Imagine going on a road trip with your dog where every restaurant you go to, trail you hike, and hotel you choose is dog-friendly. Is this possible? Yes! But who’s going to do all of that research for your route?
We did the digging for you, plus got advice from Rover.com employees about the best dog-friendly places around the country. Here’s a goldmine of places to stop with your dog along 10 major interstate highways so you can make your dog the modern-day Marco Polo.
Organized by interstate and direction, this is a “must-stop” list for big-city dog-friendly pubs, restaurants, hikes, hotels, and more while on your adventure.
Don’t fret about wanting to visit some places that aren’t dog friendly. Book a Rover.com sitter in the area you’re in for the day or night and get your adventure on while your dog has an adventure of his own.
Top Tips For Your Journey in the States
:
- Consider lodging like AirBnB to find unique, dog-friendly places to stay
- Bring a tent along in case tent camping is the best choice for the area you’re in–it’s usually dog-friendly
- Call ahead to ensure restaurants are open when you get there and are still dog-friendly (some places have seasonal hours, and laws may have changed)
- For maximum safety, make sure your pet has all the required vaccinations, and follow local leash laws
If you’re plotting your journey on a map, this is a handy tool.
Jump to Section:
I-20 Texas to South Carolina
I-35 Texas to Minnesota
I-75 Florida to Michigan
I-95 Florida to Maine
I-94 Montana to Michigan
I-70 Maryland to Utah
I-10 Florida to California
I-40 North Carolina to California
I-80 New Jersey to California
I-90 Massachusetts to Washington
1-20 South to East (Texas to South Carolina)
A.
Jackson, Mississippi
Eat
Pig and Pint: While in the South it’s important to enjoy some barbecue. Pig and Pint offers a uniquely delicious twist on the classics. Dogs are welcome on the patio here–just know that yours will likely beg for scraps the entire meal.
Play
Outlets of Mississippi: Take your leashed dog on a shopping spree. This is a fun place to window shop–treat yourself and your pup!
Sleep
Holiday Inn Express Jackson Downtown Coliseum: This is an affordable place for you to rest. Your dog is welcome for an additional fee that won’t break the bank.
B.
Atlanta, Georgia
Eat
Joe’s on Juniper: Touted as one of Atlanta’s favorite dog-friendly outdoor dining spaces, Joe’s On Juniper has beer, cocktails, Thai nachos, and more.
Play
ParkGrounds: This is a must-stop spot if there ever was one. This coffee shop has an attached dog park where your dog-friendly pooch can mingle with other dogs and play off some pent-up energy. There’s a covered patio here, with both the dog park and the cafe having separate entries. Beer, coffee, breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dogs. Solid decision for an afternoon.
Sleep
La Quinta Inn & Suites Atlanta Paces Ferry: If you’re seeking a hotel with no extra pet fee, this is a good option.
Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel: For an additional pet fee (and a luxurious, unique experience), check this gem out.
C.
Charleston, South Carolina
Eat
Lost Dog Cafe: Enjoy a bite and the Dog Wall of Fame in this eclectic cafe in Folly Beach. Named after the owner’s dog, Hocus, this bistro serves huge breakfast burritos and excellent coffee and is said to be a “must eat” in the Charleston area. The best part is you get to hang out indoors with your dog and a mason jar mimosa.
Play
Old Charleston Ghost Tour: Give you and your dog a good spook on this fun walking tour. Starting in Washington Park and lasting 90 minutes, the tour is a unique way to bond with your dog and spend an evening in the city.
Sleep
Best Western Charleston Inn: This inn has pet-friendly rooms for an extra fee. The location is accessible to historic tours, as well as the cruise terminal.
La Quinta Inn and Suites Charleston Riverview: For no pet fee, you and your dog can have a comfortable stay here.
1-35 South to North (Texas to Minnesota)
A.
Austin, Texas
Eat
Red’s Porch: Aptly named, this restaurant has an awesome upstairs porch; outdoor seating is dog-friendly. If you’re in the mood for some corn hole, darts, and fried okra, this is the spot.
