Planning your next adventure and want to bring your pup along? You’re not alone. More pet parents are traveling with their four-legged friends than ever before, and the U.S. is full of incredible dog-friendly vacation destinations where tails wag as much as you do.

We’ve personally explored 11 of the 15 cities on this list, and the remaining four are high on our must-visit list. Whether you’re into sandy beaches, mountain hikes, cozy towns, or urban adventures, these cities offer the best vacations for you and dog where activities are endless.

Dog-Friendly Getaways from Coast to Coast

Here’s a roundup of the best dog-friendly vacations across the U.S., packed with charming trails, pet-welcoming restaurants, and unforgettable experiences.

1. San Francisco, California

San Francisco is a vibrant, eclectic city where iconic landmarks meet a laid-back, pet-friendly culture. The city’s blend of natural beauty and cosmopolitan flair means you can go from a forested trail to a stylish sidewalk café all in the same afternoon.

With more than 30 dog-friendly trails, beaches, and parks, there’s no shortage of places for pups to play. Highlights include off-leash adventures at Crissy Field and Fort Funston, leash-friendly hikes at Lands End, and sandy strolls along Baker Beach with unbeatable views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Golden Gate Park offers over 1,000 acres of green space with dog play areas, while the surrounding neighborhoods are just as inviting.

Explore dog-friendly spots in the Presidio, Marina, Inner Sunset, Cow Hollow, and Hayes Valley—our personal favorites for their laid-back vibes, great dining, and scenic walks. Grab brunch on a pet-friendly patio, browse local shops, or unwind at one of many parks that welcome canine companions.

Visit from September to November or March to May for mild weather and fewer crowds. Plan for a 3–4 day stay, and check out our San Francisco Weekend Guide and San Francisco Hotel Guide on Hello Ruby Doodle for all the dog-friendly details.

2. San Diego, California

Sun, surf, and smiles await in San Diego—consistently ranked among the best dog-friendly vacation destinations. With more than a dozen off-leash beaches and dog parks, including Dog Beach in Ocean Beach and Fiesta Island, pups have plenty of room to roam.

You and your dog can hike Cowles Mountain or stroll through Balboa Park, which features beautiful gardens and wide, pet-friendly paths. The city’s neighborhoods, like North Park and La Jolla, are full of dog-friendly cafes and breweries. Take a leisurely walk through Liberty Station, a repurposed naval base turned cultural district with open spaces and dog-friendly patios. San Diego also offers dog kayaking and paddleboarding in Mission Bay, and dog-friendly harbor cruises for a unique view of the city skyline.

Visit from March to June or September to November for sunny skies and fewer crowds. Plan for at least 3–5 days to make the most of this coastal paradise and visit our Dog-friendly San Diego Guide for help building your itinerary.

3. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

This storybook town is one of the most dog-loving places in the country. Dogs are welcome nearly everywhere—from restaurants and shops to beaches and galleries. Explore off-leash fun at Carmel Beach, stroll the fairytale-like streets of downtown, and enjoy a wine tasting with your pup by your side. Take a drive (or bike) along 17-Mile Drive for stunning views, or head to nearby Carmel Meadows for a coastal hike.

The neighboring towns of Pacific Grove and Monterey also welcome pups with oceanfront trails like the Recreation Trail and pet-friendly dining. Visit the Carmel Mission Trail Park for a scenic and quiet local favorite. The area is also home to dog-welcoming art galleries and boutique shops that often leave out water bowls and treats.

Late spring and early fall are ideal times to visit for mild weather and fewer crowds. With its small size, 2–3 days is the perfect amount of time to soak up Carmel’s charm and the surrounding area. Build your itinerary with our Dog-friendly Carmel Guide or if you’re short on time use our one-day Carmel itinerary.

4. Palm Springs, California

A desert oasis with mid-century flair and tons of dog-friendly options. Take a stroll through the stylish Uptown Design District or enjoy outdoor brunch with your pup at a retro-inspired café. Nearby day trips to Joshua Tree National Park and Idyllwild (a mountain escape) offer more room to roam. Grab a cold brew and relax at Koffi, a popular coffee shop with dog-friendly patios, or browse local shops on Palm Canyon Drive. The Coachella Valley area also features Whitewater Preserve, a lesser-known spot with shaded hiking trails and dog-friendly polo matches at Eldorado Polo Club. Palm Springs also hosts pet events like Yappy Hours and dog parades throughout the year.

Winter and Spring are ideal for visiting before the summer heat sets in. Stay for 2–4 days for the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation or extend a 1-2 days if you plan to day trip out to the desert. Plan your itinerary using our Dog-frienldy Guide to Palm Springs.

