Think your home state is great for the canine set? Wonder if there are greener pastures for your dogs to roam across America? Using the latest census data and our directory of pet-friendly places, the BringFido editorial team compiled per capita stats on the number of dog-friendly restaurants, outdoor activities, and pet-friendly hotels in all 50 states. Hometown pride is on the line in the 2022 edition of BringFido’s Most (and Least) Dog-Friendly States in the USA. Click through to find out where your “terrier-tory” ranks!
The Most (and Least) Dog-Friendly States in the USA
Posted by Billy Francis
1. Vermont
That’s right, you heard it here first: Vermont is the most dog-friendly state in the U.S. The Green Mountain State’s incredible outdoor recreation opportunities, welcoming mountain towns and headline-grabbing attractions make it a must-visit destination for dogs and their owners. The highlight for hounds is Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury, a 150-acre farm that has been transformed into a doggy playscape complete with a Dog Chapel. Four-legged visitors should also spend time exploring The Stowe Recreation Path. Fido can rest his head at The Paw House Inn & Cottages in West Rutland, a hotel that caters entirely to pet parents and their furry companion. Whatever you and your pooch are into, Vermont lays out the red carpet for dogs and their owners.
2. Maine
Home to Acadia National Park, the state of Maine takes second place in our ranking of the most dog-friendly states. Dog lovers will find weeks' worth of adventures exploring quaint towns and villages, hiking forest trails, and navigating the coastal waterways with their furry friends. And with hundreds of dog-friendly restaurants to choose from, you're never too far away from Fido's next meal. Head to Ogunquit for a Finestkind Lobstering Trip, plan a visit to Boothbay Harbor's Boothbay Railway Village, or escape the crowds with a visit to Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, just outside of Freeport. Fido can even help deliver the mail with Portland-based Casco Bay Lines. After a few days here, you and your pooch will understand why Maine is nicknamed "Vacationland."
3. Oregon
Oregon beat out tough competition to claim our bronze medal. Canine travelers can experience adrenaline-fueled adventures on land and water, some of the best hiking trails around, and the country’s most pet-friendly city in The Beaver State. Start your Oregon adventure in Portland, which boasts more dog parks per capita than any other city. Explore popular spots like Sellwood Riverfront Park and refuel at the Tin Shed Garden Cafe. Then, take your outbound hound to North Bend for a fur-flying adventure with Spinreel Dune Buggy. Finish your tour with a visit to the impressive Multnomah Falls in Bridal Veil. If you’re here during the colder months, teach your old dog new tricks and enter him into the Sunriver Brewing Company K-9 Keg Pull.
4. Montana
Ranking at number four for dog-friendliness, Montana is a marvel for mutts. Big Sky Country delivers an abundance of scenic pet-friendly pursuits and unbelievable places to stay. Located in the area surrounding Yellowstone National Park, Montana Whitewater Rafting Co. invites your pack on a rafting trip. Follow it up with a drive on one of the most scenic roads in America, Beartooth Highway in Red Lodge. All that exploring can be tiring work, so let somebody else pitch a tent for your pup at Under Canvas Yellowstone. With so much to see and do, there's no need for a map to find buried riches in The Treasure State.
5. Colorado
Colorado closes out our top five most dog-friendly states. A resort with a butler just for dogs, gorgeous winter hangouts and an enviable food scene help give The Centennial State its high rank. Head to Colorado Springs to visit the otherworldly Garden of the Gods with Fido. For 5-star treatment, visit The St. Regis Aspen Resort, which has a canine mascot and epic trails to explore. Or, spend a weekend in Denver and toast the Mile High City at Ugly Dog Sports Cafe. Dogs and their owners thinking about a move to Colorado should check out Boulder, 2021’s best city to move to with your pooch.
6. New Hampshire
Dog lovers of America have plenty of reasons to salute New Hampshire. The Chinook, a popular sled dog breed, originates from The Granite State. It also ranks in the top three for pet-friendly things to do based on population, with the Conway Scenic Railroad in the White Mountains among its highlights. Thirsty? Have a hoppy time with beers at the Woodstock Inn Brewery. Or, give skijoring a try at Gunstock Mountain Resort. Fans of sleeping under the stars can reserve a spot at Wakeda Campground, one of the most dog-friendly campgrounds in the country. If you want to go coastal on your next vacation, see why Portsmouth is a must-visit.
