There’s nothing quite like the experience of hitting the open road with your dog. Road trips offer a special opportunity to create the most awesome memories and strengthen the bond between a human and their canine companion. Plus, when they’re away from the routines of their daily lives, dogs get to explore new environments, stretch their legs in scenic spots, and enjoy uninterrupted time with their owners.
In recent years, the landscape of roadside attractions has also shifted to become more accommodating to pet lovers. Businesses, parks, and even small towns across the US, for example, have recognized the demand for pet-friendly stops. As a result, dog owners now have an array of options to choose from as they travel, from beaches and lakes to breweries and even quirky art installations.
With outdoor areas, water bowls, and pet-specific amenities becoming the norm, planning a road trip with your dog has never been easier—or more rewarding. Here are just a few must-visit pet-friendly roadside attractions in the US that you won’t want to miss on your next adventure:
1) National and State Parks
Many parks across the US have trails, campsites, and wide-open spaces where pets can roam, sniff, and let loose. The fresh air and variety of terrains provide both physical activity and mental stimulation for your pet, which they’ll still need when they’re away from home. They’ll also afford you and your pup the perfect chance to unplug and appreciate the great outdoors.
Take, for example, Acadia National Park in Maine. Known for its rugged coastal beauty and diverse landscapes, Acadia is one of the most dog-friendly national parks in the country. With over 100 miles of pet-friendly hiking trails and carriage roads, it’s an ideal spot for adventurers traveling with pets. The park’s pet-friendly policies extend to campgrounds and picnic areas, so you can fully immerse yourself in nature without leaving your dog behind.
While not all national and state parks allow pets on every trail, many do offer designated areas where dogs are welcome, provided they’re leashed and their dog collar or custom dog harness carry up-to-date identification. Do your research about a park’s policies and plan accordingly.
2) Beaches
Few things excite dogs more than the sand, surf, and wide-open space of a beach. For many pet owners, a beach stop is a must during any road trip. However, not all beaches are created equal when it comes to accommodating dogs.
The best pet-friendly beaches offer designated off-leash areas where dogs can run freely, splash in the waves, and enjoy the sand without restrictions. Some beaches may even promise extra amenities like dog showers, waste stations, and fresh water to keep your pet cool and hydrated.
One standout location is Fort De Soto Dog Beach in Florida, located just outside St. Petersburg. This dog-friendly paradise has a large, fenced-in, off-leash area right on the beach, where dogs can romp freely in the surf. The adjacent dog park includes fresh water for cooling off, making it a top-rated destination for pet owners traveling along the Gulf Coast.
3) Breweries and Wineries
It’s no secret that craft breweries and wineries are increasingly embracing a pet-friendly atmosphere. A place to stop and unwind while keeping your dog by your side can be a major plus for any pet owner on the open road.
Many breweries and wineries now offer outdoor seating where pets are welcomed with treats, water bowls, and plenty of attention. The relaxed, open-air environment makes it easy to enjoy a tasting while your dog lounges nearby. Such spots often become favorite hangouts for both local dog owners and travelers passing through.
This trend is especially alive and well in Napa Valley, California’s wine country. Napa Valley is renowned for its world-class wineries, but now it’s also increasing in popularity as a travel destination because dogs are welcome at several of its vineyards.
Mutt Lynch Winery, for instance, has fully embraced its pet-friendly ethos by creating wine labels that celebrate dogs and providing plenty of amenities for visiting pups. The winery’s outdoor tasting room is a favorite for travelers with pets and will surely prove an attraction that your dog can enjoy alongside you.
4) Outdoor Art Installations
Traveling with a dog doesn’t mean you have to miss out on cultural experiences. There are now many outdoor art installations across the US that have set up in wide-open spaces, allowing road travelers to appreciate art while their dogs explore.
These installations often sit in natural or desert landscapes with ample room for both pets and people to wander. The open, relaxed setting gives dogs the freedom to move around while owners take in the beautiful and artistic sights.
You’ll find one such must-visit site at Seven Magic Mountains in Nevada, just outside Las Vegas. This vibrant art installation consists of brightly colored, towering rock totems set against the stark desert landscape.
The contrast between the natural desert and the fluorescent rocks makes for a striking visual experience, and dogs are welcome to explore the area on-leash. Let your dog stretch their legs while you soak in the unusual beauty of the installation.
5) Hiking Trails and Nature Preserves
If you love hiking, sharing a trail with your dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Stop at one of the nature preserves and hiking trails across the country with dog-friendly paths, where both you and your pet can enjoy the tranquility of nature. These areas typically feature well-maintained trails, scenic views, and varying levels of difficulty, so there’s something for every type of hiker.
One standout destination is White Sands National Park in New Mexico. At White Sands, you’ll find a unique, almost otherworldly environment that makes it a memorable stop on any road trip through the Southwest.
Famous for its stunning, expansive dunes of white gypsum sand, this national park is one of the nature preserves where dogs are allowed to roam freely across the landscape. The experience of walking across these brilliant white dunes with your pet will be truly unforgettable, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light creates magical effects on the sands.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have a wide variety of pet-friendly roadside attractions to choose from, it won’t be too hard to plan the road trip of a lifetime with your pup. You might find yourselves exploring a park, sipping wine at a vineyard, or strolling through an art installation; whatever you choose, the experience will be all the more enjoyable with your furry companion by your side.
