BringFido's Guide to Mexico

Posted by Billy Francis

Mexico’s long history of canine appreciation stretches back more than 3,000 years to Aztec times. The Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo for short, was considered by the Aztecs to be the dog of the gods and can still be found in homes across the country today.

Fido can say “hola!” to even more native breeds like the Chihuahua on an amazing adventure around Estados Unidos Mexicanos. People and pups can marvel at ancient cities, hike through stunning national parks, leave pawprints in the sand and make memories that will leave the whole pack shouting “Amo a México!”

Things to Do

“Bark in the park!” Photo by @jerrythepapillon

From coastal serenity to buzzing metropolises, all four-legged travelers will find the “pawfect” place to hang out in pet-friendly Mexico.

Park Life in Mexico City

Mexico City is the country’s bustling capital and a must-visit for pups who don’t mind lots of walking. Start your tour with a ride on a “Trajinera” at Xochimilco Embarcaderos, a colorful pet-friendly gondola that floats down the historic canal system. Next, hike a variety of challenging trails that include routes up Ajusco Peak, an extinct volcano, at Cumbres del Ajusco National Park. This incredible national park makes up half of the city and welcomes pups to hike off leash in designated areas. For more interesting trails like one leading to an abandoned convent, pay a visit to another national park southwest of the city, Desierto de los Leones. On your way back to the city center, swing by Parque La Mexicana to visit the Dog Garden and let Fido play on the obstacles.

Shop and Stroll in Guadalajara

Mariachi music was born in the state of Jalisco and provides the soundtrack to a visit to the state’s capital, Guadalajara. You’ll hear it over the speakers at Plaza Sania while you enjoy a pet-friendly shopping experience which includes a visit to Petco to stock up on treats and swag for Fido. Bands may be performing it as you walk on the ecological trails at Parque Metropolitano de Guadalajara and let your pup play off leash at Metrocan Dog Park, or during Day of the Dead festivities at Parque Ávila Camacho. If you want a break from the music, leave the city for a guided tour of The Circular Pyramids of Guachimontones with SAT Mexico Tours. This pet-friendly tour will take you and your pooch to incredible concentric circles and conical step pyramids not found anywhere else.

“Playing in Playa del Carmen.” Photo by @dogbeachplayadelcarmen

Paws Up for Playa del Carmen

Visit the laidback Playa del Carmen along the Caribbean Sea for white sand beaches and blindingly blue waters that are synonymous with Mexico. Dog Beach Playa del Carmen is the first pet-friendly stretch of sand in the city and it’s where a thriving canine community meets up to get their fix of sun, sea and sand, off leash. This boho resort town is also one of the few places you can hop on a ferry with Fido to visit the island of Cozumel via Ultramar. On the other side of a 45-minute ferry ride with live music and a private dog area, you and your pooch can climb into a different vessel and tour the waters that surround the island with Canoa Maya Cozumel.

Tour and Explore Puebla

En route from Mexico City to the birthplace of Cinco de Mayo, Puebla, pay a visit to Alpinia. This activity center welcomes dogs everywhere except the children’s farm, which means you can unearth hiking trails that weave through the paradise forest on the slopes of the Iztaccihuatl volcano, get lost in an epic maze and even try ziplining together. Upon arrival in Puebla, take a photoshoot of your pooch at the colorful Alley of the Frogs, or Callejón de los Sapos. People and pups enjoying an extended stay in the region can make the most of it by joining a pet-friendly tour with Unlimited Experiences. Their Huauchinango - Coffee Route visits a historic dam, includes a boat tour around Necaxa dam and finishes at a coffee farm.

“Ermmm, do we have the right day?” Photo by Facebook.com/clubqueretaro

Kick Off in Querétaro

Santiago de Querétaro is a city in central Mexico famous for the incredible aqueduct that runs through its center. The best place to view the Acueducto de Querétaro is at a vantage point called the Mirador de los Arcos. Below, you’ll see the sprawling city full of Spanish colonial architecture. No trip to Mexico would be complete without seeing the country’s favorite sport of soccer live. Plan your trip to Santiago de Querétaro around game day at Corregidora Stadium, where you and your pooch can watch Queretaro FC from a special pet-friendly zone. After the game, go for an evening stroll through Zenea Garden.

