original wooden escalators. Dogs are also welcome in most boutiques, and some Nordstrom locations offer personalized dog cookies for those customers who really love their dogs.
New York is a paradise for foodies, including dogs! However, the city is very strict about dogs entering restaurants, except for Boris & Horton – the first dog cafe in the city to be approved by the Department of Health! But fear not; there are plenty of outdoor terrace options for food lovers throughout the city, and many pubs and bars are pet-friendly.
Visiting over Christmas? Gather your pooches at a classic puppy park, like Canada’s Dog Park , then head downtown to check out the holiday window displays together. Then enjoy hot cocoa and puppaccino at the Rockefeller Bar.
Pet Friendly Hotels
Beach wilderness meets small-town charm in Bar Harbor, Maine. Business owners along Main Street are taking their love of dogs to the next level, with places like Coffee Hounds (which insists on posting photos of their dogs online) and Bark Harbor (a pet store and pet shop). Local favorite Stewman’s Seafood Restaurant proudly welcomes dogs onto their deck with a welcoming sign.
Just 15 minutes from downtown, visitors can reach authentic Acadia National Park. It has 158 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of trails for leashed pets to explore with active parents.
For a more relaxing experience, head to the Jordan Lake Club for its famous pop-up shops and homemade teas before strolling around the lake. Then drive to nearby Cadillac Peak to watch the sunset.
Southern hospitality attracts visitors from around the world. Steeped in history and charm, the South is an idyllic holiday destination. From wild deserts to the birthplace of jazz and all the delicious food in between, the South is a dog-friendly travel destination.
Is Riverbend A Pet Friendly Rv Resort?
Marfa is located in the high desert of West Texas and is a 3-hour drive from the nearest airport, making it a destination for those looking for an epic road trip. (Get tips for driving with dogs here.) Malfa is known as a mecca for artsy tourism, with visitors drawn to the historic architecture, fine dining and shops known as the “Light of Marfa.” Additionally, many attractions and shelters welcome dogs of all shapes and sizes.
There are a variety of accommodation options for foster parents, each with their own unique characteristics. Glampers can enjoy vintage RVs, teepees or bring their own tent/van to the El Cosmico sign. Common areas include an outdoor kitchen and shower, a hammock garden (where Quigley and I spent a lot of time reading and napping), and a delightful cabana. Those looking to indulge themselves while enjoying an artistic atmosphere can head to the Hotel Saint George.
Dog parents rave about the delicious treats at Marfa Burrito, Pizza Foundation, FoodShark and The Capri. The best place to relax and meet the locals before or after your meal is at Planet Marfa, a hacienda-style garden with a dance floor and sunken teepee.
Owner John has been known to lead groups on his Planet Bus to view the Mystical Lights. John, ever the consummate host, happily entertained Quigley for several hours and exchanged personal stories with him.
Dog Friendly Vacation: San Diego 2015
New Orleans is the city where I spent most of my childhood and I can’t wait to take my four-legged tie back! There is no shortage of inspiration in this city, with color, music and historical detail around every corner. The city is walkable, delicious and a world-class experience. Travel + Leisure named New Orleans “America’s No. 1 Food Town,” and you’ll be saying the same thing when you’re not full.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t immediately recommend a stop (or four) at World Cafe. Dogs are allowed in the yard with their parents, but it is your personal responsibility to obtain your own permission to leave. Grab a cup of coffee and watch street performers dance, sing and juggle around famous Jackson Square just steps from the café. If you want something more sophisticated with your meal, Broussard offers a three-course jazz brunch.
For simple, classic New Orleans fare, you can’t go wrong with Yes. Quigley loves the small plates at Johnny’s Po-Boys, New Orleans’ oldest family-run restaurant. Dogs are not allowed so we will have a picnic by the river. Nearby Woldenrg Park offers many parks, large lawns and beautiful river views.
New Orleans also has a haunted history, and the city will allow you and your pet to have some spooky fun together. After dark, the city offers a range of hair-raising walking tours and several groups, such as French Quarter Phantoms or Witches’ Brews, allow dogs to join.
Dog Friendly Vacation
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