Play
Barton Creek Greenbelt Preserve: Your dog is welcome here as long as he’s on-leash at all times. The path is shared with bicycles, so if your pup is skittish of bicycles this may not be a good fit for him.
Red Bud Isle: If you’re seeking an off-leash run for your dog, this is the spot. This piece of land is a peninsula, with swimming for water-loving dogs. Bring a towel and a tennis ball and enjoy a beautiful southern afternoon!
Sleep
Hilton Austin: There’s a pet fee here, but this is an overall affordable stay in the Austin area.
Airbnb: There are numerous affordable, dog-friendly listings on Airbnb for the Austin area. Check out the website and make sure to double check with your host that it’s okay to have your four-legged buddy with you during your stay.
B.
Kansas City, Missouri
Eat
La Bodega: If you’re in the mood for the traditional duo of tapas and wine, La Bodega is a solid choice. There’s ample outdoor seating where your dog is welcome. Also, bottles of wine are half price on Mondays–just saying.
Play
Trolley Track Trail: This trail is part of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit dedicated to converting unused railroad tracks into hiking trails. Dogs are welcome on-leash here and the path is shared with bicycles so please be mindful if your dog is skittish of them.
Sleep
Westin Kansas City and Crown Center: If you’re seeking an exquisite hotel stay to unwind from long days of travel, look no further. There’s no additional pet fee here (weight limit of 40-lb dog–larger dogs will require a fee) and your dog will be given a dog bed for his stay, courtesy of the hotel.
C.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Eat
Wilde Cafe and Spirits: This cafe in Dinkytown, an exciting Minneapolis neighborhood, boasts an awesome patio view of the Mississippi River and delicious food. While you’re in the neighborhood, check out the Stone Arch Bridge–a Minneapolis landmark.
Play
Luce Line State Trail Park of the Rails to Trails Conservancy: Get out and stretch your legs on this converted railroad through Minneapolis (This is the same nonprofit mentioned in the Kansas City trail recommendation).
Sleep
Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West: For an affordable and comfortable night under a roof, check in here with no extra fee for your dog.
Sheraton Bloomington Hotel: If you’re planning on checking out The Mall of America in Bloomington, MN, this is a great choice for lodging if you want to treat yourself. The room prices are higher than others in the area, but there’s no additional pet fee.
I-75 South to North (Florida to Michigan)
A.
Tampa, Florida
Eat
Mad Dogs and Englishmen: Believe it or not, Tampa has been voted the number one dog city in the United States. Check out Mad Dogs and Englishmen for bangers and mash, which has a large patio for your and your dog to enjoy.
Play
Picnic Island Beach Dog Park: If your dog could use a break from the Florida heat, take him to this off-leash beach for a romp in the water with some new friends.
Sleep
Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel: Two dogs are welcome with you here for no additional fee (80 lb. limit). There’s a swimming pool here and riverwalk right outside the hotel, which makes for a great place to stretch your legs with your four-legged travel companion.
B.
Atlanta, Georgia
Eat
Brewhouse Cafe: There may be a trend here but if you’re still in for bangers and mash, try this cafe in Atlanta. This is also Atlanta’s premier soccer bar, if you’re a fan. The patio is dog friendly and it’s said that the wait staff is very attentive to four-legged friends.
Play
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area: If you’re in the mood for a beautiful walk with your dog in Atlanta, check out this nature area. There’s a lot of birds and other woodland animals here, so be sure to keep your dog on leash while enjoying the walk.
Sleep
La Quinta Inn & Suites Atlanta Paces Ferry: If you’re seeking a hotel with no extra pet fee, this is a good option.
Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel: For an additional pet fee (and a luxurious, unique experience), check this gem out.
C.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Eat
Wurst Bar in the Square: Bring your dog–and grab a dog–and enjoy the back patio of this trendy spot. If you’re more of a taco person, they’re killer here.
Play
Otto Armleder Dog Park: This 10-acre fenced dog park is separated into three sections, one of which is designated for small dogs and puppies.
Sleep
Millennium Hotel: In the midst of downtown, this is a great option for taking a much needed rest. Your dog is welcome for an additional fee but must be crated if you leave the room without him, making this a good option for crate-trained dogs, or if you don’t plan on leaving your dog unattended.
