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27 Awesome Dog Friendly Vacations in the USA

Updated 03/27/2024: If you like to travel, and you want to take your dog with you, deciding where to go can feel daunting. Especially, if you have never traveled with a pet before. But fear not. We have scoped out 27 of the best dog friendly vacations in the United States for you and your pup to enjoy.

But, before deciding where to go, you should think about the types of activities that you and your dog enjoy doing together. Do you like to hike in the woods, or do you enjoy playing in the surf at the beach?

Is exploring new cities more of your thing? You may be surprised to discover that many US cities are very dog friendly, with some even having dog friendly shops and museums.

However, most dog friendly places tend to be located outside. So, if your dog is not comfortable staying in a strange place by themselves, you may need to make other arrangements before you can visit that art museum or see a show.

Keep reading to discover dog friendly places that just might turn out to be one of the best dog friendly vacations you have taken.

Table of Content

First time traveling with your dog?

If you have never traveled with a dog before, you might not know where to start or what to bring. To help you we have put together a couple of posts with our best tips for traveling with a dog, hotel stays with a dog and A Practical Guide To Packing For a Dog.

Before going to a location, please confirm with the venues that pets are still allowed. Information in this post is subject to change without notice. Mentioning of a business in this post should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Dog Friendly Vacations in The Northeast

Dog Friendly Vacations in The Northeast
Cape Cod National Seashore

1. Provincetown, Cape Cod, Ma

Provincetown is located on the northern tip of Cape Cod. While Cape Cod is dog friendly, and a favorite vacation location of ours, Provincetown takes it up a notch. Here you will find pristine dog friendly beaches in the Cape Cod National Seashore and an abundance of dog friendly activities.

Start your day with a cup of artisan coffee (or tea) and a pastry from Joe Coffee and Tea. They have outdoor seating where your pup can join you.

Next, take a stroll along the MacMillan Pier. Here you will find small shops selling handmade goods. This is also where you can find the ferries and Whale Watching tours. Dolphin Fleet Whale Watching allows well-behaved pups on their boat.

After the whale watching tour take your dog to the Pilgrim Bark Park. Here they can get some off-leash time and you can admire the beautiful sculptures made by local artist.

If you need a little time to relax, Provincetown Brewing Co. will welcome you and your pup on their outside patio. When it’s time for dinner, Provincetown has plenty of ocean front dog friendly patios to choose from.

In the evening retire to one of Provincetown’s dog friendly accommodations. You can choose from an ocean-front hotel with a dog friendly beach, a quaint Victorian Inn or one of the other dog friendly places in town.

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Acadia National Park

2. Mount Desert Island, ME

Mount Desert Island is another place known for fun vacations with plenty of dog friendly activities. Mt Desert Island is best known for Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. Both of which sits on its shores.

Acadia National Park is one of the few National Parks that is truly dog friendly. Dogs are allowed on most of its 125 miles of hiking trials and all of the carriage roads. If you and your dog love to hike and take in breathtaking vistas this is the perfect vacation for you.

Just be warned, we did this trip with our very active, English Springer Spaniel. Even she was exhausted after each mountain hike. But you don’t have to hike to the summit to enjoy the park, there are plenty of ways to see the sites in Acadia.

One way is to drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain to watch the sunrise. Another is to walk along the easy Ocean Path trial. This trail will lead you to the famous Thunder Hole. An underwater sea cave that can produce thundering crashes when the tide hits just right.

If you rather not drive you can take the Island Explorer, which has stops throughout the island. Leashed dogs are allowed to ride the bus.

When you are ready for a break from all that walking take a trip with the Downeast Windjammer Cruise Line to explore Frenchman Bay. Sea loving dogs are allowed on their cruises and ferries.

When the day is done you will find that Bar Harbor makes the perfect home base for your trip. Here you will find plenty of dog friendly restaurants and accommodations to rest up for the extra day.