7. New Mexico
Blast off to The Land of Enchantment in search of diverse landscapes, historic haunts and The Mother Road. Fido can look out for little green men at the International UFO Museum in Roswell, learn about the history of one of the state’s most famous residents at the Kit Carson Home & Museum in Taos, and spend time in the dazzling North Central New Mexico region, which has Santa Fe at its heart. America’s second oldest city boasts one of the country’s biggest off-leash areas in Frank S. Ortiz Dog Park. Check out our Ruff Guide to New Mexico for more pointers.
8. South Carolina
South Carolina welcomes you and your best friend to explore the Lowcountry’s beautiful coastline, visit the Upstate’s fastest growing city, and experience natural delights in the Midlands. Historians traveling to the Palmetto State can step back in time in Charleston and enjoy a walk through Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, while naturalists visiting in late spring will be greeted by a mesmerizing display of fireflies lighting up the night in unison at Congaree National Park near Columbia. If you’re looking for somewhere to spend your golden years, start a new “leash” on life with your pup in South Carolina’s retirement hotspot, Myrtle Beach.
9. Florida
Whether you’re driving down the A1A or along the Gulf Coast, “paws” to enjoy miles of pet-friendly beaches, tropical grills and dog-friendly vacation rentals in the Sunshine State. Your furry friend will enjoy splashing off leash at some of the best stretches of sand in the country, including Fort De Soto Dog Beach Park in St. Petersburg and Jupiter Beach in Jupiter. Bring the whole family to meet Goofy and Pluto at Disney World. For a tropical playground year-round, head to the Florida Keys and kayak through mangrove creeks with Lazy Dog Adventures. Before you jet off, spend an awesome weekend together in the “Magic City” of Miami. Check out our Ruff Guide to Florida for more travel advice.
10. North Carolina
The final spot in our top ten is reserved for North Carolina. From the windswept beaches of the Outer Banks to the quirky Appalachian mountain towns known for welcoming pups with open arms, the Tar Heel State has something for every dog. Cruise with your Corgi along The Blue Ridge Parkway to pet-friendly Asheville and stop at the Biltmore Estate. Then, visit one of the region’s most picturesque hiking spots in Chimney Rock State Park. Bring Fido to Charlotte for brews at The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, the largest biergarten in the Southeast, followed by an afternoon of adventure at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. If Fido loves the outdoor lifestyle and finds beauty in all four seasons, North Carolina is calling.
11. Idaho
There’s so much more to #11 Idaho than potatoes and gem mines. For a pet-friendly introduction to the state, spend a night inside the Dog Bark Park Inn B&B, the world’s largest Beagle, located in Cottonwood. Urban pups will get a kick out of a visit to Boise, one of the fastest growing pet-friendly cities in the U.S. Get a feel for the local scene at one of the city’s many pet-friendly breweries. See some of the state’s natural beauty and historic points of interest at Tubbs Hill in Coeur d'Alene. During the winter season, visit Idaho’s idyllic resort town of Sun Valley and cross-country ski the BCRD Galena Trails with your best friend. Don’t skip the Gem State, or you might miss out on precious memories with your pooch.
12. Wyoming
Coming in at #12, Wyoming is the tenth largest state by land mass but has the smallest population in the country, which means visiting pups will find more untouched natural beauty here than almost anywhere else. Begin your exploration of America’s Wild West with Cody Wyoming Adventures. Water dogs can explore the winding Snake River on a rafting trip with Black Dog Raft Company, not far from the National Elk Refuge. Or, pitch up with your pup to see Old Faithful erupt in Yellowstone National Park. Thinking of moving with your mutt to Wyoming? The “Triple Tax Free” state has no income, estate or gift taxes.
13. Hawaii
Dogs who make the journey across the Pacific to Hawaii will be rewarded with spectacular scenery, wonderful water activities and aloha vibes. Comfortably in our top 20, Hawaii ranks in the top five for pet-friendly dining based on population, so be sure to treat your Pomeranian to a Poke bowl with a view. After a bite, Fido can try a radical new hobby and surf the sparkling waters off the coast of Honolulu with Gone Surfing Hawaii. For a sturdier vessel, charter a sailboat from Hawaii Sailing Adventures. Pups who prefer to keep all four paws on dry land can go on the Lanikai Pillboxes Hike or stargaze at Kalahaku Overlook at Haleakala National Park by night. It doesn’t take long on these mystical islands to understand why they’re nicknamed Paradise.
