For many of us, traveling without our dogs just doesnât feel right. Luckily, more cities across the United States are becoming dog-friendly, offering pet-welcoming hotels, airlines with clear policies, and unique experiences designed to include our four-legged companions. Whether youâre looking for a sunny beach escape, mountain adventures, or a lively city getaway, these five destinations stand out as the most travel-friendly places for dogs in the U.S.
San Diego, California
Few cities embrace dogs quite like San Diego. With its year-round sunshine, coastal breezes, and laid-back vibe, itâs a paradise for pups and their people. Dog Beach in Ocean Beach is legendaryâit was one of the first official off-leash beaches in the country and remains a must-visit spot where dogs of all shapes and sizes romp freely in the surf. Beyond the beach, adventurous owners can even book paddleboarding lessons for their dogs through SUP Pups, one of San Diegoâs quirkier attractions.
San Diegoâs hospitality industry knows how much travelers love their pets. Boutique hotels like Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp Quarter and Kimpton Solamar welcome dogs with open arms, often waiving pet fees and providing extras like rooftop pet relief areas and welcome treats. Travelers arriving by air will also find that most major airlines, including Southwest and Alaska, have clear in-cabin pet policies to make the trip smoother.
âWhen we launched Bark Air last year, our goal was to challenge the norms of dog travel by creating an experience that treats dogs not as cargo, but as VIP guests,â
Austin, Texas
Austin, with its vibrant music scene and famously relaxed culture, is one of the best large cities in America for dog owners. The city is dotted with dog-friendly parks and trails, and itâs common to see people dining outdoors with their pets by their side. Red Bud Isle Park, a peninsula surrounded by water, is a favorite off-leash haven, while Barton Creek Greenbelt offers shaded hikes and refreshing swimming holes perfect for cooling off during hot Texas afternoons.
Austin hotels also roll out the welcome mat for pets. Hotel Van Zandt, located in the lively Rainey Street District, has no size restrictions and offers dog amenities, while Kimptonâs boutique properties in Austin provide their trademark pet perks, from beds to bowls. On the airline side, Austinâs airport is well served by Southwest, Delta, and American, all of which allow dogs under 20 pounds in the cabin for a fee.
Portland, Oregon
When it comes to dog-friendly culture, Portland is consistently near the top of the list. The city is home to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., with more than 70 miles of trails where leashed dogs are welcome. At the Sellwood Riverfront Park, dogs can run free on the sand and splash in the water, while quirky spots like Tin Shed Garden Café even offer full dog menus.
Hotels in Portland embrace this culture wholeheartedly. The Jupiter Hotel has no weight restrictions and welcomes dogs with a laid-back atmosphere, while Hotel Lucia has gone as far as to create a âpet spiritual menu,â complete with calming music and aromatherapy designed for canine relaxation. Being a short hop from Seattle, Portland also benefits from Alaska Airlinesâ famously pet-friendly approach, making it easier to get there with your dog in tow
San Francisco, California
San Francisco blends big-city energy with natural beauty, and dogs get to enjoy both. Crissy Field is perhaps the cityâs most iconic dog destination, with sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and plenty of space for off-leash play on the beach. Golden Gate Park also offers several designated dog play areas, while ferries to nearby Sausalito allow small dogs to ride along for a memorable day trip across the Bay.
The cityâs hotels reflect San Franciscoâs inclusive spirit. The Argonaut Hotel, located near Fishermanâs Wharf, provides dog-friendly amenities from the moment you check in, while the historic Fairmont San Francisco treats pets like VIP guests. Nearly every major airline serves San Francisco International Airport, and United in particular offers clear pet travel programs, though most dog owners prefer in-cabin arrangements for small pets.
Tips for Traveling with Dogs
If youâre planning a trip with your dog, preparation is key. Always book pet-friendly flights early, since airlines limit the number of animals allowed in the cabin. Kimpton hotels and some boutique chains never charge pet fees, but larger hotels mayâalways check policies in advance. Pack essentials like collapsible water bowls, extra leashes, and vaccination records, and be ready to seek out local dog parks or walking trails so your pup gets plenty of exercise during the trip.
From the Pacific coastline of San Diego to the mountain trails of Asheville, and from Austinâs laid-back parks to Portlandâs quirky dog culture, these destinations prove that the U.S. is becoming a true playground for pets and their owners. With the right planning, you and your dog can share in every adventure togetherâcreating memories youâll both treasure long after the trip is over.