Road Trip USA: Dog-Friendly Destinations Your Pet Will Love
There’s nothing the great expanse of North America doesn’t have. Between mountains, deserts, and beaches, there’s something for everyone – including you and your pup! Overseas travel with a dog can be complicated. There are countless arrangements, regulations, and expenses associated with pet airplane travel.
So, why not road trip?
If you wanted to do a cross-country road trip with your dog, there’s no doubt you’d find countless destinations across the U.S. that will cater to your pet-friendly needs and provide your pet (and you!) with an unforgettable experience.
Malibu, CA
The movies and TV shows truly don’t do Malibu justice. It’s a sight worth seeing, especially because it contains one of the few dog-friendly beaches in Southern California – Leo Carillo State Beach. Gaze upon the rocky cliffsides bordering the great Pacific Ocean while you and your pup splash along the shore.
The dog-friendly part of the beach starts north of lifeguard tower number 3, in an area called Staircase Beach. While dogs must be on-leash, at least your four-legged friend will get some quality time in the saltwater.
There are also plenty of dog-friendly establishments nearby like Malibu Seafood, where you can sit outside with your dog, overlooking the water while enjoying some fresh fish and chips. The Santa Monica Mountains overlooking Malibu are also home to a variety of dog-friendly hiking trails.
Austin, TX
Heading west, Austin is practically a haven for dog-owners everywhere. Restaurant patios, outdoor concerts, and various other establishments in town welcome pets. An eatery called Yard Bar has some Austin-favorite dishes while also featuring an off-leash dog park. Sip a cool beer and let your pup run free.
Red Bud Isle Park, a 13-acre park located on a peninsula, is also a popular off-leash spot for dogs. Much like Yard Bar, the Doghouse Drinkery Dog Park has a ½ acre, fenced-in, off-leash dog park. It also has a bar and game room so the humans can have fun too!
If you and your dog are the outdoorsy types, you might also embark on a pet-friendly kayak tour together to see the Congress Bridge bats.
Asheville, NC
This Appalachian town is known for its abundance of pet-friendly accommodations, as well as its wide array of hiking trails. Between the Pisgah National Forest and the French Broad River Park, your dog is sure to have some of the best walks of their life here.
The historic Biltmore House and Estate is also laid out on 250 acres worth of tree-scattered land for you and your furry friend to explore. The 2-mile Urban Trail through town also walks you past historic buildings, pet-friendly bakeries and breweries, and artistic showcases you’ll be sure to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a laidback stop-off on your cross country road trip, this is definitely the one.’
Key West, FL
There’s no question about it. Key West is one of the dog-friendliest towns in the U.S. For starters, Key West Dog Beach at Vernon St and Waddell Ave allows off-the-leash playtime. So, your pet can freely frolic through the water, and maybe even engage in a game of fetch.
There are also a ton of bars in town that welcome dogs, like Louie’s Backyard and Islands Dog Bar. Much like Austin, there’s dog-friendly kayaking. However, that’s not the only outdoorsy activity you can do together. Wild About Dolphins is a dolphin-watching eco-charter that allows dogs on board. Even the captain’s Golden Retriever joins in from time to time!
You can end off the day at Mallory Square, which features live music, local artists, and other vendors for a party-like atmosphere.
No matter which destination you choose, or if you choose them all, the most important part is keeping your dog comfortable in the car between stops. There are tons of pet travel accessories that’ll surely benefit your pet, including seat belt attachments, helmets, and travel hammocks. By keeping your dog comfortable en route, you’ll ensure their enjoyment at every stop you make on your road trip itinerary.
