10 best dog-friendly destinations to explore this summer
Summer is officially here, which means it's time to unplug and embark on a new, exciting adventure.
Whether you're road-tripping, booking a flight or hopping on a train, why not bring your barking bestie along for the fun? It's time to flip the switch on "dog days of summer," get packed with your pup in tow and explore.
From the beaches and breweries of San Diego to the parks and pup-loving restaurants of Park City, Utah, here are some of our favorite dog-friendly destinations in the U.S.
California
San Diego
San Diego is home to Liberty Station, a former naval station that now serves as the perfect spot to stroll and enjoy some quality time with your four-legged friend.
Additionally, Dog Beach — located at the west end of the San Diego River — has welcomed owners and their pooches for over 40 years. It sits close to several dog-friendly hot spots popular with locals, including the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier and Belching Beaver Brewery.
Where to stay
Hotel Indigo San Diego–Gaslamp Quarter: Known as the heart and soul of San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is a one-stop shop for everything you could need, as it has a plethora of dining, entertainment and rooftop options.
This mid-tier IHG hotel welcomes dogs with pet beds, treats and an outdoor pet relief area. Best of all, there is no pet fee.
Rates start at $190 or 29,666 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Related: The best hotels in San Diego
Huntington Beach
The dog-friendly vibe of this California city lands Huntington Beach toward the top of our list. It is famous for Huntington Dog Beach, where dogs can run leash-free. Plus, there are annual dog-themed events like the monthly Wiener Dog Races at Old World Village, Corgi Beach Day in August and Surf City Surf Dog in September.
Of course, being the dog-friendliest destination means plenty of pet-welcoming cafes are available, too. Top picks include Fred's Mexican Cafe and Park Bench Cafe. Don't forget to stop for a special treat at Top Dog Barkery while in town.
Where to stay
Paséa Hotel & Spa: Conveniently located less than 2 miles from Huntington Dog Beach, this property is ideal for those interested in attending the city's dog-related events. Your tail-wagger can run laps at the 1,100-square-foot outdoor pup play area, where a doghouse that resembles a lifeguard station and a local artist-commissioned mural are some of the amenities available.
If you choose this property for you and your furry friend, opt for the VIP Paw-séa Package, which comes fully loaded with a doggy meal, toys and leashes, a bed and waived pet fees (which otherwise cost $150 per stay). The package starts at $450 per night.
Rates start at $364 per night (without the package).
Palm Springs
Follow the markers down Bear Creek Nature Trail, a path in the greater Palm Springs area that highlights native plants and wildlife, while shade structures and drinking fountains provide comfortable pit stops. Then, recharge with a java at Koffi Coffee before running around at Palm Springs Dog Park and hiking the trails at Mission Creek Preserve.
If you and your pooch are looking for a more mellow way to enjoy Palm Springs, curate a pup picnic with stunning views of the Salton Sea along the Coachella Valley. Also save time for a nice drive out to Joshua Tree National Park, where desert plants and towering rock formations create an otherworldly scene ripe for exploration.
Where to stay
La Quinta Resort & Club: This is a great desert stay for your pooch.
Located in the greater Palm Springs area, this sprawling Hilton-affiliated property offers the Paws La Quinta Canine Experience to all guests with pets. It includes amenities like food bowls and a dog bed inside the dog-friendly casitas, plus access to 45 acres of grounds with dog-friendly trails and relief stations. Pet fees are $150 per stay.
Rates start at $268 or 78,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Related: World's top pet-friendly Hilton hotels for animal lovers
Lake Tahoe
At Lake Tahoe, Kiva Beach offers an idyllic snapshot of Tahoe's charm, which is great to share with your barking bud. While the shore and water are leash-required spots, you'll find plenty of pups cooling off in the shallows or lounging on land. For more beach fun, there are also Zephyr Cove (where well-behaved dogs are welcome) and Skylandia State Park & Beach (the place to go if you want to beat the crowds).
To enjoy an adventure together, use the Echo Lake water taxi to move from point A to point B, taking in the stunning scenery as you go. Or, to burn off some energy, discover the off-leash trails along Carson Pass and the Mokelumne Wilderness.
