The American highway journey … it’s iconic! And there’s no higher solution to see a few of the most particular locations throughout the nation. However what if you wish to embody your pet within the enjoyable? Listed here are 49 breathtaking sights you’ll love exploring collectively on a pet pleasant American highway journey!
Highway journey holidays are as American as apple pie. And but, planning to see the “finest” the USA has to supply will be overwhelming. Your journey may concentrate on cultural websites, nationwide parks, state capitols, scenic landmarks, or sports activities venues.
However in case you’re on the lookout for a very particular expertise, why not plan the very best pet pleasant American highway journey? Go to the highest pet pleasant attraction in every state, and gather valuable reminiscences together with your finest buddy alongside the best way!
A Pet Pleasant American Highway Journey
Probably the most tough a part of planning an epic highway journey is selecting the stops. From seashores to mountain tops, bustling cities to secluded retreats, you need to see the perfect locations throughout the nation.
We traveled full-time with our canines for twelve years, spending time in all the decrease 48 states. And we’re comfortable to share what we’ve discovered!
Whether or not you’re planning to see the entire nation in a single journey, or testing one area at a time, the itinerary we’ve laid out to your pet pleasant American highway journey offers you a superb really feel for what every state is about. And really cease is assured to be enjoyable for you and your pet! Click on on the title of every location for extra particulars and pictures.
READ MORE ⇒ How To Plan A Pet Pleasant Highway Journey
The Final Pet Pleasant American Highway Journey
This itinerary covers almost 15,000 miles and would take at the very least a few months to finish. If you are able to do it , it’s completely the journey of a lifetime!
In the event you’re on the lookout for shorter journeys, select one or two areas and do a deeper dive in every space. Any mixture will make a unbelievable pet pleasant trip.
The Northwest
We begin this pet pleasant American highway journey within the northwestern United States. From Washington’s inexperienced isles to the heights of Beartooth Freeway, this area has one thing for everybody!
READ MORE ⇒ Ideas for Touring Alone with a Pet
Washington – The San Juan Islands
Within the far northwest nook of the contiguous United States, off the coast of Washington, lies a confetti of emerald jewels within the Salish Sea. Often called the San Juan Islands, the panorama is a patchwork of pine forests, stoney seashores, verdant pastures and fields, and glowing lakes.
Every of the islands has its personal appeal, and regardless of which you go to, you gained’t be disenchanted.
Oregon – Portland’s Parks and Gardens
With eclectic neighborhoods, nice eateries, and one of the crucial in depth city park programs within the nation, Portland, Oregon is a pet pleasant playground!
Boasting 10,000 acres of pure areas and parks scattered across the metropolis, there’s a treasure round each nook. And in case your pup enjoys being social, don’t miss a few of the 20+ off-leash areas!
Idaho – Lake Coeur d’Alene
Among the many rugged peaks of northern Idaho, the place pine timber far outnumber folks, lies one of the crucial lovely lakes on the earth. Unfolding over 26 miles with greater than 135 miles of shoreline, Lake Coeur d’Alene is a glowing blue jewel.
From scenic boat excursions to miles of pet pleasant trails, there are as some ways to take pleasure in Lake Coeur d’Alene as your creativeness permits.
Wyoming – Bighorn Nationwide Forest – Medication Wheel
You’ll discover a few of Wyoming’s most various terrain within the Bighorn Mountains. It will be straightforward to spend weeks mountaineering the 1,500 miles of pet pleasant trails and having fun with the three scenic drives. However for us, nothing speaks to the timelessness and great thing about the Bighorns like a go to to Medication Wheel.
Montana – Beartooth Freeway
For 68 miles, between Cooke Metropolis and Pink Lodge, Montana, the Beartooth Freeway winds by way of a few of the most awe inspiring terrain in the USA. This highway, one of many highest within the decrease 48 states, passes 20 peaks that rise over 12,000 toes.
You’ll expertise pristine mountain landscapes, lush forests, and alpine tundra – all inside just a few miles. And there are quite a few locations to park the automobile and hit a pet pleasant path together with your furry journey buddy!
