Let's go! Those two magic words make your pet prance and dance until you click on the leash and head out the door. As you dream about your next getaway with your dog or cat by your side, consider planning a road trip to one of these pet-friendly cities in the U.S.
We've broken down the best travel destinations by region, highlighted what makes each city special for furry companions and shared a few travel tips. Before you pack, consider visiting one of these self-proclaimed pet cities recommended by the animal lovers at the American Kennel Club (AKC) and travel pros at Tripadvisor.
East Coast Pet-Friendly Cities
1. Asbury Park, New Jersey
From the pet's swimming pool at Wonder Bar to dog treats on the menus at local eateries, this town loves pets. Asbury Park is a quick jaunt across the border for New Yorkers and the perfect destination for beach-seekers that crave a classic boardwalk. You'll also find pet resorts to pamper your furry buddies for a few hours while you enjoy a date night on vacation.
2. Charleston, South Carolina
From the front porches of bed and breakfasts to outdoor cafes, you'll see dogs lounging around this laid-back city. You'll also find pets and their pet parents frolicking on the seven pet-welcoming beaches. Some host off-leash hours for pet play dates, including Isle of Palms and Sullivan Island beach. Here are a few tips to prep for a seaside getaway with your dog.
3. Wilmington, North Carolina
Planning an outdoor-focused getaway? Many of the parks, playgrounds and beaches in this historic town welcome pet guests. For cats and dogs that like to stroll on nature trails, join you for lunch at an outdoor eatery or watch the ocean waves, Wilmington might be the perfect destination.
Midwest Pet-Friendly Cities
4. Cleveland, Ohio
If you're craving a big city vacation mixed with nature adventures, play along the banks of Lake Erie in Cleveland. You'll find dog-friendly beaches and plenty of outdoor dining patios that roll out the red carpet for your furry friend. Several city center hotels also welcome pet guests.
5. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Put your pet in a stroller and explore the streets of this city along the Milwaukee River. Plan to eat at one of the many restaurants that welcome companion animals, go for a cruise on the river (yes, pets are allowed on some boat tours!) and be sure to stop and sniff around the city parks.
6. Fort Collins, Colorado
Does your cat love to peer out from a backpack while you hike? Is your hound trail-bound? This mountain town offers varying activity levels of outdoor adventures including ponds for swimming, trails for exploring and fenced dog parks for supervised playtime with other travelers.
West Coast Pet-Friendly Cities
7. Temecula, California
Are you planning a winery tour vacation? Many tasting rooms in the Southern California wine region are pro-pet, allowing your companion to join you while you sample the wines. Same for many of the region's restaurants with outdoor seating. Check with the establishment before you load your dog or your cat into the car to see if they have any pet-related fundraisers or events on their calendars.
8. San Francisco, California
If you're off to the Bay area, a stop at Golden Gate Park will delight both you and your pup with four off-leash dog areas to choose from. Don't forget those stunning views of the bridge for that must-have Instagram selfie with your pet! As you maneuver around the city, know that cable cars are pet-friendly and several cafe patios allow pet diners to join you for a bite to eat. Here's a list of things to do in San Francisco when you visit.
Tasty Tips
9. Las Vegas, Nevada
The City of Lights loves four-legged friends! The opulent hotels aren't just for you: Many of them also cater to cats and dogs. Expect to see menus filled with pet meals and treats for in-room dining, dog recreation areas including obstacle courses, dog-friendly pools and even dog beds in the hotel rooms. When booking your stay, ask the concierge about their pet accommodations.
Northern Pet-Friendly Cities
10. Seattle, Washington
This dog-friendly city loves visiting pups. It's not uncommon to see water bowls and doggie treat stations in hotel lobbies. And, many of the restaurants with outdoor seating encourage visitors to bring their canine companions along for the meal. Dog-loving cats are welcome too!
11. Lake Placid, New York
Headed to the mountains? This city is nestled in the Adirondacks and offers plenty of lake swimming options for canine companions and mountain views for adventuresome feline hiking partners. Many hotels in the area welcome pets as well.
12. Portland, Oregon
The Pacific Northwest is known for being filled with pet-loving folks. When you visit Portland, get a taste of the area's natural beauty at the off-leash dog park at Sellwood Riverfront Park overlooking the Willamette River. The weekend outdoor market, cafes and local hotels also welcome furry guests.
Southern Pet-Friendly Cities
13. Austin, Texas
From food trucks to restaurants, you'll see treats for your canine and feline companions on the menu more often than not. If your vacation goals include snapping a selfie with both you and your pup indulging in gourmet bakery treats, your dream can come true in Austin. Don't forget to plan a run at one of the many dog parks around the city, too!
