Unleash the Wanderlust with Your Furry Companion!
Are you and your four-legged friend longing for a new adventure? Look no further! We’ve sniffed out the 10 most paw-some pet-friendly destinations that are sure to have your tail wagging with excitement.
1. Unleash the Magic at Disney World
Anyone who’s ever visited the “Most Magical Place on Earth” knows it’s truly a dog’s dream come true. And the good news is, your furry sidekick can join in on the enchantment too!
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is a pet-lover’s paradise, offering spacious campsites and cabins that welcome pups of all sizes. Gather ’round the campfire, hike the scenic trails, and let your dog splash in the swimming hole – all while being just a short boat ride away from the Disney parks.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Many of Disney’s on-site hotels, like the Art of Animation Resort and Port Orleans Resort, also welcome pets with open paws. Just be sure to book early, as their pet-friendly rooms are limited and in high demand.
And don’t forget, once you’re inside the parks, your leashed pup is welcome to join you in designated pet-friendly areas. So go ahead, let your furry friend live out their Disney dreams too!
Learn more about Disney’s pet-friendly offerings
2. Prance Through the Wilds of Yellowstone
If your pack craves wide-open spaces and natural wonder, plan a trip to Yellowstone National Park. This iconic American landmark is a veritable wonderland for adventurous canines.
While dogs aren’t allowed on most hiking trails within the park, there are still plenty of ways for your pup to explore. Leash up and stroll along the boardwalk trails surrounding the park’s famous hot springs and geysers. Or, head to one of the designated pet-friendly areas, like the Yellowstone General Store in Mammoth Hot Springs, where your four-legged friend can stretch their legs.
And when you need a break from the adventure, many of the surrounding towns and villages welcome pets with open paws. Grab a bite to eat at pet-friendly spots like Antler Inn in Cody, Wyoming, or let your dog play at the Gardiner Dog Park in Gardiner, Montana.
Just remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and poop bags – Yellowstone’s rugged terrain can be tough on paws!
3. Unleash Your Pup’s Inner Mermaid in Weeki Wachee, Florida
If your canine companion is more at home in the water than on land, then a trip to Weeki Wachee, Florida is a must. This charming town on Florida’s Adventure Coast is a veritable wonderland for water-loving pups.
Start your adventure at Weeki Wachee Preserve, where you and your leashed pup can explore miles of scenic trails and spot all kinds of wildlife, from manatees to gopher tortoises. Just be sure to keep Fido on a tight leash – you don’t want him chasing after those famous Weeki Wachee mermaids!
After working up an appetite, head to Hernando Beach Tropical Grill, a waterfront restaurant that welcomes four-legged diners on their outdoor patio. Indulge in fresh seafood while your dog enjoys the salty breeze and maybe even a few dropped scraps.
Then, cap off your day with a pontoon boat rental and let your pup relish the feeling of the wind in their fur as you cruise the Hernando Flats. Just be sure to keep an eye out for any feisty lizards at The Lazy Lizard, another local favorite that loves to cater to canine customers.
Discover more pet-friendly adventures on Florida’s Adventure Coast
4. Sniff Out the Best Brews in Asheville, North Carolina
If your pup is a connoisseur of the finer things in life, then a trip to Asheville, North Carolina is in order. This artsy mountain town is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, and luckily, your four-legged friend can join in on the fun.
Start your adventure at Asheville’s iconic Biltmore Estate, where leashed pups are welcome to explore the stunning grounds, gardens, and even the Biltmore Winery. Snap a few photos of your furry companion against the grand, historic backdrop before heading out to sample the local brews.
Asheville is home to an impressive craft beer scene, with over 30 breweries dotting the city. Many of these establishments, like Burial Beer Co. and Highland Brewing Company, proudly welcome canine customers on their pet-friendly patios. Grab a flight, let your pup stretch their legs, and soak in the lively, artsy atmosphere.
For the ultimate beer-tasting experience, book a guided brewery tour that caters to both you and your pup. Companies like Asheville Brewery Tours will chauffeur you around to the city’s top spots, ensuring your furry friend doesn’t miss a single sip.
5. Unleash Your Wanderlust in the Beautiful Pacific Northwest
If your pup loves the great outdoors, there’s no better destination than the Pacific Northwest. From the rugged coastlines of Oregon to the lush, mountain-filled landscapes of Washington, this region is a veritable wonderland for adventurous canines.
Start your journey in Portland, Oregon, where you and your leashed pup can explore the bustling Forest Park, the largest urban forest in the United States. Hike the scenic Wildwood Trail, stopping to snap photos of your furry friend against the towering Douglas firs.
Then, head west to the Oregon coast, where you can let your dog frolic in the waves at pet-friendly beaches like Cannon Beach and Seaside. Refuel with a meal at Wet Dog Cafe in Astoria, where the menu is as dog-friendly as the atmosphere.
Continue north into Washington, and be sure to add Mount Rainier National Park to your itinerary. While pups aren’t allowed on most hiking trails, you can still enjoy the stunning vistas from the Paradise Visitor Center and the Nisqually Vista Loop.
End your Pacific Northwest adventure in Seattle, where you and your leashed pup can explore the vibrant Pike Place Market and even take in the views from the Seattle Waterfront.