The Southwest
The southwest part of this pet pleasant American highway journey begins with a romp on Carmel’s spectacular canine seashore. The following two stops at Pink Rock Canyon and the Grand Canyon supply unbelievable pet pleasant mountaineering. And we high it off with a visit up Telluride’s gondola. You and your energetic pets are going to like this journey!
California – Carmel’s Canine Seaside
Carmel’s crowning glory is its magnificent seashore. This mile-long stretch of sand begins simply steps from downtown and runs to only beneath the ninth gap at Pebble Seaside Golf Course. And it’s all pet pleasant!
Canine are welcome to romp off-leash on the seashore. Or go to Carmel River State Seaside, simply down the highway, the place leashed pets will discover lots to discover.
Nevada – Pink Rock Canyon Nationwide Conservation Space
It’s solely 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip, however Pink Rock Canyon seems like a very totally different world! From the 13-mile scenic loop highway to the 30+ miles of pet pleasant trails and picnic areas with nice views, you’ll have a unbelievable day right here together with your pet!
Arizona – Grand Canyon Nationwide Park
Touring to any nationwide park is a superb expertise, however seeing the Grand Canyon together with your pet will make your trip unforgettable!
The pet pleasant South Rim Path runs for 14 miles and is paved for straightforward strolling. Be certain to permit loads of time to absorb the panoramic views!
Colorado – Telluride Gondola to Mountain Village
Tucked excessive in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, the village of Telluride is good for a Rocky Mountain journey together with your pet. Providing spectacular surroundings, miles of mountaineering trails, a pet pleasant gondola, and a pleasant collection of eateries and lodging that welcome pets, it is likely to be the spotlight of your pet pleasant American highway journey!
Utah – Dixie Nationwide Forest’s Pink Canyon
Protecting nearly 2 million acres, each inch of Dixie Nationwide Forest is pet pleasant! And with 1,600 miles of mountaineering, horseback using, and bike trails, and a whole lot of miles of scenic byways, backways, and drives, you and your pet may spend a lifetime exploring right here.
When you’re within the space, you’ll want to try Bryce Canyon and Zion Nationwide parks. And don’t miss the prospect to go to Finest Associates Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah!
READ MORE ⇒ Ideas For RVing With Pets
The South Central
Bustling San Antonio is balanced by serene pure wonders on the South Central part of our pet pleasant American highway journey.
In the event you’re contemplating skipping the pet pleasant paddle on the Buffalo Nationwide River … DON’T! We did it with Ty and Buster, and liked each minute. Although it was our canines’ first time in a canoe, they did nice. And now it’s considered one of our favourite reminiscences with them.
New Mexico – White Sands Nationwide Park
The title “White Sands” is likely to be a bit of deceptive, however that doesn’t make this pet pleasant nationwide park any much less spectacular! The shimmering dunes right here are literally manufactured from gypsum – not sand. And due to an historic sea and a few very lucky geography, it’s now the world’s largest dunefield!
You’ll discover pet pleasant trails and lots to maintain you busy at White Sands. And you’ll want to keep for sundown. It’s in contrast to some other you’ll see!
Texas – San Antonio River Stroll
Offering entry to a few of the metropolis’s most valuable historic and cultural websites, the 13-mile, pet pleasant San Antonio River Stroll is among the most original parks within the nation!
It will be straightforward to spend a number of days exploring totally different sections of the River Stroll, hopping on and off to go to all of the related neighborhoods.
Oklahoma – Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
As if watching the grazing bison, elk, and white-tailed deer weren’t sufficient cause to go to Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, you and your pet may also discover 18 pet pleasant mountaineering trails and lakes for boating and paddling!
Arkansas – Canoe the Buffalo Nationwide River
Canoeing the Buffalo Nationwide River together with your pets is less complicated than you would possibly suppose! Pet pleasant canoe leases are a cinch to seek out, and the calm water will put each paddler comfy.
Whenever you’re again on strong floor, there are additionally miles of pet pleasant trails to hike alongside the river’s course and within the close by Ozark Nationwide Forest.