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Shore on Block Island – Credit Happyoodles.com

3. Block Island, RI

Block Island offers something for everyone, even your dog. The Island is well known for its miles of free sandy beaches, sparkling clear waters, high bluffs and friendly people. You can just feel the stress of everyday life stripe away as you step off the ferry.

Most of the island’s beaches are dog friendly with the exception of the beaches that have lifeguards. Plus, there are miles of hiking trails, beautiful lighthouses, and peaceful roads to enjoy a leisurely ride around the island.

When you’re done exploring the island you can head back to the town of New Shoreham. It’s the only official town on the island.

In New Shoreham you can enjoy a meal on the back patio of the historic, National Hotel Tap and Grill. If you are planning to stay a few nights the Block Island Inn has a dog friendly room called the Blue Dory in their turn of the century Victorian B&B.

For more dog friendly beach vacations, check out our post; Best 27 Dog Friendly Beach Vacations in the USA

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Our pup Bella at the summit of the Sleeping Beauty Trail overlooking Lake George

4. Lake George, NY

You will find Lake George in New York State’s, southern Adirondacks region. This area is filled with charming small towns, more than 20 beautiful lakes, numerous outdoor activities and dozens of attractions.

The star of the area is of course, Lake George. Start your day, with a visit to the village of Lake George. Here you can choose to go on a dog friendly lake cruise on the Horicon. Or go back in time and experience life at a British fort in 1755 with a visit to Fort William Henry. Both are dog friendly.

If your dog needs to cool off you can let them take a dip in Lake George at the unofficial Dog Beach. It’s located across the street and down a bit from the fort.

When times comes to grab a bite to eat stop by the Lake George Beach Club or any of the other dog friendly restaurants that line the lake. If you are there on a summer weekend you may be able to catch an outdoor performance in Shepard Park.

If you have some time, take a drive up the west side of the lake to visit Bolton Landing. This small town is filled with fun shops and dog friendly restaurants. If you are up for it stop by the Lake George Kayak Co and go for a paddle around the lake with your pup on-board. Don’t forget their life-jacket.

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5. Finger Lakes, NY

While the fall foliage is spectacular in the Finger Lakes (as you can see from the picture above,) this region of New York State is also a great place for a summer or spring vacation with your dog.

The Finger Lakes gets their name from the long, thin lakes that run parallel to each other. Renting a dog friendly vacation home on any of these lakes will provide you with hours of fun.

But there is more to do in the Finger Lakes then just be on the water. The area is home to vast hiking trails that lead to spectacular vista’s and roaring waterfalls in the spring. If strolling through a garden is more your thing, the Cornell Botanic Garden allows leashed dogs to join you.

If you want to enjoy the view of the lake with a glass of wine, head over to the Seneca Wine Trail. Here you will find a handful of wineries that welcomes dogs. The Boundary Breaks Vineyard even has their own dog park.

When it’s time for dinner, head down to Ithaca, NY. Located at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, this college town has a thriving downtown. Stop by The Rook for some comfort food and craft cocktails. Their outside patio is dog friendly.

If you are looking for dog friendly vacations you can take in the fall check out our post; Dog Friendly Fall Getaways in the Northeast

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Street in Cape May, NJ

6. Cape May County, NJ

While the Jersey shore tends to have a bad reputation thanks to shows like “the Jersey Shore”. The 48 million people who choose to visit each year disagree.

This especially true if you head to Cape May County, New Jersey on the southernmost tip of the states. Within the county you will find two of the most pet friendly vacation spots in NJ; Cape May and Wildwood. The two towns are less than 20 minutes apart so enjoying the best of both towns is easy.

The Victorian town of Cape May has been preserved for over a century. Here you will find charming streets lined with colorful old homes and hidden gardens.

If you are looking to get out on the water the Cape May Whaler Watcher is dog friendly. Want something a bit more unique to do? Head out on a Cape May Cycle Cruise, where you will use peddle power to cruise around the harbor. Small, leashed dogs under 25 are allowed on private cruises only.