14. Scottsdale, Arizona
As you soak in the sun of the South, your pet can too. Many of the cafes and restaurants offer outdoor dining patios where dogs are welcome to relax with their family. If you're planning some shopping, be prepared to see pet boutiques that cater to small dog breeds, a popular love among pet parents in this part of Arizona.
15. Tampa, Florida
Sun, sun, sun! If your vacation plans include strolling open-air malls and taking in the beautiful weather, visit Tampa. Dogs and cats are welcomed with fresh water bowls and tasty treats from shop owners, and they're encouraged to make use of the many off-leash dog parks and beaches.
Whether you're undertaking a cross-country trek or exploring a city just a quick jaunt away, be sure to make stops where pets are treated like royalty. From off-leash parks to restaurants with snack menus for our four-legged buddies, you'll enjoy the getaway to one of these pet cities. Safe travels to you and your family!
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Beef Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Beef recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Can Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Healthy Cuisine Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Salmon, Whole Oats, and Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Canned Cat Food Variety Pack, Vegetable & Chicken and Liver & Chicken
Feline Adult Perfect Weight Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Vegetable & Turkey Medley Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Beef & Zucchini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Indoor Chicken Recipe
Healthy digestion for easy litter box clean-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports energy level & beautiful fur. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Salmon Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced salmon to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice cat food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports controlled bone & joint growth. Promotes healthy brain, eye, muscle & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs, who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Low calorie formula with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to help promote an ideal body weight
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Beef Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of gourmet savory beef to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Related articles
Why Are Dogs and Cats So Cute?
If waggy puppy dog tails and furry kitten yawns make you swoon, you're not alone. Why are cats so cute? And, dogs too! Let's find out!
Pet Food Sharing: Can Cats Eat Dog Food? (& Vice Versa?)
Learn whether it's safe for cats and dogs to eat each other's food, nutritional concerns to be aware of, and how to discourage this behavior.
Pet Food Labels Provide Limited Nutritional Information
Pet food labels only give you a fraction of the nutritional info you need to know when choosing a pet food. Learn what other factors should you consider.
Compare Your Pet Food's Calories to Other Brands
Compare Hill's Science Diet dog and cat food's calories against other pet food brands and AAFCO recommended maximum calorie count.
What do animal shelters do?
An animal shelter near you takes in homeless animals. Learn how it shows animals in shelters aren't there for behavioral or medical problems, and many make healthy pets in loving homes.
Giving Pets as Gifts: How to Do So Responsibly
Is giving someone a pet a good idea? It may seem like a wonderful idea, but important factors to consider and some tips for doing it the right way.
What Cleaning Products Are Safe for Pets?
Learn which cleaning product ingredients can be hazardous for dogs & cats, which alternatives are safer and tips for using cleaning products around pets.
TAILS of Aging in Older Pets
Learn the five key criteria for observing aging in your pet, including thinking, activity, interaction, loss of control and sleep cycles.
How to Help Pets After A Natural Disaster
Whether a storm hits or your pet becomes injured or sick, learn how to be ready with a well-stocked first-aid pet emergency kit.
Bonded Pair Cats and Dogs Can Be Double the Fun
Learn about the special relationship between bonded pairs of cats & dogs and why it's a great idea to adopt both of them together.
How to Care for Terminally Ill Pets
Terminal illness is one of the toughest things pet parents face. Learn how to handle caring for a terminally ill pet with end of life care.
What to Do for a Dog or Cat Tail Injury
Worried if your cat or dog has a broken tail? Learn if it's actually possible for your pet to break their tail and what to do if you suspect an injury.
Understanding Shedding Season for Cats and Dogs
Learn all about dog & cat shedding seasons, including what a typical shedding cycle looks like and how to deal with all the hair in your home.
Expectations for Visiting an Animal Shelter
If you're considering a pet shelter adoption, you may have a lot of questions. Learn how to prepare for your visit.
Does My Pet Hate Me?
Learn tips for bonding with your pet if you've ever thought, 'My dog doesn't like me, or 'Why do I have a standoffish cat?'
Flea and Tick Medication: Oral vs. Topical Treatments
Learn the difference between oral vs. topical flea and tick medications so that you can decide which one might be most effective for your dog or cat.
Antioxidants
Understand the importance of antioxidants in your dog or cat's food, and how they can help protect your pet and keep them healthy.
Cat and Dog Food for Skin and Coat Health | Hill's Pet
Learn nutrition's role in your pet's skin and coat health, as well as tips for choosing the best dog or cat food for a healthy coat.
How Pets Help Ease the Transition to an Empty Nest
If you're struggling with the future of an empty nest as your kids go to college or move away, pets can help ease that transition.
Cat vs. Dog: Which Is the Best Pet for Me?
Learn about important differences between dogs and cats, such as cost & space considerations. These factors can help you decide which pet is best for you.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.