What makes a vacation more fun? Bringing your dog with you, of course!
You, your dog, the open road, and no one to judge your singing skills — what could be better? The only thing left is to find places that allow your four-legged bestie.
This list highlights the most dog-friendly places that make all dog dreams come true! Get your gear on and go explore!
Bend, Oregon
Legend has it that Bend has the highest per capita dog population in the world, with an estimated 49 percent of residents owning dogs. How magical is that?
This central Oregon city has 13 off-leash areas and 51 miles of trails to explore. Spend some quality time with your dog hiking in the lush forests with amazing photo opportunities. Imagine how stunning your golden would look against these scenic views.
The Deschutes River Trail and the Farewell Bend Park path have several locations where you and your pup can cool off with a dip in the water. If canoeing is more your style, stop by the Tumalo Creed Kayak & Canoe to rent one for you and your pup.
Sedona, Arizona
Calling all the active pooches! Sedona has amazing views with the backdrop of Red Rock Country.
Venture into Slide Rock State Park, a 43-acre park in Oak Creek Canyon, to see the iconic red rocks, ponderosa pine forests, and alpine tundra. Dogs love playing amid the red rocks, so you'll likely find a friend or two here.
Sedona has pet-friendly tours that offer backpacking and camping trips. If hiking isn't your thing, hop on the dog-friendly Red Rock Magic Trolley Tours for a more relaxing ride. Enjoy the views, all while learning about the beautiful scenery.
For those who want to stay within city limits, take a walk to Sedona Dog Park, the city's first and only dog park. There are separate areas for small, large, and senior dogs to enjoy their time.
Many hotels and campgrounds also welcome pets!
Austin, Texas
In Austin, expect nothing but the best restaurants that open up to large green spaces for your dog to romp around in.
The Texas State Capitol's lawn is open to pets, and so are dozens of restaurants. Looking for a themed dining experience? Check out the aptly named Austin Terrier, serving dog-named sandwiches and pizzas.
It wouldn't be Austin without a little fun, and that's where you'll find Austin Doga. That's right, you and your dog can do yoga together! The studio offers group and solo lessons, and if you have the time, there are even yoga parties available.
Union Lake Veterinary Hospital & Pet Services explains, "Our dogs are sensitive to stress and feel stress when we do. By taking time to deepen into a yoga practice, you can help relieve anxiety, worry, and stress. In turn, your pet will sense this calm. Yoga is equally calming to pets as the poses help them relax."
It gets hot down in the south, but fear not — Lady Bird Lake is dog friendly, and there are kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to rent.
Long Island, New York
Sure, Central Park is a haven for dogs, but there's a larger playground a short drive away in Long Island.
Bring your nature-loving pup on hikes at Gardiner Country Park, Belmont Lake State Park, and Sunken Meadow State Park for a beautiful backdrop. With so many photo opportunities, you just might need to make space on your phone.
For more bourgeois dogs, drive to the Hamptons and Montauk's dog-friendly beaches for some fun in the sun. During the fall, you'll find pumpkin patches. Who wouldn't want to pick out their very own pumpkin?
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs is home to the first and only restaurant in the state that allows dogs to dine inside with people.
Pub Dog Colorado has indoor seating and a 3,000-square-foot off-leash outdoor area where pups of all ages and sizes get to mingle. The restaurant caters to both humans and canines with different sections of the menu for each species. The best part is the human entrees are served in dog bowls.
Colorado Springs is an outdoor paradise for pups. Take them hiking amid the famous red rocks of Garden of the Gods with more than 20 miles of hiking trails. Does your dog prefer car rides? Drive to the summit of 14,000-plus-foot-high Pikes Peak for new views and scents.
Ensure that your dog is leashed and close to you if you hike up one of the many summits. One dog fell 600 feet down Torreys Peak on July 2, 2023, but thankfully has since been rescued and returned to her owners.
Rest easy in one of the many dog-friendly hotels like The Broadmoor five-star resort.
Get Your Vacation On
No matter where you end up going, you and your dog are in for a fun time! With so many places to go, you're sure to meet plenty of dog-friendly people. What will your first stop be?
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