If you are looking for some beach time for you and your pup, Wildwood, NJ has the only dog beach on the Atlantic. Plus, they have an awesome dog park with a 26-foot tall fire hydrant next to the beach.

When the day is done you can retire to the Highland House B&B in Cape May. All their suites and guest rooms are dog friendly.

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Dog Friendly Vacations in the South

View from Hawsbill Bummit

7. Shenandoah National Park, VA

Located in the north Blue Ridge mountains in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is the perfect dog friendly, family vacation spot for a family that likes to be out in nature. With around 500 miles of hiking trails that lead to breathtaking view and beautiful waterfalls it is sure to please both kids and dogs alike.

Unlike most other national parks Shenandoah allow dogs on most of their trails. Plus, they have a full-service restaurant in the park with outdoor terrace seating that allows dogs. They even have a menu just for dogs.

Shenandoah is all about the hiking trails and vistas, but if you need a break from all that walking you can leave the park to explore one of the underground caverns, stop at a dog friendly winery or take kayak ride down the Shenandoah River.

Accommodations in and near Shenandoah range from large corporate hotels to campgrounds to cozy B&B’s. There is something to fit everyone’s needs here.

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8. Asheville, NC

Asheville, North Carolina is so dog friendly that they are often referred to as “Dog City, USA”. Your first spot in this city should be the Dog Door in downtown Asheville. While the Dog Door is a Behavior Center and Dog Outfitter, they also house the Dog City Welcome Center. Here you will find a list of Dog friendly shops and restaurants in Asheville.

As you would expect from any area that’s located in the beautify Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s all about hiking here. You can start your day with a hike in the DuPont State Recreational Forest, where you will find trails for all experience levels that lead you to waterfalls, mountain tops, and lakes.

When you are ready for a break from walking, hop on the Historic Gray Line Asheville Trolley for a tour of the city. Small dogs are allowed to join you if they can sit on your lap.

When it is time for sleep, the 1900 Inn on Montford offers up specialized doggy trundle beds and food bowls, to make sharing a room with your pup easy. Best of all this Inn is located in a quiet neighborhood just a few blocks from downtown Asheville. If you prefer a modern hotel you can find that here too.

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9. Corolla, NC

Located on the northern portion of the 175-mile long chain of barriers islands known as the Outer Banks, Corolla is a nature lover’s paradise. Here you can share the beach with your dog and you may even see some of the famous wild Spanish Mustangs that roam around this area. Dogs are required to be on leash at all times.

When you are tired of the beach, head over to the Historic Corolla Park. Here you and your pup can roam grounds while admiring the historic buildings and lighthouse. When the day is over head to the Corolla Cantina to enjoy a Mexican meal and watch the sunset.

There are plenty of pet friendly vacation rentals to choose from here.

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10. Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head Island is well known for its incredible beaches and world class golf courses. Located in South Carolina’s low-country it’s a popular area for travelers looking to relax. But beyond the beach and golf, Hilton Head offers families a place to explore nature with their dogs.

While Hilton Head beaches do not allow dogs on the beach between 10 am and 5 pm, there is still plenty of time to take your leashed pup for a walk along the beach before the restrictions kick in.

If you are looking to get out on the water with your pup. Captain Mark’s Dolphin Cruise offers an assortment of cruises that allow friendly leashed dogs. You can also enjoy a day on the water with Outside Hilton Head Outfitter. They rent dog friendly kayaks and SUP’s.

For some on land fun head over to the Audubon Newhall Preserve. This 50-acre nature preserve on the south end of Hilton Head Island allows leashed dogs as long as you clean up after them.

When the day is done head over to the Sand Bar for some Southern & Caribbean comfort food. Pet dogs can accompany you on their outdoor patio.

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11. Savannah, GA

Savannah, Georgia is the oldest city in the state of Georgia. As such it has a long and colorful history full of interesting characters, beautiful homes and manicured parks dating back to the antebellum days. It also happens to be very dog friendly.

