The Best Cities to Visit With Your Dog in Every State
Looking for places you can bring your pup? Check out this list of some of the most Fido-friendly cities in the U.S.
Is there anything better than spending the day with Fido (aka your best friend, your other half, your therapist, your ride or die)?
We get it — your pup holds a special place in your heart, and since it’s always a bummer having to leave him/her at home when you venture out, we’ve rounded up a list of the most dog-friendly cities to visit in every state. So get the leash and collapsible water bowl packed up; it’s time for you two to have some fun!
In This Article
Alabama
Birmingham
It’s official; we’re jealous of Birmingham. This north-central city in Alabama offers a slew of places for you to take your dog. Find some new friends at Remy’s Dog Park, which has an area for large dogs, small dogs and dogs with special needs, and kick back and relax on the patio at Good People Brewing Company (cheers that water bowl with a Sabro Hazy IPA) or rest your paws at Avondale Brewing in the city’s cool Avondale neighborhood.
Alaska
Anchorage
In Anchorage, you can enjoy the little things with your pup, like waking up to a view of beautiful Lake Spenard at The Lakefront Anchorage, the only hotel in the city that’s on a lake. And since we know you’re both down for a walk, we suggest you explore Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which offers views of downtown Anchorage, the Chugach Mountains, Denali, Mount Susitna and Fire Island (just keep your best bud on a leash).
Arizona
Tucson
Your pup will love stretching out on the patio at the Cup Cafe at the Hotel Congress in Tucson, and you’ll love chowing down on fluffy pancakes, brioche French toast or even vegan breakfast tacos. And after you eat, Tucson is your oyster when it comes to pet-friendly activities. Tucson Botanical Gardens holds the “Dog Days of Summer,” where pets are allowed to venture through the gardens with their owners between June and September. Make sure to order your pup a treat from the puppy power section of the menu at Edna’s Eatery, which is located on the grounds.
Arkansas
Bentonville
Bentonville might just become the No. 1 vacation spot for you and your furry friend. Picture this…a two-night stay at the 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville. This establishment is made up of a 104-room boutique hotel, a contemporary art museum, a cultural center and The Hive Restaurant (which offers in-room dining), and yes, the hotel has pet-friendly rooms! Plus, head on over to Three Dog Bakery at Bentonville Square and pick up a gourmet dog pastry that’ll have Fido’s tail wagging.
California
Santa Barbara
Ahh…Santa Barbara — you don’t disappoint when it comes to fun, relaxation and places Fido can hang out. You will love bringing your sweet pup to the luxurious Kimpton Canary Hotel, which not only allows dogs but also offers a pet-sitting/dog-walking service. And an afternoon excursion to Douglas Family Preserve, a park where your buddy can play, roam, fetch — you name it — will have both of you smiling.
Colorado
Brighton
Think of Brighton in Adams and Weld counties as an indoor and outdoor wonderland for you and your dog. Breathe in some fresh air and get those paws moving with a walk of the 9-mile Lake Perimeter Trail at Barr Lake State Park. After that walk, you both deserve to refuel with some grub. Head on over to Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard, where you can enjoy a mouthwatering burger and handspun milkshake, and your pup can enjoy a “pawbender,” made with all-natural frozen custard, peanut butter and dog biscuits.
Connecticut
East Haddam
If exploring is what you and your pup are looking for, East Haddam has you covered. We suggest a leashed hike through Devil’s Hopyard State Park. And if you’re looking to stay outside, head over to La Vita, which offers everything from piping hot chicken pot pie and spaghetti and meatballs to scrumptious burgers and fresh salads, and sit on the patio.
Delaware
Wilmington
Ready to run wild and free? Good news – Wilmington boasts Carousel’s Bark Park, a unique dog park where your fur baby can run in a large field and even play in a pond. And if you are craving a burger and beer afterward, head on over to Trolley Tap House and hang out with your pup on the patio.
Florida
DeLand
The whoofs are in, and Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming in DeLand (Volusia County) is a must-visit place for you and your dog. Here, you’ll find a large selection of dog bones and treats. And what better place to run off those tasty treats than Barkley Square Dog Park, which offers over 14 acres of land for large and small dogs to play and explore.
Georgia
Warner Robins
Beer and grub are calling your name, and thanks to some of Warner Robbins’ pet-friendly establishments, like Tap & Pour, which offers patio seating and a picnic area, you can dine with Fido. Plus, you two can get out and take in some fresh air at Wellston Park, which offers 37 acres, including an off-leash area for pups.
Hawaii
Haleiwa
The waves are calling in Haleiwa, a beautiful North Shore community in Hawaii, where you and your furry friend can show off your skills and SUP (stand-up paddleboard) on your own or learn from SUP Dog Hawaii (you’ll go gaga over how cute your pup looks in a lifejacket). And you will not want to miss dining outdoors with your pooch at Farm To Barn, a juicery and café (try the bruschetta avo toast).
