The 15 Most Pet Friendly Cities in the United States

Traveling or moving to a new city can be extremely difficult for people who own pets.  Trying to find places to accommodate you and your four-legged friend can often be difficult when trying to navigate an unfamiliar area. Sadly, some places are just not conducive for pet owners who enjoy having their pets be apart of their daily life. Fortunately; however, there are many cities throughout the country that pride themselves on being extremely pet friendly.  These cities can offer anything from pet friendly parks to pet friendly restaurants and hotels.  No matter what type of climate or environment you enjoy the most, there is definitely a location that will please both you and your pet. Here are the 15 most pet friendly cities in the United States.

Eureka Springs, AR

Most people have probably never even hard of Eureka Springs, but if you own a pet you may want to consider adding it your list of potential places to visit. The city offers several dog friendly camp grounds/RV parks, restaurants, and hotels.  Pets will even get a chance to stretch their legs at the Eureka Springs Dog Park.

Boston, MA

The city of Boston has a lot to offer, especially to those with four-legged friends. Although Boston is not swimming with off-leash dog parks, the city offers plenty of other pet friendly activities, including the Liberty Hotel’s weekly “Yappier Hour.” Dogs are also allowed to ride the subway during off-peak hours of operation.

Miami, FL

Miami is a great place to be for both humans and pets alike.  The warm weather provides a great atmosphere for pets to enjoy some fun in the sun, and the city offers a lot of opportunities for them to stretch all four of their legs.  There are several beaches in the city that allow dogs, including Haulover Beach which also has a dog park.  Pets are even allowed to dine with their owners at certain restaurants in Miami, as long as owners opt for outdoor seating.

Chicago, IL

Chicago is another city that isn’t over flowing with dog parks. However, that hasn’t stopped Chi-Town from creating a welcoming environment for pets. Chicago has a lot of great places for pets and their owners to walk and explore the city, and there are many options for dog boarding and other pet friendly activities.

Gettysburg, PA

Gettysburg, PA may be best-known as being the location of Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address; however, the city is currently making a new name for itself. Although it often goes overlooked, Gettysburg is a great place for people with pets to live and visit. Gettysburg has several pet friendly attractions, including the Gettysburg Ghost Tours. Visitors will also be pleased to know that there are plenty of pet friendly hotel options in the city.

Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix’s warm and dry weather really lends itself to pets.  People living in and visiting Phoenix can spend time outside with their pets without having to worry about frequent bad weather.  However, aside from wonderful weather, Phoenix has a lot of other pet friendly offerings including pet friendly stores, restaurants, and hotels.  Those who enjoy shopping will be pleased to know that dogs are allowed in several well-known stores including Crate & Barrel and Old Navy. During the baseball season, the Arizona Diamondbacks even welcome pets to the stadium for their annual Bark in the Park event.

Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque may not be the most popular place on earth, but they certainly know how to treat their pets.  The city offers plenty of great areas for walking, as well as several pet boutiques and day cares.  There are also more than a dozen dog parks throughout the city that allow dog owners to let their pets roam free off-leash. If you’ve never visited the city before, don’t worry, Albuquerque has many pet friendly hotels, some of which offer special packages for those visiting with a furry guest.  The Nativo Lounge even lets pets stay for free, and sends them home with a doggie bag.

Austin, TX

Austin is full of pet friendly locations. Aside from several dog parks the city also offers some other cool options.  On the last Friday of each month, The Irie Bean Cafe hosts a “Yappy Hour” where pets can experience top of the line spa treatment. Barton Creek Farmers Market also welcomes pets as long as they are kept on leashes.

Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis may not have the greatest weather, but it’s still a great place for pets.  Each year, Minneapolis hosts a Canine Carnival that allows pets and their owners to get out and enjoy the sun.  Usually held in the spring, the event features several games and activities, including a “doggy beer bar” and free samples.

Boulder, CO

The city of Boulder offers plenty of pet friends accommodations including several hotels, parks, and walking trails. Those who hate leaving their pet alone, will also be happy to know that there are many stores and restaurants that are happy to welcome pets. Foolish Craig’s a restaurant in the heart of downtown Boulder, allows patrons to bring their pet while they enjoy a meal on the patio.

Charleston, SC

Charleston’s James Island County Park is a great place for pets. The park features a special location for pets and their owners to enjoy the great out doors and many people have reported having positive experiences while visiting with pets. Whirlin’ Waters Water Park also offers “Dog Day Afternoon” which gives pets a chance to splash around in the water park’s wave pool.

Portland, OR

Portland is filled with pet friendly locations. According to BringFido.com, there are 39 dog parks in the area as well as several pet friendly walking trails and hotels.  Those who enjoy outdoor shopping may also want to consider Portland’s Saturday Market, which welcomes leashed dogs.

San Diego, CA

San Diego is a popular destination for travelers, and those with pets can rest assured that their little buddies won’t be left out.  The city is complete with dog friendly beaches, parks, and restaurants.  San Diego is also home to the Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon which allows pets to catch some waves.

Seattle, WA

Seattle certainly isn’t the sunniest place in the world, but pet owners can still find a bright spot. The city offers a lot of pet friendly options for both residents and guests alike. Most notably, Seattle is the birthplace of Rover.com, a website that allows pets owners to find local pet sitters.

San Fransisco, CA

San Fransisco is known for being a city of acceptance, so it should come as no surprise that the welcoming spirit extends to pets as well. San Francisco has the third highest number of dog parks in the country and plenty of other dog friendly locations.  There are plenty of dog friendly restaurants, and several Meet Up groups for pets and owners who are looking to make friends.