Start your vacation in Savannah with a dog friendly tour of the city. Old Savannah Trolley Tours allows small dogs (up to 25 lbs.) to ride on your lap. If your pup is too big for this tour consider one of the many walking tours instead.

Next visit Old Fort Jackson. This National Historic Landmark is a fun place for both adults and kids to explore. The fort features interactive programs and self-guided tours. There is also the firing of a cannon.

Train enthusiasts will want to take a tour of the Georgia State Railroad Museum. Here you will take a step back in time and learn what it was like in the days of the steam engine. Leashed pets are welcomed to walk around the grounds with you as long as you clean up after them. They are not permitted on the train cars or inside the rail-cars.

When you are ready to recharge head over to the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa where dogs are treated to a Heavenly® Dog Bed, a pet welcome kit, and food bowls with a mat upon request.

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12. Charleston, SC

A trip to Charleston, SC is like taking a trip back in time. Here you will find cobblestone streets with horse drawn carriages. Historic homes with side porches hoping to catch a breeze off the bay. And let’s not forget Charleston’s incredible food scene. All while being only a 20-minute drive to the beach.

Begin your tour of Charleston with a walk along King street. Here you will find impressive historic homes and numerous shops. As you near the harbor you will come to the dog friendly White Point Garden. This picturesque park features historical statues and views of the Charleston Harbor.

You can then walk alone the water up to Riley Waterfront Park, where you can hop on the Charleston Water Taxi to Patriot’s Point. Along the way you will see views of the U.S.S. Yorktown, Ravenal Bridge and sometimes even dolphins.

Don’t forget to go on a horse drawn carriage ride. Charleston Carriage Works allows small dogs to sit on your lap and ride for free. Larger dogs can ride too, but you need to buy a child’s ticket for them.

When you have had enough of the city, head over to one of the dog friendly plantations and gardens in the area.

Getting hungry? Stop by Poogan’s Porch on Queen street. Poogan was the neighborhood’s dog that liked to sit on the front porch. Your pup is welcomed to sit there with too.

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13. Dauphin Island, Al

Dauphin Island is a small barrier island located off the coast of Alabama. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, historic attractions and small-town vibe. You can access the island either by the Dauphin Island Bridge or the Mobile Bay Ferry which in itself is a fun way to start a vacation.

While the main attraction on Dauphin Island is the beach, you can also visit Fort Gaines, Al. Fort Gaines is a civil war area fort, best known for the phrase Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!”. The fort features original cannons, blacksmith shop and kitchens. Leashed dogs are allowed to explore the fort with you.

If you are looking for a more peaceful way to spend the day the Audubon Bird Sanctuary is a 137-acre park with three miles of trails that allows leashed dogs to join you. Just make sure you keep a watch out for alligators in the park.

Accommodations on the island are mainly vacation rentals, but you can find a few that are dog friendly.

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Dog Friendly Vacations in the Florida

Florida offers the most locations for dog friendly vacations. I am sure it has something to do with the miles of white sandy beaches and beautiful weather you can find there.

14. Amelia Island, Fl

Located off the eastern coast of Florida, Amelia Island offer 13 miles of beautiful sand beaches, abundant native wildlife and pristine waters. There are less things to do on Amelia Island than some of the other places on our list, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a wonderful vacation here.

What Amelia Island does have is gorgeous dog friendly beaches. Dogs are allowed on Amelia Islands’ city and county beaches, but they must be on a leash at all times and you need to clean up after them.

When you are ready for something new, explore the waters surrounding the island on a Amelia River Cruise. They offer an assortment of cruises that include a family friendly sunset tour, and a Shrimp Eco tour. Pet dogs are allowed on all their boats.

When those hungry pain hit head over to dog friendly Timoti’s for some fish tacos or lobster rolls. They even have a small playground for the kids to enjoy.

