If your dog’s tail starts wagging the second you grab your car keys, it might be time to plan a trip just for the two of you.
A change of scenery, some fresh air, maybe a new trail to sniff or a beach to zoom across… sounds pretty great, right?
From parks and hiking trails to breweries and patios that welcome pets, more places are embracing four-legged guests like never before.
Keep reading for travel tips and some of the best pet-friendly vacation spots across the U.S., all recommended by Sonesta staff.
🛎️ Discover Sonesta Pet-Friendly Stays
From scenic trails to walkable cities, discover our top 5 pet-friendly U.S. getaways.
Top 5 Pet-Friendly U.S. Getaways
Whether you’re craving beach breezes, mountain air, or desert sunshine, these cities are ideal for exploring with your pet.
Each destination offers welcoming patios and Sonesta’s signature pet-friendly hospitality.
1. Scottsdale, AZ
With endless sunshine and laid-back charm, Scottsdale is a top pick for dog-friendly weekend getaways.
Top Outdoor Adventures
The city is made for open-air adventures, and your pup will love the variety of trails and parks built right into the city.
- Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt (Map It): Start your day with a peaceful lakeside stroll. This scenic path is a guest favorite for early-morning walks and wide-open desert views.This scenic path is a guest favorite for early-morning walks and wide-open desert views.
- Chaparral Dog Park (Map It): A great spot for off-leash play, with separate areas for different dog sizes and plenty of shaded seating for breaks.
- McDowell Sonoran Preserve (Map It): Explore stunning desert trails that welcome leashed dogs. Be sure to head out early, carry extra water, and avoid peak heat hours.
Soaking up Scottsdale’s pet-friendly café culture one paw-fect moment at a time.
Pet-Friendly Dining & Breweries
Scottsdale’s patio scene is practically designed for dogs, with many restaurants and breweries offering thoughtful touches for four-legged guests.
- O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery: A local go-to with a dog-welcoming patio. Your pup gets their own water bowl and treat while you enjoy craft beer and hearty bites.
- The Thumb: This quirky BBQ joint offers casual dining with dog-friendly outdoor seating and even homemade dog snacks for your travel buddy.
Local Tips & Events
Scottsdale is super pet-conscious, but the desert climate can be harsh. Plan outings for early morning or evening and check sidewalks for heat before walks.
Our staff at Sonesta ES Suites Paradise Valley warmly recommends timing your visit for fall or spring, when the weather is ideal, and the city hosts outdoor markets and dog-friendly festivals.
Enjoy trekking Scottsdale’s desert trails with your loyal companion.
Where to Stay
Scottsdale is one of the best dog-friendly vacation spots, and it’s even better when your hotel makes things easy. Sonesta pet-friendly hotels in Scottsdale are ideal for their warm welcome for both people and pets.
- Sonesta Select Scottsdale at Mayo Clinic Campus: Tucked away near the mountains with peaceful walking paths, this hotel offers quiet comfort and a pet-welcoming vibe.
- Sonesta ES Suites Scottsdale Paradise Valley: Ideal for longer stays or pups who need extra room to roam, with spacious suites, fully equipped kitchens, and easy access to parks and trails.
Every San Diego getaway is better when shared with your best friend.
2. San Diego, CA
With ocean breezes, cute neighborhoods, and endless places to sniff and explore, San Diego is a go-to for dog-friendly vacations. Locals are as welcoming as the weather, and there’s no shortage of beaches and patios where your pup can tag along.
Top Outdoor Adventures
Whether your pup is a beach chaser or more of a laid-back trail walker, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors together.
- Dog Beach in Ocean Beach (Map It): One of the most iconic off-leash beaches in the country. It’s spacious, friendly, and full of dogs living their best beach life.
- La Jolla Shores (Map It): Leash up and explore the coastline, tide pools, and ocean views, ideal for quieter walks away from the crowds.
Pet-Friendly Dining & Breweries
San Diego’s restaurant scene loves dogs almost as much as it loves tacos and craft beer.
- Stone Brewing – Liberty Station: Great craft beer, a stunning outdoor garden, and a laid-back atmosphere where dogs are genuinely welcome.
- OB Surf Lodge: Coastal, casual dining near Ocean Beach with dog-friendly outdoor seating, ocean breezes, and a laid-back surf atmosphere perfect after a beach walk.
Local Tips & Events
The team at Sonesta ES Suites San Diego – Sorrento Mesa often recommends a ferry ride to Coronado Island and guests love it.
You can bring your dog onboard, enjoy scenic views of the bay, and spend the day walking along the island’s quiet beaches, parks, and charming streets.
Where to Stay
San Diego has the best of both worlds, city energy and peaceful escapes, and Sonesta pet-friendly hotels let you enjoy whichever pace fits you best.
