Top 10 Vacation Spots That Welcome Your Pet

For many, pets have become like family, often taking the place of children. In fact, U.S. families with pets now outnumber those with children, as reported by the American Veterinary Medical Association. We treat them like royalty, boast about them, and look forward to their company daily. When we travel, we want them by our side—and increasingly, that’s becoming possible.

In 2007, 29 million Americans traveled with their pets. Many accommodations and restaurants now allow pets, or at least provide pet-friendly spaces. Travel resources, including guides and websites, often list whether pets are permitted at hotels, eateries, attractions, and events. Organizations like AAA and some publishers even offer specialized guides for those vacationing with their pets.

Some destinations naturally cater to travelers who want to explore with their pets. However, certain experiences, like cruises or museum visits, may pose challenges for pet owners. While some locations are becoming more pet-friendly, others remain restrictive.

In this article, we’ll explore a variety of vacation themes and destinations offering adventure, relaxation, and a warm welcome for both you and your pets, whether they’re cats, dogs, or even horses.

10: Into the Wild

If you and your pet enjoy the great outdoors, there are countless hiking opportunities available. Many public lands across the U.S. welcome leash-controlled pets to enjoy nature with their owners. Wisconsin, for example, is home to 99 state parks, forests, and recreation areas, while Arkansas, aptly named 'The Natural State,' offers 1,500 miles (2,414 kilometers) of hiking trails and 2.9 million acres (1.2 million hectares) of national forest [sources: Wisconsin, Arkansas].

For the adventurous, the Appalachian Trail stretches from Maine to Georgia, covering 2,170 miles (3,492 kilometers). Each location has its own rules about pets, such as limits on the number of pets allowed, so be sure to check with the state's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for specific policies before setting off.

9: Camping Adventures

Don’t limit yourself to day hikes. Many campgrounds and parks allow campers with pets to pitch a tent and spend the night. While your pets will likely need to stay on a leash, they can still enjoy a peaceful nap as you gather around the campfire to tell stories after a day of hiking. Be sure to call ahead to confirm any restrictions or policies a campground may have so you’re fully prepared.

To make sure your trip goes smoothly, be sure to pack more than just your regular camping gear. If you’re not planning to share your tent with your pet, consider bringing a small separate tent with bedding. Don’t forget essentials like your pet's leash, food, water, treats, and toys. It’s wise to bring along vaccination records, a first-aid kit, and grooming tools as well. And of course, flea and tick repellent—nothing ruins a great vacation like bringing home unwanted pests.

8: Hoofed Escapades

What if your trail companion has hooves instead of paws? Plenty of public lands cater to horseback riders. For example, Watson Mill Bridge State Park in northeast Georgia offers horse stalls for rent. This 1,000-acre (405-hectare) park features a historic covered bridge built in 1885, making it the longest in the state. In addition to riding trails, the park provides campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs, as well as log cabins and day-use shelters [source: Georgia].

The Big South Fork National River and Recreational Area, which stretches along the Tennessee-Kentucky border, is another great spot for horse lovers. With 125,000 acres (50,586 hectares) of stunning wilderness and 180 miles (290 kilometers) of trails, this area offers fantastic accommodations like the Charit Creek Lodge, accessible only by horseback [source: Nice].

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), part of the U.S. Department of the Interior, oversees more than 245 million acres (99 million hectares) of wild land, mostly located in the Western states [source: Bureau of Land Management]. Many of these pristine areas are open to horseback riding and primitive camping. One example is the 236,488-acre (95,703-hectare) Palen/McCoy Wilderness in California, which boasts five mountain ranges, dunes, vast bajadas (alluvial plains), and ironwood forests—all without roads [source: BLM]. Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) across the U.S. also offer equestrian trails and basic camping facilities, except during hunting season.

If you and your pet enjoy a faster pace, like cruising at 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour), check out the next page for some road trip activities perfect for both of you.

7: Exploring with Your Pet

You and your furry companion prefer to live life in the fast lane? There's a lot to enjoy on the open road together. From San Jose, Calif., to Greenville, S.C., communities host pet-centered events like "Bark in the Park." These annual dog-friendly gatherings vary by location but typically include fun runs, agility courses, Frisbee games, food, and police dog demonstrations.

Some towns have unique events, such as the Annual Brewer's Memorial Ale Fest in Newport, Ore. Each May, beer lovers and their dogs gather at Rogue Ales' world headquarters to honor Rogue, the black Labrador retriever who was the company’s chairman and the loyal companion to brewmaster John Maier, even appearing in local TV ads before his passing in 2006.

Down in Hollywood, Fla., the Super Bowl is celebrated each year with the Dog Bowl. Owners and pets dress up in their favorite team's colors and take part in games and canine good citizen tests.

Find out more about sports your pet can shine in on the next page.

6: Agility in Action

Those agility courses we mentioned earlier? They're a thrilling challenge for both pups and their humans. The United States Dog Agility Association is just one of many groups that can turn a dog's dreams into reality. If you believe your dog has what it takes—navigating seesaws, racing up ramps, leaping over hurdles, diving through tunnels, and zigzagging around poles—there are plenty of events to turn into a vacation.

For instance, in April 2012 alone, major events took place in Camarillo, Calif., Palmyra, Pa., and Albuquerque, N.M. That's quite the adventure. But does your pet shine in a more graceful arena? Find out more on the next page.

5: Best in Show

Perhaps your furry companion is more than just a pet—could it be the best of its breed? Many people don't just travel with their pets; they travel to participate in dog and cat shows. The American Kennel Club (AKC) reports receiving 3 million applications each year. You and your dog can enter various events like breed shows, obedience trials, and hunting tests through over 4,500 AKC-affiliated clubs across the nation [source: American Kennel Club].