Idaho
Meridian
Many dog-friendly adventures await in Meridian. Of course, an afternoon playing fetch at the off-leash Storey Bark Park is a must, along with a stop at The Curb Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy some booze and a smoked brisket quesadilla on the patio with your pup (we’re jealous…and hungry).
Illinois
Chicago
Enjoy the breeze and the beautiful views of Lake Michigan while you and Fido walk around Navy Pier in Chicago. And a jaunt in Chicago isn’t complete without something to fill your rumbling stomach. Go for a bite (try the smokey breakfast burrito) and a cup of joe at Smack Dab.
Indiana
Muncie
Dog-friendly activities abound in this east-central Indiana city, from walks along Cardinal Greenway, Indiana’s longest rail-trail, to The Cup, a coffee shop in The Village at Ball State University, where you can sip a “dirty hippie” (a chai tea latte with a shot of espresso) with Fido on the patio, to Emerson Dog Park, where the two of you can have heaps of fun.
Iowa
Cedar Rapids
Work on your fetch game at Cedar Rapids’ Cheyenne Park, where Fido and his buds can explore the nearly 14 acres of fenced recreation yards. And just in case you have a little more energy to burn off, get your feet (and paws) moving on the more than 5 miles of trails at Indian Creek Nature Center (just keep your pup on a leash).
Kansas
Kansas City
Take it from a local expert, Cider the Orchard Dog, Kansas City is a paw-fect place to call home. You and your four-legged friend can relax at St. John’s Park or stretch your legs on a hike at Wyandotte County Lake and Park. And, as a bonus, if you venture over to the Missouri side of KC, it’s whoof, whoof, whoof for the home team here in Kansas City, where you and Fido can watch a Royals game at the annual Bark at the Park event.
Kentucky
Covington
Covington is a great place for you and your pup to experience Northern Kentucky’s beautiful scenery. Spend some time outdoors at Licking River Greenway or Devou Park, which is made up of more than 700 acres of land. And since you can work up quite the appetite being active outdoors, find a seat on the patio at The Gruff and chow down on a few slices of brick-oven pizza (we know Fido will eye every bite).
Louisiana
New Orleans
While Mardi Gras might be your first thought when New Orleans is mentioned, this city also has a ton of dog-friendly offerings. NOLA City Bark, which runs 4.6 acres, is a favorite spot among the locals and their pups. And Southern Paws, a pet boutique and “barkery,” has everything your pup needs to feel special, from dog-friendly treats and wine to cute outfits.
Maine
Augusta
Augusta has everything you and Fido need for a fun-filled day. You two will love hiking the 6.5-mile Kennebec River Rail Trail (the views of the Kennebec River are gorgeous), hanging out at Augusta Dog Park, and snacking on some pretty tasty bites in the outdoor seating area at State Lunch (we know you’ll pass your pup a piece of your crispy fried chicken sandwich).
Maryland
St. Michaels
You and your dog can brush up on the history, environment and culture of the Chesapeake Bay region at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, where leashed dogs are welcome on campus (exhibition buildings and museum vessels are off-limits). Plus, Clint S. Bradley Park is a great place for you two to get out and get active.
Massachusetts
Boston
Head on over to Polkadog bakery in Boston and fix Fido up with a few new toys and, of course, treats (even holiday-themed goodies are available). Once you’re “all shopped out,” head over to Joe’s Waterfront and grab a spot with your pup on the patio. You’ll love savoring Joe’s mac & five cheese and taking in the gorgeous views of Boston Harbor.
Michigan
Muskegon
Downtown Muskegon Petsafe Bark Park is the perfect place for you and your mutt to spend an afternoon. It offers separate areas for large and small dogs, and they love getting off-leash time. And if you’re in Muskegon during the summer, make sure to enjoy some barbecue, tacos and beers on The Deck’s beachfront patio. You’ll both love the sand, sun and fun.
Minnesota
Minneapolis
Minneapolis is taking dog-friendly to the next level with its Linden Hills Woofstock. This dog fest gives attendees a chance to shop products geared toward pets and their owners. Plus, neither of you will want to miss the festival’s live music, pet demos and dog fashion show. The 2022 fest is scheduled for September.
Mississippi
Biloxi
Dig that old Frisbee out of your garage and take your pup to either Popp’s Ferry Dog Park or Pixie’s Memorial Dog Park (an afternoon of fetch sounds pretty great to us). And if you are still trying to reach your 10,000 steps (or paws) for the day, head over to Biloxi Lighthouse Park, where you both can enjoy its nature trail.
