Perfect Pet-Friendly Destinations in the US

September 24, 2022
A dog on a beach

As much as traveling alone is enjoyable and enriching, the longing for loved ones who have stayed home is always somewhere deep down. The feeling remains the same whether you miss your parents, significant other, or pet. You may visit marvelous places you will remember forever, but let’s be honest; it would be much more fun to share those experiences with someone you cherish. However, the people you love may not always be available to travel with you – but your pet is. Nowadays, traveling with animals has become much more accessible and doesn’t involve much inconvenience with documents. Besides, don’t you despise the feeling of having to leave your pet when traveling and seeing those sad eyes? With this guide for perfect pet-friendly destinations in the US, you won’t have to. You will be able to plan a perfect road trip and bring your pet with you.

Sanibel Island, Florida

Who doesn’t love spending a perfect, relaxing day on the beach? Feeling that ocean breeze and the sun’s warmth on your skin is ever so calming. Nothing can beat enjoying a good book while lying on the sand or having a refreshing cocktail at the beach bar. And there is no doubt your pet will enjoy the beach too – just in a bit different way. We couldn’t imagine a dog that wouldn’t be thrilled that there is so much sand they can dig up. Luckily, the beaches on Sanibel Island in Florida are mostly pet-friendly. However, one of the most well-recommended ones is Gulfside Beach which has a lovely array of picnic areas and barbecue grills. And if you wish to enjoy the beach together with your pet, the perfect option is to go swimming or jog with them by the water. 

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor is a paradise for active pets due to its closeness to one of the most pet-friendly national parks in the country – Acadia National Park. This nature’s 47,000-acre work of art is just a short drive away from Bar Harbor. Pet-friendly hiking trails that tend to be 120 miles long can be a perfect adventure for dogs and owners who want to indulge in sports activities when traveling. However, ensure that you know the dos and don’ts in US national parks, especially when bringing a pet. 

Furthermore, if you wish to witness other breathtaking views while up on the mountain, there are carriages that allow pets as well. And if you don’t have your own transportation while there, you’ll be happy to know that Bar Harbour bus lines allow pets, making transport much more effortless. Even cruise boats will enable you to bring your furry companion for a tour of Frenchman Bay and many pet-friendly restaurantsIt is not a bad place if you are considering a long distance move with a pet since there is no better way to keep your furry friend safe than moving to such a pet-friendly place.

A person sitting with a dog

Acadia National Park is one of the perfect pet-friendly destinations in the US for active pets and owners.

 

San Diego, California

Another perfect beach spot to hang out with your dog, but with a few more activities that your pet can enjoy, is San Diego in California. One of the many pet-friendly beaches there, the Imperial Beach, hosts an unusual event every July. Unleashed Surf Dog competition is one of the most popular events you wouldn’t want to miss. It’s the largest dog surfing competition in the nation, and even if you don’t enter your four-legged companion in it, it’s tremendously fun to watch. If that’s not your thing, San Diego can offer you a variety of dog parks like the one in Balboa Park, where you can socialize with other canines and their owners.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

One of the perfect pet-friendly destinations in the US is definitely the mesmerizing site of Colorado Springs. If you are planning a romantic getaway with your significant other and want to take your pet as well, this is one of the most beautiful US places to visit in the spring. Its fascinating outdoor paradise, Garden of the Gods Park, is a perfect place for hiking with pets. The trails are a little more than 20 miles, so they are perfect for romantic walks that are not too exhausting. Moreover, Colorado Springs is the home to Pub Dog Colorado, which offers a menu for pups and serves them food in dog bowls. Plus, they have a 3,000-square-foot area that your pup can enjoy without a leash.

A couple holding their pet 

Colorado Springs is home to the cutest restaurant that also has a menu for pups.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona’s Coconino National Forest is a place that you and your pet will simply fall in love with. Besides many pet-friendly hiking trails, there are a lot more traveling experiences for your pet. There is the opportunity to sign up for some dog-suitable tours, which include camping trips, backpacking, and visits to ancient Indian ruins sites. Since the Forest is most well-known for its red rocks, there are also Red Rock Magic Trolley Tours that you can enjoy with your furry companion. For those considering staying in the city, there are many options regarding pet-friendly hotels and restaurants. And while there, don’t miss a visit to Sedona Dog Park, where your pet can enjoy some off-leash fun time.

A dog prepared for traveling

There are many options for fun activities when traveling with your pet.

 

Conclusion

Hopefully, some of these perfect pet-friendly destinations in the US caught your interest. There are many more options you could opt for, but we recommend choosing someplace your pet can enjoy as much as you do. Places that have pet-friendly beaches or mountain hikes with trails suitable for pets might be something that your pet will enjoy the most. However, the most important thing is that they will be with you. And nothing could enrich your traveling experience more than making memories with family members – especially four-legged ones.

 

Related article: Top Dog-friendly Cities

 

Chillwall AI are creators of a superhuman concierge helping visitors to discover new travel experiences without searching.

Author’s info: Alice Myra is a freelance writer with a never-ending wanderlust. Her dog May travels alongside her, and together, they explore beautiful destinations and write memorable stories.

 

 

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