On the feline side, the Cat Fancier's Association (CFA) hosts 400 competitions globally each year, recognizing 40 distinct breeds along with the 'Household Pet Class' [source: Cat Fancier's Association].

So, how do you celebrate a victory? Head to the exciting destinations listed on the next page.

4: Vineyard Visits and More

While not entirely focused on pets, some destinations are pet-friendly. Several vineyards across California, Virginia, Missouri, Michigan, Florida, and Oregon not only welcome pets but even name certain wines after them. For example, visitors to Mutt Lynch Winery in California's Sonoma County can grab a bottle of Merlot Over and Play Dead.

Many well-known theme parks offer day facilities to board your pet while you enjoy the thrills. Prices and services vary, but most parks ask owners to bring their pet's food and check in regularly to attend to their pet's needs. Additionally, numerous RV parks accept well-behaved, leash-controlled pets. Some even feature pet recreation areas and offer pet-sitting services if you want to venture somewhere your furry companion can't go.

When the journey starts to feel endless, leave the car behind and dive into some aquatic fun at the destinations featured on the next page.

3: Take the Plunge

Whether it's to escape the summer heat or simply to be awed by the vastness of the ocean, water entices travelers to leave the land behind. While cats might not be drawn to the crashing waves along the shore, most dogs dive into the water with boundless enthusiasm.

Minnesota may be known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but for boating adventures closer to the East Coast, Michigan should be your go-to. With borders along four of the five Great Lakes, Michigan boasts 3,288 miles (5,292 kilometers) of shoreline, the longest of any state in the continental U.S. [source: Michigan.gov]. Additionally, Michigan features 11,000 inland lakes, making its state parks popular for water and boating activities [source: Michigan DNR]. Whether it's shoreline fishing, river trails for kayaks and canoes, or motor boating in the Great Lakes, there’s something for everyone. Several parks, including Traverse City, Ludington, Tahquamenon Falls, and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Parks, offer rentals for kayaks, rowboats, and other man-powered watercraft in warmer months.

If you'd rather relax and let someone else do the driving, pet-friendly charter companies across the U.S. offer sightseeing cruises. For example, well-mannered pets are welcome on the Nature Cruises Aboard the Acadian in Maine and the Canine Cruise on the Chicago River.

For those eager to dive in and enjoy the water, many state or municipal parks and beaches now feature dog-friendly beaches. Locations like Coronado Dog Beach in California and Susan Kimmelman Off-leash Dog Beach at Montrose Beach in Chicago allow dogs to roam and swim freely without a leash. In Campbellsport, Wisconsin, the Kettle Moraine State Forest Northern Unit even includes an area designated for training dogs in water skills.

Had your fill of the great outdoors? Continue reading to discover urban destinations that cater to pet lovers.

2: City Escapes

Big cities are increasingly becoming more pet-friendly. Luxury hotels in places like Atlanta, New York, Beverly Hills, and Nashville not only allow pets but also offer special programs, including massages, bathrobes, canine cocktail hours, and even voice coaching sessions.

For those with a more modest budget, many urban hotels now accept pets and go the extra mile to welcome furry guests with treats and special meals. Upon check-in, pet owners may also receive helpful guides to nearby pet-friendly restaurants, attractions, and local veterinary contacts.

Once you’re settled in, there’s no need to separate from your furry companion when dining. Cities abound with outdoor restaurants and cafes where both you and your pet can enjoy a meal together. As for entertainment for your pet, there’s plenty. Beyond pet-centered events, many cities offer guided and self-guided canine walking tours, where you can explore highlights of the city. You can also stop by pet boutiques and stores, like those along Long Beach’s Second Street, where owners provide fresh water and treats for their canine customers.

For some off-leash fun, check out a dog park. These fenced-in green spaces offer your pet acres of free-range excitement, from socializing with other dogs to playing Frisbee, running through agility courses, and swimming in a pond. You can join in the fun or relax on a nearby bench. You might even catch a special event, such as the working-dog demonstrations or the human barking competition during Santa Maria, California’s Woof Pac Park's Dog Days of Summer.

If your idea of the perfect vacation revolves around relaxation and luxury, a pet-friendly spa or resort is just what you need for both you and your four-legged companion to unwind in style.

1: Pampered Pets

Dogs are much more likely to vacation with their owners than cats. In fact, 78 percent of people traveling with pets are vacationing with dogs, according to the U.S. Travel Association. But for cats, there are feline-friendly resorts and spas that cater to their royal needs. These resorts offer amenities like litter boxes, scratching posts, room-service menus, custom pet beds, and bowls for food and water. The FireSky Resort and Spa in Scottsdale, Ariz., even provides in-room spa packages for cats. Catnip toys, massages, and birthday cakes are among the pampering services offered at W Hotels in New Orleans, and at the Ritz-Carlton in New York, Fluffy can travel in style with "fashionable carry bags" during sightseeing excursions.

Dog-friendly resorts offer a range of amenities tailored to canine guests, with a more structured activity schedule. At the Dog House Resort in Jefferson, N.C., visitors can canoe along the scenic New River and then unwind in rooms named after iconic movie dogs. Over in Montecito, Calif., San Ysidro Ranch features 17 miles of picturesque trails winding through the ranch gardens, where both pets and owners can enjoy a soothing in-room massage after their hike. At these resorts, you'll find room-service menus, fenced play areas, and pet-sitting services as standard offerings.