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15. St. Augustine, Fl

Next on our list of dog friendly vacations is the coastal city of St. Augustine, Florida. Home to pristine dog friendly beaches and centuries of history, the beautiful city of St. Augustine is a must see.

Start your day with a tour of the pet friendly Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. It’s located on the original site of the nation’s oldest city. Next explore the River to Sea Preserve. The 90-acre preserve features nature trails and a public access to the beach. Leashed pets are allowed in the preserve.

If you are looking to get out on the water, the Cruise of St. Augustine provides daily excursions around the waters of St. Augustine.

When it’s time to eat head over to the Backyard of Meehan’s. This place really is in the backyard of Meehan’s Irish Pub and Seafood House. The menu is a bit lighter and more tropical than in Meehan’s. Plus, it is all outside and dog friendly.

There is a large selection of dog friendly accommodations in St. Augustine, ranging from large hotels, to inns to vacation rentals

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16. Florida Keys

If you are looking for a tropical vacation, Key West is located at the southernmost point in the USA. But don’t just stop at Key West, the Florida Keys offers a string of tropical islands that stretch over 120 miles. Many of them have pet friendly activities and places to stay.

Start your trip in Key Largo the first and longest island in the keys. Here you can take a ride on a Glass Bottom Boat Cruise. The Key Largo Princess allows dogs of all sizes on a trip to see the John Pennecamp State Park. The only underwater park in the world.

Next, head to Islamorada to visit the Theater of the Sea. Here you can walk through lush tropical gardens, take a tour of the lagoon aboard an open-center boat and watch animal shows that include dolphins, and sea lions. Well-behaved leashed dogs are welcomed to explore the park with you with the exception of the bird show.

The last key in the chain is the well-known Key West. Known for its night life, Key West has plenty of bars, and restaurants to keep you and your pup happy. But you can also go on a sailing cruise with Hindu Charters or visit the Key West Aquarium.

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17. Sanibel Island, Florida

Located in the Gulf of Mexico near Fort Myers, Fl, Sanibel Island offers miles of white sandy beaches that are dog friendly year-round.

If you are looking for something to do beside the beach, you can visit the J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge. This dog friendly nature preserve features the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the US. Dogs are allowed on the Wildlife Drive (auto tour) and Indigo Trail.

Want to get out on the water? Tarpon Explorers allows leashed dogs in their rentals, but dogs must remain in the boats. Remember you are in gator country.

Plus, Sanibel Island offers an assortment of pet friendly rentals and restaurants to choose from.

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18. St. George Island, Florida

Often referred to as the forgotten coast, St. George has resisted the commercialization that has transformed so many of the other Florida beach towns. Located on a barrier island in the Florida’s Panhandle, visitors will find miles of unspoiled beaches. Leashed dogs are allowed on the towns beach but not on the state beaches.

While the beach is the main attraction on the island, you will also find trails, shops and eateries that welcome your pup.

You will not find high rises or no large hotels here. Instead there are smaller dog friendly hotels, Inns and private vacations homes.

Going to St. George Island is all about getting away from it all and enjoying the beach.

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Dog Friendly Vacations in the Southwest

19. Galveston Island, Texas

This popular seaside town hosts a historic downtown and 31 miles of dog friendly sand beaches. Located only about an hour south of Houston, Galveston Island has a lot going for it. The main attraction of Galveston is the beach, but there are lots of other dog friendly activities to do.

You can start your day with a dolphin sightseeing cruise with Baywatch Dolphin cruise. The narrated tours are 45-minutes long and offers educational information about the harbor and the Bottlenose Dolphins that live there.

After the tour head back to downtown Galveston where you can go for a ride on a Surrey. Don’t know what a Surrey is? They are sort of a four wheeled bike that can sit 4 people. Coastal Bike Rentals located at 120 Seawall Blvd allows dogs to ride with you at no extra charge.

Dog friendly accommodations range from large resort to vacation rental homes.

