When searching for a vacation destination that’s right for every member of your family – including the tail-wagging types – it can help to make sure you’re barking up the right tree. Some cities go out of their way to provide an inviting atmosphere for man’s best friend; here are a few of our favorites, in alphabetical order.
- Austin – If you’ve got a glamorous pup, consider a trip to Austin. The hip city’s got more than 35 pet photographers. Plus, plenty of restaurants welcome your four-legged companions. For instance, Banger’s Sausage House hosts Mutt Monday once a month, with free dog training sessions, grooming and giveaways. And Freddie’s Place even has a “dog burger” on the menu – a half-pound of hamburger served in a dog dish. The city even has a food truck specifically made for dogs. Then there’s the Doghouse Drinkery Dog Park, which approaches things from a different direction, turning a dog park into a more welcoming space for humans, with a bar and game room.
- Phoenix – Phoenix’s warm and dry climate is great for canine companions. It is also home to a lot of retirees who like to spend their time with their dog pals. There are dozens of dog-friendly restaurants throughout the city and its suburbs, as well a variety of stores where furry friends are welcome, including such chain retailers as Staples, Old Navy, Urban Outfitters and Home Depot. Most area bookstores, including Bards Books, Changing Hands Bookstore and Half Price Books, let you stroll through the stacks with your dog, and – as you might expect – canines are perfectly at home at the area’s pet outlets.
- Portland – Portland may not just be where “hipsters go to retire.” According to Estately, Portland is the ideal city for canines to live their lives. It has 33 dog parks, which is more than any large city in the United States. In addition, there are countless dog-friendly eateries, and most homes have lots of space for dogs to roam around in. When you book your stay, there are plenty of pet-friendly hotels (be sure to ask!), along with a number of attractions where you can stretch your legs with Spot, including the Crystal Springs Rhododenron Garden, the Hoyt Arboretum, Portland Farmers’ Markets, Portland Walking Tours and The Pearl District.
- San Diego — This sunny Southern California beach city is home to numerous canine events such as the National Dog Party Day and the Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon. It has eight terrific beaches for dogs to socialize and get wet, including the North Beach Dog Run and Fiesta Island. Plus, the city offers tons of fitness options for getting your and your pooch into shape, such as running, kayaking and exercise classes – including “doga”! In addition, any shopping centers – such as Seaport Village and the Spanish Village Arts Center – encourage pups to come in for a belly rub.
- Seattle – Even though it rains a lot in Seattle, it still boasts more dogs than children. Many places in Seattle are so pet-friendly that nobody blinks an eye when dogs are in places you rarely find them in other cities. You can enjoy the view from the Puget Sound from one of the assorted ferries and tour boats. Many people and dogs go to the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Ballard Locks to hike the towpath, see the locks and watch boats, or stroll the seven-acre botanical garden. Dogs are also welcome visitors to the 230-acre Washington Park Arboretum. Downtown visitor hotspots include Pioneer Square – Seattle’s oldest neighborhood – with carriage rides where you can take your pup.
To find out more about our “fetching” destinations that you can enjoy with a canine companion, drop us a line at info@takeagetaway.com, visit www.takeagetaway.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.