Pet-Friendly Family Vacations: Where to Travel with Kids and Pets

Planning a family vacation? Don’t forget the furriest member of your crew! Traveling with pets can be a joyful experience— fewer goodbyes, no kennel fees, and memories made with your whole family together .

With a bit of planning, your next getaway can be just as enjoyable for your four-legged companion as it is for your kids. Need a vacation with your dog? Check out these awesome spots: beaches where dogs can play, mountain trails for hiking, and hotels that happily accept furry guests. Family vacations where pets are welcome! This appeals to a wide range of people; it's inclusive and versatile.

Top Pet-Friendly Vacation Destinations for Families

🏖️ San Diego, California

San Diego is a pet paradise. Head to Ocean Beach’s Dog Beach , where dogs can run off-leash while your kids build sandcastles. Take a stroll through Balboa Park , where many areas allow leashed pets. End the day with outdoor dining at a pet-friendly café or brewery.

🌲 Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a mix of culture and nature. Hike pet-friendly trails, visit local art galleries, or enjoy the city’s dog-welcoming breweries. Many restaurants have outdoor patios that welcome pets, making meal times easier with both kids and dogs in tow.

🌳 Lake George, New York

Love lakeside vacations? Lake George delivers with pet-welcoming accommodations, scenic cruises that allow dogs, and plenty of family-friendly hiking. Rent a cabin or camp at a site where your pup can roam while you enjoy nature as a family.

🏔️ Bend, Oregon

Known for its outdoor adventure scene and strong pet-friendly reputation, Bend offers miles of trails, river floats, and off-leash dog parks . With kid-friendly breweries and pet-welcoming cafes, it’s a win for the whole crew.

🌊 Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

This charming town is a dream for dogs and humans alike . Carmel Beach is off-leash-friendly and ideal for family walks. Browse pet-welcoming shops and stay at boutique hotels that offer treats, dog beds, and even pet-sitting services.

Where to Stay: Family- and Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Whether you prefer hotels, cabins, or vacation rentals, there are plenty of options that welcome pets with open arms.

🏨 Pet-Welcoming Hotel Chains:

• Kimpton Hotels – No pet fees, and all pets welcome—no size limit.

• Best Western – Many locations allow pets and often include grassy relief areas.

• Marriott (Select Properties) – Varying pet policies but increasingly pet-friendly.

🏡 Vacation Rentals:

Use filters on Airbnb or Vrbo to find places with fenced yards , dog doors , and nearby trails or beaches.

⛺ Campgrounds and RV Parks:

KOA campgrounds often feature on-site dog parks , pet-friendly cabins, and kid-friendly activities like movie nights and nature trails.

Travel Tips for Smooth Pet + Kid Adventures

• Pack for All:

  • Don’t forget your pet’s food, bowls, leash, vaccination records, and clean-up bags.

  • Less stress for everyone? Bring along the usual suspects: favorite toys, yummy snacks, and cozy blankets for both kids and pets.

• Take Frequent Breaks:

  • Plan to stop every 2–3 hours on road trips for bathroom breaks and fresh air.

• Call Ahead:

  • Confirm pet policies for hotels, parks, and attractions. Some places have size or breed restrictions.

• Think Safety First:

  • Use a pet seatbelt, travel crate, or car hammock.

  • Never leave your pet in a hot car—even for a few minutes.

  • Make sure ID tags are up-to-date and consider microchipping.

Fun for Everyone: Activities the Whole Family Will Enjoy

Not sure what to do once you arrive? Looking for family fun? These activities are perfect; everyone, including the pets, will enjoy them.

• Nature trails and scenic hikes

• Dog beaches and splash zones

• Outdoor movie nights at pet-friendly parks

• Farmers markets and food truck parks with outdoor seating

• Local festivals with pet events, parades, or costume contests

Conclusion

A family vacation doesn’t have to leave anyone behind—not even the ones with wagging tails. With the right destination and thoughtful planning, your trip can be memorable, exciting, and inclusive for everyone in your family —paws and all.

So go ahead—book that cabin, load the leash, and hit the road. Your next adventure awaits, and this time, everyone gets to come along. 🐾