Your furry friend has been patiently waiting for you to come back from work every day – and now it’s time to express your gratitude. Traveling with your dog can be a whole new level of travel experience. You can have fun together with your four-legged companion rather than leave it in a dog hotel or with another family member. Dogs help you socialize with other animal lovers, stay active on your journey and explore new locations and possibilities to enjoy your trip. And if you’ve always wanted to visit the Sunshine state, you need to do it with your pet – here are the top – dog-friendly destinations in Florida you need to check out.
Miami
If you haven’t been to Florida before, Miami should be the first stop. This area is generally very dog-friendly, as many Miami residents own pets. The city is filled with attractions to see with your furry companion, but also dog-friendly parks, restaurants, and coffee shops. Some of the best dog parks in Miami are Village Dog Park in Key Biscayne, Blanche Park in Coconut Grove, Margaret Pace Park, Amelia Earhart Bark Park, and Haulover dog park. Furthermore, you two can hit the beach – try dog-friendly beaches such as Haulover Beach park, Bark Beach at North Shore Open Space Pak, and Hobie Island Beach Park. Finally, pick a hotel that will accept both you and your furry friend – the Gabriel Hotel, Kimpton Epic Hotel, Aloft Miami Brickell, or try some Airbnb rentals that don’t mind you bringing your dog.
Fort Lauderdale
Another location you shouldn’t miss when traveling to Florida with a pet. Plenty of dog-friendly parks such as Markham Park, Bark Park, and Snyder Park. Fort Lauderdale is filled with pet-friendly cafés and restaurants along Las Olas Boulevard, where you can take a stroll and have a meal not worrying if your furry friend can come with you. Pro Movers Miami notice that Fort Lauderdale is a popular option for those who want to enjoy affordable housing, but still be close to Miami – which may entice you to start looking for a home here for you and your beloved pet.
St. Augustine
Known as the oldest city in the US, this historical place should be on your travel list for so many reasons. You can go for a walk in the Colonial Quarter, visit Vilano Becah, and even go on a scenic cruise of the city. There are plenty of dog-friendly activities and locations, so be sure to add St. Augustine to your itinerary.
Panama City
This gem of the Gulf of Mexico is great if you and your dog love the outdoors, camping, but also staying in a luxurious beachfront hotel. Check out places such as Al Helms Dog Park, Dogs and Drinks park at Harrison Ave, and Dog Beach at Pier Park Panama City beach. You can have a lot of fun but also meet other fellow dog lovers.
Stock Island
Another great dog-friendly tourist destination in Florida, Stock Island makes it a perfect place to relax with your four-legged friend. Plenty of restaurants, cafes, and hotels that accept pets, and even places on the beach where your dog can take a swim.
St. Petersburg
This amazing place is known for its high-class beaches, Salvador Dali Museum, Fort De Soto Park and so much more. It’s a common family vacation destination, but if your family wants to bring a dog, too – St. Pete is the right place to go. There’s Kenwood Dog park as St. Pete Beach dog park you can all enjoy together and ensure your furry friend has unforgettable moments of fun.
Key west
The southernmost point of the country, Key West is a surfers’ paradise – especially for the ones traveling with their dogs. This Florida travel destination is known for watersports, unique architecture, rich nightlife, and plenty of things to do. The laid-back lifestyle is best to experience with your four-legged friend, as there are plenty of dog-friendly places in Key West where you can relax, have a great meal, and have fun.
Coconut Grove
Even though we mentioned Miami, there’s a place nearby that stands outs as one of the great places to visit with your dog. Coconut Grove is known for lush greenery and amazing bayfront parks you can enjoy with your pet. The laid-back lifestyle of the locals and overall pet-friendly atmosphere will surely make your visit even more pleasant – and you may even consider making it a home for good. When moving with a dog, you should know that experienced professionals are the best option – you need someone to rely on for transporting your belongings while you make sure this transition is as seamless as possible for your pet.
Orlando
Finally, we arrive to the last item on the list of dog-friendly tourist destinations in Florida. The city of Orlando may not have direct access to the beach, but there are plenty of things to see and do with your furry friend. Visit the Bok Tower Gardens for an idyllic walk among the greenery, go shopping at Park Avenue, and buy your little friend a treat at Bark Avenue Bakery. Orlando is home to many breweries that allow pets, so be sure to check them out as well.
Benefits of traveling with a dog
If this would be the first time to bring your furry friend on a trip, we shall remind you of all the benefits of having such a companion:
- Dogs help you feel safer – if sleeping in a hotel or a rental makes you feel uncomfortable, you’ll feel much safer with your dog. They react to unusual sounds and movements and can alert you if anything strange happens or someone approaches your door.
- You won’t be lazy – traveling with a dog means an active adventure. Dogs love running and taking a walk, and Florida is a great place to take your loved furball.
- You can easily meet new people – dogs are great conversation starters, especially with other animal lovers. Socializing is another benefit of bringing your friend to the road.
- You won’t feel lonely – even if you like traveling by yourself, having a dog by your side will never make you feel lonely. Pets put a smile on our faces and they are a perfect companion for exploring places such as Florida.
There are practically no downsides to bringing your furry friend to one of the top dog-friendly tourist destinations in Florida. Make a plan, choose dog-friendly spots to visit, and make this an unforgettable journey for you and your four-legged companion.
