5 Dog-Friendly Destinations Across the United States

December 8, 2021

by Beata Vasvary

5 minutes read

What if you really crave a vacation somewhere but you cannot bear the thought of leaving your dog behind? Let’s admit that our dogs become full-fledged family members from the moment they walk through the door of our homes. For all the emotional support and love they always give, they deserve to be taken along with you to an exciting adventure. Therefore, we’ve put together a list of dog-friendly destinations across the United States that offer perfect accommodations for you and for your furry buddy. Come with us!

1. Fort Myers, Florida

Fort Myers is popular for its lovely beaches, fishing opportunities, and warm, sunny weather. Bonita Beach Dog Park provides a perfect place for your furry friend to romp and play in the water. Enjoy the sand, surf or just lay back, watch the dogs playing, listen to music and simply enjoy life. If you’re lucky, you can even spot some dolphins!

You don’t have to worry about finding a place to stay either. Hotel Indigo, a luxury boutique hotel located in the lovely Historic District, will comfortably accommodate you and your pet. Once you’re in Fort Myers, you must visit the Thomas Edison and Henry Ford winter estates too!

2. Dog-Friendly Destinations: Asheville, North Carolina

Since every dog is a nature fan, this place will be paradise on Earth for them. Breathtaking mountain views, a colorful patchwork of vibrant hues, several look-out points, crisp mountain air, diverse gardens, this is Asheville in North Carolina. Visit the pet-friendly North Carolina Arboretum which features beautiful grounds with wide, flat walkways and plenty of space. Don’t miss the bonsai exhibition, it is fascinating! Note that the garden is free, but you have to pay a fee for parking. Regarding accommodation, we recommend staying at The Cambria Hotel and Suites which is in the heart of downtown Asheville.

Once you’re in Asheville, you absolutely cannot miss “America’s favorite drive”, the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. It’s like a “little Switzerland”! This marvelous parkway connects Shenandoah National Park (Virginia) and Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina). In the Asheville area, there are four main easily accessible entrances to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Don’t miss it by any chance!

3. Portland, Oregon

Portland is proud to feature one of the most extensive urban park systems in the country. Flower-filled parks, polished gardens, urban forests, and waterfront venues, you can find all these in Portland. There are over 10,000 acres of natural areas and parks scattered around the city where your dog can have some ultimate fun.

Portland’s parks are super pet-friendly! You cannot really go wrong choosing any of them. However, here goes some of our recommendations: Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park (it’s always buzzing and on Sundays, there is an open market), Washington Park (one of the oldest parks of the city featuring a lovely rose garden), and Willamette Park (where your pet can enjoy the river and play in a fenced dog park). Make sure to explore all of them and discover your favorite!

4. Dog-Friendly Destinations: Edisto Island, South Carolina

Edisto Island in South Carolina is a perfect choice for a dog-friendly getaway. It is one of the few surviving unspoiled beach communities in the United States. You can spend your whole day at the dog-friendly Edisto Beach, soaking up the sun, playing with your dog in the soft sand, splashing in the water, and watching the wildlife. If you get hungry, SeaCow Eatery is a dog-friendly dining option for you. Serving soulful food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this place will cater to all your needs.

If you crave a raw beach living experience, this is your perfect spot. The beauty of nature and the unspoiled, back-to-basics lifestyle will refresh body, soul, and mind. I’m sure your furry buddy wants no more either.

5. Dog-Friendly Destinations: Seattle, Washington

It’s no secret that Seattle is a dog-loving city. It has four large, wooded city parks that are great for some urban hiking with your little buddy: Discovery Park, Carkeek Park, Ravenna/Cowen Park, and the Washington Park Arboretum. Moreover, there are 14 off-leash areas just inside the city where your little friend can play and romp freely. Most probably the best of them is Magnuson Park which is a 9-acre, fully fenced park. You don’t have to worry about the size of other dogs here. This park has a separate area for the small ones and provides access to a section of beach along with Lake Washington. You’re guaranteed to spend an amazing time here!

Another dog-friendly activity is hiking and the area around Seattle is simply perfect for that! There is an absolutely amazing trail only 30 minutes away from Seattle, the Rattlesnake Ledge. It only takes a few hours to get to the top where you’ll have spectacular mountain and lake views. It’s worth every effort!