25 Most Dog-Friendly Cities in the U.S.
Traveling with a dog can be one of the best experiences, but not every city makes it easy.
Some places are full of off-leash parks, dog-friendly patios, and hotels that welcome four-legged guests. Others… not so much.
I’ve been traveling full time with my dog, Shelby, for over three years, and we’ve learned firsthand which cities make life easier for both of us.
From finding safe places to walk to discovering restaurants that actually welcome dogs, I know how much the right city can change the experience.
That’s why I pulled together this list of the 25 most dog-friendly cities in the U.S. It’s based on research, rankings, and my own perspective as someone who takes a dog everywhere.
Each city comes with parks, trails, restaurants, and hotels that actually deliver on being dog-friendly.
25 Most Dog-Friendly Cities in the U.S.
1. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is one of the most walkable cities in the country and has dog parks scattered through every neighborhood.
Where to play: Fort Funston is legendary for off-leash beach adventures.
Where to walk: Golden Gate Park has miles of trails, lakes, and dog-friendly open spaces.
Where to eat: Toronado Pub allows dogs and has one of the best beer selections in the city.
Extra perk: The cool coastal climate means you can comfortably walk your dog year-round.
2. Denver, Colorado
Denver is an outdoor city at heart, and that extends to its dogs. Hiking, breweries, and dog parks are everywhere.
Where to play: Railyard Dog Park downtown is popular with locals and travelers alike.
Where to walk: Cherry Creek State Park has an enormous off-leash area with trails and creek access.
Where to eat: Denver Beer Co. has a huge patio perfect for dogs.
Special note: Many mountain towns near Denver, like Boulder and Golden, are also extremely dog-friendly.
3. San Diego, California
San Diego might be the ultimate dog city. Between year-round perfect weather and multiple dog beaches, it’s a destination in itself for dog lovers.
Where to play: Fiesta Island Dog Park is one of the largest in the U.S., with water access and wide open spaces.
Where to walk: Ocean Beach Dog Beach is open 24/7 and is one of the most famous in the country.
Where to eat: The Regal Beagle is a neighborhood bar with a dog-friendly patio.
Travel tip: San Diego has multiple dog surf competitions throughout the year that are worth checking out.
4. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a dream for dogs who love the outdoors. With miles of lakefront trails, designated dog beaches, and patios that actually welcome pups, it’s one of the best big cities to explore with your dog.
Where to play: Montrose Dog Beach is a local favorite with a huge fenced area where dogs can splash in Lake Michigan.
Where to walk: The Lakefront Trail runs for 18 miles along the shore with plenty of grassy stops and shady spots.
Where to eat: Parson’s Chicken & Fish has one of the best dog-friendly patios in the city.
Travel tip: Winters are rough, so plan your trip for spring through early fall if your dog doesn’t love the cold.
5. New York, New York
New York City might be crowded, but it’s surprisingly dog-friendly with dozens of off-leash parks, dog-welcoming cafes, and even boutique pet hotels.
Where to play: Central Park allows off-leash dogs before 9 a.m. and after 9 p.m., and there are multiple fenced dog runs throughout the city.
Where to walk: The Hudson River Greenway offers miles of scenic walking paths away from traffic.
Where to eat: Boris & Horton is a dog-friendly café in the East Village where pups are allowed inside.
Special note: NYC even has a dedicated pet taxi service for when the subway or ride shares won’t take your dog.
6. Austin, Texas
Austin is a city where dogs are practically part of the culture. From live music patios to hiking trails, your pup will be welcome almost anywhere.
Where to play: Zilker Dog Park is huge, open, and has plenty of shade and water access.
Where to walk: The Barton Creek Greenbelt is ideal for hiking with your dog, with creek access for swimming.
Where to eat: Yard Bar is both a dog park and a bar, so you can sip while your pup socializes.
Special note: Austin is home to tons of dog-friendly festivals, including “Dogtoberfest.”
7. Seattle, Washington
Seattle combines urban convenience with access to nature. The city is full of dog-friendly patios, and it’s easy to escape to trails just outside town.
Where to play: Magnuson Off-Leash Dog Park sits on Lake Washington with trails, fields, and beach access.
Where to walk: Discovery Park offers 11 miles of dog-friendly trails with water views.
Where to eat: The Barking Dog Alehouse is a Seattle institution for dog lovers.
Special note: Washington state law allows dogs in many outdoor dining areas, so patios are plentiful.
8. Portland, Oregon
Portland lives up to its reputation as a dog paradise. With more than 30 off-leash areas and an outdoorsy lifestyle, you and your dog will never run out of things to do.
Where to play: Sellwood Riverfront Park has a sandy beach where dogs can swim in the Willamette River.
Where to walk: Forest Park offers 70 miles of pet-friendly trails, so your dog can hike right alongside you.
Where to eat: Tin Shed Garden Café is legendary among locals for its dog menu and big shaded patio.
Special note: Portland hosts events like the Doggie Dash, a fundraiser and community run that brings thousands of dogs downtown.
9. Sacramento, California
Sacramento blends a laid-back vibe with tons of dog-friendly amenities. It’s one of California’s more affordable cities and has a strong network of dog parks and patios.
