When you hit the road for vacation, there’s absolutely no reason to leave your best friend behind. Just choose a destination where dogs are very welcome. Embark on an unforgettable journey with your furry companion as the USA Today Blueprint unveils the top 10 dog-friendly vacation destinations across the USA.
Whether you want a West Coast adventure, a Florida beach break or a Rocky Mountains getaway, there’s a place for you and your pup.
These locations also provide a variety of climates, spanning from the semi-arid environment of Flagstaff, Arizona, to Denver’s yearly average of 300 sunny days.
Top 10 dog-friendly vacation destinations
- Flagstaff, Arizona
Nestled at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet, Flagstaff boasts a four-season climate and enjoys over 260 days of sunshine annually. Based on available data, Flagstaff offers:
- Nearly 56 dog-friendly accommodation options per 100,000 residents, showcasing the highest concentration of pet-welcoming accommodations.
- Approximately 132 dog-friendly trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration.
- Around 39 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents, ensuring a diverse culinary experience for both you and your furry companion.
- San Luis Obispo, California
Renowned as the “Happiest Town in the USA” since Oprah’s endorsement in 2008, San Luis Obispo, fondly called SLO by locals, resides conveniently between Los Angeles and San Francisco. This quirky town, credited as the birthplace of motels, offers a myriad of outdoor adventures along with:
- The highest concentration of vet offices in our analysis, with nearly 700 per 100,000 businesses.
- Nine local beaches within 50 miles, providing ample waterfront opportunities for you and your furry friend.
- 32 dog-friendly accommodations per 100,000 residents, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your pet.
- Santa Barbara, California
Basking in a Mediterranean climate with temperatures averaging between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, Santa Barbara lies just 92 miles north of Los Angeles, offering a quick escape for SoCal residents accompanied by their furry companions. Visitors to Santa Barbara can avail themselves of:
- Nearly 29 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents, catering to culinary preferences of both humans and dogs alike.
- Around 19 dog-friendly accommodation options per 100,000 residents, ensuring a cozy retreat for you and your pet.
- 57 trails accommodating canine companions, inviting exploration and adventure amidst the picturesque landscape.
- Austin, Texas
With a population nearing one million and an annual average of 300 sunny days, Austin, the capital of Texas, boasts a vibrant atmosphere teeming with activities, dining options, and recreational opportunities, including the renowned SXSW festival. A trip to this Texan hotspot offers:
- Approximately 21 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents, allowing you and your furry friend to savor a variety of cuisines.
- Approximately 562 vet offices per 100,000 businesses, ensuring prompt medical attention if your dog requires care during your getaway.
- An abundance of 94 dog-friendly trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration.
- Portland, Oregon
As Oregon’s largest city, Portland often enjoys a warm-summer Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and their furry companions. Visitors to Portland can enjoy:
- An impressive 171 dog-friendly trails, offering abundant opportunities for hiking and exploration amidst scenic landscapes.
- Approximately 18 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents, catering to diverse culinary preferences of both humans and dogs.
- Around 541 vet offices per 100,000 businesses, ensuring easy access to veterinary care for your pet’s health needs.
- 6. San Diego, California
Blessed with mild weather and abundant outdoor activities, San Diego provides an ideal setting for you and your dog to enjoy. This city offers decent dog-friendly amenities, including:
- Approximately 21 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents, ensuring plenty of dining options for you and your furry companion.
- A network of 102 dog-friendly trails, perfect for hiking enthusiasts seeking scenic adventures.
- Access to 10 dog-friendly beaches within a 50-mile radius, providing ample opportunities for coastal fun and relaxation.
- Naples, Florida
As one of the top-scoring cities for dog-friendly dining, Naples boasts a plethora of outdoor activities and warm weather, making it a delightful destination for pet owners. This Gulf Coast city offers:
- A ranking as the second-highest city for the number of restaurants welcoming dogs, ensuring dining experiences cater to both humans and their furry friends.
- Approximately 27 pet-friendly accommodations per 100,000 residents, providing comfortable stays for you and your pet.
- 13 dog-friendly trails available for exploration, along with eight dog-friendly beaches within a 50-mile radius, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
- Nashville, Tennessee
Renowned for its rich musical heritage, Nashville has evolved into a diverse city offering numerous activities and a pet-friendly culture. Visitors to Music City can enjoy:
- 18 walking trails where furry companions are welcome to accompany their owners on outdoor adventures.
- Nearly 14 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents, reflecting the city’s culinary diversity and pet-welcoming atmosphere.
- A substantial number of 612 veterinary offices per 100,000 businesses, ensuring prompt medical care for pets in need.
- Denver, Colorado
Frequently dubbed the Mile High City due to its elevation, Denver boasts a highly walkable downtown and numerous activities suitable for pet owners. Travelers to Denver can expect:
- Access to 55 dog-friendly trails nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, providing ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.
- Approximately nine dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents, catering to diverse culinary preferences.
- Around nine dog-friendly accommodations per 100,000 residents, ensuring comfortable stays for both humans and their pets.
- Key West, Florida
Despite being an island, Key West is well-connected to mainland Florida via 42 bridges and boasts numerous dog-friendly bars and restaurants. Here’s what to expect on your island adventure:
- Approximately 17 dog-friendly bars per 100,000 residents, making it an ideal destination for enjoying a refreshing vacation drink with your furry companion.
- Nearly 122 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 residents, earning Key West the top spot for dog-friendly dining among the cities analyzed.
- Only two dog-friendly trails, indicating a focus on coastal activities rather than inland hiking opportunities.
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