Top Pet-Friendly Destinations for Travelers with Dogs

If you’re anything like me, your dog isn’t just a pet—they’re part of the family. And when you love to travel, it’s only natural to want to bring your four-legged bestie along for the adventure. Luckily, more places than ever are rolling out the red carpet for pups, offering dog-friendly beaches, hiking trails, restaurants, and even luxury hotels with pet perks.

Whether you’re planning a road trip, mountain retreat, or beach vacation, here are the top pet-friendly destinations for travelers with dogs.

1. Sedona, Arizona

Perfect For: Scenic hikes, red rock views, and dog-friendly dining

Sedona is a desert dream for dog lovers. The red rock trails are stunning, and many of them are dog-friendly. You’ll find plenty of outdoor patios where your pup can join you for lunch or a sunset dinner with a view.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• Bell Rock Trail & Soldier Pass Trail (leashed dogs welcome)

• The Secret Garden Café – dog-friendly patio

• Courtyard by Marriott Sedona – pet-friendly rooms + grassy areas

• Tlaquepaque Village – dog-welcoming shopping strolls

Why It’s Great in Spring: Mild temps, fewer crowds, and gorgeous wildflower views.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Perfect For: Mountain escapes, breweries, and off-leash fun

Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is basically a playground for pups and their people. The city is full of off-leash parks, scenic trails, and breweries that not only allow dogs—but welcome them with water bowls and treats.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• The Biltmore Estate Grounds (leashed dogs welcome outdoors)

• Blue Ridge Parkway scenic drives + hikes

• Wagbar – part dog park, part bar

• Multiple dog-friendly breweries like Wicked Weed and Catawba

Bonus: Asheville’s downtown is super walkable and very dog-forward.

3. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Perfect For: Coastal walks, wine tasting, and luxury dog travel

This charming seaside town might be one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the U.S. Think leash-free beaches, dog menus, and boutique hotels that offer doggy spa services. It’s classy, coastal, and completely pet-pampering.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• Carmel Beach – off-leash fun in the sand

• Doris Day’s Cypress Inn – historic, pet-welcoming hotel

• Dog-friendly wine tasting rooms downtown

• Many restaurants offer dog menus and outdoor seating

Travel Tip: Bring your pup’s favorite blanket for cozy beach picnics.

4. Bar Harbor, Maine

Perfect For: Nature, national parks, and ocean views

If your pup is a fan of fresh air and hiking, Bar Harbor is the perfect base for exploring Acadia National Park—one of the most dog-friendly national parks in the country. You’ll both love the coastal trails, cool temps, and welcoming small-town feel.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• Over 100 miles of pet-friendly hiking trails in Acadia

• Jordan Pond Path – easy and scenic

• Outdoor dining in town (try Side Street Café)

• Sea kayaking tours with dogs allowed in certain boats

Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early fall for cool weather and lighter crowds.

5. Austin, Texas

Perfect For: City energy, swimming holes, and food truck patios

Austin is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the U.S. With dog parks, hike-and-bike trails, lakes, and a booming food truck scene, your pup will be wagging with excitement from the moment you arrive.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• Red Bud Isle – off-leash dog park on the river

• Zilker Park for on-leash romps and picnics

• Yard Bar – dog park + bar combo

• Dozens of patios and food trucks that allow dogs

Fun Fact: Many local stores and boutiques even offer treats for four-legged customers.

6. Flagstaff, Arizona

Perfect For: Cool mountain vibes, forest walks, and dog-loving locals

Flagstaff is an underrated spring destination with dog-friendly trails, breweries, and close access to Sedona and the Grand Canyon. The higher elevation means cooler temps, and the laid-back vibe is perfect for a peaceful trip with your pup.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• Buffalo Park Trail – easy, scenic loop

• Dog Haus – craft beer + canine-friendly patio

• Downtown Flagstaff – many stores and restaurants allow dogs

• Day trip to Grand Canyon South Rim (leashed dogs allowed on rim trails!)

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Traveling with your dog is incredibly rewarding—and totally doable with the right planning and pet-friendly destination. From red rocks to coastal towns, and snowy lakes to sunny cities, these spots make it easy to bring your furry travel buddy along for the ride.

Whether you’re planning your next adventure or road tripping this spring, these destinations guarantee your pup won’t be left out of the fun.