Where to play: Partner Park Dog Park is a large, well-maintained space with separate areas for big and small dogs.
Where to walk: The American River Parkway has over 30 miles of trails perfect for leashed walks.
Where to eat: Drake’s: The Barn has a huge outdoor area where dogs are welcome, plus live music and food trucks.
Extra perk: Sacramento hosts an annual “Pooch Parade” that brings out the entire dog-loving community.
10. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Cold winters don’t stop Minneapolis from being a top dog city. The city is filled with lakes, trails, and dog parks that come alive in the warmer months.
Where to play: Minnehaha Dog Park gives dogs access to sandy trails, wooded areas, and even river swimming.
Where to walk: Chain of Lakes Regional Park offers scenic paths where leashed dogs are always welcome.
Where to eat: The Howe Daily Kitchen & Bar has a dog menu and heaters on the patio for chilly days.
Special note: Minneapolis often hosts dog-friendly brewery crawls in summer.
11. Tampa, Florida
Tampa has a strong dog-friendly culture, from restaurants to festivals.
It’s one of the few big cities where you can go from downtown dog parks to Gulf Coast beaches in the same afternoon.
Where to play: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Dog Park sits right on the riverwalk, making it easy to combine dog playtime with a scenic walk.
Where to walk: The Tampa Riverwalk is a must. It’s pet-friendly, scenic, and dotted with patios that welcome dogs. I’ve taken Shelby there lots of times and she always loves it.
Where to eat: Ulele serves up Floridian food on a riverside patio where dogs are treated as guests, not an afterthought.
Seasonal note: Summer can be humid, so plan on water breaks and shaded stops.
12. Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati might surprise people, but it’s one of the most affordable dog-friendly cities in the U.S.
The city has a dense park system and lots of dog-friendly breweries and cafes.
Where to play: Washington Park Dog Park in Over-the-Rhine is fenced, shaded, and right in the middle of one of the city’s most walkable neighborhoods.
Where to walk: Smale Riverfront Park offers views of the Ohio River and plenty of grassy spots for picnics with your pup.
Where to eat: Eli’s BBQ is a local institution, and dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio.
Extra perk: Cincinnati hosts seasonal dog-friendly events, including “Pups and Pints” nights at local breweries.
13. Las Vegas, Nevada
Most people don’t think of Las Vegas as dog-friendly, but locals know it’s one of the top spots in the U.S. for dog parks and wellness services.
It’s also more affordable than many other big cities.
Where to play: Barkin’ Basin Dog Park is one of the largest off-leash areas in the city with shaded structures and separate areas for big and small dogs.
Where to walk: The Wetlands Park Nature Preserve offers trails that feel a world away from the Strip.
Where to eat: Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar has a dog menu and outdoor seating where your pup is always welcome.
Travel tip: Summer afternoons are scorching, so plan for early morning outings and consider dog booties to protect paws from hot pavement.
14. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is a surprisingly affordable and dog-friendly city with a mix of big parks and dog-loving neighborhoods.
The vibe is casual and welcoming, and it’s easy to find spots where your pup can tag along.
Where to play: Frenchtown Dog Park is in the heart of the city and has agility equipment along with separate spaces for large and small dogs.
Where to walk: Forest Park is massive, with 1,300 acres of trails, lakes, and open space for leashed walks.
Where to eat: Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. is a dog-friendly brewery where you’ll often see locals hanging out with their pups.
Travel tip: St. Louis summers get hot and humid, so aim for mornings or evenings when walking your dog.
15. Orlando, Florida
Orlando isn’t just theme parks. The city is dotted with dog parks, breweries, and restaurants that make dogs part of the experience.
Where to play: Barber Dog Park is one of the largest and most popular, with shaded areas and water fountains.
Where to walk: Lake Eola Park is perfect for leashed strolls with swan boat views.
Where to eat: Gnarly Barley is a local favorite with a pet-friendly patio.
Extra perk: Orlando has many boarding and daycare centers, making it easy to plan day trips without worrying about your pup.
16. St. Petersburg, Florida
This Gulf Coast city mixes laid-back beach vibes with urban amenities. It’s one of the best places in Florida to bring a dog, thanks to its pet-friendly parks and patios.
Where to play: Crescent Lake Dog Park has shady areas and a pond for pups that love water.
Where to walk: The St. Pete Pier is a scenic option for leashed walks with views of Tampa Bay. This is where Shelby met her first dolphin. They often swim up near the pier.
Where to eat: 3 Daughters Brewing is a community favorite with live music and a dog-friendly patio.
Extra perk: Nearby Fort De Soto Park has a dog beach where pups can run free in the sand.
17. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta blends southern charm with big-city dog amenities. It has a strong pet rescue network, great parks, and a lively restaurant scene that welcomes dogs.
Where to play: Piedmont Dog Park is one of the largest in the city with acres of fenced space and water stations.
Where to walk: The Atlanta BeltLine offers miles of paved trails connecting neighborhoods, perfect for leashed adventures.
Where to eat: ParkGrounds Coffee is a quirky café with a dedicated off-leash play area.
Travel tip: Atlanta traffic can be rough, so plan your outings around less busy times.
18. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is a growing hub for dog lovers. It’s packed with vets and shelters, plus an abundance of hiking trails for outdoorsy pups.
Where to play: Steele Indian School Dog Park has large grassy fields, shade, and water features.
Where to walk: Camelback Mountain trails are dog-friendly in cooler months (but closed to dogs when temps rise to protect them).
Where to eat: O.H.S.O. Brewery is known for its dog-friendly vibe and even gives out homemade dog treats.
Travel tip: Summers are brutal, so walks should be before sunrise or after sunset.
19. Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha might not be the first city that comes to mind for dog travel, but it’s quietly building a strong dog-friendly scene.
Affordable, welcoming, and full of Midwestern charm, it’s a city where both people and pets feel at home.
Where to play: Hefflinger Dog Park is the largest in the city, with 7 acres of off-leash space and separate areas for big and small dogs.
Where to walk: The Keystone Trail offers more than 20 miles of paved path along the Papio Creek, perfect for long leashed walks.
Where to eat: Omaha Dog Bar is a unique combination of bar and dog park, with indoor and outdoor play areas for pups while you relax with a drink.
Extra perk: Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo doesn’t allow dogs inside, but the city has plenty of nearby trails and green spaces to balance it out.
20. Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh’s combination of southern hospitality and outdoor spaces makes it one of the friendliest cities for dogs.
Where to play: Millbrook Exchange Dog Park is the oldest and most popular off-leash space in the city.
Where to walk: The Raleigh Greenway System has more than 100 miles of trails for leashed walks.
Where to eat: Trophy Brewing Co. has a pet-friendly patio with local pizza and beer.
Special note: Raleigh’s annual “Pups and Pints” events are a hit with locals and travelers alike.
21. Boise, Idaho
Boise often ranks high for dog parks per capita. It has a relaxed, outdoorsy vibe that makes it a great place to visit with a pup.
Where to play: Morris Hill Dog Park is a local favorite with open fields and shady areas.
Where to walk: The Boise River Greenbelt offers 25 miles of riverside trails for leashed walks.
Where to eat: Cloud 9 Brewery welcomes dogs on its patio.
Extra perk: Boise is close to mountain trails where leashed dogs can join longer hikes.
22. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach makes dogs part of the beach culture. Rules vary by season, but for most of the year, dogs are welcome on the sand and boardwalk.
Where to play: Bayville Farms Dog Park has shaded areas and plenty of space to run.
Where to walk: The Virginia Beach Boardwalk allows leashed dogs during fall, winter, and spring.
Where to eat: Wasserhund Brewing Company is dog-themed and dog-friendly.
Travel tip: Summer restrictions are in place on the main beaches, so check local rules before heading out.
23. Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale often tops pet-friendly lists, and for good reason. The city has more pet businesses per capita than almost anywhere else, so you’re never far from a groomer, vet, or daycare.
The dry, sunny climate means you can take your pup outside almost every day of the year.
Where to play: Chaparral Park has a massive off-leash area with water features and shaded spots, which is a lifesaver in the Arizona heat.
Where to walk: The Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt runs for miles through the city and is perfect for long morning or evening strolls.
Where to eat: OHSO Brewery is a local favorite that’s practically designed for dogs with water bowls, treats, and a laid-back patio.
Travel tip: Summers get hot. Stick to early morning or evening walks to keep your dog safe.
24. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is an artsy, outdoorsy mountain town that rolls out the red carpet for dogs. With trails, breweries, and a walkable downtown, it’s ideal for traveling with a pup.
Where to play: Riverbend Park has opened a temporary dog park while the other parks, such as the popular Azalea Park, are being repaired from hurricane damage.
Where to walk: The Blue Ridge Parkway offers scenic overlooks and trails where leashed dogs are welcome.
Where to eat: Wicked Weed Brewing has a dog-friendly patio and plenty of shade.
Special note: Many local shops downtown put out water bowls and treats, so your dog gets a warm welcome everywhere.
25. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is underrated as a dog destination, but it’s packed with dog-friendly patios, trails, and even a bar that doubles as a dog park.
- Where to play: Penn Valley Off-Leash Dog Park is a large, centrally located space with great views of the skyline.
- Where to walk: The Riverfront Heritage Trail connects several neighborhoods with scenic views and wide paths.
- Where to eat: Brick House KC is a popular spot in Union Hill with a large dog-friendly patio and great food.
- Extra perk: KC has a growing dog-friendly brewery scene, making it a great stop for beer-loving travelers with dogs.
Wrap-Up: Most Dog-Friendly Cities in the U.S.
After more than three years of traveling with my dog, I’ve learned that not all “dog-friendly” claims are created equal.
Some cities truly make it easy to explore with a pup, while others just check a box.
The cities on this list go beyond the basics. They offer real off-leash spaces, walkable neighborhoods, patios that welcome dogs without hesitation, and hotels that understand pets are part of the family.
Whether you’re planning a quick trip or looking for a place to settle in for a while, these cities make traveling with a dog not just possible but enjoyable.
Wherever you go next, you’ll know your dog will be more than just allowed. They’ll be welcomed.
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