Missouri
Branson
When the weather is warm, you and Fido will love sitting on the patio at Sugar Leaf Bakery, Café & Espresso in Branson (a BLT and fruit cobbler are must-try menu items). And if you’re ready to get moving after that delicious lunch, you and your leashed pup can take a stroll along Caudill Park’s walking trail.
Montana
Great Falls
Ahh…Great Falls, we are falling for all your pet-friendly fun. Sitting in the patio area of Mighty Mo Brewing Co. with a beer in your hand and Fido sleeping down at your feet makes for a perfect evening. But, keep in mind, you two will also want to spend an afternoon running around Pacific Steel & Recycling Trailside Dog Park (and it is off-leash).
Nebraska
Kearney
Kearney’s Meadowlark North Dog Park is a pup and owner paradise — Fido can run off-leash with his new friends, and you can catch up on all the gossip with your park pals. And when you are ready to go, all of you can get lunch (think burgers, quesadillas, tacos) at Cunningham’s Journal and sit out on the patio.
Nevada
Las Vegas
While hitting the slots or seeing a show might be on your list of must-do activities while in Las Vegas, we have one more you are going to want to include…a dinner with your pup on the patio at the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar. While you peruse the menu of sandwiches, burgers, noodles and more, your fluff ball can choose from the grilled hamburger patty bowl or grilled chicken breast bowl on the pup menu. After your meal, dessert is calling. Pick up a peanut butter bone from the dog bakery at Bogart’s Bone-Appetit.
New Hampshire
Bedford
Bedford is quite the dog-loving city. It is home to the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire, which is a member of the Grounds & Hounds Coffee Company “Grounds Crew.” Money from coffee orders goes to help pets and people in the community, and folks can choose from blends with names like morning walk and belly rub.
New Jersey
Kearny
Your pup’s tail will not stop wagging in Kearny, as the area is home to Bone Appétit, a dog (and cat) spa, bakery and sitter. Whether you are looking for a treat or just a place to clip Fido’s nails, Bone Appétit delivers. And if you’re both in need of some fresh air and fun, head on over to Kearny Dog Park, where your pup can run off-leash once inside the gate.
New Mexico
Los Alamos
Dogs owners and their pups unite in Los Alamos — on Saturdays, that is. Pet Pangaea’s pet supplies store hosts Downtown Dogs, a weekly walking event for pups and people to have fun, make friends, and get active. Attendees meet at 11:30 a.m. and take a stroll downtown. And if you want to continue spending time with your friends (human and furry), we suggest a late lunch at Pajarito Brewpub & Grill, where you can sit on the patio and enjoy a pastrami burger or a stuffed green chile burger and a few beers.
New York
New York City
It’s no surprise that the city that traditionally holds the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show would be perfect for pups. Typically held on the first Saturday of the month in Prospect Park, Brooklyn is met with FIDO’s Coffee Bark, a free event for dogs and their owners, complete with coffee, pastries and, of course, dog biscuits. The group that hosts the event, FIDO, stands for fellowship for the interests of dogs and their owners. Another great place to hang out is on the patio of the Barking Dog, a restaurant that says it is “the best dog-friendly restaurant in New York City” (go for breakfast, lunch or dinner).
North Carolina
Elizabeth City
Gorgeous Elizabeth City offers more than just its looks — it, too, is an excellent place for pups and their owners to make memories together. The SweetEasy, a coffee shop and bakery located downtown, offers mouthwatering pastries and great coffee. Plus, it is dog-friendly, and when you bring your pup in, you can get a pup cup (aka a cup of whipped cream). With a coffee in hand, head on over to Waterfront Park, where you and Fido can add to your steps and take in the views of the beautiful Pasquotank River.
North Dakota
Bismarck
Bismarck is definitely in the “dog biz,” as it offers multiple pup-friendly options. The locals love Century Bark Park, with its four fields – Big Paws Field (for dogs over 30 pounds), Wiggly Field (for dogs less than 30 pounds), Fetch Field (for training and obedience) and Furry Field (open to all dogs). Another great place — Gourmet Doggie Diner, a pet specialty store that offers homemade dog entrees and treats, among other things.
Ohio
Grove City
Appropriately enough, this suburb of Columbus is home to a trail called Wagtail Trail. You and Fido are sure to love walking this 2.2-mile loop and taking in the scenery (not to mention all the smells). Lunch on the patio at Local Cantina, which serves up tacos, quesadillas, nachos and more, is a must. Make sure to save a bite or two for Fido!
Oklahoma
Tulsa
Get out and about with your pup in Tulsa. We hope watching a movie with your furry friend is on your list of things to do because Admiral Twin Drive-In welcomes leashed dogs. Another fun option is heading over to Benjamin’s Biscuit Acres Dog Park. It’s a great place to run, play and fetch, but for $20, your pup can also be featured on the park’s website (they will become the talk of the park).