Where to stay
Coachman Hotel: At this renovated motel nestled between the vistas of Heavenly Mountain and Lake Tahoe, you can cozy up around the fire pit with your upper.
While the property permits pets, note that only select rooms are dog-friendly, so you'll want to be sure to request the appropriate accommodation when booking your stay. All guests with dogs will need to pay a pet fee of $50 per day.
Rates start at $151 per night.
Colorado
Denver
The Mile High City is known for welcoming pups with open arms at its many breweries, cafes and restaurants, all of which have plenty of outdoor seating.
Dog park options are endless, from Railyard Dog Park in LoDo to Fuller Dog Park in Five Points. Don't miss Cherry Creek State Park in nearby Aurora; it offers a 107-acre fenced area for unlimited off-leash play.
Denver is also known for its abundance of parks — like Washington Park and Cheesman Park — so you can enjoy lots of scenic, active walks before grabbing a bite to eat at a local spot like Denver Biscuit Company or Postino LoHi. Know that you'll never have to do happy hour alone thanks to Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, Recess Beer Garden and many other watering holes allowing pups.
Where to stay
Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver: Centrally located in downtown Denver, this Hyatt outpost is a great option for dog owners, as pet amenities like dog bowls are available upon request and several guest facilities welcome dogs.
During your stay, you and your four-legged member of the family can take in the beautiful Denver skyline, stunning sunsets and impressive mountain views from the hotel's dog-friendly rooftop terrace. Additionally, as if the scent of fresh popcorn at check-in wasn't tempting enough, there's the farm-to-table lobby restaurant, Apple Blossom, which invites pups to join their companions for all meals and happy hours in the bar and lounge area.
Rates start at $379 or 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Related: The best Denver hotels to experience when staying in the Mile High City
Aspen
As you might imagine, Aspen offers countless parks, trails and streams for pup-friendly playtime alongside unparalleled mountain views.
Play Frisbee and fetch at Aspen's Wagner Park, Paepcke Park and Rio Grande Park, or go for a dip in the Roaring Fork River. For an adrenaline rush, take an adventurous ride up the Silver Queen Gondola (look for the cabins marked with paw prints!) and pose for postcard-worthy photos at the top of Aspen Mountain before hiking back down.
When your furry pal needs some sustenance and goodies, score tasty treats, plush dog beds and fun toys — along with a self-service dog wash for those dirty paws — at Rocky Mountain Pet Shop. Then, head to the posh Hotel Jerome, which is fur baby-friendly at the outdoor Garden restaurant and inside the cozy Living Room bar, for locally sourced fare and a cocktail. If you're craving something more casual, like a cold beer, check out Aspen Tap House's pup-friendly patio.
Where to stay
Aspen Meadows Resort: A Bauhaus-inspired hideaway just a few minutes outside the center of town, this lush oasis offers a 40-acre campus with never-ending dog-friendly walks, trails and swimming — with some off-leash options. You can get lost in nature for days within Aspen Meadows without ever leaving the grounds.
Those with pets will be charged a fee of $25 per night, per dog. While you can bring more than one dog, know that there's a two-dog maximum per room.
I Prefer member rates start at $439 per night.
Florida
St. Augustine
Outside of the obvious Florida hot spots, consider stopping at the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine, when road-tripping through Florida.
To start, there are more than 40 miles of dog-friendly beaches — St. Augustine Beach is a great place to play fetch in the sand. Plus, pet-friendly tourist attractions — including the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where peacocks roam and your pup can take a slurp from the famous fountain — abound. Don't miss the Oldest Wooden School House and the Spanish Military Hospital Museum, both of which offer pet-friendly tours.
Dogs cannot enter historic Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, but that doesn't mean you should skip this iconic sight. You can set up a picnic on the fort's lawn and then grab a glass of vino together on the rooftop at San Sebastian Winery.
Where to stay
Casa Monica Resort & Spa: This Autograph Collection hotel sits in the heart of town, making it ideal for sightseeing and walks in areas full of old-world charm.