READ MORE ⇒ Ideas for Canoeing or Kayaking with Canine
Kansas – Monument Rocks
Monument Rocks is what’s left of a sea flooring that shaped tens of millions of years in the past when water lined the continent from Montana and the Dakotas to Texas and Louisiana. The chalk spires, buttes, and arches that stay now stand 70 toes tall on the Kansas plains. And your pets are greater than welcome to discover them with you!
The Plains – North
The Northern Plains part of this journey takes you thru the heartland and divulges what America was like earlier than Europeans arrived.
You’ll spend time appreciating the vastness of Lake Superior and the highly effective Mississippi River. Then stroll within the footsteps of the Native People who lived in Iowa and North Dakota.
Minnesota – Cut up Rock Lighthouse State Park
Cut up Rock Lighthouse State Park sits on Lake Superior’s northern shore. Offering breathtaking views of one of the crucial photographed lighthouses within the nation and 14.5 miles of pet pleasant trails, it’s a terrific place to stretch your legs or camp on the seashore.
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Wisconsin – Trempealeau Nationwide Wildlife Refuge
Trempealeau Nationwide Wildlife Refuge is positioned within the Mississippi River flyway, the migration route of about 40% of all waterfowl and shorebirds. The refuge serves as a “mattress and breakfast” for the birds as they journey by way of and is residence to the magnificent bald eagle.
Along with some spectacular chook recognizing, there are miles of pet pleasant trails to discover.
Iowa – Effigy Mounds Nationwide Monument
Standing atop the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, it’s straightforward to see why American Indians selected to make this breathtaking place their residence. Protecting 2,500 acres alongside the western financial institution of the Mississippi River, Effigy Mounds Nationwide Monument now protects 206 prehistoric earthen mounds constructed by Indigenous Individuals, 31 of that are within the form of animals.
You and your canines are welcome to discover all the paths. However keep in mind to be respectful and by no means stroll on (or enable your pet on) the mounds.
North Dakota – Knife River Indian Villages Nationwide Historic Web site
Interpretive plaques assist you to think about what life was like on the Knife River Indian Villages. That is the place Captains Lewis and Clark first met Sacagewea and her husband, Toussaint Charbonneau. As soon as a bustling neighborhood of almost 400 folks, that is now a quiet place to replicate and benefit from the surroundings.
South Dakota – Custer State Park
Custer State Park protects 71,000 acres of South Dakota’s most opulent landscapes. It additionally supplies habitats for a stunning array of wildlife. Whether or not you like picturesque drives or multi-day hikes, wildlife viewing or kayaking, elegant eating or campfires below the celebrities, Custer has one thing to please traveler.
Nebraska – Fort Robinson State Park
Fort Robinson State Park is a uncommon mixture of beautiful landscapes, fascinating historical past, quite a lot of leisure alternatives, and pet pleasant lodging.
Unfold over 22,000 acres, with rugged buttes because the backdrop, it’s a beautiful place to unwind and benefit from the expansive wild prairies throughout the day and the star-filled skies at night time.
The Nice Lakes
Three of the 5 stops on this part of our pet pleasant American highway journey are on the Nice Lakes! Take up the power of downtown Chicago at Navy Pier. Then distinction it with the leisurely ambiance of Mackinac Island. You’ll take pleasure in each ends of the spectrum!
West Virginia – Monongahela Nationwide Forest
The Monongahela Nationwide Forest covers greater than 900,000 acres, preserving a rugged and wild paradise in contrast to some other. With an in depth backwoods highway system, oodles of campgrounds, and 825 miles of pet pleasant trails, you and your pet will discover lots to discover!
Ohio – Holden Arboretum
Holden Arboretum is proof of the sweetness that outcomes when people and Mom Nature work collectively. Encompassing 3,600 acres, it’s one of many largest arboreta and botanical gardens within the nation and a wonderful place to discover together with your pet.
Wander the backyard paths or hit the miles of trails by way of native forests together with your furry journey buddy!