6. Unleash Your Inner Adventurer in Moab, Utah
If your pup is more of an adrenaline junkie than a beach bum, then a trip to Moab, Utah is right up your alley. This outdoor mecca is a playground for adventure-seeking canines and their humans.
Strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails at Arches National Park, where leashed pups are welcome to join you on the Windows and Delicate Arch hikes. Just be sure to pack plenty of water and paw protection, as the red rocks can get scorching hot.
For an extra dose of off-road excitement, book a Jeep or ATV tour that caters to your four-legged companion. Companies like Moab Adventure Center and Navtec Expeditions offer pet-friendly excursions that will have your pup’s tail wagging with glee.
And when it’s time to refuel, head to Eddie McStiff’s, a local favorite that boasts a spacious patio perfect for canine customers. Indulge in some classic American fare while your pup enjoys the sights and smells of Moab’s bustling Main Street.
Explore more pet-friendly travel tips and tricks
7. Unleash Your Inner Explorer in the Rocky Mountains
If your pup loves to roam free and explore, then a trip to the Rocky Mountains is a must. From the rugged terrain of Colorado to the lush forests of Montana, this region offers endless adventures for adventurous canines.
Start your journey in Aspen, Colorado, where you and your leashed pup can enjoy the stunning mountain vistas from the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Just be sure to keep a close eye on your four-legged friend, as the high altitude can be tough on paws.
As you head north, make a stop in Bozeman, Montana, where you can let your dog run wild at the Bozeman Dog Park. Afterward, refuel with a meal at the Plonk Wine Bar, a pet-friendly oasis with a patio that’s perfect for canine customers.
Continue your journey through the Rockies, stopping to hike the Beartooth Highway in Red Lodge, Montana or to explore the Many Glacier area in Glacier National Park. Just remember to pack plenty of treats, water, and paw protection for your furry adventurer.
And when it’s time to rest your paws, look for pet-friendly cabin rentals or glamping experiences that allow you to immerse yourselves in the natural beauty of the Rockies.
8. Unleash Your Pup’s Inner Beach Bum in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If your canine companion is more of a sun-worshipper than a mountain-climber, then a trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is in order. This coastal oasis is a veritable paradise for pups who love to play in the sand and surf.
Start your adventure at Myrtle Beach State Park, where leashed pups are welcome to explore the pet-friendly beach and hike the scenic nature trails. Just be sure to pack plenty of water and paw protection, as the summer sun can be brutal on delicate paws.
After working up an appetite, head to Dunes Village Resort, a pet-friendly hotel that offers direct beach access and a variety of dog-friendly amenities, from designated dog parks to on-site pet-sitting services.
And no trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without a visit to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, where your leashed pup can strut their stuff and take in the lively, bustling atmosphere. Snap a few photos of your furry friend against the backdrop of the iconic Ferris wheel before rewarding them with a treat from one of the many pet-friendly shops and eateries.
9. Unleash Your Pup’s Inner City Slicker in New York City
Think the Big Apple is no place for a pup? Think again! New York City may be a concrete jungle, but it’s also a veritable wonderland for adventure-seeking canines.
Start your urban exploration at Central Park, where leashed pups are welcome to roam the lush greenery and pose for photos in front of iconic landmarks like the Bethesda Fountain. Just be sure to keep a close eye on your furry friend, as the park can get crowded, especially on weekends.
For a true taste of NYC, head to the High Line, a elevated public park that offers stunning skyline views and plenty of pet-friendly spots to stop and sniff. Afterward, refuel with a meal at Shake Shack, a beloved burger joint with a dog-friendly patio.
And no trip to the city that never sleeps is complete without a visit to the West Village, a charming neighborhood that’s home to countless pet-friendly cafes, boutiques, and dog parks. Let your pup strut their stuff down the historic cobblestone streets before settling in for some people (and pup) watching.
Just be sure to pack plenty of patience and paw protection – navigating the crowded streets of NYC with a canine companion can be a workout in itself!
10. Unleash Your Pup’s Inner History Buff in Savannah, Georgia
If your furry friend is more of a culture vulture than a beach bum, then a trip to Savannah, Georgia is in order. This historic Southern city is a veritable playground for pups who love to explore and learn.
Start your adventure at Forsyth Park, a sprawling green oasis in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. Leash up your pup and stroll through the shady oak-lined paths, pausing to admire the iconic fountain and sniff out the hidden dog park.
Next, head to River Street, Savannah’s vibrant waterfront district, where you and your leashed pup can explore the charming boutiques, historic landmarks, and pet-friendly eateries. Don’t miss a stop at Wet Willie’s, a beloved local hangout that welcomes canine customers on their lively outdoor patio.
For a deeper dive into Savannah’s rich history, book a pet-friendly walking tour that will take you and your furry friend through the city’s picturesque historic district. Learn about the city’s haunted past, marvel at the stunning architecture, and let your pup soak in the sights and sounds of this charming Southern gem.
Explore more pet-friendly travel inspiration on The Pet Rescue website
Paw-some Adventures Await!
Whether your pup craves the bright lights of the city, the serenity of the great outdoors, or the sun-kissed shores of the coast, these 10 pet-friendly destinations have something to satisfy every canine’s wanderlust. So what are you waiting for? Grab your leash and get ready to unleash your pup’s inner adventurer!