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Dog Friendly Vacations in the West

20. Seaside Beach, Oregon

The main reason people come to Seaside is the beach. Located just up the road from the famous Cannon Beach, Seaside Beach offers one of the biggest and most beautiful beaches along the coast. Plus, your pup is allowed on the beach off-leash. Of course, they must be under voice command.

If you are looking to hike, the area also offers dog friendly hiking trails. You can hike the Lewis and Clark Discovery trail and follow the famous trial used by Lewis and Clark Expedition. This trail is rated as hard. For an easier walk, stroll along the Seaside Promenade

When it’s time to eat, Seaside has plenty of pet friendly options, including Maggie’s on the Prom which allow dogs on their patio.

Several of Seaside’s hotels also allow dogs in their rooms including the Inn at Seaside and Hi-Tide Oceanfront Inn. Or you can stay at one of the pet friendly vacation homes in the area.

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21. Mendocino Coast, California

The Mendocino coast is a picturesque collection of seaside villages, breathtaking coastal beauty, and dog friendly accommodations.

Start your day with a hike in the Mendocino Headlands State Park. The much-photographed state park is one of the few state parks that allow dogs on the dirt trials. The main trail in the park is the Headlands Trail which runs along the coastal bluffs.

Next, head up to the Fort Braggs area where you will find Glass Beach. This unique beach is located in the Noyo Headlands Park near the north entrance. The beach gets its name from the smooth glass pieces that can be found there. Leashed dogs are allowed on the Beach.

While you are in the area take a ride on the Skunk Train. Here the whole family can experience the ancient redwoods along the 7-mile round train trip through the Pudding Creek Estuary.

Then stop by the Mendocino Coat Botanical Gardens. It’s the only oceanfront botanical garden in the USA

When it’s time to rest, head back to the village of Mendocino, where you will find dog friendly accommodations like the MacCallum House. At the MacCallum House, dogs are treated to a pet bed, blanket, towel, and bowls with a rubber mat. Some rooms even include private yards for your pup. Pets are not allowed in the main historic house.

For something to eat head down the road to the Mendocino Cafe’. This pet friendly restaurant allows dogs on the deck.

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22. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

The small village of Carmel-by-the-Sea is only one-square mile in size, but this charming village has a lot to offer.  Located in Monterey County just south of the family-oriented city of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea has whimsical storybook architecture, unique boutiques and more than a dozen wine tasting rooms, many of them dog friendly. 

Start your day with a walk along the beach. Carmel-by-the-Sea allows leashed dogs on the town beach and even has an off leash section of beach.

Next spend the day walking around the town. Some shopkeepers allow dogs inside while many will offer water dishes at the door. The Cottage of Sweets includes doggy treats in its mix of candies and the Diggidy Dog caters to pets with unique and functional products.

If you are looking for something unique to do, check out Mad Dogs and Englishmen Bike Shop, where you can rent a vintage bike with a sidecar for your best friend to ride in.

Stop by Terry’s Lounge in the Cypress Inn for Yappy hour where you and your pup can hang around on the outside patio. Than stay the night at the dog friendly Inn.

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23. Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara, is sometimes referred to as the American Riviera, due to its beautiful beaches, rolling foothills, vineyards, and historic coastal buildings. Located on the Pacific Ocean just 2 hours north of Los Angeles, this quaint town is full of Spanish charm.

Start your day here with a stroll through downtown Santa Barbara. You can take the self-guided Red Tile Walking tour to discover the city’s most interesting, historic landmarks. Make sure to wander through the La Arcada Courtyard, where you will find beautiful tiled walkways, Spanish fountains, unique statues and dog friendly cafes.

Just three miles from downtown, is the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Here you will be greeted with lush flowers and redwoods. Unlike most Botanic Gardens this one is dog friendly, but they ask that you keep your dog leashed and try not to let them “mark” the area. Advanced reservations are required to visit.

Santa Barbara offers an assortment of lodging options from larger hotels to vacation rentals. Plus, you will find plenty of dog friendly dining patios in the town.