5. Mendocino, California

Craggy coastlines, redwoods, and Victorian charm—Mendocino is perfect for nature-loving pups. Take your dog on a scenic walk through Mendocino Headlands State Park, splash around at Big River Beach, or explore the quiet paths of Russian Gulch. The vibe here is artsy, coastal, and calm—ideal for slowing down and soaking up nature.

Outside of town, don’t miss a trip on the Skunk Train, where dogs are welcome aboard for a ride through redwood forests. Explore Van Damme State Park, Noyo Beach, or head to Glass Beach in nearby Fort Bragg. Local businesses in the village are incredibly dog-welcoming, and many galleries allow pups inside. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens also allow leashed dogs and provide a peaceful setting filled with blooms and ocean views.

Visit from April to October for the best weather. A 2–3 day visit is ideal for this remote gem and we have an extensive dog-friendly guide for everything to do in and around Mendocino, CA.

6. Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara’s coastal charm and welcoming culture make it a top pick for pet-friendly travel. Let your pup run free at Hendry’s Beach, then explore bluff-top trails at the Douglas Family Preserve. Downtown, you’ll find plenty of outdoor patios, boutique shops, and even pet-friendly wine tasting rooms in the Funk Zone.

Day trips to Los Olivos or the Santa Ynez Valley make for wine country adventures with your pup in tow. Don’t miss a stroll down State Street, where many shops offer water bowls and treats for dogs. Hike to Inspiration Point or take a peaceful walk through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, where leashed pups are allowed. Santa Barbara also hosts pet-friendly events like dog Halloween parades and outdoor movie nights.

Spring and fall are especially lovely in Santa Barbara, and we recommend 3–4 days to enjoy the area at a relaxed pace and hit many of the activites in our dog-friendly guide.

7. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe offers year-round adventure for dogs and their owners. In summer, paddleboard with your pup on the lake or explore alpine trails like Eagle Lake, Cascade Falls, and Tahoe Rim Trail. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing with your dog are popular activities. The region has plenty of dog-friendly beaches like Kiva Beach and Zephyr Cove, and charming mountain towns like Truckee and South Lake Tahoe to explore. Check out dog-friendly breweries like South Lake Brewing Company or enjoy lakeside dining at Jimmy’s at The Landing. The fall foliage along Taylor Creek is a hidden gem for leaf peeping with your pup. You can also visit Desolation Wilderness for high alpine adventures or catch the gondola at Palisades.

Spend 3–5 days enjoying both adventure and relaxation. Check our extensive Guide to Lake Tahoe for dog-friendly activities by season.

8. Austin, Texas

Live music, lakeside walks, and Southern hospitality make Austin a tail-wagging destination for dog lovers. With more than 15 off-leash parks and greenbelts, including the popular Red Bud Isle and Auditorium Shores, dogs have plenty of space to roam and splash. You and your pup can hike the Barton Creek Greenbelt, paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake, or explore Zilker Park, all while taking in Austin’s signature skyline. The city’s neighborhoods—like South Congress, East Austin, and Clarksville—are packed with dog-friendly patios, food trucks, and coffee shops.

Don’t miss the city’s quirky side, from mural photo ops to live music in outdoor venues where dogs are welcome. After a day of exploring, unwind with your pup at one of Austin’s many breweries or ice cream spots that serve doggie treats.

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather, with festivals and outdoor events in full swing. Plan for a 3–5 day trip with the help of our dog-friendly guide, and get ready to experience why Austin is known for keeping it weird—and wonderfully dog-friendly.

9. Littleton, New Hampshire

Littleton, New Hampshire, may be small, but it’s an incredibly dog-friendly place surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Situated along the scenic Ammonoosuc River, the town is perfect for nature-loving pups who enjoy hiking and outdoor exploration. Just outside of town, White Mountain National Forest offers incredible trails, including the Franconia Ridge Loop and the Crawford Path, both of which allow leashed dogs. In the town itself, enjoy a stroll along the Littleton Covered Bridge or stop by the dog-friendly patios at local restaurants. Littleton’s quaint atmosphere is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, offering a slower pace and a true small-town feel.

Summer and fall are ideal for visiting, when the weather is mild and the foliage is stunning. A 2–3 day stay gives you enough time to relax and soak in the area’s natural beauty and it’s also quite easy to hit some Northern Vermont attractions like Dog Mountain.