Check into the townhouse-style Anastasia suite for ample space to stretch out. When you're ready to venture outside your digs, stop for bites and sips in the dog-friendly lounge, stroll the on-site art gallery and soak up some rays together on the pool deck. Keep in mind that there are a few policies that apply for guests with dogs, including a two-dog maximum per room, a 40-pound weight limit and a $150 pet fee per stay.
Rates start at $349 or 287,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Related: Top pet-friendly Marriott hotels for animal lovers
South Florida
From West Palm Beach to the iconic Magic City, there's plenty of dog-friendly fun available in bustling South Florida.
Upgrade from dog park to dog beach at Jupiter Dog Beach (the only free dog beach in the Palm Beaches), or cruise over to Bark Park Dog Beach at Spanish River Park in Boca Raton for sandy paws and sunshine for a fee ($15 per dog for a non-resident weekend pass). From popular Clematis Street in West Palm Beach to action-packed Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach to posh-for-pooch Mizner Park in Boca Raton, there's an array of dog-friendly spots to hit up while visiting the Sunshine State.
If you wish to see more of the area, head south to Fort Lauderdale, where pups and their humans can enjoy scenic, sun-kissed walks at sunrise and sunset. Stroll the shops along lively Las Olas Boulevard, where you'll find plenty of dog-friendly patio seating at cafes, restaurants and bars (try waterfront Casa Sensei or the iconic Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar).
Continue on to Miami to peruse the famous, luxurious Bal Harbour Shops, where dogs are welcome to join you on the patio for high-end dining, as well as inside designer boutiques like Chanel and Ferragamo. A stop at nearby Haulover Park Beach is also a must before venturing over to the mainland for fun in Miami's Design District and mural-hopping in Wynwood.
Where to stay
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa: Along with endless ocean views, your pup will appreciate the designated dog bed (bowls come, too) and the soothing balcony egg swing available at this luxe beach retreat. We're particularly fond of the free dog teepees and strollers provided for bringing your furry friend to the pool deck for an afternoon of sun and fun.
Dog stays here are complimentary, though note that there's a 50-pound weight limit and only two dogs are permitted per room. In addition to the aforementioned beds and bowls, guests with dogs can request loaner bandanas to use during their stays.
I Prefer member rates start at $479 per night.
Loews Miami Beach Hotel: When checking into this Loews hotel, which charges a pet fee of $50 per stay, you and your furry companion are enrolled in the property's Loews Loves Pets program, which includes a "Pet-in-Room" sign, food and water bowls, a pet placemat, collars, leashes, waste bags and more. Plus, there's a gourmet room service menu to enjoy when you're not trying out the hotel's recommendations for dog-friendly restaurants and cafes (we personally love the dog-friendly patio at the on-site Bar Collins).
For walks, a designated dog park is conveniently located in front of the hotel for quick and easy potty stops. However, the real highlight is the hotel's easy access to Miami Beach's boardwalk, where you can enjoy sunrise and sunset strolls along the lively South Beach strip.
Rates start at $350 per night, plus a $32 daily resort fee.
Virginia
Virginia is also for dog lovers, especially those who enjoy time imbibing — there are loads of dog-friendly breweries, wineries and distilleries. Some of the dog-friendliest destinations to bookmark include Loudoun County, Staunton, Harrisonburg, Waynesboro and Middleburg.
When it comes to the great outdoors, don't skip out on walks and hikes to Hazel Mountain, Hungry Mother State Park, Hawksbill Mountain, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve and Newport News Park, home to Fido Field Dog Park.
Where to stay
Salamander Middleburg Resort: A timeless getaway in historic Middleburg that's steeped in equestrian roots, this upscale resort sits among the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and is easily accessible by way of Washington, D.C.
As a guest of the resort, your leashed fur child can stroll the expansive grounds, which are easily accessible via designated terrace-level rooms. In-room amenities include a cozy bed, food and water bowls, organic dog treats, a special toy and pet waste bags. The pet fee is $150 per stay.
I Prefer member rates start at $737 per night.
Newport, Rhode Island
How about a "Rhode" trip to New England to explore Newport?
