Top 10 Pet Friendly Vacation Spots in the USA

Pet-Friendly Travel Tips

Is your pooch always eager for new sniffs and adventures? Then, there’s no reason to leave them behind on your next getaway — especially if you’re traveling in the United States. 🇺🇲 From scenic dog-friendly hiking trails to hotels and even high-end eateries that welcome pets, the country is packed with perfect spots for an unforgettable dog-friendly vacation, no matter your pup’s personality or interests.

We easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over four million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip forever. Today, we asked our pet parent photographers to tell us about their favourite pet-friendly vacation spots across the USA.

Let’s check out these tail-wagging spots! 🐶 🧳

TLDR

1. Play fetch on the golden shores of San Diego, California
2. Go from trails to taprooms in Portland, Oregon
3. Explore landmarks and movie locations in Seattle, Washington
4. Admire rugged rock formations in Colorado Springs, Colorado
5. Embark on a road trip around Bozeman, Montana
6. Discover a natural wonder and enjoy glamping near the Grand Canyon, Arizona
7. Indulge in city delights in charming Boston, Massachusetts
8. Take a self-guided tour in Asheville, North Carolina
9. Soak up southern charm in Charleston, South Carolina
10. Let your pup splash around in the waters of Tampa, Florida
11. Explore our Frequently Asked Questions

Photo: Emma in Charleston for Flytographer. Whitney, partner and pup capture memories in South Carolina on a family photoshoot.

1. San Diego, California

One of the best dog-friendly vacation destinations in the U.S., San Diego offers over 70 miles of stunning coastline and several dog-friendly beaches, including off-leash spots like Ocean Beach Dog Beach, one of the first official leash-free beaches in the country. 🏖️

If your pup isn’t a fan of sandy paws, the city also boasts several green spaces where they can run, play, and socialize while you soak in the laid-back Californian atmosphere. Balboa Park, for instance, offers scenic walking trails surrounded by beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival buildings.

If you are looking for another dog-friendly destination in California, Lake Tahoe is another paradise for water-loving pups on the California-Nevada border. Kiva Beach and Zephyr Cove welcome pets to splash and play in the lake’s vibrant blue waters. 💦

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in San Diego:

• Mission Bay Resort: Pets are treated like VIPs at Mission Bay! Their pet fee is $150 per pet and your furry friend must be under 75 lbs. They even have dog-friendly patios where you can enjoy a meal together!
• Fairmont Grand Del Mar: For the same additional cleaning fee of $150, up to 2 dogs per room may stay and they will provide dog beds, bowls and treats for their visiting pets.
  

Photo: Maya in San Diego for Flytographer. Tatiana, partner and pups capture memories in California with a family photoshoot.

2. Portland, Oregon

In the Pacific Northwest, Portland truly welcomes pets with open arms, offering a mix of outdoor adventures and urban delights. Downtown, Tom McCall Waterfront Park boasts lovely river walks with cityscape views, while Council Crest Park, a little further away, features on-leash trails with stunning hilltop views. Trust us, every corner of these parks is a perfect spot for gorgeous pet portraits. 📸

After all the exercise, why not unwind at a classic Portland spot? Head over to the historic Goose Hollow Inn, where you’ll find a large dog-friendly patio, or take a sip at Breakside Brewery. 🍺 At Breakside, beyond the water bowl, your best friend can even enjoy a special dog menu. See? Even your pup gets to indulge in the local flavors.

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in Portland:

• Dossier Hotel: Dogs (but not cats) can stay for a small added fee of $65, and you’ll get their VIP (Very Important Pet) Package which includes a pet bed, bowls, a toy, tasty treats and a list of local pet resources from groomers and dog walkers to pet healers.
• Kimpton Hotel Vintage: They are not only pet-friendly, they are pet-celebrated at the Kimpton. Enjoy your stay with as many pets with no weight restrictions and with no added pet fee!

Photo: Whitney in Portland for Flytographer. Tabatha, partner and pup capture memories in Oregon with a family photoshoot.