Make Hay in Monterrey

If you’re visiting the northeastern state of Nuevo León, reserve a few nights in the exciting city of Monterrey. First, admire Mexico's biggest monumental flag, view the city from above and see the mountains that surround it at Mirador del obispado, or Bishop’s Lookout. Then, watch the boats sail by from the riverwalk at the manmade Paseo Santa Lucia. If you want to see natural beauty instead, Cumbres de Monterrey National Park is another gorgeous area that allows dogs with good recall to explore certain areas off leash. The park’s Cerro El Chupón Monterrey allows pups off leash and leads to epic views of the surrounding mountains. For an easier hike with a spooky backstory, wander deep into the Witches Forest.

Places to Stay

“Cheers to dogs and decks!” Photo by Airbnb

Fido can chow down on a hearty meal from room service, bask in secluded surroundings or sleep in the trees during his stay at these pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals around Mexico.

Book a Countryside Cabin

The Alpine Cabaña en Huimilpan is a short drive from Santiago de Querétaro and provides a scenic escape from city life. Surrounded by a nice backyard and vast countryside beyond, there’s ample space for daily walks in every direction. This A-frame house has a wall of windows and a spacious deck so you can switch up where you watch the sunset. Inside, there’s hardwood flooring throughout and a low bed in the master that even older pups will have no trouble scrambling onto at night.

Stay In the Mix in Mexico City

Book a pet-friendly suite at Le Meridien Mexico City and enjoy a room with a view of the Mexico City skyline. This popular hotel is located on the city’s main street of Paseo de la Reforma in the business district and is a great hub for accessing city parks, restaurants and other attractions. Human guests can take advantage of amenities like an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center and a lounge. Dogs receive a pet bed and bowls to use during their stay.

“Can I grab a ride?” Photo by @westingdl

Sleep It Off in Guadalajara

The Westin Guadalajara provides a serene environment to rest up between tequila tasting and listening to mariachi with your mutt. This popular hotel’s pet-friendly rooms are spacious and have big windows overlooking the city, and select suites have hardwood floors, too. After a day of exploring, you may want to stay in your room and order room service. Fortunately, Fido can enjoy his own pet menu with filling meals like beef with carrots and spinach.

Time Out at a Treehouse B&B

Travelers on a budget can experience a unique stay for an affordable price in Playa del Carmen. Treehouse B&B Chakte is surrounded by tropical plants and has tile floors and easy access to the beautiful backyard; Treehouse Bungalow Salamandra is filled with light and has a hammock in the bedroom; Treehouse Chicozapotes is a spacious choice with hardwood floors; and TreeHouse La Selva features a quaint writing desk. Guests at all of the treehouses can make friends with the resident dog, Leica. They’ll also receive homemade products like sourdough, granola, biscuits, traditional dishes and more, and they’ll have access to communal areas with hammocks and a natural swimming pool.

Share a one-of-a-kind stay with your furry best friend. Photo by Airbnb

Wonder at Wander

Located one hour from downtown, Wander Monterrey is a whimsical pet-friendly Airbnb in a community of tiny homes set among nearly 500 private acres of mountain and desert. This beautiful box in the middle of nature features a huge window that invites the outside in, a full kitchen, a private bathroom and a terrace. Outside, four-legged guests can join their owners at the shared barbecue area, on nearly ten miles of trails, and can even visit the on-site vineyard.