Oregon
Bend
Be it a Friday evening spent eating at a restaurant’s outdoor patio, a Saturday at the dog park or a Sunday strolling along a trail; Bend offers these and more options for you and Fido. Sip a few beers and hang out at the picnic tables at Good Life Brewing Company’s Biergarten. As far as another activity, we suggest a canoe ride along the Deschutes River (make sure Fido is secure and wearing a life jacket).
Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
The largest city in Pennsylvania is full of fun — and unique — dog-friendly activities. Water and Rock Studio offers puppy yoga, and after class is over, some of the pups can be adopted (so you might be getting a second furry friend). And a stop (with your new or old friend) at Pet Friendly Dog Bakery is a necessity. Here, you can find dog treats, indoor/outdoor play areas, free events and more.
Rhode Island
Providence
Providence has proven its love of dogs. The outdoor seating at places like the Scurvy Dog, a dive bar with a beer garden, is a plus for pups and their owners (we know your dog likes the occasional sip of beer). And a trip to Waterman St. Dog Park is always a great place to exercise, train and socialize.
South Carolina
Greenville
Time spent in Greenville can be time spent with your pup, as the area boasts numerous dog-friendly activities and establishments. The Barkery Bistro, a pet bakery, boutique and full-service grooming spa, will become you and Fido’s favorite place to snag some yummy dog treats. And a walk along Swamp Rabbit Trail, a greenway running through the area that offers views of the Reedy River, makes for a great afternoon.
South Dakota
Sioux Falls
A seat on the patio at Monks Ale House, a beer in hand, a few friends and Fido sounds like a pretty great evening and one you can have in Sioux Falls. Plus, this city is home to some pretty great dog parks — try Lien Park or Spencer Park.
Tennessee
Nashville
Music City could also be called Mutt City, as you can find numerous pup-friendly activities here. For example, the Nashville Humane Association hosts an annual event where you can eat dinner with your furry friend. Unleashed: Dinner with Your Dog supports adoptable and homeless pets. And the outdoors is calling both your names — try a walk at Stones River Greenway or Cumberland River Greenway.
Texas
Dallas
You’ve heard how everything is BIG in Texas, right? Well, dog-friendly offerings are definitely on that list. Dallas offers Mutts Canine Cantina, which boasts a dog-friendly bar and restaurant as well as off-leash parks for small and large dogs. It’s the best of both worlds — food and fun! And a stroll of the Texas Buckeye Trail (1.6 miles) will get both your hearts racing.
Utah
Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is gorgeous, and who better to experience the natural views with than your pup? Hike a portion of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail or try City Creek Canyon Trailhead (just keep your buddy on a leash). And we suggest a stop for dinner on the patio at The Green Pig Pub, which serves up tacos, fish and chips, sandwiches and more.
Vermont
Waterbury
You and Fido can spend hours together in Waterbury, even keeping up with your exercise together. Each year, Waterbury hosts the Mutt Strut, a 3-mile fun run for dogs and their owners, with proceeds benefiting the Central Vermont Humane Society. And to add to your outdoor activities, spend a morning or an afternoon at Waterbury Unleashed Dog Park.
Virginia
Abingdon
You and your pup can have all the quality time you need in Abingdon. For starters, you’ll want to play fetch at the dog park on the Coomes Center’s grounds. And you won’t want to pass up eating dinner on the patio at Rain Restaurant & Bar (casual fine dining).
Washington
Seattle
Fun with Fido never stops in Seattle. A trip to the Dog Yard will spark envy among all your dog friends and their owners. This indoor/outdoor off-leash play park and bar allows humans and dogs to socialize, exercise, relax and enjoy a drink or treats. Another great place to play is Lower Woodland Off-Leash Area.
West Virginia
Huntington
PetSafe Dog Park is the place to be in Huntington — well, for Fido, friends and pup owners, that is. Located in Ritter Park, this 3.5-acre outdoor space has all the room you and your pup need to run, jump, play and fetch. And a drink and grub on the patio at Bahnhof WVrsthaus + Biergarten, a popular German restaurant, is a must-do activity.
Wisconsin
Pewaukee
Petlicious Dog Bakery is calling, whether it’s your pup’s birthday or just a day you want to spoil her. Located in Pewaukee, this place is serving up dog (and cat and horse) treats that use human-consumable ingredients (that doesn’t mean you should take from Fido, though). And another fun spot to check out is Thunder Bay Grille and its outdoor patio (the prime rib sandwich is a must).
Wyoming
Thayne
Thayne offers plenty of pup fun (and for a good cause). This city, located in the northern part of the Star Valley, holds the annual 4-Legged-K Wag & Walk Fun Run, organized by the Animal Humane Association of Star Valley. Proceeds go to help homeless pets. You and Fido are sure to burn a few calories during the run, so head on over to Tootsies for a slice of pizza and sit at the picnic tables in the grassy area outside.
