Pet-Friendly Hidden Gems: The Best Small Towns to Visit with Your Dog or Cat (2025)
Skip the big cities. These charming U.S. towns offer a relaxed pace, gorgeous views, and a warm welcome for your four-legged friends.
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🐕 Why Travel With Pets to Small Towns?
While major cities may offer fancy dog spas or pet boutiques, they also bring crowds, noise, and pet restrictions. These less-obvious destinations deliver:
- Walkable downtowns
- Scenic hikes and open spaces
- Pet-welcoming patios, hotels, and Airbnbs
- Fewer leash laws and more tail wags
Whether you’re road-tripping, RVing, or planning a long weekend getaway, these small towns make pet-inclusive travel a breeze.
🗺️ 10 Pet-Friendly Small Towns in the U.S. to Visit in 2025
1. Leavenworth, Washington
A storybook Bavarian-style village tucked in the Cascades. Dogs are welcome on downtown patios, nearby hikes, and even some shops. Try the Waterfront Park Trail for a scenic, shaded stroll.
2. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Perhaps the most pet-friendly town in America. Water bowls line the sidewalks, dogs can run off-leash at Carmel Beach, and many luxury hotels welcome pets with treats and beds.
3. St. Augustine, Florida
America’s oldest city is surprisingly pup-friendly. Dogs can ride trolley tours, explore historic districts, and relax at oceanfront restaurants with dog menus.
4. Sedona, Arizona
Known for red rocks and healing energy, Sedona is also great for dogs. Hike with your pup on dozens of scenic trails, and stay at pet-welcoming resorts like L’Auberge de Sedona.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Beer City USA is just as friendly to dogs as it is to humans. Hit the Blue Ridge Parkway for views, or chill at a brewery like Wedge Brewing—dogs welcome inside and out.
6. New Hope, Pennsylvania
A charming riverside escape with antique shops, pet-welcoming B&Bs, and scenic canal towpath walks. The nearby Bucks County countryside is great for mellow strolls.
7. Bend, Oregon
Adventure lovers, take note. Bend boasts dog parks, breweries with “yappy hours,” and paddleboard rentals for pups. Hike Pilot Butte or float the Deschutes River together.
8. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
A lakeside retreat with charming streets, lake walks, and many dog-friendly inns. Ride a boat cruise with your pup or explore pet-approved hiking trails nearby.
9. Bar Harbor, Maine
Gateway to Acadia National Park—one of the most dog-friendly U.S. national parks. Pups can ride the Island Explorer shuttle, hike trails, and take boat tours with you.
10. Fredericksburg, Texas
Hill country vibes, German heritage, and dozens of wineries with dog-friendly patios. Several local inns offer enclosed courtyards and pet packages.
🎒 What to Pack for Your Pet
- 🦴 Collapsible water bowl
- 🛏️ Travel blanket or foldable pet bed
- 🧻 Pet wipes and waste bags
- 🐾 Booties for hot or rocky terrain
- 🧳 Pet carrier or crate
- 🩺 Mini pet first aid kit
- 🆔 Updated ID tag and leash
- 😌 Calming treats or travel spray
🏡 Airbnb & Hotel Tips for Pet Owners
When booking pet-friendly lodging, look for:
- No or low pet fees
- Fenced yards or patios
- Easy access to parks or trails
- Reviews from other pet parents
- Pet-specific amenities (like food bowls or beds)
📦 Final Thoughts
You don’t need a big city to give your pet a great vacation. These lesser-known towns offer comfort, charm, and unforgettable shared experiences for you and your pet.
Want more pet travel tips? Check out our guides to:
→ Save this post for your next pet-inclusive escape!