Planning a vacation is always exciting, but it can be even more exhilarating when you can bring your furry friend along. Dogs are part of the family, and they deserve a vacation too! Imagine exploring new places, enjoying outdoor adventures, and creating lasting memories with your loyal companion. To help you plan the ultimate dog-friendly vacation, we have curated a list of the top 10 destinations in the United States where dogs can truly unleash and have a paw-some time. From coastal getaways to mountain retreats, these spots offer a range of activities and amenities that will make tails wag with joy. So pack your bags, grab your pup’s favorite toys, and get ready for an adventure like no other!
1. Seattle, Washington: The Emerald City Adventure
Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a vibrant city that combines urban charm with breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the Emerald City, Seattle offers a plethora of dog-friendly attractions and outdoor adventures. Take your furry friend for a stroll along the picturesque Puget Sound waterfront or explore the city’s many dog-friendly parks. Seattle is also home to numerous pet-friendly restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal with your four-legged companion by your side. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Pike Place Market, where your pup can soak in the sights and sounds of this bustling marketplace.
Where to Stay: Hotel FIVE
Hotel FIVE, located in the trendy Belltown neighborhood, is a boutique hotel that welcomes both humans and their canine companions with open arms. The dog-obsessed accommodations at Hotel FIVE include comfortable pineapple-themed dog beds, treat tins, and dog bowls. With its central location and pet-friendly amenities, Hotel FIVE is the perfect home base for your Seattle adventure.
Where to Eat: Norm’s Eatery & Alehouse
Norm’s Eatery & Alehouse is a local favorite that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for dogs and their owners. This dog-friendly eatery serves up classic American fare like burgers and fries, along with a rotating selection of craft beers on tap. Norm’s even has a special dog menu, featuring treats like bacon pupcakes and the Hound Dog Cake, which can serve up to six hungry pups.
What to Do: Seattle Water Tours and the Seattle Barkery
Explore Seattle’s stunning waterways with a dog-friendly tour from Seattle Water Tours. Hop aboard the M/V Fremont Avenue tour boat and cruise around Lake Union, taking in the sights of shipyards, wharves, and floating homes. And what better way to treat your pup than with a visit to the Seattle Barkery? This unique bakery offers a variety of tasty treats delivered to your furry friend via their one-of-a-kind treat chute.
2. Sedona, Arizona: A Desert Oasis for Dogs
If you’re seeking a truly magical experience for you and your furry friend, look no further than Sedona. Nestled in the red rocks of Arizona, Sedona is a desert oasis that offers stunning natural beauty and a wealth of outdoor activities. From hiking through picturesque canyons to exploring ancient Native American ruins, Sedona has something for everyone. The city is also known for its “vortexes,” which are believed to have healing energy. So while you soak in the breathtaking views, your pup can enjoy the positive vibes of this mystical destination.
Where to Stay: Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
For a luxurious dog-friendly getaway, book a room at the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock. This resort goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay for both you and your furry companion. Your pup will be greeted with a special welcome package, including a delicious treat, a pet bandana, collar tag, and a toy. The resort also offers a full pet menu, complete with non-alcoholic doggy wine or beer, and even pet energy therapy treatments performed by an in-house energy therapist.
Where to Eat: Hideaway House
Indulge in a hearty Italian meal with a view at Hideaway House. This pet-friendly restaurant offers a variety of unique dishes, including a roasted peach and caramelized pancetta pizza. The wait staff at Hideaway House greets dogs with a treat and a water bowl, ensuring a paw-some dining experience for your furry friend.
What to Do: A Day in the West Jeep Tours and Hike to the Bell Rock Vortex
Embark on an adventure with your pup by joining A Day in the West Jeep Tours. Choose from a variety of dog-friendly tour options that take you through the rugged terrain of the Bighorn Mountains. Marvel at the stunning views of canyons and rock formations like Capitol Butte and Chimney Rock. For a more leisurely experience, hike the Bell Rock Vortex trail, which offers breathtaking views of Sedona’s iconic rock formations.
