When pet owners plan a trip, they have to look for someone to take care of their pup while they’re away. It’s no fun leaving your pet behind. Fortunately, there are many pet-friendly destinations around the United States that you and your furry friend can explore together. Many cities have restaurants, parks, hotels, outdoor shopping plazas, and hiking trails that are made to be dog-friendly. Here are 5 pet-friendly U.S. vacations for you and your companion to explore.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs gives you the best of both worlds if you’re looking for an outing with your furry friend. You can take your pet to beautiful hiking trails in the morning and end your day exploring the city life in Colorado Springs.

Colorado Springs is located alongside Pike National Forest. This gives you many fantastic hikes to choose from that are suitable for both you and your four-legged friend. Check out Bear Creek Dog Park for acres of land for your dog to run and play. This entire park is off leash, so you can let your dog roam free, use the agility course, or swim in the creek. Make sure to keep you and your pet hydrated with lots of water on your hike.

Although Colorado Springs is the second-most populated city in Colorado, it is a laid back city with a natural feel to it. After a day of hiking you and your pup are sure to be hungry. Head downtown and check out Pub Dog Colorado for tasty food, cold beer, and a fenced off-leash dog area. This dog-friendly pub allows your dog to join in on your indoor dining experience. They have a dog menu that includes puppy patties and bark bowls. They also have a Bowser Dog Beer, a non-alcoholic brew your dog will find refreshing after playing in the fenced-in area.

Lake Tahoe, Nevada

On the border of California and Nevada is Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for adventure lovers, families, and your furry friends. It is known for its crystal blue waters, scenic mountain views, and excellent hiking trails.  

One of the most popular pet-friendly spots in Lake Tahoe is Nevada Beach. Nevada Beach is on the south side of Lake Tahoe where you can play with your dog in the water or on the sand. There are BBQs all around the beach to grill up some lunch and relax with your pet.

Catering to all of the animal lovers, Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is one of the many pet-friendly hotels in the Lake Tahoe area. Hard Rock Hotel is a great option to pamper both yourself and your pet. While you take advantage of the casino and games, Hard Rock Hotel offers a Hair of the Dog full concierge services, such as daycare, overnight care, grooming, companion walks, and pet massages.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina is home to the Blue Ridge Mountains. It makes for the perfect playground for your pet to run around and explore. With miles of excellent hiking trails and waterfalls, you and your pet will be living the dream.

Downtown Asheville offers a ton of pet-friendly activities. On every street you can find local vendors, artisans, and outdoor farmer’s markets to really indulge in the art and history of Asheville. At the end of your shopping day, check out one of the many pet-friendly craft beer breweries such as Wicked Weed Brewing and Hi-Wire Brewing.

Just outside of Downtown Asheville is the Biltmore Estate. The Biltmore is America’s largest home and national historic landmark. Dogs are allowed on the premises and outdoor patios with 8,000 acres to run around and explore. Although your furry friend is not allowed inside, the Biltmore provides complimentary kennels to keep your dog in as you explore the history indoors.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor, Maine is well known for its picturesque coastline, yachts, lobster, and Acadia National Park. National Parks usually bear the reputation as not very pet-friendly. Acadia National Park, however, is an exception. There are over 100 miles of hiking trails that allow you and your pet to explore.

After an adventurous day on the trails, you and your pet can dine at Jordan Pond House restaurant.  Jordan Pond House gives you a panoramic view of the lake and Acadia National Park. It is known as the most pet-friendly restaurant in the country! You and your pet can take in the stunning views, while you indulge in Maine’s famous seafood dishes. There are many restaurants around Bar Harbor that allow dogs to dine with you on their outdoor patios.

Bar Harbor is top-rated for most pet-friendly places to visit. Pets are allowed to ride Bar Harbor’s City Bus with you, or the Island Explorer buses that take you all around downtown and to Acadia National Park. You can spend a day shopping in the downtown shopping district. Most stores allow pets, so you don’t need to leave them home. The fun doesn’t stop there! You can also book a scenic boat tour for a pet-friendly cruise around the harbor.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is a beautiful historic city located on the East Coast. It is full of history, beautiful beaches, tranquil parks, and many unique pet-friendly attractions.

One unique aspect of Charleston is the architecture. You can take a stroll with your pet down King Street, the main street downtown, to capture the beautiful architecture of the elegant old homes. Most of the homes lining King Street date back to the Civil War offering an inside look to life back then.

You can explore Charleston with your furry friend and bring them to the many pet-friendly shops and restaurants downtown. Many restaurants offer an outdoor seating option that allows your pet to enjoy a delicious meal with you and take a break from the beating sun.

Towards the south end of King Street is Waterfront Park. It is a 12-acre park located along the Charles River. Here you can find a fenced off-leash park for your dog to run around and explore. All the while, you can enjoy views of the waterfront with lots of shaded seating areas.

If you are looking to explore the stunning Charleston beaches with your pooch, then Kiawah Beachwalker Park is the spot. This beach is the only public access beach on Kiawah Island that welcomes dogs all year round. You can unwind, relax, and splash around with your pet. Charleston is a top destination for a pet friendly vacation that won’t disappoint.

Plan Your Next Trip!

We hope you have been inspired to make your next trip a pet-friendly one. The United States has many destinations that offer attractions and accommodations for both you and your pet. Make sure to pack up some pet treats and your travel protection. No matter where you are headed, it is important to be protected from the unexpected. Talk to your travel advisor or visit our website to learn more about how our travel protection plans can help you.

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