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10. Denver, Colorado

Denver is an exciting and pet-friendly urban destination that offers a variety of dog-friendly activities. Take your pup on a walk through City Park, where you can also enjoy the views of downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains. For hiking, explore Chautauqua Park in nearby Boulder, with numerous trails for dogs to join you on, or hike Mount Falcon for a dog-friendly adventure. Denver also boasts some fantastic dog-friendly breweries like The Dog Haus and Denver Beer Co., both of which welcome pups with open patios.

Denver’s dog culture is alive with annual events like the Bark in the Park and dog-friendly festivals, making it a fun place to vacation with your pup.

The best time to visit is in the summer or fall, with pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities. You’ll want at least 3–4 days in Denver to truly experience its outdoor offerings and urban charm.

11. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a desert paradise with breathtaking red rock landscapes that truly never get old. This stunning area is known for its pet-friendly hikes such as Devil’s Bridge Trail and Bell Rock, both of which allow dogs on leashes. The pet-friendly town is dotted with outdoor cafes, wineries, and boutiques that welcome dogs with water bowls and dog treats.

Sedona’s peaceful atmosphere is also perfect for a relaxing vacation, with pet-friendly accommodations offering spectacular views of the surrounding red rock formations. For a unique experience, you can explore Slide Rock State Park, where dogs are allowed on-leash in many areas.

Visit in the spring or fall for the most pleasant temperatures, as summer can get quite hot. Plan your 2–3 day visit with our Dog-friendly Guide to Sedona and enjoy its breathtaking natural beauty and quiet charm.

12. Whitefish, Montana

Nestled in the shadow of Glacier National Park, Whitefish, Montana, is a hidden gem for dog owners looking to explore the great outdoors. The area offers a variety of pet-friendly activities, from hiking the Whitefish Mountain Resort Trails to exploring Whitefish Lake with your pup. Head to Glacier National Park, where certain trails and areas are dog-friendly, such as the Apgar Campground and the Flathead National Forest.

The town itself is full of dog-friendly shops and cafes, with local businesses eager to welcome furry friends. If you and your dog love the outdoors, Whitefish is a haven for mountain hikes, lake activities, and wildlife watching.

Visit during the summer or early fall for the best weather. A 3–4 day stay will give you plenty of time to explore the area’s natural wonders. Plan your itinerary for Whitefish and beyond with our Dog-friendly Montana Guide.

13. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, known for its Southern charm and hospitality, is a wonderfully dog-friendly destination. Your pup will love exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic downtown area, where you can visit dog-friendly parks like White Point Garden and Waterfront Park. Charleston is also home to several pet-friendly beaches, including Folly Beach, where dogs are welcome to play off-leash.

Explore the city’s many dog-friendly patios for a meal, or take a stroll through the Charleston City Market, where you can shop for local goods while your dog is by your side. Charleston is known for its warm hospitality and has a rich history that will make your vacation even more memorable.

Spring and fall are the best times to visit for mild weather and a more relaxed atmosphere. Plan for 3–4 days to take in the local history, beaches, and pet-friendly experiences.

14. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a quirky, artsy town that embraces its dog-friendly culture with open arms. With plenty of outdoor trails, including those in Pisgah National Forest and Blue Ridge Parkway, your dog will have endless opportunities to explore the scenic Appalachian Mountains. Downtown Asheville is full of dog-friendly shops, cafes, and breweries, many of which have pet-friendly patios.

Don’t miss the chance to visit Biltmore Estate, where leashed dogs are welcome in certain outdoor areas, offering a unique way to experience this historic landmark. The city also hosts numerous pet-friendly events throughout the year, such as the Asheville Dogwood Festival.

Spring and fall are ideal for visiting when the temperatures are mild and the local flora is in full bloom. A 2–3 day stay in Asheville is perfect for exploring the great outdoors and soaking up the artistic vibes of this unique city.

15. Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor, located on the stunning Mount Desert Island, is a must-visit destination for outdoor-loving pups. This charming town offers easy access to Acadia National Park, where leashed dogs are welcome on most trails and carriage roads. Take your pup to Sand Beach or Echo Lake Beach, which are both dog-friendly during the off-season.

Bar Harbor’s quaint downtown area is full of dog-friendly shops, cafes, and restaurants with outdoor seating, making it the perfect spot for relaxing with your furry friend. The surrounding areas are also full of scenic views, from coastal cliffs to lush forests, all waiting to be explored.

Summer and fall are the best times to visit for comfortable temperatures and stunning natural beauty. A 3–4 day stay will allow you to enjoy both the town and the surrounding parkland.