Enter the Gateway to the West with Fido on a visit to the Gateway Arch National Park in downtown St. Louis. Leashed pups can explore trails, relax on a grassy hillside overlooking the Mississippi River, and have their photo taken with the iconic monument. Plan your trip to coincide with the annual ‘Purina Pooches in the Ballpark’ baseball game at nearby Busch Stadium and let Fido cheer on the St. Louis Cardinals from a seat in the stands. If you miss the event, baseball mutts can still watch a game with other sports fans at The Doghaus, a dog park sports bar that welcomes pups to play while you enjoy televised Cardinals games all summer long. Dogs can even pick up free treats from the quick-serve window and meet new friends at the incredible fenced-in dog park.

After exploring the city, Fido is in for a special treat with a stay at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis. Pet amenities provided at check-in include a comfy dog bed, bowls, snack, and bottled water. The hotel is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, within walking distance to Gateway Arch National Park and Busch Stadium. Book an Arch-View room or admire skyline views from a poolside cabana.

Discovered by a farmer’s dog in 1862, Fantastic Caverns was first explored by a dozen local women who answered a Springfield newspaper ad seeking explorers. During Prohibition, the massive cave was used by bootleggers as a speakeasy and casino. In the 1950s, it was transformed into an underground auditorium by country greats like Buck Owens. Today, your dog can ‘mark his territory’ on America’s only Jeep-drawn cave tour. During the one-hour tour, you’ll hear more fascinating tales about this Springfield landmark and see stunning stalactites and stalagmites at every turn. With a natural temperature of 60 degrees year-round, Fantastic Caverns is a perfect spot to visit with your pooch in any season.

After a day of spelunking with your canine companion, spend a night in downtown Springfield at the Hotel Vandivort. This industrial-chic urban retreat offers Fido treats and toys upon arrival. Relax by the fireplace in the cozy lobby sitting area and gaze at the cityscape from the rooftop lounge.

If your pup always has a ball or Frisbee in his mouth, bring him to Purina Farms in Gray Summit. Check in at the information desk to pick up a free visiting pet pack. Then, make your way to the Incredible Dog Arena to witness the high-flying action of the Purina Incredible Dog Team. Fido may learn a new trick or two as he watches professional canine athletes perform feats of skill and agility at several demonstrations daily. When the show is over, stroll through the interactive exhibits, take your good boy on a wagon ride, and stop by the gift shop to pick up some Purina swag. The facility hosts many special events throughout the year, including egg hunts and trick-or-treating. You can even hold a ‘Pooch Pawty’ to celebrate your pup’s birthday.

Located in the middle of Missouri’s wine country, the Best Western Plus Washington Hotel caters to travelers with four-legged family members. After a comfortable night’s rest, wake up and enjoy your morning coffee alongside Fido on the hotel’s outdoor patio.

Ready for a Road Trip?

If this Ruff Guide to Missouri 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 SHOWME to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!