Take a stroll along the Cliff Walk for incredible views of the city, or visit dog-friendly state parks like Brenton Point and Fort Adams. Less than an hour away, Providence has its own paw-some features, including ample dog parks and pup-friendly breweries.
Where to stay
The Vanderbilt: For doggos looking to vacation in the lap of luxury, book a stay at this boutique Newport hotel. Set in a 1909 mansion, this charming property has stylish yet modern rooms and suites in a coastal blue color scheme.
Fur babies weighing up to 75 pounds are welcome at this member of the Auberge Resorts family. The $150 pet fee includes several dog amenities, such as beds, bowls and loads of treats.
Rates start at $1,149 per night. While Auberge-affiliated properties do not take points, you can transfer points from the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal and the American Express Travel Portal when booking.
Park City, Utah
Park City (aka "Bark City") offers plenty of daily doggy excursions, walking trails, hikes and paddleboarding opportunities in scenic spots like Empire Pass, Guardsman Pass, Lackawaxen Lake, Armstrong Trail and Round Valley. Willow Creek Dog Park, in particular, provides more than 2 acres of fenced grass for your pooch to run around, as well as a pond, an agility course with views of the Canyons side of Park City Mountain and sheltered areas for owner relaxation.
When you and your pal need to satisfy grumbling stomachs, check out the numerous pup-loving restaurants, bars and shops along Main Street. Many owners love to hand out treats, so your pup is sure to find something tasty to munch on.
Where to stay
Waldorf Astoria Park City: Just steps from the Frostwood Gondola for all-day mountain fun, this Waldorf Astoria offers a mix of rooms, suites and two-story residences.
Unparalleled mountain views await, as do cozy fireplace vibes and a helping of canine luxury. There's an in-room welcome amenity with bowls and a monogrammed bed for dogs, though keep in mind that a $100 pet fee per stay applies. You may even spot other furry friends out and about during your stay thanks to the hotel's partnership with Nuzzles & Co., a local no-kill shelter that regularly brings dogs to the property for walks.
Rates start at $470 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Related: The best Waldorf Astoria hotels and resorts in the world
Asheville, North Carolina
Start with the incredibly scenic drive up the Blue Ridge Parkway when visiting Asheville. You'll find plenty of great stops with mountain backdrops for those pup-clad photo-ops, as well as great hiking trails, like Craggy Gardens.
Dogs are invited to enjoy the grounds of the historic Biltmore estate, which includes expansive, lush gardens and trails. While they are not permitted inside any of the property's buildings (including the famous house), they can join on certain patios. There are outdoor kennel rental options on-site, too, but be mindful of warm summer temperatures and leaving them unsupervised.
Beyond the Biltmore, Asheville is particularly great for dogs due to its walkability. Numerous shops and restaurants are available in neighborhoods like downtown, the River Arts District, West Asheville and Biltmore Park, so you can spend hours strolling the town's streets.
Where to stay
The Foundry Hotel Asheville: Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, this dog-friendly Curio Collection property is ideal for city center strolls, dining and brewery visits with your pooch.
Take advantage of the Pup-arazzi Adventure Package during your stay. It includes doggy goodies, a furry friend photo shoot and DIY dog bath vouchers from nearby Patton Avenue Pet Company, among other amenities. Know, though, that unlike most hotel pet packages, this one does not include overnight accommodations or the $150 per pet, per stay pet charge in its $460 fee.
Rates start at about $183 or 53,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park: For a dog-friendly stay that's about 10 miles outside the city hustle, try this Hilton located in Biltmore Park Town Square. Full of shops, dining spots and even a Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming outpost, this property offers a nice respite if you're looking for a quieter retreat.
Pets up to 75 pounds are welcome to stay here. If you plan on bringing your dog, factor in the $75 per stay pet fee into your trip expenses.
Rates start at $162 or 47,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Related: The best Hilton hotels in the US, from luxury to budget stays
Charleston, South Carolina
It's only fitting that dogs are more than welcome in Charleston, which is widely considered one of the friendliest cities in the U.S.