Illinois – Chicago Lakefront Path & Navy Pier
Chicago’s pet pleasant Lakefront Path runs for 18 miles alongside the spectacular shore of Lake Michigan. Connecting vibrant neighborhoods, expansive parks, well-liked seashores, and well-known sights like Navy Pier, Buckingham Fountain, and Soldier Area, it’s enjoyable to decide on a bit and spend a day exploring it together with your pet!
READ MORE ⇒ Ideas for a Cross-Nation Highway Journey with Pets
Indiana – Indiana Dunes Nationwide Park
Caribbean blue waters and miles of pet pleasant seashores await you at Indiana Dunes Nationwide Park. However the seashores are just the start!
This dynamic panorama additionally options dunes, ponds, marshes, creeks, prairie, and forests to your exploration. Whether or not you determined to hang around on the shore or hike the paths, you’re certain to have a good time.
Michigan – Mackinac Island
Hop aboard the pet pleasant ferry for a visit to Mackinac Island. Cars aren’t allowed, however you and your pet gained’t have any bother getting round!
Major Avenue is simply steps from the ferry docks, pets are welcome on the horse-drawn carriages rides, and bikes with pet trailers can be found for lease. So all of Mackinac’s hottest sights are inside straightforward attain!
The Plains – South
Highway tripping pets are going to adore this route by way of the southern plains. Romp on the unbelievable off-leash canine park at Shelby Farms, then stiff alongside the 444-mile Natchez Hint! Lastly, spend a day enjoyable within the shadow of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
Louisiana – State Capitol Gardens in Baton Rouge
Standing 34 tales tall, Louisiana’s capitol in Baton Rouge is the tallest state capitol constructing in the USA. It’s surrounded by 27 acres of pet pleasant grounds and gardens that provide picturesque views from each angle.
Stroll the paved paths below large stay oaks and palm timber or plan a picnic together with your pet!
Mississippi – The Natchez Hint Parkway
The Natchez Hint Parkway stretches 444 miles, from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. It’s a blissfully quiet, billboard-free retreat from our fast-paced highways.
However a slower tempo doesn’t imply you’ll be bored! There’s one thing to smell round each bend with numerous displays and 28 pet pleasant trailheads alongside the route.
Tennessee – Shelby Farms Park Off-Leash Space
Shelby Farms Park in Memphis is among the nation’s largest city parks. With a large off-leash canine space, 40 miles of pet pleasant trails winding by way of 4,500 acres, a disc golf course, canoe, kayak, and paddle board leases, and a stunning customer middle, you would simply spend a complete day right here!
Kentucky – Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Nationwide Historic Park
President Abraham Lincoln’s life is an inspiration, and visiting his easy birthplace fosters a fair deeper appreciation of his accomplishments.
Pets are welcome to affix you on the grounds of the historic park. And collectively you’ll be able to discover the paths there and on the Lincoln Boyhood House at Knob Creek, simply ten miles away.
Missouri – Gateway Arch Nationwide Park
Leashed pets are welcome to discover the in depth grounds at St. Louis’ Gateway Arch Nationwide Park. Benefit from the Riverfront Path, embark on a one-hour scenic riverboat cruise, and you’ll want to ask now your pet can develop into a BARK Ranger throughout your go to.
READ MORE ⇒ 60 Nationwide Parks The place Your Canine Can Be A BARK Ranger
New England
You’ll be able to see lots with out touring far in New England! Get pleasure from Central Park within the coronary heart of Manhattan, then discover the paths in Acadia Nationwide Park. Lastly, take a splash within the pond at Canine Mountain. From starting to finish, this part of our pet pleasant American highway journey is a pet’s dream come true.
New York – Central Park
There’s no place like New York! Central Park is the third most visited attraction IN THE WORLD – and it’s even higher together with your pet. Whether or not you select to lounge on a bench, benefit from the conservatory gardens, or discover the wooded trails within the Ramble, it will likely be a day to recollect.