14. Delaware
Delaware may be the second-smallest state in the country, but it’s brimming with fun activities for you and your pooch to enjoy together. Have “reel” fun on a fishing charter from Anglers Fishing Center in Lewes. Dogs who prefer to frolic rather than fish can bound on the beach at Fenwick Island State Park. Raise a glass to The First State at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery. If you’re not already sold on Delaware, Wilmington is home to Senior Dog Haven and Hospice, an awesome rescue that rehomes older dogs.
15. Rhode Island
Rhode Island doesn’t let the fact that it’s the smallest state get in the way of it being the 15th most pet-friendly state on our list. From cool coastal hangouts to historic sites, L'il Rhody makes up for its stature by being crammed full of things to do with your dog. Whatever the weather (and it’s usually cloudy in Rhode Island), Bow chika Wow Town in Warwick offers a chance for pups to play off-leash. History-loving hounds will enjoy a weekend in Providence, one of the oldest cities in the country, and Fido can meet some of the former residents on a Providence Ghost Tour. Like your Chihuahua, Rhode Island proves that you can be both small and mighty.
16. South Dakota
Four-legged travelers and their owners heading to South Dakota will be amazed at the diversity of its parks and monuments. Explore the otherworldly Badlands National Park on the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway before taking a dip together in the crystal-clear waters of Sylvan Lake at Custer State Park. Then, dry off and drive along the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road to meet one of the nation’s largest free roaming bison herds. While Mount Rushmore doesn’t allow dogs, get a view of the four presidents from Needles Highway, or visit nearby Crazy Horse Memorial instead. Planning a long drive through South Dakota? Check out our pet-friendly road trip guide.
17. Wisconsin
The Badger State is lucky enough to experience all four seasons, and you’ll find great things to do with your pooch during each of them. Powder pups can join you on 200 acres of open fields and forests off-leash at Justin Trails Resort. When the snow melts, there’s still no need for a leash at Kaukauna Dog Park. In summer, head to the lakes and beaches of Door County, where you and your pooch can catch an outdoor theater production at Northern Sky Theater. Don’t forget to add Wisconsin to your Great River Road trip plans.
18. Washington
With its spectacular natural beauty, slick cities and numerous dog-friendly wineries, the Evergreen State has other pups green with envy. Washington State is home to Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest, both of which offer beautiful trails to explore with your pooch. Dogs who like to stroll and sniff may prefer a trip to Pelindaba Lavender Farm. In the Emerald City, take to the skies with Kenmore Air to see the Seattle skyline from above, then grab dinner with Fido at one of the much barked about restaurants. If you’re thinking of moving to Washington, Seattle is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the country.
19. Tennessee
The birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll reaches #19 in our charts for most dog-friendly states. From Beale Street to the Smokies, and Music City in between, there’s a ton of fun to be had with your pup in Tennessee. Maybe you and your pooch will go walking in Memphis with Backbeat Tours, groove to live tunes inside The Stage on Broadway in Nashville, or relax in a pet-friendly cabin rental in Gatlinburg. Visitors are drawn to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Cades Cove Loop Road is a must. However, clever canines know that Nantahala National Forest is nearby and much more pet-friendly.
20. Arizona
Arizona secures the final spot in our top 20. With 22 national parks and monuments, plus 31 state parks full of pet-friendly trails, this rugged and mountainous destination deserves to be on your itinerary. Give Fido a taste of the Wild West with a tour of Pioneer Living History Museum, then head to Phoenix and grab lunch at one of the state’s most popular dog-friendly restaurants, O.H.S.O. Eatery + NanoBrewery. Swing by Sedona and take a guided tour of the surrounding red rocks with A Day in the West Jeep Tours. No trip to The Grand Canyon State would be complete without experiencing one of the seven wonders of the world. Check out our pet-friendly guide to The Grand Canyon before you visit.
21. Alaska
Home to 17 of the 20 tallest mountains in the U.S. and more coastline than the other 49 states combined, The Last Frontier is a vast playground for dogs who are built for winter sports. Chugach Adventures gives dogs and their owners the chance to get up close to one of Alaska’s estimated 100,000 glaciers on the ‘Spencer Iceberg and Placer River Float Tour’. Afterwards, hike along the Winner Creek Trail in nearby Girdwood, which features a unique hand tram over a Glacier Creek. Sightseeing hounds who prefer a laid-back day out can visit North Pole, AK, to meet Santa Claus and tell him what good boys they’ve been.