Join Bulldog Tours for a historic two-hour walk along the city's iconic cobblestone streets and through its hidden alleys. Then, take a walk along the grounds of Drayton Hall, which has 125 acres of gardens, greenery and riverbanks, before stopping by Charleston Tea Plantation for a dog-friendly stroll around the grounds.
To enjoy the waterside scenery, head to Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, Sullivan's Island or Isle of Palms. Also check out the lively, famed Waterfront Park, which offers endless harbor views, the iconic Pineapple Fountain and an easy path to East Bay Dog Park.
Where to stay
Hotel Bennett: Charlestonian heritage meets European delight at this charming hotel on lively King Street, where two dogs weighing up to 25 pounds each are welcome for a $200 cleaning fee per stay.
Enjoy upscale dining with your doggo on the patios of two of the on-site restaurants, Gabrielle and La Pâtisserie. Be sure to take advantage of the Preferred Hotels-affiliated property's dog-friendly amenities, too, which include dog bowls, beds, biscuits and a dog-friendly walking route upon request, along with dog-sitting referrals.
I Prefer member rates start at $500 per night.
The Vendue: Charleston's two-building art hotel has an award-winning rooftop lounge with sweeping views. It's conveniently located steps from Waterfront Park, which offers scenic walks with views overlooking Charleston Harbor and the Cooper River, and dog-friendly dining options are around every turn.
No weight or breed restrictions apply here, but note that there is a one-time pet fee of $95 per stay.
Rates start at $369 per night.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is known for its commitment to dog-friendliness.
Let's begin with pet-welcoming breweries. The McMenamins company is known for its collection of more than 20 brewpubs, many of which offer sidewalk seating for pets — try Tavern & Pool, White Eagle Saloon & Hotel and Hal's Café (formerly Zeus Café) at the Crystal Hotel to start, as well as Gigantic Brewing Company in southeast Portland and Breakside Brewery and Migration Brewing in northeast Portland.
Should you crave one more brew, take a field trip to Cycle Dog Tavern and Dog Park to enjoy a pour while shopping for doggy goods made from recycled materials. There's also great mural browsing available in the Alberta Arts District, as well as plenty of shops and restaurants to discover along historic Mississippi Avenue.
Of course, there's a never-ending list of parks to bookmark, too, including Wallace Park, Gabriel Park and Delta Park. Remember to also check out the trails at Powell Butte Nature Park, Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge and Tryon Creek State Natural Area.
Where to stay
Hyatt Centric Downtown Portland: With great walkability to Nob Hill, this Hyatt Centric makes it possible to stay with your pup in the heart of downtown while enjoying stunning views in every direction from oversized windows.
The urban-chic hotel, which showcases an updated twist on Pacific Northwest design (think: cozy plaid rugs, two-toned curtains and eye-catching wood details on the walls), welcomes dogs that weigh up to 50 pounds. A $100 per stay pet fee applies for visits lasting up to seven nights.
Rates start at $154 or 15,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland: This historic hotel is committed to "keeping it weird" for you and Spot during your stay.
At no extra cost, your pup can enjoy complementary goodies, ranging from dog food and water bowls to plush mats and door hangers — there's even a doggy greeting at check-in. Plus, dogs are welcome at the nightly happy hour in the hotel's living room.
Rates start at $164 or 34,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Related: Top IHG pet-friendly hotels for animal lovers
Greenwich, Connecticut
Ever wanted to BYO pup to the polo match? In Greenwich, you can bring Fido to the Greenwich Polo Club and then mosey around dog-friendly Greenwich Avenue for good shopping and great outdoor eats at places like Happy Monkey from acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
Next, get lost in the wild together via some off-the-beaten-path exploring in Mianus River Park, or take advantage of a more leisurely visit and throw the Frisbee around at Bruce Park or Binney Park.
Where to stay
The J House Greenwich: Check into this charming boutique hotel in Greenwich's Riverside neighborhood for high-tech guest rooms and a rejuvenating spa.
Dogs are welcome so long as they weigh under 50 pounds. They are permitted in a block of designated pet-friendly rooms, which are subject to availability and must be booked in advance, for a fee of $65 per night.
Rates start at $299 per night.
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