BringFido’s Ruff Guide to Florida

Posted by Jason Halliburton

Thinking of spoiling your Schnauzer with a trip to Florida? 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 Sunshine 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 SUNNY.

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

Tour the Everglades by Airboat

"We're gonna need a bigger boat." Photo by Captain Carl

Take a 30-mile drive west from Miami to bring your furry friend on a wild ride through one of the most unique ecosystems in the country with Coopertown Airboats. The company’s flat-bottomed watercraft are ideally suited to navigate the marshes and wetlands of the Florida Everglades. Your pup will love feeling the wind in his fur as he skims across the sawgrass, keeping his eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, raccoons and various native bird species. After romping through the Everglades, return to civilization at Lincoln Road Mall in Miami Beach, where you and your pup can people-watch as you dine al fresco at one of the many pet-friendly restaurants.

Following a busy day of sightseeing, relax at Miami Beach’s Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel and enjoy a cocktail in the courtyard with your furry friend. Fido will enjoy socializing with other pet guests during the evening wine reception and can join you for dinner on the terrace at the resort’s restaurant, High Tide.

Have a Lazy Dog Adventure in the Keys

“Who’re you calling lazy?” Photo by @gopo_nyc

Bring your pooch on a two-hour guided tour with Lazy Dog Adventures in Key West. Paddle through mangrove creeks and shallow waters on a kayak or paddleboard, while spotting marine life such as jellyfish, conch, sea cucumbers, stingrays, and maybe even a shark or manatee. If you’ve never paddled with your pup before and would prefer to learn at your own pace, Lazy Dog also offers kayak and paddleboard rentals. Their staff will give you tips on how to introduce Fido to the sport and help you select the right board. If your doggo prefers to view marine life from dry land, take him to the Key West Aquarium, where he can participate in one of the guided walks and view the aquatic exhibits without getting wet.

Stay in the heart of the Key West historic district at Ambrosia Key West, a cozy, tropical-themed bed and breakfast. Start your day with a morning meal served poolside, before strolling over to Duval Street, Mallory Square, and other dog-friendly island attractions.

Explore Dog-Friendly De Leon Springs

It should be called “De Dog Springs!” Photo by @gopo_nyc

Experience Florida’s wild beauty at De Leon Springs State Park. Start your morning early with a tranquil hike along the 4.2-mile Wild Persimmon Trail. Following your trail jaunt, stop by the park’s on-site restaurant, The Old Spanish Sugar Mill, for a hearty breakfast of pancakes and other treats served at their pup-approved walk-up window. After fueling up, head to the boat dock and sail away with Captain Frank and the Fountain of Youth Eco/History Tours on a 50-minute pontoon adventure through the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. Keep an eye out for alligators, osprey, and other wildlife from the comfort of the boat.

Spend the night in nearby Orange City at Alling House, a charming bed & breakfast that welcomes furry guests in its five cottages. Each unit includes a kitchenette and is decorated in a unique theme, including the western Frontier Cottage and the elegant Victorian Cottage.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt


If this Ruff Guide to Florida 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 SUNNY to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!

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