3. Seattle, Washington

Seattle isn’t called the Emerald City for nothing. The city boasts beautifully manicured parks and green spaces, many of which welcome dogs. 💚 Seattle Center, home to the iconic Space Needle, is a must-visit for both sightseeing and pet-friendly fun. While your pup can’t go inside the attractions, they’re welcome to explore the open plazas and green spaces — and, of course, admire the city’s towering landmark.

At Lake Union, you can enjoy scenic on-leash walks with waterfront views and also look for the famous houseboat from Sleepless in Seattle. Even better? You can find kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals that are pet-friendly. 🚣

Outside Seattle, Washington’s National and State Parks are also great bets for dog owners. If you’re heading to the West Coast, check out the stunning dog-friendly beaches in Olympic National Park: Ruby Beach, Kalaloch Beach and campground, and Rialto Beach are all great spots for a seaside adventure with your pup. 👍

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in Seattle:

• COAST Hotels: For an affordable $50 pet fee, up to 2 dogs (under 50 lbs) can stay in your room at the COAST! 
• Bellevue Club Hotel: For the same charge of $50, up to 2 dogs (under 50 lbs) can also stay with you at the Bellevue Club. They’ll provide food and water bowls to borrow, as well as a comfortable bed for your four-legged pal to rest their paws. They don’t extend this policy to cats at this time.
  

Photo: Sarah in Seattle for Flytographer. Reagan, partner and pup capture memories in Washington with a family photoshoot.

4. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Most of Colorado Springs’ wonderful attractions welcome your tail-wagging companions, making it one of the best dog-friendly vacation spots in Colorado and granting year-round canine fun. 😉

Four-legged friends can explore the 15 miles of dog-friendly trails at the Garden of the Gods and admire rugged wonders like the Balanced Rock, Kissing Camels, and Sentinel Spire. Another famous attraction is the Red Rock Canyon Open Space, which features an off-leash, unfenced dog area with two scenic loop trails against the backdrop of more stunning red rock formations.

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in Colorado Springs:

• The Broadmoor: Fancy a luxurious stay with your pup? This a one-of-a-kind hotel where your four-legged companion will be pampered with dog beds, food bowls, and complimentary pet treats. The pet fee is $100 / pet per night.
• Cheyenne Mountain Resort: The resort is pet-friendly, accepting dogs weighing less than 80 pounds. Through their Cheyenne Bed & Biscuit Club, they offer designated dog walking areas and can direct you to local pet services.
  

Photo: Ali in Colorado Springs for Flytographer. Kelly and family capture memories in Colorado with a family photoshoot.

5. Bozeman, Montana

More Wild West adventures for you and your furry sidekick? Head to Bozeman, Montana, another outdoor lover’s paradise. When it’s time for some pup-approved playtime, check out Burke Park, also known as “Peets Hill,” where wide, gently sloping trails give your dog plenty of space to roam free. There’s also a treat for you: incredible city views and some spectacular, paw-tastic sunsets! 🌅

Bozeman makes an ideal base for scenic road trips, offering easy access to even more of Montana’s jaw-dropping mountain vistas. What better opportunity to let Fido stick his head out the window and savor that fresh mountain air? 🚗

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in Bozeman:

• The Lark Bozeman: The Lark welcomes the whole family and especially their canine companions. This hotel charges a $35 pet fee for up to 2 dogs per room under 90 lbs.
• Farmstay Silo Airbnb: Located approximately 25 minutes from Bozeman, experience this unique farmstay in Montana with your furry friend!

Photo: Flytographer in Bozeman. Sarai, partner and pups capture memories in Montana with a family photoshoot.

