Amazing Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations
Are you itching to take a vacation this summer but don’t want to leave your pup behind? Then pack your bags to one of these locations across the United States. Each offers beautiful scenery, fabulous food, and wonderful places to stay—for you and your pet!
Stowe, Vermont
Nestled in the Green Mountains, this hamlet is an outdoorsy paradise for dog lovers. Among the numerous trail options available, the approximately five-mile Stowe Recreation Path is especially beautiful with its farm, mountain, and town views. Stowe’s downtown is also an idyllic stroll, offering charming storefronts and specialty gift shops whose owners are apt to invite your pup inside for a bowl of water and a treat. When your stomach starts rumbling, stop at Idletyme Brewing Company for distinctive menu offerings like fried Cabot-cheese fritters, venison chili, and butternut squash ravioli.
Where to stay: Reserve a room at the Trapp Family Lodge, which was built by the von Trapp family (portrayed in The Sound of Music), to enjoy European furnishings and numerous family mementos. Or choose the Lodge at Spruce Peak for a suite featuring a gas fireplace and a private balcony with gorgeous Vermont vistas.
Asbury Park, New Jersey
With its trendy restaurants, bars, and shops, this small beach town has a big-city vibe. Popular among dog owners is the Wonder Bar’s Yappy Hour, which gives them a chance to sip a beer and munch on wings, nachos, or burgers while their dogs romp in a reserved closed area. Another great place for your pup to play and socialize is at the Asbury Park Dog Beach, which is open early mornings and evenings during summer. Should the sun start to wear either of you down, you can take a break from the heat by stepping into the pet-friendly Shoppes at the Arcade. And if your trip spills into the weekend, enjoy brunch with an ocean view at the Asbury Ale House—order eggs Benedict, French toast, or another tasty dish for yourself and a doggy bowl of beef or chicken with rice for your pup.
Where to stay: The elegant Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel on the beach or the Scandinavian-inspired Asbury hotel just a few blocks from shore are both excellent choices for pet owners.
Annapolis, Maryland
Situated on the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is rife with enjoyment for two-legged and four-legged visitors alike. The center of this seafaring capital is City Dock, where you can ogle gorgeous yachts at the “Ego Alley” basin while savoring an ice cream from nearby Storm Bros. Ice Cream Factory; you could even get one for your doggo at Salty Paws. Then stroll the city’s brick-paved streets to browse the approximately ninety shops downtown (most of which will welcome your pup with open arms) and catch glimpses of the United States Naval Academy and the Maryland Statehouse. You could also embark on a pet-friendly cruise into the bay or down the Severn River—your dog can ride for free. Once you’ve both had your fill, retreat for a bite to eat on the Federal House Bar & Grill’s patio, which offers a doggy menu, or sit by the waterfront at Pusser’s Caribbean Grille for Maryland crab dip or shrimp and cheesy grits.
Where to stay: Book a room at the Graduate Annapolis, where your pup can play in the hotel’s dog park, or at the Annapolis Waterfront Hotel for some spectacular bay views.
Chicago, Illinois
The Windy City offers a plethora of activities to sample with your pooch. For instance, you can head over to Navy Pier to watch the boats on the water or explore the eighteen-mile Lakefront Trail along Lake Michigan, which meanders through several Chicago neighborhoods. On Sundays, pop by the Logan Square Farmers Market for homemade pastries, other fresh foods, and handcrafted goods. You can also let your pup blow off some steam leash-free at Montrose Dog Beach or test their skills at Jackson Bark’s agility park. When hunger calls, board the dog-friendly Mercury Cruise for snacks and drinks on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. If you prefer to remain on land, go instead to Big Star in Wickler Park for tacos and margaritas or to Formento’s in the Fulton Market District for homemade meatballs.
Where to stay: Savor lake views at the hip Staypineapple in the Loop, or take in the beautiful architecture of the Gold Coast Historic District at the Viceroy.
Breckenridge, Colorado
If you and your pup are adventuresome types, you’ll adore this Rocky Mountain town’s miles of hiking trails. Walk to Sawmill Reservoir, where you both can dip your toes in its cool waters and take in the relaxing aroma of delightful wildflowers and tall pine trees. Or traverse the Frisco–Breckenridge section of the Summit County Recreational Pathway System to see can’t-miss views of the river and Tenmile Range. To really get your adrenaline going, take the free, dog-friendly gondola ride up the steep mountainside to get a high-altitude look of the surrounding area. In town, explore the shops on Main Street, most of which allow dogs inside, and grab a bite at one of the many eateries, such as on Cool River Coffee House’s back patio or Ember’s shady one.
Where to stay: Select a room with mountain views at Breck Inn, or check into Gravity Haus, where your canine pal can have their photo taken and receive their own doggy bowl, bed, and treats.
San Diego, California
This coastal California city boasts miles of beaches to explore, which your pup is sure to love; pop over to the Dog Beach or Fiesta Island to let them play in the sand and surf leash-free while you chat with the locals. If you prefer hiking or picnicking, visit the 1,200-acre Balboa Park and its three dog parks, one of which allows off-leash play. To refuel, go to Steamy Piggy’s dog-friendly enclosed patio for delicious pot stickers and baos (steamed buns) or the Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar for burgers, brews, and a selection of entrees for your pooch. Wednesdays and Saturdays, head downtown to spend a few hours at the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market, which features more than two hundred vendors selling fresh foods, gifts, and other goods.
Where to stay: Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter overlooks the Petco Park baseball stadium, while San Diego Mission Bay Resort offers restaurants, walking trails, and sandy beaches your pup can join you at.
Whether you prefer a beach, city, or mountain destination, you and your pooch are bound to have a ball vacationing this summer at any of these dog-friendly locales.