19 Cities That Are Surprisingly Pet-Friendly

Traveling with your pet can be a joy when you know the right places to visit, with many cities such as Miami renowned for their pet-friendly atmospheres. But, there are other hidden gems that offer something different for pet owners who like to explore new destinations without leaving their furry friends behind. We take a look at 19 cities where you and your pet will feel warmly welcomed:

Boise, Idaho

The Boise River Greenbelt has miles of beautiful walkways that are ideal for taking leisurely walks with your pet. An off-leash dog park with lots of space for running and playing is available in Ann Morrison Park and you can browse local breweries and cafes like Payette Brewing Company that offer dog-friendly patios for a relaxing outing.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville combines mountain charm with pet-friendly amenities, with the Asheville Urban Trail ideal for leashed walks and Pisgah National Forest’s trails offer stunning wilderness adventures. Many  of the downtown restaurants, cafes and breweries feature dog-friendly patios, ensuring people enjoy the local flavors alongside your furry companion.

Bend, Oregon

Bend is a paradise for outdoor-loving pets and their owners with the Tumalo Creek Trail providing breathtaking views for a shared adventure. The city boasts an impressive number of off-leash dog parks and pet-welcoming breweries, such as Boneyard Beer, ensuring your pup can enjoy the Bend lifestyle as much as you do.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga surprises visitors with its pet-friendly attitude and the Tennessee Riverwalk is a picturesque destination for strolling with pets and Coolidge Park includes a designated dog area. Nearby Lookout Mountain offers hiking trails that welcome dogs and the city’s eateries feature plenty of outdoor seating for pets.

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo is blessed with scenic parks and pet-friendly bars and restaurants and is an underrated destination for animal lovers. Delaware Park is a popular destination that provides plenty of green space for leisurely walks with your dog and there’s places to walk on Canalside along the waterfront. Dog lovers can enjoy events like Paws in the Park that showcase the city’s commitment to its furry residents and visitors. 

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a destination for art lovers and its welcoming atmosphere extends to pets. The Canyon Road art district allows leashed pets to join their owners in exploring galleries and boutiques. For an outdoor adventure you can explore the trails near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains that provide serene outdoor adventures and local cafes cater to pets with water bowls and treats.

Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville’s welcoming vibe makes it a delightful choice for pet owners. The Louisville Waterfront Park is perfect for strolls along the Ohio River and Cherokee Park offers off-leash areas for dogs to roam. Pet-friendly breweries like Against the Grain ensure your pup can join in the fun.

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison is an unexpectedly pet-friendly city with plenty to offer as the city’s numerous parks include off-leash zones and dog-friendly trails, such as those along Lake Mendota. Local cafes and beer gardens like Olbrich Biergarten provide pet-friendly patios where you can relax and enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere.

Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha may not be the first city that comes to mind, but it boasts an impressive pet-friendly scene, including Zorinsky Lake Park that offers miles of trails ideal for walks with your pet. The Old Market district is a popular spot that includes several pet-welcoming shops and patios where you can relax and enjoy great dining opportunities.

Richmond, Virginia

Richmond’s historic charm is well set up for dog owners with the likes of the James River Park System featuring trails that welcome pets. Monument Avenue’s wide sidewalks are ideal for leisurely walks and visitors can enjoy local breweries like Hardywood Park Craft Brewery alongside their pets in a welcoming atmosphere.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine, is an unassuming pet-friendly destination with plenty to offer including Eastern Promenade Trail that features scenic views of the coastline and welcomes leashed pets. Downtown, you’ll find pet-friendly cafes and shops, while the nearby Casco Bay Islands are accessible via pet-friendly ferries for a fun day trip.

Fort Collins, Colorado

With the Poudre River Trail providing an ideal scenic walk and the city’s several dog parks, including the roomy Spring Canyon Dog Park that offers plenty of options for dog owners. Fort Collins is well-known for its outdoor beauty and pet-friendly culture, making it a top destination for family getaway. Breweries like Odell Brewing Company welcome pets on their patios, creating a lively community vibe for you and your four-legged friends. 

Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City combines small-town charm with pet-friendly activities. The TART Trail offers miles of walking paths, while nearby Clinch Park Beach allows leashed pets to enjoy the water. The area’s wineries, such as Chateau Grand Traverse, feature outdoor seating where pets are welcome to relax alongside their owners.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff’s mountain setting makes it an unexpected gem for pet owners. The Flagstaff Urban Trail System includes pet-friendly paths through scenic pine forests. In the Downtown area, you’ll find cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating that welcomes pets. For a fun getaway with picturesque views and tasty cuisine, Falstaff has everything you need. 

Gulfport, Mississippi

Gulfport’s coastal charm makes it a delightful destination for pets. Jones Park is a favorite spot for walks along the beach and the Mississippi Aquarium welcomes pets during select events. The town’s pet-friendly restaurants, like The Blow Fly Inn, provide a cozy atmosphere for dining with your furry companion.

Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg’s sunny vibe includes a welcoming attitude toward pets. The city boasts several dog parks, including Fort De Soto Park’s Paw Playground, which features a dog-friendly beach. Outdoor markets and cafes often provide pet amenities, making it easy to explore the city with your four-legged friend.

Fayetteville, Arkansas

Fayetteville surprises visitors with its pet-friendly amenities. The Razorback Regional Greenway is perfect for long walks with pets and Gulley Park includes off-leash zones. Local eateries in the city’s bustling downtown area welcome pets on their patios, so your companion can eat with you rather than having to leave them at home. 

Providence, Rhode Island

Providence offers a mix of urban charm and pet-friendly experiences. Waterplace Park allows leashed pets to stroll alongside the scenic river and Roger Williams Park provides expansive green spaces for exploration. The city’s cafes and bakeries, like Seven Stars Bakery, often include outdoor seating where pets are welcome.

Lexington, Kentucky

Lexington’s equestrian culture extends to its love for pets, especially dogs. Dogs are permitted on the premises of several local wineries and distilleries, including Talon Winery, and the Legacy Trail provides a picturesque path for hikes with pets. The city is a great place for a vacation because of its many dog parks and pet-friendly activities for all of the family.