BringFido’s Ruff Guide to Alabama

Posted by Jason Halliburton

Thinking of taking an expedition with your English Setter to Alabama? If so, he’s one lucky dog. The editors at BringFido have dedicated themselves to digging up the dog-friendliest things to do in the Yellowhammer State, as well as the rest of the country. And we've assembled it all in the latest edition of our book, Ruff Guide to the United States.

Now in its second edition, the book features over 365 of the best places to stay and play with your dog in all 50 states. Order your copy today and save 50% off the retail price when you use the discount code ALABAMA.

For a preview of the book, here are a few of our editors' top picks for dog-friendly things to do in Alabama:

Check Out the International Motorsports Hall of Fame

Lincoln, AL
"Imagining the wind in my fur." Photo by International Motorsports Hall of Fame

Does your dog have a need for speed? If so, start your engine and make a beeline for the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in Lincoln. Located just off Interstate 20 next to Talladega Superspeedway, NASCAR’s biggest race track, this motoring experience is a must-visit for racing fans. The attraction features three exhibit halls and a pavilion area packed full of exhibitions of stock cars, road racing, motorcycles, and drag racing. From Jimmie Johnson to the Intimidator, Dale Earnhardt, you’ll learn about the best racers who have ever crossed the finish line at the World’s Fastest Superspeedway.

When your weary pooch is ready for an overnight pit stop after his Talladega experience, make your way to the Best Western Plus Bass Hotel & Suites in Leeds. Located a half-hour drive from the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, this comfortable hotel offers complimentary daily breakfast for humans and ample green space for Fido.

Explore the Gulf Coast at Dauphin Island

Dauphin Island, AL
The "pawfect" spot for family photos. Photo by @courtneypjourney

Visit Dauphin Island for an exciting Gulf Coast getaway with Fido. Bring your binoculars and take your furry friend on over three miles of dog-friendly trails at the 137-acre Audubon Bird Sanctuary. Look for some of the 420 different bird species that have been spotted on the island, as well as butterflies, turtles, fish, and the occasional alligator. Next, visit Fort Gaines, where Fido is welcome to explore a key site of the Civil War’s Battle of Mobile Bay. For some beach time, head over to Dauphin Island Beach, where leashed dogs are welcome everywhere except the west end. After working up an appetite, grab a bite to eat on the patio at Islander’s Restaurant.

After a long day of exploring Dauphin Island, you can rest your tired paws at the Dauphin Island Harbor House, a favorite among four-legged beach bums. Humans will enjoy a complimentary full southern breakfast each morning, and your water-loving pooch will enjoy the proximity to miles of dog-friendly beaches.

Discover History at Russell Cave National Monument

Bridgeport, AL
“A cave seems like the perfect place for a Hazel Bear.” Photo by @eric_abyolo

Witness over 10,000 years of history at the Russell Cave National Monument in Bridgeport. The 314-acre archaeological site is one of the most complete records of prehistoric cultures in the Southeast. Fido can join you on a guided tour of the cave, where you'll learn about primitive tools and weapons, and get a glimpse into the daily life of the area's prehistoric inhabitants. Stop for a photo at the wildflower meadow, hike along a portion of the North Alabama Birding Trail, and be sure to get your pup certified as a B.A.R.K. Ranger, complete with official tag, at the park bookstore.

After cave-diving with your canine, check in to the unique vacation rental, Sarah's House. Located right on the scenic Tennessee River in Jackson County, the industrial-style building has been converted to a six-bedroom lodge complete with a pool table, kayaks and riverfront access for fishing.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt


If this Ruff Guide to Alabama preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code ALABAMA to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!

Have you been to dog-friendly Alabama? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by iStock/welcome-to-carol-world.