22. Minnesota
Make memories with your mutt in Minnesota, the #22 ranked state for four-legged visitors. If Fido lives for the lake, he can plunge off-leash at Bald Eagle Otter Lake Regional Dog Park, one of the Gopher State's many pet-friendly lakes. Pay a visit to Minneapolis Sculpture Garden for a day of posing, then meet the locals at Unleashed Hounds & Hops. Drive to Duluth and tour the skies above with Lake Country Air & Beaver Air Tours. Outdoor adventurers shouldn’t miss a trip to Gunflint Lodge, where fishing in summer and snowshoeing in winter are on the agenda. Check out our weekend guide to Minneapolis for an awesome Twin City itinerary.
23. Virginia
History comes alive for visitors on two legs and four in Virginia. In Virginia Beach, Fido can play in the sand at the spot where English colonists first reached the New World in 1607 at First Landing State Park Beach. Old Dominion is the birthplace of more presidents than anywhere else, making it one of the most “pawtriotic” places to visit with Fido. Maybe you’ll walk the grounds of George Washington's Mount Vernon, see where the the longest military event in the Civil War took place at Petersburg National Battlefield, or simply experience Virginia wine country at Barrel Oak Winery & Farm Taphouse. Here’s why Williamsburg can be educational and fun for the whole family during spring break.
24. Massachusetts
Take your Boston Terrier for a stroll in the footsteps of the crew of the Mayflower in Massachusetts. Start your historic tour with a visit to Plymouth Rock at Pilgrim Memorial State Park. Then, see where an English Mastiff and Springer Spaniel first set foot on American soil in Provincetown. No trip to the Bay State would be complete without a pet-friendly tour of Boston and a stroll along The Freedom Trail. People and pups who want to enjoy a quintessential New England escape should set sail off the coast of Cape Cod for a weekend in dog-friendly Nantucket.
25. California
California sneaks into the top half of our list of most dog-friendly states. Bring your Goldendoodle to the Golden State for sun-splashed beaches, more national parks than anywhere else in the country, and some of the best dog-friendly wineries in the world. Whether she’s riding shotgun along the The Pacific Coast Highway or the last stretch of Route 66, this iconic state is full of fun on four wheels for four-legged visitors. Ditch the car and climb aboard the Skunk Train in Fort Bragg. Or, walk along the California Coastal Trail together and stop at Huntington Dog Beach. Don't miss Carmel, one of the best pet-friendly beach towns in the country. Check out our Ruff Guide to California for more ideas.
26. Connecticut
Solidly in the middle of the pack in our rankings, Connecticut offers canines a bounty of pet-friendly things to see and do. Picturesque state parks, inviting beaches and winding trails abound in the nation’s third smallest state. Dogs and their owners can explore The Cascades at Lake Mohegan near Fairfield, learn about the state’s maritime history at Mystic Seaport, or spend time together on the patio of a pet-friendly brewery. If you’re planning a weekend in Mystic with your mutt, book a stay at the “pupular” Hampton Inn & Suites Mystic. For a charming dog-friendly hotel on the waterfront, reserve a waterview room at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina.
27. Georgia
From buzzing cities to peace and quiet on the Appalachian Trail, Georgia will always be on Fido’s mind after he spends some time in the Peach State. A year-round highlight for furry travelers is dog-friendly Savannah. Get to know the picturesque coastal city on Oliver Bentleys Historic Dog Walk Tour, or a pet-friendly carriage ride if Fido doesn’t want to walk. After your tour, book an outdoor table at The Olde Pink House. A visit to Atlanta wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Centennial Olympic Park, site of the 1996 Olympic Games, and a walk on the Atlanta BeltLine followed by an afternoon of fun and drinks from an Airstream at Fetch Park. Don’t let summer pass you by without a trip down the Chattahoochee with Cool River Tubing. To see more of Georgia’s gorgeous coastline, take an island day trip to Jekyll Island.
28. Arkansas
Find beauty in The Natural State with your best friend. This diverse destination made up of lakes, mountains, caverns, forests and bubbling hot springs has more than enough to keep dogs and their owners busy for an extended vacation. Bring your classy canine to search for diamonds in their original volcanic source at Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro. Anything you find is Fido’s to keep. Explore the rugged Ozarks with a rental from River Monkey Kayak Rentals at Lake of the Ozarks State Park. Then, go underground with your hound at War Eagle Cavern on Beaver Lake. Be sure to savor Arkansas’ cultural side at Crystal Bridges Trails and Grounds in Bentonville.