Connecticut – Mystic Seaport
Unfold over 19 spectacular acres on the banks of the Mystic River, Mystic Seaport is the biggest maritime museum in the USA. You and your pet can view magnificent outdated boats and study what life was like for seaport dwellers on this a part of New England within the 1800s.
Rhode Island – Newport Cliff Stroll
Newport is called the Metropolis by the Sea. And a stroll alongside the pet pleasant Cliff Stroll proves that she greater than lives as much as her nickname!
Winding for 3.5 miles with the rocky shoreline on one facet and the plush gardens of historic mansions on the opposite, the Cliff Stroll Path supplies you and your pet with unforgettable views.
Massachusetts – The Freedom Path
Boston’s Freedom Path connects 16 of our nation’s most vital historic landmarks – places that performed a pivotal position in America’s rebellious starting.
The pet pleasant 2.5-mile path begins in Boston Widespread the place you’ll be able to choose up a map. Right here pups may also discover two off-leash areas for sniffing and socializing in America’s oldest public park. Then observe the purple brick path by way of the town at your personal tempo, taking in every website as you go.
Maine – Acadia Nationwide Park
As one of many nations most pet pleasant nationwide parks, you and your pet will discover lots to like in Acadia. There are greater than 100 miles of trails to smell, carriage roads to discover, and pets are even welcome on the free shuttles that run all through the park and across the island!
READ MORE ⇒ America’s Finest Canine Pleasant Nationwide Parks
New Hampshire – Mount Washington
Visiting Mount Washington will be tough. Greater than 100 days a 12 months the wind on the summit exceeds hurricane power, the height is enveloped in clouds 60% of the time, and snow can fall 12 months spherical. However in case you’re fortunate sufficient to be there on a pleasing day, you and your pet will always remember the pet pleasant trails and beautiful views.
Vermont – Canine Mountain
At Canine Mountain, pets aren’t simply welcome – they’re cherished! This 150-acre former dairy farm is at all times open to the general public and canines are welcome to shed their leashes whereas they run, play, and swim within the pond.
There are additionally mountaineering trails, peaceable retreats, and a pet pleasant chapel and artwork gallery.
The Mid-Atlantic
The theme of this part of the journey is early American historical past with lots enjoyable thrown in! Study in regards to the first Europeans to reach within the New World in Colonial Williamsburg. Then stroll by way of Washington, DC, the place historical past is made every single day. Subsequent take pleasure in a day on the Jersey shore earlier than heading to the Pocono Mountains for a scenic practice trip!
Virginia – Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg welcomes you and your pets to step again in time. View historic houses, watch demonstrations on the trades retailers, benefit from the fife and drum corps, and get a chunk to eat at one of many taverns or eating places.
Washington, DC – The Nationwide Mall
There are few locations within the America extra inspiring than our Nationwide Mall & Memorial Gardens. And since this nationwide park sits in the course of a residing metropolis, it’s extra pet pleasant than you would possibly anticipate!
From the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, you and your pet can view dozens of iconic sights all inside strolling distance.
Maryland – Cruise on Chesapeake Bay
Discover the Chesapeake Bay together with your journey buddy aboard a pet pleasant cruise! Organize a tour from Annapolis, Baltimore, or St. Michaels. Or contact one of many numerous privately-operated constitution boats accessible in harbors up and down the bay, most of whom are comfortable to welcome your pets.
READ MORE ⇒ 5 Questions To Ask BEFORE Taking A Canine On A Boat
Delaware – Strolling Tour of Historic New Citadel
Do you’re keen on strolling together with your pet alongside tree-lined streets? Would you prefer to admire lovely examples of colonial Dutch and Federal structure? And what in case you may studying a bit in regards to the early historical past of our nation on the similar time?
It seems like a strolling tour of New Citadel shall be proper up your alley! Be sure you examine the native calendar for pet pleasant occasions when planning your journey.
New Jersey – The Jersey Shore at Wildwood Canine Seaside
New Jersey has many well-liked seashores, however Wildwood’s seashore stands out. It’s beautiful, spacious, family-friendly, and free to make use of. And the very best half is that your pets can come alongside!