I-95 South to North (Florida to Maine)
A.
Raleigh, North Carolina
Eat
Lonerider Brewing: Join the outlaws and enjoy great beer with inventive names and clever descriptions. This brewery is just down the street from Sal’s Branch Trail, under the Play recommendation for Raleigh.
Play
Sal’s Branch Trail: This is the perfect trail if you don’t have much time but in dire need of getting out for some fresh air. At 2.7 miles long, this trail takes about an hour.
Sleep
La Quinta Inn and Suites Raleigh Crabtree: For a reasonable price and no pet fee, stay in a comfortable bed with your dog of any size.
B.
Boston, Massachusetts
Eat
Wired Puppy Cafe: As the name implies, this is a dog-friendly coffee shop–even indoors! If you’re hankering for brunch and a bowl of biscuits by the door, this is the place for you.
Play
Castle Island Beach: If you’re looking for some beach time, bring your dog to this on-leash area for a stroll along the water.
Peter’s Park: This off-leash area is a great choice for your small or shy dog, as there’s a separate section for them. It is a relatively new park and reviewers rave about its cleanliness.
Sleep
Onyx Hotel: This hotel is on the pricier side, but boasts no additional pet fee for your dog of any size, who will receive a warm welcome here. There are paths right by the hotel for walks, and if you’re looking for some urban hiking, it’s right in the midst of the action of downtown Boston.
I-94 Mid to East (Montana to Michigan)
A.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Eat
Camp Bar: Enjoy a bloody mary with your pooch on this two-story patio.
The Backyard: This place is awesome for a unique picnic-style outing. Grills are available so you can cook your own meat and veggies and the large fenced-in grassy area is available for dogs to romp around. There’s also beer and a large projector which could be playing a movie. This is a must-see in Milwaukee.
Play
Granville Dog Park: This park is large and has woods, hills, and a grassy area, all off-leash accessible. It is perfect for running around after a lovely picnic at The Backyard before getting back in the car to continue your journey.
Sleep
Quality Inn Milwaukee: This affordable stay requires an additional pet fee but remains a good value. Free breakfast and close proximity to downtown make this a good spot to stay for a night or two on your journey.
B.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Eat
Wilde Cafe and Spirits: This cafe in Dinkytown, an exciting Minneapolis neighborhood, boasts an awesome patio view of the Mississippi River and delicious food. While you’re in the neighborhood, check out the Stone Arch Bridge, a Minneapolis landmark.
Play
Luce Line State Trail Park of the Rails to Trails Conservancy: Get out and stretch your legs on this converted railroad through Minneapolis (This is the same nonprofit mentioned in the Kansas City trail recommendation).
Sleep
Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West: For an affordable and comfortable night under a roof, check in here with no extra fee for your dog.
Sheraton Bloomington Hotel: If you’re planning on checking out The Mall of America in Bloomington, MN, this is a great choice for lodging if you want to treat yourself. The room prices are higher than others in the area, but there’s no additional pet fee.
I-70 East to West (Maryland to Utah)
A.
St. Louis, Missouri
Eat
Boathouse Forest Park: American fare and dog-friendly paddleboats on the lake–truly a unique experience. There’s an off-leash area here as well for dogs, and outdoor seating to enjoy a meal with your dog at the restaurant.
Play
Frenchtown Dog Park: This .75 acre park is well-kept and permits off-leash dogs for an adventure in the sun.
Sleep
Sheraton Clayton Plaza Hotel St. Louis: You can bring up to two dogs to stay with you here, 40-lb. Limit, for no extra fee. All of the rooms here welcome dogs, so you won’t have to worry about finding appropriate vacancy.
B.
Denver, Colorado
Eat
Forest Room 5: Are you looking for a hip night spot in Denver with fire pits and a creek? Of course you are, and this is your spot. The beautiful, rustic patio is dog friendly and the food gets rave reviews.