6. The Grand Canyon, Arizona

To protect native wildlife and the environment, major U.S. National Parks usually don’t allow dogs. Luckily, the Grand Canyon, the crown jewel of them all, welcomes your best friend with open arms. Phew! 😂

Leashed doggies are allowed on trails above the rim, in Mather Campground, Desert View Campground, Trailer Village, and throughout developed areas. However, they aren’t allowed below the rim (on inner canyon trails). As long as you follow the B.A.R.K. rules (bag the poop, always wear a leash, respect wildlife, and know where you can go), you and your pup are in for an epic vacation amidst some of the most magnificent red rock formations on Earth. 🏜️

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in the Grand Canyon:

• Under Canvas Grand Canyon: Just 25 minutes from the South Rim, this unique canvas tent-style accommodation offers some of the most beautiful pet-friendly accommodations. Their pet fee is $35 which includes an Under Canvas Bandana for your pet!
• Yavapai Lodge: Located inside Grand Canyon National Park, they welcome pets in specific rooms for an additional fee. They offer pet beds, water bowls, and have designated pet relief areas. Some rooms have direct access to outdoor areas, making it convenient for pet breaks.

Photo: Flytographer in the Grand Canyon. Brad, Garrett and pup capture memories in Arizona with a family photoshoot at Under Canvas Grand Canyon.

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston offers not only a plethora of scenic trails to enjoy with your pet but also tons of dog-friendly city fun. Attractions for both two- and four-legged visitors include Boston Common & Public Garden, the oldest public park in the U.S., and the Harborwalk, both offering fantastic on-leash strolls with stunning views of the elegant city skyline. 😍

Since 2023, a new public policy has encouraged local establishments, ranging from trendy coffee shops to hotels and restaurants, to warmly welcome pets. 

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in Boston:

• Eliot Hotel: The chic Eliot Hotel is your place if you and your pup are craving some pampering. It’s one of the most luxurious pet-friendly hotels in the country and even has one of Boston’s top sushi restaurants, Uni. 
• Fairmont Copley Plaza: Home to Carly Copley, the hotel’s “canine ambassador,” this historic hotel welcomes pets for an additional fee of $50 and provides beds, bowls, and treats. They have a “Canine-to-Five” program with dog walking services.

Photo: Flytographer in Boston. Christina and family capture memories in Boston with a family photoshoot.

8. Asheville, North Carolina

Tucked within the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has been gaining momentum as “Dog City USA” due to its abundance of pet-friendly restaurants, breweries, hiking trails, and pet-welcoming attractions.🐾

A must-visit is the Urban Trail, a self-guided, pet-friendly walking tour spanning 1.7 miles through downtown Asheville. It showcases the city’s history, architecture, and cultural heritage. Need a pit stop? The Dog Welcome Center, the first of its kind in the country, offers all the amenities your furry friend needs — goodie bags included. While they play, you can pick up a guide to the Top 100 dog-friendly spots in town. 👌

Want to feel like you’ve stepped into the world of Richie Rich? 🎞️ The dazzling Biltmore Estate now welcomes leashed pets, so you can stroll its beautiful lawns and snap photos with the grand French-style chateau. You might even picture Dollar, Richie’s pet, happily sniffing around with his signature dollar spots!

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in Asheville:

• Aloft Asheville Downtown by Marriott: Centrally located with a dedicated dog walk area on their property. They don’t charge a pet fee and offer “ARF” (Animals Really Fun) kits with dog beds, bowls, and treats. They even partner with local animal rescues to host adoptable dogs in their lobby.
• The Omni Grove Park Inn: This historic luxury resort accepts pets under 60 pounds for an additional fee of $250. They provide pet beds, bowls, and a special treat at check-in. The property has beautiful grounds for walking your pet.

Photo: Flytographer in Asheville. Sarah, partner and pup capture memories in North Carolina with a family photoshoot.

9. Charleston, South Carolina

Are you a history-loving pet parent? Pack your bags and explore this historic coastal gem in South Carolina! Charleston is one of the oldest and best-preserved cities in America, and one of its top experiences is taking a guided tour through its hidden alleyways and charming cobblestone streets. Bulldog Tours is a popular choice, and as the name suggests, it offers pet-friendly city explorations — a perfect introduction to Charleston’s Southern charm.

