Read All About It -
PAWS ON PLANES INC. BLOG!
Top 7 U.S. Cities to Visit with Your Dog
March 18th, 2025 * By Alison Ruggio
Dog-Friendly Travel Guide: Top 7 U.S. Cities to Visit with Your Dog
Traveling with your dog can be a seamless and rewarding experience when you choose destinations that truly welcome four-legged companions. With a bit of planning, you and your dog can explore some of the most pet-friendly cities in the U.S. Here’s a guide to help you plan your next adventure, complete with must-visit parks, pet-friendly restaurants, and accommodations.
1. San Diego, California
Sunny skies and a relaxed coastal vibe make San Diego a top destination for pets and their owners. Luciano and I spend 4–5 months out of the year in San Diego, and every day is non-stop fun between the dog beaches, dog parks, and pet-friendly bars and restaurants.
Places to Visit:
- Coronado Dog Beach: A leash-free area on the western shore of Coronado, CA. It’s our favorite dog beach, with parking along Ocean Boulevard and a dog washing station to rinse off the sand.
- Balboa Park: Explore its cultural attractions, scenic paths, and off-leash areas like Grape Street Dog Park, a 5-acre space surrounded by eucalyptus trees. After a walk, grab a drink at Panama 66.
- Fiesta Island: A paradise for dogs, with open spaces for off-leash play and water access for swimming. We prefer going during the week at lunch to avoid crowds.
Dining:
- Ballast Point (Little Italy): A pet-friendly brewery with a large patio.
- Quartyard (East Village): An urban park and event venue with food, drinks, and live music.
- Casa de Freds Tacos y Tequila (Old Town): Enjoy vibrant decor and a doggie menu that includes burger patties, scrambled eggs, and carne asada.
- Viewpoint Brewing Company (Del Mar): Offers craft beer with scenic views and a dog-friendly patio.
Accommodations:
- San Diego Mission Bay Resort: Pet-friendly with special events like "Pupapalooza."
- The Kimpton Alma: No extra pet fees, plus beds, bowls, and treats for your pup.
2. Portland, Oregon
Portland’s lush green spaces and vibrant culture make it a haven for pets.
Places to Visit:
- Forest Park: One of the largest urban forests in the U.S., with over 70 miles of trails.
- Sellwood Riverfront Park: Features an off-leash area and river access for water-loving dogs.
Dining:
- Tin Shed Garden Café: A dog-friendly eatery with a special pup menu.
- Lucky Labrador Brewing Company: A dog-themed brewery with outdoor seating.
Accommodations:
- Hotel Rose: A boutique hotel with pet-friendly amenities.
- The Duniway: Offers pet-friendly rooms and a central downtown location.
3. Austin, Texas
Austin’s outdoor lifestyle and vibrant culture make it perfect for pet lovers.
Places to Visit:
- Red Bud Isle: An off-leash park on a peninsula in Lady Bird Lake.
- Barton Creek Greenbelt: Offers trails and swimming spots for leashed dogs.
Dining:
- Yard Bar: A combination dog park and bar.
- Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden: Features a dog-friendly patio and special sausage treats for dogs.
Accommodations:
- Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt: No extra fees and plenty of pet amenities.
- The Driskill: A historic, pet-welcoming hotel.
4. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is known for its beautiful mountain scenery and artsy vibe.
Places to Visit:
- French Broad River Park: Offers an off-leash dog park and scenic trails.
- Biltmore Estate: Dogs are welcome on the estate grounds.
Dining:
- Posana Restaurant: Features a dog-friendly patio and a doggie menu.
- Wicked Weed Brewing: A popular brewery with outdoor seating for pets.
Accommodations:
- Aloft Asheville Downtown: No extra fees and great pet amenities.
- The Omni Grove Park Inn: Stunning mountain views and pet-friendly rooms.
5. Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s blend of urban charm and natural beauty makes it ideal for pet-friendly travel.
Places to Visit:
- Magnuson Park Off-Leash Area: A large park with water access.
- Discovery Park: Seattle’s largest green space with miles of trails.
Dining:
- Norm’s Eatery & Ale House: A cozy, dog-friendly pub.
- Sully’s Snowgoose Saloon: A relaxed dog-friendly tavern.
Accommodations:
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco: Offers pet-friendly rooms with no extra fees.
- The Edgewater Hotel: Waterfront views and pet-friendly policies.
6. Denver, Colorado
Denver’s proximity to the Rockies makes it perfect for outdoor adventures.
Places to Visit:
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Great for hiking with scenic views.
- Cherry Creek State Park: Features a large off-leash dog area.
Dining:
- The Watering Bowl: A dog-friendly restaurant with an off-leash play area.
- Recess Beer Garden: A large patio where dogs are always welcome.
Accommodations:
- The Maven Hotel: A boutique hotel with pet-friendly amenities.
- Kimpton Hotel Born: No extra fees and pet-focused perks.
7. Boise, Idaho
Boise is a hidden gem with a mix of outdoor adventures and urban charm.
Places to Visit:
- Camel’s Back Park: Hiking trails and a large off-leash area.
- Boise River Greenbelt: A 25-mile riverside pathway.
Dining:
- The Yardarm: An outdoor bar with a dog-friendly patio.
- Fork: A farm-to-table restaurant with pet-friendly outdoor seating.
Accommodations:
- Hotel 43: A boutique hotel in downtown Boise.
- The Riverside Hotel: Offers direct access to the Greenbelt.
Ready to Plan Your Next Adventure? We're Here to Help!
Traveling with your dog doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re flying for the first time with your service dog or planning a road trip with your furry friend, Paws on Planes Inc. is here to help you every step of the way.
We offer personalized guidance on everything from travel preparation to navigating airline policies. Contact us today for expert advice and support to ensure your next trip is a breeze for both you and your dog.
"Contact Us to learn more about our services and how we can help you travel with confidence!"
Hi, I Am Alison
CEO Of Paws On Planes Inc.
I’m the founder of Paws on Planes and your go-to guide for flying with dogs, whether you’re a pet parent or traveling with a psychiatric service dog.
Stick around for guides, travel hacks, and everything you need to fly stress-free with your furry companion.