- Sonesta ES Suites Carmel Mountain – San Diego: A comfortable, pet-friendly suite hotel with a free breakfast and outdoor pool, located near scenic parks, ideal for active days exploring with your dog.
- Sonesta ES Suites San Diego – Sorrento Mesa: A quiet, spacious stay with full kitchens, separate living areas, and nearby green space, ideal for longer visits and relaxed morning walks.
Simple moments make the best memories when discovering Knoxville with your dog by your side.
3. Knoxville, TN
A hidden gem for dog-friendly weekend getaways, Knoxville offers plenty of green space, riverside views, and Southern hospitality, plus a growing list of local spots that welcome dogs with open arms and the occasional treat.
Top Outdoor Adventures
Whether you’re hiking, brewery hopping, or just relaxing, the city is a laid-back, pet-friendly destination worth exploring.
- Tommy Schumpert Dog Park (Map It): Regulars and visitors agree; this is the dog park in town. Large, fenced-in areas, agility features, walking trails, and a separate space for small dogs to make it a standout.
- Ijams Nature Center (Map It): Just a few miles from downtown, this 300-acre nature preserve is full of dog-friendly hiking trails and even spots for water-loving pups to splash and wade.
- The Third Creek Greenway (Map It): A scenic, paved path that’s ideal for casual walks or bike rides with your leashed dog alongside you.
Pet-Friendly Dining & Breweries
Knoxville’s food and beer scene is welcoming and more dog-friendly than you might expect.
- Balter Beerworks: A renovated service station turned brewery with a large outdoor patio that welcomes pups with water bowls and plenty of people-watching.
- Alliance Brewing Co.: The perfect stop after a morning hike or park visit, offering great local beer and a dog-welcoming patio.
Local Tips & Events
Sonesta staff at Sonesta Simply Suites Knoxville say guests love how walkable Knoxville is.
They also advise to check out local pet events like the Howl-O-Ween Pooch Parade & Pet Expo and Barktoberfest, where local vendors and adoptable pups come together for a great cause and great time.
Where to Stay
Sonesta pet-friendly hotels in Knoxville make it easy to travel with your pup, offering comfort, space, and staff who genuinely care about making your stay stress-free.
- Sonesta Simply Suites Knoxville: A relaxed, quiet stay with ample suites and kitchenettes, ideal for dogs who need a calm place to unwind after a busy day.
- Americas Best Value Inn Knoxville East: A budget-friendly hotel that welcomes one pet up to 100 lbs at no extra charge, ideal for road-trip stays and exploring Knoxville with your furry companion.
From paddleboarding to patio lounging, Austin makes it easy to travel with your dog.
4. Austin, TX
Austin’s motto might be “Keep Austin Weird,” but we’d argue it should be “Keep Austin Dog-Friendly.” With a mix of outdoor adventures, creative local eats, and a community that loves dogs, it’s one of the best cities in the country for pet-friendly vacations.
Top Outdoor Adventures
There’s always something outside for your pup to do in Austin, whether they’re the high-energy hiking type or just want a shady spot to lounge.
- Zilker Metropolitan Park (Map It): A huge green space in the heart of the city, ideal for leashed walks, people-watching, or spreading out a blanket and relaxing together.
- Barton Creek Greenbelt (Map It): Known for shaded trails and swimming holes, great for dogs who love to hike and splash.
- Red Bud Isle (Map It): A 13-acre off-leash dog park on the water, where pups can play, swim, and socialize in a safe, scenic spot.
Pet-Friendly Dining & Breweries
Austin’s patios are basically built for dogs with cold drinks, great food, and lots of shady spots for your co-pilot to chill.
- Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden: A Rainey Street staple with a massive patio, a dog-friendly vibe, and even a sausage menu just for pups.
- Radio Coffee & Beer: Part coffeehouse, part beer garden, part food truck hangout with plenty of outdoor seating for both humans and dogs.
Local Tips & Events
Staff at Sonesta Simply Suites Austin South often recommend using SniffSpot, a guest favorite, for off-leash play between outings. It lets you rent private, fenced-in yards by the hour, giving your dog time to roam freely and safely between city adventures.
Where to Stay
When it comes to pet-friendly hotels in Austin, Sonesta offers cozy options with welcoming staff and room to make your pup feel right at home.
- Sonesta Simply Suites Austin South: A quiet, residential-style stay with spacious suites and kitchenettes. Guests appreciate the quiet location and easy access to nearby green spaces.
- Sonesta Select Austin North: Pet-friendly and conveniently located near downtown, with comfy rooms and staff happy to recommend local parks and trails.
Exploring Denver trails together makes every walk feel like a new adventure with your best friend.
5. Denver, CO
With crisp mountain air and nearby trails in every direction, Denver is a dream destination for pet-friendly vacations. It’s the kind of city where dogs are part of the social scene, at the park, on the trail, and definitely at happy hour.