A Room with a Garden View

Marriott Puebla is a popular pick among BringFido users visiting the City of Angels thanks to its central location near Alley of the Frogs and a variety of pet-friendly restaurants. Guests with pets can stay in a garden-view room with access to the outdoor space. While humans will love the swimming pools and can play a game of tennis, Fido will enjoy exploring the pathways through the manicured gardens and relaxing in a quiet corner of his spacious room.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants

“My compliments to the chef!” Photo by Hyatt.com

Whether you’re planning a “pawty,” pub crawl or simply picking up a pizza, these pet-friendly eateries around Mexico invite mutts to chow down and join in the fun, too.

Head to the “Ruff” Top Bar

Wooftop Beer Garden and Canine Club is one of Mexico City’s coolest places to chill with your Chihuahua. Inside, you’ll find a pet boutique stocked with tasteful swag to snag on the way out and a quiet pet napping area for pups who need a break. The outdoor terrace has lots of comfortable couches and seating where you can order a colorful cocktail, tacos, nachos or a juicy hamburger, and it features relief stations and artificial grass. Meanwhile, your pooch can rehydrate with a bowl of water or sip on a dog beer, and order something from the dog menu like all-natural baked treats by the Andaz’s pastry chef. Dogs are also welcome to stay the night downstairs at Andaz Mexico City Condesa.

Pizza for Pups

Coffee & Pet's Deli in Guadalajara describes itself as a “Dog Cafe,” and is begging to be the location of Fido’s “pawty” during his vacation. From elaborate cakes made to look like your furry best friend to classic cakes that will look great on his Instagram feed, this deli knows how to celebrate pups. Dogs who’ve already celebrated a birthday can order something from the cafeteria menu like pet-friendly pizza, beef rolls, meatballs and more. There’s beer, coffee and snacks available for humans, too.

"I am Kenough." Photo by Facebook.com/greenwaypolanco

Munch on the Mutt Menu

Greenway Restaurante is another establishment in Mexico City that places pups front and center. Here, you can dine in the company of fellow dog lovers inside or out for breakfast and lunch. The diverse menu for humans ranges from chilaquiles and hot cakes to pasta and sandwiches, and you can enjoy your meal in peace while your pup sinks her teeth into something from the dog menu like Max & Canelos Beef and Veggie Casserole, Guisado especial de carne y vegetables and Bruja's Beef 'n Chicken Brew. If you’re in town for a while, you might even be able to attend one of the restaurant’s themed dog parties.

BBQ in Puebla

Frenchies Cafe invites French Bulldogs, Xolos and every pooch in between to enjoy Puebla’s most pet-friendly restaurant decorated with pictures and paintings of dogs. While you enjoy a menu that features bar favorites like ensalada patrona, chicken wings, ribs and burgers, you can treat your pup to something sweet from the dog menu like his very own cake. Dogs are welcome at tables inside and on the patio outside.

“Let’s head to the Winchester until all this blows over.” Photo by Facebook.com/WinchesterTj

Tijuana Puppy Pub Crawl

Tijuana is thought to be the birthplace of the margarita, so it’s no surprise that we’re recommending a puppy pub crawl in this lively city. First, go to the Winchester Pub, have a nice cold pint. Inspired by the classic British pub, you and your pooch are invited to hang out together at this welcoming establishment downtown. Then, keep the party going in Zona Centro and head to nearby Norte Brewing Co. for a beer and a burger overlooking the city on the 5th floor. Stop for a quick sip on the patio at Madueño Brewing Co., then reward your Terrier for joining you with a homemade treat at Silenus Tap Room. Finish up your pub crawl on the patio or inside at the bustling Teorema Brewing.

Feast on the Terrace

Mercado 60 is a “gourmet and culinary cultural market” in Mérida, the capital of the state of Yucatán. This pet-friendly gastronomic hub features nine restaurants, three bars and live music every day. Whether you’re in the mood for a taste of Mexico from Taco Grill, bao buns from Bao Bao or a meaty meal from Oink BBQ, there’ll be something on one of the menus that’s bound to entice you. Afterward, walk with your dog to Parque de las Américas, a buzzing park that hosts pet-friendly movie nights and more.

Where is your favorite dog-friendly destination in Mexico? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by BringFido/Aura.