One of life’s most special, memorable trips is a road trip with your fur baby. Having them curled up in the back seat, nose to the window, as the world whizzes by. Some places claim to be dog-friendly but are more exclusive than an elite members’ club. To save you a bit of effort, we’ve put together a collection of some of the most pet-friendly road trip destination spots across the U.S. These locations don’t just allow dogs—they bend over backward to make them feel at home.
Pet-Friendly Road Trip Destinations – Scenic Countryside Getaways and Outdoor Activities
Rolling hills, charming small towns, and open space galoreb-bthat’s a perfect melding for an ideal road trip with your furry friend. The Blue Ridge Mountains offer miles of gorgeous trails where your dog can roam free. Start with a hike on the Appalachian Trail, where certain sections are perfect for exploration with your dog. Then head to The Dogwood in Asheville, a pet-friendly eatery with outdoor tables and treats for your pup.
California Coast – Beach Days and Relaxed Vibes
Much of its coastline is made up of dog-friendly beaches year-round, including Carmel Beach and Huntington Dog Beach, where your dog can be off-leash and chase waves.
For a casual dinner, The Deck in Laguna Beach offers ocean-view dining with a pet-friendly patio. And if you need to stay overnight, The Cypress Inn in Carmel—co-owned by the legendary dog lover Doris Day—welcomes animals with open arms, cozy dog beds, and even a special dog menu.
Pet-Friendly Road Trip Destinations – Rocky Mountains
Lakeside walks and hiking trails in the Rocky Mountains are a paradise for dogs that love the outdoors. Whether it’s a casual walk around Bear Lake in Colorado or a more challenging hike up Mount Elbert, there’s something for every energy level. Some of the region’s breweries and cafes welcome dogs, with fresh water and even dog treats on offer.
One cool place is The Dog House Bar in Denver, which offers a cozy atmosphere for humans and dogs alike. And if you’re staying overnight, The Little Nell in Aspen offers high-end, pet-friendly accommodations, with pet menus and walking services on offer.
New England – Coastal Charm and Historic Walks
New England’s mix of charming towns and rugged coastline makes it perfect for dog-friendly travel. Cape Cod, for example, has numerous dog-friendly beaches, including Herring Cove Beach, where your dog can play in the waves.
For a nice dinner, head to The Barking Crab in Boston, where canines are welcomed onto the outdoor patio with water bowls and plenty of shade. For a charming inn, The Inn by the Sea in Maine offers pet-friendly accommodations, dog walking, and easy access to picturesque seaside trails.
Pet-Friendly Road Trip Destinations – Dog-Friendly RV Parks
If you’d rather take your home with you, dog-friendly RV parks are a great option. Parks like North Carolina’s Four Paws Kingdom and Florida’s Sun Outdoors offer wide open spaces, off-leash dog parks, and trails perfect for long walks. It’s the best of both worlds, where you can relax and stay in style with room to roam and a cozy home base in the evenings.
Stress-Free Adventures for You and Your Dog
A little planning goes a long way to a hassle-free journey. Research pet policies in advance, pack the necessities like water, treats, and a comfortable bed, and always keep a towel handy for those inevitable muddy situations. With so many dog-friendly spots across the U.S., there’s no need to leave your four-legged companion behind. After all, the best road trips are the ones where the entire family—four-legged members included—can come along for the ride.