Canine on leashes are welcome from daybreak to nightfall, every single day on the Wildwood canine seashore between Glenwood and Maple Avenues. Simply search for the big fireplace hydrant and luxuriate in a day of sand and surf collectively.
Pennsylvania – Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway
All aboard! The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway welcomes pets on their classic coaches. Powered by diesel engines and departing from the outdated railroad station in historic downtown Jim Thorpe, the narrated journeys lasts about 70 minutes and observe 16-mile route alongside the Lehigh River because it winds by way of the gorge.
The Southeast
Stunning gardens await your arrival on this pet pleasant highway journey by way of the Southeast. Wander the paths by way of Rock Metropolis, the place on a transparent day you’ll be able to view seven states! Then admire the final large-scale romantic-style backyard at Magnolia Plantation. Lastly, spend a day exploring the formal gardens and wooded trails of the 8,000-acre Biltmore Property.
Alabama – Little River Canyon Nationwide Protect
On a flat-top mountain in northeastern Alabama, Little River Canyon Nationwide Protect protects 15,000+ rugged acres alongside the Little River.
Be ready for beautiful surroundings and a style of southern hospitality, as a result of the protect is extremely pet pleasant. Not solely can your furry journey buddy be part of you on all the paths — he’s additionally welcome contained in the customer middle, and the employees has canine treats!
Georgia – Rock Metropolis Gardens
Guests from all over the world come to admire Rock Metropolis’s botanical and geological options. And your pet is welcome to affix you on the paths. You’ll be able to even have lunch collectively on the patio at Café 7, a seasonal restaurant with wonderful views!
Florida – Fort De Soto Canine Seaside
Fort De Soto’s seashores are acclaimed for his or her white sand and clear blue waters. However the very best a part of this quarter-mile stretch of seashore is that it’s devoted to the canines!
Pups can romp leash-free right here and within the adjoining enclosed canine park. Then lease a kayak and paddle the two.25-mile water path, peddle the 7-mile bike path, or hit the mountaineering trails to see extra of the island.
South Carolina – Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Based in 1676 by the Drayton household, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is America’s final large-scale Romantic-style backyard. You and your pup are welcome to benefit from the trails, grounds, gardens. Plan accordingly to see your favourite flowers in bloom!
North Carolina – Biltmore Property Gardens and Grounds
On the Biltmore Property, pets can’t tour the historic residence. Nevertheless, you and your pet can stroll the plush backyard paths, or hit the 23 miles of mountaineering trails that criss-cross the 8,000-acre property.
Whenever you’ve labored up an urge for food, head over to Antler Hill Village and select a desk on the patio at one of many pet pleasant eating places!
READ MORE ⇒ Coaching Your Canine To Be A Nice Traveler
How lengthy will it take and what is going to it value?
In whole, our total pet pleasant American highway journey is 15,000 miles and can take at the very least two months. That’s assuming you may have nice luck with the climate and don’t thoughts driving about 8 hours a day.
The price of the journey is dependent upon the way you journey. And the place you might be snug staying is an element that has a big effect. Automobile tenting or tenting shall be least costly. And staying at pet pleasant motels will value extra. Fortunately, pets aren’t choosy about the place you sleep – so long as you’re collectively.
READ MORE ⇒ Automobile Tenting With Pets: Prep The Automobile, What to Pack, and Extra
A lot of the sights we’ve advisable are pretty cheap (free – $20), with just a few exceptions. So determine round $500 per particular person for all of the admission charges.
Fuel will value one other $1,500 to $2,000.
Then there’s meals, which may additionally differ lots. To economize, plan to spend time procuring and making ready your personal meals moderately than consuming out. In the event you can eat for $15 per day, that provides about $900 per particular person for a two-month journey.
In whole, this journey could possibly be performed by one particular person for round $4,500. Deliver a buddy to separate the lodging and gasoline prices and the price is even much less for you each.
So, there you may have it – our Final Pet Pleasant American Highway journey! Now all that’s left to do is pack the automobile, crank up the tunes, and hit the highway. Waggin’ trails to you!
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