Top Outdoor Adventures
Between in-city parks and quick getaways to the mountains, there’s always something new to sniff.
- Cherry Creek Trail (Map It): A scenic urban trail that winds through the city and along the creek, great for long walks or jogs with your leashed pup.
- Fuller Dog Park (Map It): A popular off-leash park in the heart of the city with plenty of space to run, socialize, and burn off energy.
- Day trips to Golden (Map It): Just 30 minutes west, Golden offers dog-friendly hikes with stunning views and a small-town vibe that’s worth the drive.
Pet-Friendly Dining & Breweries
Denver’s brewery culture is famously dog-friendly, and many spots have heated patios so you can hang out year-round.
- Denver Beer Co.: Known for its spacious patio, great craft beer, and dogs always welcome policy – water bowls and belly rubs included.water bowls and belly rubs included.
- Lowry Beer Garden: Spacious beer garden with dog-friendly seating and a relaxed vibe for enjoying food and drinks outside.
Local Tips & Events
According to staff at Sonesta Denver Downtown, brewery patios with heaters are a winter favorite: “Guests love that they don’t have to leave their dog behind, even when it’s chilly,” one front desk team member shared.
Where to Stay
Sonesta’s pet-friendly hotels in Denver offer comfort, convenience, and easy access to parks and trails, making travel with your dog simple and stress-free.
- Sonesta Denver Downtown:The hotel offers a central location with easy access to city parks and pet-welcoming neighborhoods, ideal for guests who want to explore downtown without sacrificing green space for their pup.
- Sonesta ES Suites Denver South – Park Meadows: Located just outside the city, the hotel offers suites with full kitchens and separate living areas, ideal for longer stays.
Traveling with your pet can be one of the most rewarding ways to connect and make lasting memories.
How to Plan the Pawfect Trip
A little prep goes a long way to make your pet-friendly vacation smooth for you and your pup.
Here’s how to plan the pawfect getaway.
What to Pack
Your dog’s packing list should include:
- Travel blanket or dog bed
- Vet and vaccination records
- Updated ID tags with travel contact info
- Collapsible bowl + extra water
- Booties or paw balm for hot or cold terrain
- Towel for muddy or wet adventures
- Treats, toys, and a snuffle mat for downtime
- Keep it all in a dog-specific go-bag for easy weekend getaways.
Tips for Shy, Senior, or Reactive Dogs
Every dog has their own travel personality, and adjusting your trip to match theirs can make a world of difference.
Shy dogs often do their best when you stick to familiar routines, same feeding times, favorite toys, and a calm pace when exploring new environments.
Planning a bigger pup adventure? You may also like our guide to traveling confidently with large dogs, including hotel tips, outdoor ideas, and destination inspiration.
For reactive dogs, request a quieter hotel room, away from elevators or high-traffic areas, and bring along a crate or lightweight barrier to help them feel safe and secure.
If you are traveling with a senior dog, look for hotels with elevators, minimal stairs, and easy outdoor access for late-night or early-morning walks. A supportive bed or blanket from home can also ease joint stiffness after a day of adventures.
Traveling with a smaller companion instead? Discover destinations perfectly suited to pint-sized pups in our roundup of toy-dog–friendly summer getaways.
Explore toy-dog summer destinations
Choosing Truly Pet-Friendly Hotels
Sonesta’s pet-friendly hotels make it easy to travel with your pet, with over 300 pet-welcoming locations and flexible room types across the U.S. Through PAWS by Sonesta, our properties offer stays where dogs are greeted with care and the freedom to feel at home.
If you’re traveling with a shy, senior, or high-energy dog, comfort and convenience matter just as much as location.
Here’s what to look for when booking a pet-friendly stay:
- Straightforward pet policies with no surprise fees
- Spacious suites or extended-stay setups with full kitchens and room to stretch out
- Easy outdoor access or on-site green space for quick walks
- Friendly, dog-loving staff who welcome pets
No matter where you’re headed, Sonesta’s got a spot where tails and their owners feel right at home.
Your Next Tail-Wagging Adventure Awaits
From scenic hikes to dog-friendly patios and cozy hotel stays, there are so many ways to explore the U.S. with your four-legged sidekick. And with Sonesta pet-friendly hotels in all the right places, you’ll have a comfy, welcoming home to land at the end of each day.
So, grab the leash, pack the treats, and start planning. Your next great adventure is only a tail wag away.
Don’t forget to join Sonesta Travel Pass to earn points on every stay, enjoy exclusive perks, and get personalized service.
Disclaimer: The suggested itinerary and points of interest are provided for informational and planning purposes only. Guests are encouraged to independently verify opening hours, availability, travel times, and any potential changes prior to visiting. The inclusion of any businesses, attractions, or destinations does not imply affiliation with or endorsement by Sonesta or its affiliates. Sonesta makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided and assumes no responsibility for any inconvenience or loss arising from the use of this information.