The Watering Bowl: It should be a thing in every city to have dog parks attached to restaurants, right?! This gem of a spot is a tavern which boasts a 7000+ sq. ft. outdoor dog park. This, appropriately, is also nested under Play.
Play
The Watering Bowl: So nice it’s mentioned twice. (See Eat for Denver)
Sleep
Hotel Monaco, Denver: There’s no additional fee for your dog at this beautiful hotel. The hotel is on the expensive end, so it is a great place for treating yourself after being on the road. Plus, dogs of all sizes are allowed at no extra charge–win!
I-10 East to West (Florida to California)
A.
Phoenix, Arizona
Eat
O.H.S.O. Eatery and Nanobrewery: Noted as one of the most dog-friendly places in Phoenix, this brewery has views of the canal and a dog-friendly porch.
Play
South Mountain Park and Preserve: 51 miles of hiking trails for you and your on-leash dog to enjoy. Please be advised that dogs are prohibited on the trail when the temperature in Phoenix exceeds 100 degrees fahrenheit. Keep you and your dog safe!
Sleep
Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort: If you’re looking for a neat stay experience, this is the spot. The grounds are fun, with pools and interesting foliage. Two dogs can stay with you for an extra fee (75 lb. weight limit).
B.
Los Angeles, California
Eat
Grand Central Market: Dogs are allowed just about everywhere here. This market is like an indoor food mall with tons of unique and delicious options. It is located in the Studio City area of Los Angeles, so there’s also a chance you’ll spot a celebrity (and maybe their dog!), or two.
The Waffle on Sunset: Get your dog a “woofle” to enjoy on the Waffle’s dog-friendly patio while you sip on a $6 double-sized mimosa. We’re not kidding.
Play
Westridge Canyonback Wilderness Park: Make your way to this sliver of wilderness in the city. With amazing views of the city and seemingly endless trails, both you and your dog will have a great time.
Sleep
Kimpton Hotel Palomar Beverly Hills: This is a great place to stay while in the LA area–no additional fee for your dog and no size limit. Not to mention, you can order spa services to your room for yourself for an ultimate night of “treat-yourself”.
I-40 East to West (North Carolina to California)
A.
Nashville, Tennessee
Eat
Cafe Fontanella: If you’re craving Italian food with homemade tomato sauce, followed up with a hike, go here! This cafe has a dog-friendly patio and has hiking trails right next to it to walk off some carbs prior to loading back in the car.
Jackson’s Bar and Bistro: Good food and covered outdoor seating for you and your dog to enjoy. Reviewers say this is a great place for their furry friend. If you’re hankering for some American fare and outdoor lounging, check it out!
Play
The Trails at Fontanel: If you’re looking for some sightseeing as you stretch your legs, this is a good option. You and your leashed dog can walk along the well-maintained trail and take in a famous mansion (Fontanel) and Whites Creek.
Sleep
La Quinta Inn and Suites, Nashville Airport: On trend with other La Quinta’s mentioned in this list, this is an affordable, comfortable stay with no extra charge for your four-legged buddy.
B.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Eat
Rock & Brews: Good food, good beer, dog-friendly patio and a ton of fun. This is a chain of restaurants so there’s a chance that if you come across another with a dog-friendly patio elsewhere.
Play
Edmond Dog Park at Bickham-Rudkin Park: A 5-acre park with swimming and plenty of room to run off-leash. This is a great place to stop while in Oklahoma City.
OKC PawPark: This large off-leash area is bordered by a pond (swimming!) and has a separate section for dogs who need a little less action, such as injured or elderly pups.
Sleep
Sheraton Oklahoma City Hotel: If your dog is under 50 lbs., he’s welcome for no additional fee. This is the largest business and convention hotel in downtown, so there’s sure to be a lot going on and exciting events to discover in the area surrounding the hotel. This is a good option if you’re looking to make the most of your stay in Oklahoma City.
I-80 East to West (New Jersey to California)
A.
Omaha, Nebraska
Eat
Nebraska Brewing Company: Okay, there are a lot of places to drink beer on this list, I know. But they all have something unique to offer and this brewery is no exception. Dogs are welcome outdoors! It’s small, artisanal, and independent–a true Omaha gem.
