Dog lovers around the country are bringing their beloved pooches along on their vacations.
And we can’t blame them. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 63.2% of pet owners consider their fur babies to be a part of the family, so it makes sense that they wouldn’t want to leave behind a family member for their annual vacation.
Of course, accommodating for your four-legged child can be a little bit more difficult than it is when just the humans tag along. You’re going to want to make sure you can not only dog-friendly hotels available, but plenty of activities for them to be involved in too!
For your convenience, here are the top ten most dog-friendly cities in America as ranked by VacationRentals.com.
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
Dog Beach - Photo Credit: Ocean Beach San Diego
With perfect weather year-round, San Diego is the epitome of outdoor fun for the whole family! San Diego is packed with sixteen off leash dog parks and open air pet-friendly restaurants. You can even head to the Dog Beach for a day of fun in the sun before letting your dog get scrubbed down at the Dog Beach Dog Wash! Also, the Otay Ranch Town Center will let you shop with your pup in tow.
Definitely Visit: The Lighthouse Ice Cream Shop, a sweet family owned ice cream parlor that stocks doggie ice cream line, Frosty Paws.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA
Chiles Family Orchards - Photo Credit: Chiles Family Orchards
A charming small town, Charlottesville welcomes dogs to experience a family getaway. Well behaved pups are invited to visit the famed Thomas Jefferson hilltop estate Monticello as well as the Carter Mountain Orchard. Just remember to keep them leashed and make sure they are properly socialized!
Definitely Visit: One (or two… or three) of the wineries that allow dogs to tour their grounds! A few of the dog-friendly ones include Bluestone, First Colony Wineries and Blenhelm.
THE FINGER LAKES, NEW YORK
Red Tail Ridge Winery - Photo Credit: Inhabitat
Nestled in picturesque upstate New York, the Finger Lakes is made up of eleven freshwater lakes and brimming with quintessential lakeside life. There are over 100 wineries that are dog friendly, including Red Tail Ridge and Fox Run.
Definitely Visit: The Watkins Glen State Park, which is home to nineteen breathtaking waterfalls, and will allow your leashed pet to enjoy the scenery.
WISCONSIN, THE WHOLE PLACE
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Photo Credit: DNR.WI.GOV
Wisconsin loves dogs. Milwaukee itself has five off leash dog parks, while the entire state is home to 99 dog-friendly state parks and recreational areas where you and your pup can frolic. You can get a cup of coffee at the Community Bark Dog Wash and Coffee Bar or bring your adventurous pup on a paddleboat ride at Juneau Park Paddleboats.
Definitely Visit: Have a dog that really loves getting wet and wild? The Kettle Moraine State Forest has a designated area where you can train your dog in water skills!
ARIZONA, THE WHOLE PLACE
Adobe Stock
Another dog-loving state, Arizona’s most touristy locations (think Phoenix, Mesa, Flagstaff and Tucson) all have plenty of off leash dog parks. Sedona, with its beautiful red rock mountains, is another town that is primarily pet-friendly.
Definitely Visit: The Grand Canyon National Park, where you and your pup can enjoy one of the most famous and breathtaking views in the country.
PORTLAND, OREGON
Powell Butte Trail - Photo Credit: Portland Sports
Named the United States’ 12th most walkable big city, it’s not surprise that pet families love visiting this gorgeous destination. With over 30 off leash parks, plenty of dog-friendly restaurants and the scenic Powell Butte Trail, Portland is the doggie destination for those who truly enjoy a good walk.
Definitely Visit: The annual Canines Uncorked Wine Tour! With this event, pet parents and their pups are able to participate in a benefit for shelter animals. Tour 16 wineries with free wine tasting and doggie activities including decorating dog treats, meeting adoptable dogs or letting your pooch enjoy a doggie massage!
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
Mercury Canine Cruise - Photo Credit: Chicago Tribune
A top tourist city, this is a bustling metropolis that also loves dogs! Visit one of over 18 off leash dog parks or three doggie beaches! You can also visit Chicago’s famous Navy Pier with your pet and explore the various shops and restaurants.
Definitely Visit: The Mercury Canine Cruise, where you and your pet can enjoy a 90-minute boat ride on the Chicago River.
AUSTIN, TEXAS
Red Bud Isle Park - Photo Credit: Homestyle Austin
A beloved Texas city, Austin isn’t just for the humans! With over 18 off leash dog parks and tons of walking tours, dogs and their families love this colorful town. Do some doggie yoga at Austin Doga or let your pooch take a dip as Red Bud Isle, the dogs-only swimming hole.
Definitely Visit: The Bow Wow Bone, a mobile dog-food truck that cooks up some snacks for pups of any size.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
Blue and Gold Fleet Bay Cruises - Photo Credit: City Pass
San Fran is full of things to do for the entire family. There are over 50 parks and trails that allow dogs, along with those famous cable cars! Plenty of restaurants offer dog-friendly patio seating and the Blue and Gold Fleet Bay Cruises love to allow pets on board.
Definitely Visit: The Mutt Lynch Winery in Sonoma County has brought together the wonderful worlds of wine and dogs. Grab a bottle of Merlot Over & Play Dead or Unleashed Chardonnay and help support local dog shelters and animal rescues!
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
Lake Union Floating Homes - Photo Credit: Downtown Seattle
Seattle is home to plenty of dog-friendly parks and recreational areas. Hop aboard the Seattle Ferry Service Sunday Ice Cream Cruise with your leashed pet for some dessert treats and a tour of the Lake Union floating homes!
Definitely Visit: Kenmore Air will let you and your pooch see Seattle in a unique way: from a flightseeing tour!