You and your pet can also enjoy on-leash fun on the scenic grounds of Drayton Hall, the oldest unrestored plantation house in the country, featuring riverbanks, flower gardens, and vast lawns. 🦮 🌼 Another pet-friendly gem is Waterfront Park, where you can take a stroll while admiring stunning harbour views. Be sure to stop by Charleston’s famous Pineapple Fountain for some adorable pet photo ops.

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in Charleston:

• The Vendue: This boutique art hotel in the Historic District welcomes only dogs for a fee of $120. They provide beds, bowls, and gourmet treats at check-in. Their location is perfect for walking your pet through historic Charleston.
• Emeline: This stylish boutique hotel in the Historic District welcomes pets for a $200 fee with special amenities including beds, bowls, and a custom-made dog treat made by their in-house pastry chef. Their courtyard provides a nice space for pets.

Photo: Kara in Charleston for Flytographer. Nicole and family capture memories in South Carolina with a family photoshoot.

10. Tampa, Florida

Tampa has consistently ranked as a top pet-friendly destination, and it’s easy to see why. It truly has it all: superb dog-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, delicious eateries, and pristine parks and beaches.

For a waterfront adventure, don’t miss the Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.6-mile scenic walkway along the Hillsborough River, home to several dog-friendly parks. These spaces offer off-leash play areas while also boasting beautiful views of Tampa’s skyline. 🌆

And what’s a Florida getaway without some paws in the sand? Davis Islands Dog Park, just a short drive from downtown Tampa, is the perfect spot. It features a dog-friendly beach where pups can splash in the water and soak up the sun. Throw in a pair of doggy sunglasses, and the scene is complete! 🕶️

📍Pet-friendly accommodations in Tampa:

• Aloft Tampa Downtown by Marriott: Known for being pet-friendly with their ARF (Animals R Fun) program for dogs and cats alike that includes beds, treats, and toys with no additional pet fee.
• Le Méridien Tampa: This historic hotel in downtown Tampa accepts pets up to 40 pounds for a fee. They offer pet beds, bowls, and treats.

Photo: Carolina in Tampa for Flytographer. Manya and extended family capture memories together in Florida with a multigenerational reunion photoshoot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best place to vacation with dogs?

The Oregon Coast stands out as an exceptional dog-friendly vacation destination with its numerous pet-welcoming beaches, trails, and accommodations. Other excellent options include Sedona, Lake Tahoe, and Asheville, all offering outdoor adventures where dogs are welcome.

What is the most dog-friendly city to visit?

Portland, Oregon consistently ranks as the most dog-friendly city with its abundance of off-leash parks, pet-friendly restaurants, and businesses that welcome four-legged visitors. San Diego, Seattle, and Colorado Springs are also top contenders, each offering numerous amenities and spaces specifically designed for dogs and their owners.

Are vacations stressful for dogs?

Vacations can be stressful for dogs due to changes in routine, unfamiliar environments, and the travel process itself. To minimize stress, maintain familiar routines when possible, bring comfort items from home, and choose accommodations and activities that suit your dog’s temperament and needs.

Photo: Whitney in Portland for Flytographer. Caitlin, partner and pup capture memories together in Oregon with a family photoshoot.

Dog-Friendly Vacation Spots in the USA

No mention of pet-friendly places is complete without a nod to Chicago, Illinois, which is perfect for on-leash walks along the iconic Lake Michigan, and Madison, Wisconsin, one more choice for a laid-back, nature-focused getaway.

Now that you’ve discovered some of the best dog-friendly destinations across the U.S., before embarking on any new adventure, make sure to check this list:

• Check the specific pet travel rules for each state. ✅
• Make sure your furry friend is comfortable with road trips or flights. ✅
• Visit the vet to ensure they’re in top shape for an adventure of a lifetime. ✅

To make your trip even more special, why not book a local Flytographer to show you around while capturing adorable pictures of you and your forever fur-iend? 🐩💙