29. Michigan
With more than 3,000 miles of shoreline to explore, lake-loving Labradors will relish a trip to Michigan. Visit one of the state’s many pet-friendly state parks on the lakes, like Grand Mere State Park or Saugatuck Dunes State Park, where dogs are welcome to explore coastal dunes, splash in the water and watch you fish for dinner. For a wilder ride, bring your canine co-pilot on a dune buggy adventure with Silver Lake Buggy Rentals in Mears. Pitch up with your pup at Twelvemile Beach Campground in the midst of all the action at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. For canines who prefer floating calmly down a river, hop aboard the Bavarian Belle Riverboat in Frankenmuth. Leave your worries (and your car) behind with a ferry ride across Lake Huron to idyllic Mackinac Island.
30. Missouri
Show Fido all there is to do in The Show-Me State. Your pup can join you when you visit one of America’s most recognized landmarks at Gateway Arch National Park, and then you can join him on a trip to Purina Farms. Experience one of the most unique natural attractions in the state at Fantastic Caverns, where you and your pooch can explore underground tunnels in a jeep-drawn tram. After your tour, stop by for a beer or coffee at Wire Road Brewing Company in Battlefield. Just outside dog-friendly Branson, your dog can meet some of the biggest cats he’ll ever see at the National Tiger Sanctuary. Don’t leave Missouri without a stop in Kansas City, home to the expansive Swope Park Off Leash Dog Park and the “ultimutt” hangout in Bar K Dog Bar.
31. Utah
Don't let Utah's rank in the bottom half of our list fool you. There's plenty of dog-friendly adventures to be had in the Beehive State. With five national parks and countless state and local public lands to explore, you'll have a tough time choosing where to begin your pet-friendly experience. Maybe you'll spend a night under the stars in Moab with Under Canvas, put in some volunteer hours with Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, or take Fido orchard picking at Capitol Reef National Park in Torrey. Check out our Ruff Guide to Utah for more inspiration.
32. Indiana
You won’t need to go around in circles to find fun with your dog at the home of the Indy 500. Indiana has many unique attractions for the canine set to experience alongside their human companions. Art lovers can enjoy an afternoon at Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres at Newfields in Indianapolis. If you and your pooch find camper vans more interesting than modern art, head to the RV Motorhome Hall of Fame and Museum in Elkhart. Or, let Fido dip his paws in Lake Michigan at Indiana Dunes National Park in Porter.
33. West Virginia
Take your Weimaraner to West Virginia, where hikeable mountain paths, welcoming small towns, and one-of-a-kind pet-friendly attractions are calling. Start your trip with a visit to the nation’s newest national park, New River Gorge National Park. Stay overnight at The Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg after a special day out with your pup on Blennerhassett Island State Park. Finish up your Mountain State trip by bringing your “pawranormal” investigator on a tour of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum.
34. Maryland
There’s so much for Fido to see and do in Maryland that visitors will be left wondering how it only ranks #34 on our list. Home to Chesapeake Bay, The Free State welcomes free-spirited dogs and their owners to roam off-leash on the beach, tour historic battlefields and even grab a brew for two. Visit Gathland State Park in Jefferson for a walk on the Appalachian Trail, set your dog free at Downs Memorial Park Dog Beach in Pasadena, or stay and play together at Bark Social in North Bethesda. In historic Baltimore, bring Fido on a cruise along the bay during the day and a spooky tour of the seaport capital at night.
35. North Dakota
Located directly on the Canada–United States border, see where The Peace Garden State gets its nickname at the International Peace Garden. Take a road trip along I-94 and meet Dakota Thunder, the world’s largest buffalo, and Sandy - The World's Largest Sandhill Crane. Stop along the way to see how pioneers lived in North Dakota at Frontier Village. During winter, swap the car for skis and explore the shoreline of Lake Sakakawea State Park. Be sure to visit Fargo for a trip to the dog-friendly Fargo Air Museum, a “flying” museum in which many of the airplanes on exhibit occasionally take to the sky. Afterwards, raise a toast at Fargo Brewing Company, a brewery that goes all out to help foster pups find a home.
36. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania pups might grumble at their state’s #36 rank, but they’ll forget all about it after a visit to the dog-friendly Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg. If the weather outside is frightful, pups can still get their exercise fix at The Indoor Dog Park in Cranberry Township. And with eateries like Four Dogs Tavern in West Chester and Dog & Bull Brew & Music House in Croydon, Fido won’t go hungry in the Keystone State. If your pup prefers to take it slow, get a feel for Philadelphia’s storied history at Independence National Historical Park. Dive into our Ruff Guide to Pennsylvania for more furry fun.
37. Iowa
Road trippers with dogs on the Great River Road shouldn’t avoid Iowa because of its #37 ranking. The Hawkeye State offers lots to see and do with your pooch. Pitch for your pup at the Field of Dreams, the famous movie landmark in Dyersville where Shoeless Joe Jackson and company played baseball. "Paws" for a sniff at more than 160 acres of gardens at the Iowa Arboretum in Madrid, or along the rows of pungent plants at Loess Hills Lavender Farm in Missouri Valley. Before the sun sets on your trip, cozy up around the fire pit at Big Grove Brewery & Taproom in Iowa City. If you enjoy farm living, immerse yourself in Iowa’s agricultural roots at one of the many pet-friendly farm stays available throughout the state.
38. Alabama
A popular spring break destination, Alabama clocks in at #38 on our list. Pups with a need for speed should make a beeline for the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in Lincoln. Those looking for a more relaxing pace will enjoy a visit to the Audubon Bird Sanctuary on Dauphin Island or the Mobile Botanical Gardens in Mobile. Pet owners looking to relocate to the Yellowhammer State may want to explore dog-friendly Huntsville, which made our list of Top 10 Pet-Friendly Cities to Move to in 2021.
39. Texas
Pack Fido’s Stetson and mosey on down to Texas with your best bud. The Lone Star State invites callers to sample the best pet-friendly BBQ in the country, sniff out Gulf Coast beaches and visit the other Grand Canyon. “Keep Austin weird” with a yoga session alongside your pooch at Austin Doga. Then, head to South Padre Island to meet native creatures at Sea Turtle, Inc. Get into the spirit of San Antonio and see the Alamo at night with the Sisters Grimm Ghost Tours, before bellying up to the bar at Hops & Hounds. Texas Hill Country is home to pet-friendly state parks, wineries and quaint towns.
40. Kansas
Canines from Kansas would agree that life begins at #40. With one of the world’s largest dog parks and lots more to see and do across the vast plains, Toto isn’t the only dog who wishes he could wake up in The Sunflower State. Head to Shawnee Mission Park in Shawnee for off-leash fun, follow the Yellow Brick Road to Dorothy’s House & Land of Oz in Liberal, and see one of the state’s many oddities - the World’s Largest Ball of Twine - in Cawker City. Will your best friend find her home on the range in this beautiful destination?
41. Kentucky
The Bluegrass State’s low rank on our list shouldn’t stop you and your pooch from horsin’ around in Kentucky. Make the trek to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, one of the state’s most “pupular” attractions. Follow in the footsteps of prehistoric creatures at dog-friendly Dinosaur World in Cave City. Paddle with your pup to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state, considered by many to be the Niagara of the South, on a tour with SUP Kentucky. After a visit to the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, unleash your hound at PG&Js Dog Park Bar in Louisville. Horses aren’t the only four-legged animals who love to trot around Kentucky.
42. Illinois
The Land of Lincoln welcomes all with its eclectic mix of big cities, quaint river towns, and natural beauty. Illinois may not have a national park, but the 270,000-acre Shawnee National Forest will have Fido hiking to his heart’s content. Picturesque Starved Rock State Park and Fox Ridge State Park are also must-visits for outbound hounds. If you prefer city living, spend a weekend in dog-friendly Chicago and bring your furry first mate on Mercury's Canine Cruise to see Chi-Town’s sights from the water. Get a splash of culture in Monticello at Allerton Park & Retreat Center, and play together, whatever the weather, at one of the country’s best indoor dog parks - Wag 'N Paddle in Naperville.
43. Oklahoma
Oklahoma is working hard to climb up our dog-friendly state rankings. In 2021, Governor Kevin Stitt created Cali's Law, which essentially changed the “state pet” to all rescue animals. Wander around the Paseo Arts District in Oklahoma City and be among the first to visit its newest canine hangout - Bar K - when it opens. Extend your stay in OKC with a long weekend at one of the state's most popular pet-friendly hotels, Aloft Oklahoma City Downtown Bricktown. Paddle with your pooch at Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow, or enjoy a drive-in movie at Admiral Twin Drive-In in Tulsa. Sooner or later, you and your pooch will want to visit The Sooner State.