Forge in the Forest: With a very dog friendly patio and menu just for Fido, this is a fun spot to stop in Omaha.
Play
Walnut Creek Park Off-Leash Area: This park with swimming area is fenced on three sides, so if your dog likes to swim and keep swimming with no regard for recall, this may not be a great decision. For dogs who love to fetch and return consistently, this is a fun spot.
Sleep
La Quinta Inn Omaha Southwest: No pet fee. Comfortable rooms. Well-rated. Per usual for this listing throughout the country. Three dogs, with no size limit, are allowed here for no extra charge–perfect if you’re traveling with a friend or two with a dog in tow.
B.
Chicago, IL
Eat
Harry Caray’s Tavern on Navy Pier: Located on Navy Pier in Chicago, this is a great spot to hang out on a beautiful afternoon. They’ll bring your dog a souvenir water bowl to keep, and a treat, while lounging on the patio.
Play
Mercury Canine Cruise: If you have a free afternoon in Chicago, take your dog on a historic boat cruise of Chicago. There’s a narrator who will detail the rich history of Chicago, with fun dog facts along the way.
Montrose Dog Beach: This off-leash area is great if your dog wants to actually swim in water, rather than cruise around on the water. There’s a dog wash station as well so you don’t have to return to the car with a happy, muddy mess.
Sleep
Hotel Allegro: This beautiful, historic hotel is located in the theatre district of downtown Chicago. Plus, there’s no additional pet fee for your dog of any size.
I-90 East to West (Massachusetts to Washington)
A.
Buffalo, New York
Eat
Resurgence Brewing Company: Great food and craft beer with a dog-friendly patio.
Play
Niagara Falls Park: If you’re in the mood for sightseeing (and checking out one of the seven natural wonders of the world), leash up your dog and go for a stroll on the park grounds. Reviewers note that there’s no clean up stations or water available for your dog so come prepared.
Sleep
Holiday Inn Buffalo International Airport: This spot has an extra fee for keeping your dog with you, and they must be under 50 lbs.
B.
Cleveland, Ohio
Eat
Luxe Kitchen and Lounge: Dogs are welcome on the patio of this trendy spot. Folks rave about the Ricotta Gnocchi and deviled eggs on the menu.
Play
Lakewood Dog Park: This is a fenced off-leash area which borders the Cleveland Metroparks Rocky River Reservation, which features numerous trails to take your dog on-leash. This is a perfect stop for allowing your dog to expend energy off leash, then leash him up and walk around with him in a gorgeous area of the city.
Sleep
Radisson Hotel Cleveland Gateway: This is an affordable hotel with a pet fee, chosen for its proximity to sightseeing in downtown Cleveland. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a 15 minute walk away. Cleveland sports stadiums are also in the area if you’re more of a sports fan.
C.
Seattle, Washington
Eat
Norm’s Eatery and Ale House: Dogs are allowed indoors here–there’s even a menu just for them with an assortment of items, including sweets and chicken. Take a moment to appreciate all of their adorable patron photos (hint: mostly dogs.)
Buckley’s in Belltown: There are a couple of different locations, but if you want to stop in for a pint and Wisconsin cheese curds (this is a Green Bay Packers’ fan bar) while sightseeing around Belltown in Seattle, go here. Dogs are welcome indoors–just make sure to keep him on leash since it gets pretty busy in there.
Play
Discovery Park: This wilderness area of Seattle is said to be what Seattle looked like before settlement. There are numerous trails to take your dog for an on-leash urban hike. A couple spots along the trail offer astounding views of the Puget Sound and surrounding land.
Sleep
The Edgewater Hotel: Trust me on this one–this place is worth it. There will be an extra fee for your dog to stay with you, but you’ll be on the waterfront a walk away from amazing food and the ferris wheel. The hotel itself is beautiful and well-maintained with a lodge-type ambiance.
Canada, eh?
Our article covers U.S. destinations, but if you’re planning a summer journey through Canada, never fear. There are many amazing places to stop. You can find a list of must-see spots for you and your dog at Travel Canada.
Hit the road, explorers!