4. Colorado Springs, Colorado: Where Nature and Adventure Await
If you and your furry friend love the great outdoors, Colorado Springs is the perfect destination for a dog-friendly vacation. This vibrant city in Colorado is surrounded by natural beauty, including the stunning Pike National Forest. Explore the numerous pet-friendly hiking trails that wind through the forest, offering breathtaking views of towering mountains and lush forests. Colorado Springs is also home to the Garden of the Gods, a unique rock formation that is a must-see for any nature enthusiast.
Where to Stay: The Broadmoor Resort
Indulge in a luxurious stay at The Broadmoor Resort, a historic hotel that has been synonymous with Rocky Mountain getaways since 1918. This pet-friendly resort offers a range of amenities for both you and your furry companion. Dogs staying at The Broadmoor are treated like royalty, with luxury pet beds, food dishes, and a complimentary pet treat upon arrival. The resort even donates $40 to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society for every dog that books a stay.
Where to Eat: Pub Dog Colorado
Treat yourself and your pup to a delicious meal at Pub Dog Colorado. This unique eatery not only offers tasty food and great beer but also provides a fenced off-leash dog area, making it the perfect place to dine with your furry friend. The pub even has a dog menu, featuring items like “puppy patties” and “bark bowls” filled with nutritious ingredients. Don’t forget to order a round of Bowser Beer Dog Beer, a non-alcoholic brew that will surely delight your canine companion.
What to Do: Garden of the Gods and Hike the Manitou Incline
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Colorado Springs by visiting the Garden of the Gods. This awe-inspiring park features towering sandstone rock formations and offers 21 miles of well-maintained trails for you and your leashed pup to explore. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the Colorado sun can be intense. For a more challenging adventure, hike the Manitou Incline, a steep trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Lake Placid, New York: A Picturesque Adirondack Getaway
Escape to the beauty of the Adirondack Mountains in Lake Placid, New York. This charming mountain town has captivated visitors for decades with its stunning scenery and rich Olympic history. Lake Placid is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities for you and your furry friend to enjoy. From hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing, there is something for every adventurous spirit. Explore the trails that wind through the lush forests, or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque lakeshores.
Where to Stay: Saranac Waterfront Lodge
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and nature at Saranac Waterfront Lodge. Located just minutes from downtown Lake Placid, this picturesque hotel offers pet-friendly accommodations and a range of amenities for both you and your furry friend. Your pup will be treated to a plush dog bed, a complimentary treat upon arrival, and a toy to take home as a souvenir. As an added bonus, for every dog that books a stay, the lodge donates to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society.
Where to Eat: The Cottage
Indulge in a delicious meal at The Cottage, a pet-friendly restaurant located on the shores of Mirror Lake. This charming eatery offers a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, mouthwatering steaks, and delectable desserts. Dogs are welcome to join you on the outdoor patio, where they can enjoy the scenic views while you savor your meal.
What to Do: Visit Olympic Sites and Explore the Adirondack Park
Immerse yourself in the rich Olympic history of Lake Placid by visiting the Olympic Sites. Explore the Olympic Center, where the “Miracle on Ice” hockey game took place, or take a ride on the Olympic bobsled track. For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Adirondack Park is a must. With over six million acres of pristine wilderness, this park offers countless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking beauty of the Adirondack Mountains.
Conclusion
Embarking on a dog-friendly vacation is a wonderful way to create lasting memories with your furry friend. Whether you choose to explore the vibrant city of Seattle, marvel at the red rocks of Sedona, embrace the outdoor adventures in Colorado Springs, or immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Placid, these 10 destinations offer a range of experiences that will delight both you and your pup. So pack your bags, leash up your furry friend, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure together. The best dog-friendly vacation spots await, where dogs can truly unleash and have a paw-some time!