44. Nebraska
Nebraska may not be as dog-friendly as any of its six neighbors, but touring Terriers will still find exceptional hiking opportunities, unique attractions and welcoming bars here. During Fido’s trip to The Cornhusker State, he can meet the local "pawtrons" at Omaha Dog Bar while you grab a pint, pay a visit to Carhenge in Alliance, or visit the world’s largest rail yard at Golden Spike Tower. Planning a state park road trip together? Look no further than beautiful Fort Robinson State Park in Crawford.
45. Nevada
The Silver State invites you and your pooch to hike among red Aztec sandstone at the Valley of Fire State Park near Las Vegas, cool off at the top of Mount Charleston, and paddle with your pup in Lake Tahoe at North Zephyr Cove Beach. For a pair of spooky thrills, bring your furry ghostbuster to check out Rhoylite Ghost Town and the nearby Goldwell Open Air Museum. If you’re staying in Sin City, don't miss a trip to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area before treating Fido to the "Plush and Pampered" Doggie Butler Service at Delano Las Vegas.
46. New York
The Empire State is an incredible place to explore with your best friend. Start in the Big Apple with a walk through Central Park and snap a photo with the statue of Balto. If you’re visiting NYC on Thanksgiving weekend, reserve a room with a view for the Macy’s Day Parade. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, discover the “pawfect” place to recharge with your Retriever at Emerald Glen Getaway in Morris, or go fishing for lobster with Sag Harbor Charters in Gardiners Bay. Wine lovers can unite for a stroll along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail or visit one of the Finger Lakes’ many pet-friendly wineries. In the Adirondacks, enjoy year-round adventure in the legendary town of Lake Placid.
47. Louisiana
From the slow-moving waters of the Bayou to the pet-friendly restaurants serving up Cajun classics like jambalaya, Louisiana is a worthy dog-friendly destination. Whether you’re here for Mardi Gras or just a stroll along world-famous Bourbon Street, there's always something going on in New Orleans’ famed French Quarter. It’s even more fun at night with the pet-friendly Ghost City Tours. For more things to do in the Big Easy, check out our weekend guide. Beyond NOLA, you can bring Fido for a stomp through America’s largest river swamp on the Atchafalaya Experience in Breaux Bridge, or head to Rutherford Beach, one of the best stretches of sand on the Gulf coast.
48. New Jersey
Even though New Jersey finds itself near the bottom of our list, there’s plenty for a posh pup to love about The Garden State. Make your way to Asbury Park to experience the world-famous Yappy Hour at the Wonder Bar. Take time out for a spa day at Purr’n Pooch Pet Resort in Tinton Falls. Look out for whales breaching off the coast with Cape May Whale Watcher. Run off leash at Timber Creek Pooch Park in Blackwood, or make Fido’s wildest dreams come true with a visit to one of the world’s largest fire hydrants at Wildwood Dog Park and Beach. Here’s why Wildwood is one of the best pet-friendly beach towns in the country.
49. Ohio
Don’t judge Ohio by its ranking. In 2018, then Governor Kasich signed into law a bill to officially allow dog-friendly outdoor dining. And, with new pet-friendly shops and other attractions opening every month, The Buckeye State is quickly becoming an appealing place for our furry friends to live or visit. For some fresh air, head to Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Peninsula to hike the Brandywine Gorge Trail, wake up to the smell of beer brewing at BrewDog's DogHouse Columbus in Canal Winchester, or greet the four-legged locals playing at Bow Wow Beach in Stow. Find more pet-friendly things to do in our Ruff Guide to Ohio.
50. Mississippi
Mississippi finds itself in last position in our rankings, but that doesn’t mean you should leave The Hospitality State out of Fido’s travel plans. Mississippians are a friendly bunch, and their hospitality extends to four-legged residents. During your trip, catch crustaceans in Biloxi with a Biloxi Shrimping Trip, see historic antebellum architecture at Natchez National Historical Park, and take your Springer Spaniel to Ocean Springs Beach for a walk through the surf. Experience "Victorian southern comfort" at the historic Devereaux Shields House, one of many charming dog-friendly B&B's in Mississippi.