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24. San Diego, California

Next up is sunny San Diego, California. San Diego has been dog friendly long before most other places started to be dog friendly. It is also a great place to visit anytime during the year due to its tepid weather.

Start your day at San Diego’s Dog Beach. Located at 5188 W Point Loma Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107, it’s believed to be the first dog beach in the U.S.

Then head over to the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park in Ocean Beach, where you and your dog can hike along the network of trials. The park offers breathtaking views of the beach. Dogs must remain on leash and be careful of the steep drops-offs along the trail.

In the evening you can take your pup for a walk along La Jolla Shore Beach (the beach is pet friendly after 6:pm) then stop by Barbarella for dinner. Not only is your dog welcomed here, but they even have a doggie menu.

San Diego is a large town, so finding pet friendly accommodations is easy. Here you will be able to choose from large chain hotels to small inns to pet friendly vacation rentals.

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Dog Friendly Vacations in the Midwest

25. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs might not be the first place you think of when looking for a family vacation. Compared to Denver, which is about an hour away, it is a small city. But if you and your pup like to be active and outdoors, Colorado Springs has some picture worthy locations that are also dog friendly.

Start your trip with a visit to the Manitou Cliff Dwellings Museum located just 15 minutes away in Manitou Springs, CO. Here you will learn about life as a native American in Colorado. Leashed dogs are allowed to go wherever you go including the ruins and museums. BTW: The ruins are replicas of the real thing.

Next head over to the Peterson Air and Space Museum. Here you and your pup can learn about aviation and space history.

Spend the day at Garden of the Gods, located at the base of Pikes Peak, this National Natural Landmark features stunning rock formations, and nature trails. Dogs are allowed on any of the trails in the park as long as they’re on a 6-foot leash.

When you are ready for a bite to eat head over to the Pub Dog Colorado. It’s the first and maybe the only restaurant in the state of Colorado that allows guest to dine with their dogs inside. It even includes a 3,000 square foot off-leash dog area.

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26. Grand Haven, Michigan

If you are looking for a dog friendly beach vacation in the Midwest, Grand Haven has some of the best beaches in Michigan. Plus, Grand Haven offers a number of dog friendly activities, like hiking, or boating.

The Grand Haven City Beach allows leashed dogs on the very south end of the beach near Grand Avenue during specific times throughout the year. Dog are allowed between Memorial Day and Labor Day before 11am and after 5pm. Before Memorial Day and after Labor Day, dogs are welcome on-leash at any time.

If hiking is more to your liking, explore the trails at North Ottawa Dunes. This park offers 593-acres of wooden dunes located just off the Lake Michigan coast. Dog’s must remain on-leash and are not allowed on the dune stairs, building, off trial or as posted.

For a truly unique experience head over to the Grand Haven Musical Fountain. You can enjoy the 25-30-minute water, light and music show from the Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium.

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27. Mackinac Island, MI

Take a step back in time on Mackinac Island in Northern Michigan. Designated as a National Historic Landmark this small island offers a delightful mix of Victorian charm, historic parks, boating, biking and hiking.

Cars are not allowed on the island. The only way to get around is by foot, bike or dog friendly horse drawn carriage. Thus, making Mackinac Island a truly unique vacation experience. Since cars are not allowed on the island, you need to bring everything over via a dog friendly ferry.

Start your day with a horse-drawn carriage tour by Mackinac Island Carriage Tours. These tours will bring you to all the must-see places on the island. Small dogs are allowed to sit on a lap, but larger dogs may require you to purchase of a child’s ticket for them.

If you would prefer to tour the island by bike, both Mackinac Bike Barn and Mackinac Wheels rent Burley tag-a-long carts that allow your dog to come along on the ride with you.

Many of the restaurants, shops and hotels here are dog friendly. Just look for the “Dogs are Welcome” sticker to find them.

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We hope you were able to find your next Dog Friendly Vacation here.

If not check out our other dog friendly travel posts