Travel Simplified for You and Your Pet
Pet-friendly travel destinations are on the rise as more and more destinations become pet-friendly and provide memorable escapes for owners and pets alike. No matter if you have a dog, cat, or other furry friend, finding pet-friendly travel destinations is paramount when it comes to making sure everyone has fun on your trip. Here are the Best Pet-Friendly Vacation Spots in 2025, with amenities, activities, and tips for a seamless experience.
Where To Travel With Pets?
There are many benefits of traveling to pet-friendly travel destinations. It allows you to:
- Bonding Time: With all that means discovering new places together, creating another shared activity.
- Don’t Stress About Separation: You and your pet can avoid separation anxiety.
- Take Unique Opportunities: Some pet-friendly travel destinations offer unique experiences: we are talking about dog beaches or pet-friendly hiking trails.
This will help keep your pet relaxed and content during your travel experience as you explore the world. Credited pet-friendly travel destinations also provide a sense of inclusivity and often offer incentives specifically for your furry friends.
2025 Top Pet-Friendly Vacation Spots
Asheville, North Carolina
A blend of outdoorsy beauty and urban vibrance makes Asheville a paradise for pet owners. The Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning views and dog-friendly hiking trails. Many trails, such as the Craven Gap Trail and the Mount Pisgah Trail, welcome four-legged visitors, so long as they’re leashed. Dozens of pet-friendly cafes, breweries, and boutique stores in downtown Asheville will roll out the welcome mat, with water bowls and treats for your four-legged companions. For overnight stays, there are plenty of pet-friendly travel destinations in the area, many equipped with pet beds, bowls, and even spa services.
Sedona, Arizona
Well-known for its red-rock scenery, Sedona promises a peaceful getaway for you and your pet. Trails such as Bell Rock Pathway and Boynton Canyon are great for hiking with leashed pets and offer stunning scenery and great opportunities for outdoor adventures. Many area resorts are pet-friendly travel destinations, with dog parks, pet-friendly pools, and grooming services. Sedona’s outdoor dining scene means your pet can join you at meals, with more than a few restaurants offering pet menus or shaded patios.
Austin, Texas
Austin offers engaging city life but plenty of room for your pet to roam. Zilker Metropolitan Park is ideal for picnics and playtime, and Red Bud Isle is a doggie off-leash paradise. The city’s thriving food truck scene often has pet-friendly options, and most breweries allow dogs on their patios. Accommodations in Austin include everything from boutique hotels to pet-friendly Airbnbs, many offering extras like pet beds, bowls, and welcome kits filled with treats. Austin has regular dog-friendly festivals and outdoor movie nights, making it one of the top pet-friendly travel destinations.
Portland, Oregon
Portland’s pet-friendly culture ranks it among the top pet-friendly travel destinations for pet travelers. There are more than 30 dog parks in the city, including the expansive Sellwood Riverfront Park, meaning there is plenty of green space for your pet to run around. Portland is also home to pet-friendly events like the Oregon Humane Society’s Doggie Dash and outdoor yoga with pets. Accommodations range from quaint inns to swanky, pet-friendly hotels. Several restaurants have dog-friendly patios, and some serve doggy menus, making your furry friend feel right at home.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe combines outdoor adventure with relaxation. In the summer, sandy beaches such as Kiva Beach and Zephyr Cove welcome dogs to splash in the water and roam the sand. Winter sports include pet-friendly snowshoeing on trails like the Echo Lake Trail. The lodges and cabins in the area often feature pet-friendly amenities like fenced-in yards, dog washing stations, and fireplaces to make you and your pet warm and cozy after a long day of adventures at one of the best pet-friendly travel destinations.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a bit of southern charm with a touch of pet-friendliness. The city’s historic district welcomes leashed pets on walking tours, and Waterfront Park features scenic views and ample space for a leisurely walk. Resort beaches nearby, including Folly Beach and Isle of Palms, have designated hours in which dogs can roam freely. Many of Charleston’s boutique hotels and vacation rentals are pet-friendly travel destinations, with treats, pet beds, and pet-sitting services.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is also a gateway to striking Acadia National Park, where many trails and carriage roads are open to leashed pets. Pet-friendly policies at the park have made it a favorite among nature lovers on the road with animals. Dog-friendly restaurants, boat tours, and shops in Bar Harbor itself promise to include your pet in the fun. Cozy cabins, inns, and hotels that cater to pets have waste stations and space for designated animal play, making Bar Harbor a top pet-friendly travel destination.
Tips for Traveling with Pets
During your preparations for traveling with your pets, ensure their safety and comfort as well. Do your homework: Look for places to stay and things to do at your destination that cater to pets. Confirm pet fees, weight limits, and other rules when you make a reservation. Many hotels and rentals offer amenities like pet beds, bowls, and treats, but you should always verify the features in advance. Bring the essentials (food, water, leashes, toys, first-aid kit for your pet, etc.).
If you’re driving, also secure your pet in a crate or safety harness to minimize distractions. For long drives, regular exercise and bathroom breaks are mandatory. Review airlines’ rules for flying with pets on the plane. For larger animals, the cargo hold is where pets travel. Ensure your pet’s carrier complies with airline requirements, offers adequate ventilation, and provides comfort.
Maintaining your pet’s routine helps them feel comfortable while adjusting to their new environment. Stick to feeding times and ensure plenty of exercise. Familiar items, like a favorite blanket or toy, can be comforting and reduce anxiety. Carry your pet’s health records, especially proof of vaccinations, because some places will ask for them. By planning ahead and anticipating your pet’s needs, you can have a hassle-free and enjoyable holiday at the best pet-friendly travel destinations.
Pet-Friendly Vacation Spots: FAQs
What should I consider in a pet-friendly destination? Seek places that offer pet-friendly lodgings, activities, and amenities. Read reviews and policies to make sure your pet will be welcomed and comfortable.
Do you charge additional costs for pet travel? Many hotels and airlines charge premiums for pets. Always check for these charges when you book to avoid surprises.
How do I keep my pet safe while traveling? Use secure carriers or harnesses, travel with a pet first-aid kit, and ensure that you have updated identification tags. Make sure your pet is microchipped for extra security.
What types of pet-friendly pursuits should you search for? Seek out activities like dog beaches, pet-friendly hiking trails, and outdoor dining venues that welcome pets. Many cities host pet-centric events.
Do exotic pets have places to travel? Policies for exotic animals differ. Research local regulations and accommodations well in advance to ensure your pet can be accommodated.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your pet-friendly adventure today!
A comprehensive look at the Best Pet-Friendly Vacation Spots in 2025: From the trails of Sedona to the streets of Austin to the beaches of Bar Harbor, traveling with your pet can be some of the most memorable experiences you’ll have. Research destinations, book pet-friendly travel destinations, and get ready for a seamless journey. Start planning your next adventure today! Armed with the right preparation, you and your pet are ready for the trip of a lifetime. So go ahead and make 2025 the year of pet-friendly travel destinations.