If you’re ready to hit the road with your furry companion by your side, this dog-friendly East Coast road trip is a dream come true. Picture scenic trails, coastal strolls, charming towns, and of course, plenty of dog-friendly spots along the way!
Here’s your guide to the best dog-friendly road trip destinations and accommodations from Maine to North Carolina.
1. Acadia National Park, Maine 🏞🌲
Acadia is one of the most dog-friendly national parks, with over 100 miles of trails where leashed dogs are welcome. Try the Carriage Roads for an easy walk with your dog, or hike the more challenging Gorham Mountain Trail for beautiful coastal views. Afterward, grab a bite at Side Street Café in nearby Bar Harbor, where dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio.
Where to Stay:
- Mid-Range: Best Western Acadia Park Inn – Comfortable rooms close to the park, with plenty of outdoor space for walks. Pet Fee: $30 per night.
- Luxury: Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth – A luxury oceanfront hotel offering pet-friendly amenities and a short drive to Acadia. Pet Fee: $45 per night.
2. Portland, Maine 🦞🌊
Start your journey in Portland, a city filled with dog-friendly parks and outdoor dining options. Walk along East End Beach, where your pup can roam off-leash, or take a scenic stroll on the Eastern Promenade Trail. For a break, head to Rí Rá Irish Pub, a pet-friendly spot offering outdoor seating, where your dog is welcome to relax while you enjoy some local seafood.
Where to Stay:
- Mid-Range: Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland – Offers spacious suites and treats for your dog at check-in. Pet Fee: $75 per stay.
- Luxury: Inn by the Sea – Just outside Portland, this oceanfront luxury hotel offers direct beach access, dog beds, and even a pet spa! Pet Fee: $45 per night.
3. Portsmouth, New Hampshire 🐾🏖
This charming coastal town is perfect for dog parents. Start your day at Prescott Park, a beautiful waterside garden where leashed dogs are welcome, or head to Pierce Island for some off-leash fun. If you’re hungry, stop by The Friendly Toast, a local favorite with pet-friendly outdoor seating.
Where to Stay:
- Mid-Range: Port Inn and Suites Portsmouth – Comfortable and pet-friendly, with a reasonable pet fee and lots of green spaces. Pet Fee: $30 per stay.
- Luxury: Residence Inn by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown – Enjoy a premium stay with spacious suites and a prime location. Pet Fee: $100 per stay.
4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts 🏝🐕
Cape Cod is known for its stunning beaches, many of which are dog-friendly. Spend the day at Herring Cove Beach, or take your dog on the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a beautiful, dog-friendly path through forests and small towns. When you need a break, visit The Canteen in Provincetown for casual dining with your dog in their outdoor seating area.
Where to Stay:
- Mid-Range: Surfside Hotel & Suites – Dog-friendly rooms just steps from the beach, with amenities like dog treats and an outdoor shower. Pet Fee: $43 per night.
- Luxury: Wequassett Resort & Golf Club – A luxury option with dog-friendly rooms and access to beautiful Cape Cod beaches. Pet Fee: $100-$200 depending on the season.
5. Newport, Rhode Island 🏰🌊
Newport’s famous Cliff Walk is a must-see, offering 3.5 miles of coastal views where leashed dogs are welcome. If you’re looking for a quieter spot, King Park provides a peaceful space for a picnic and a relaxing stroll along the water. Need a bite? Check out O’Brien’s Pub, which welcomes dogs in its outdoor seating area.
Where to Stay:
- Mid-Range: Paws on Pelham – A charming dog-focused bed & breakfast in the heart of Newport. Pet Fee: Included in the stay.
- Luxury: Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina – A high-end resort offering spacious dog-friendly rooms and scenic views of Newport Harbor. Pet Fee: $100 per stay.
6. Hudson Valley, New York 🍂🐕
The Walkway Over the Hudson is perfect for a scenic walk with your dog, offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River. For more hiking, head to Minnewaska State Park, where your leashed dog can join you on the trails. After a long day outdoors, stop by Hudson Valley Brewery, where leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area.
Where to Stay:
- Mid-Range: Hyatt Place Poughkeepsie – Convenient and pet-friendly, with modern amenities and easy access to Hudson Valley’s best spots. Pet Fee: $75 per stay.
- Luxury: Wildflower Farms – Auberge Resorts Collection – A luxury escape with on-site hiking and beautiful surroundings. Pet Fee: Contact for details.
7. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia 🏞🐾
Shenandoah is an outdoor paradise for dogs, with more than 500 miles of trails where leashed dogs are welcome. Hike the Limberlost Trail for an easy loop or trek to Stony Man Summit for incredible views. For a break, head to Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint in nearby Harrisonburg, where dogs are welcome at their outdoor tables.
Where to Stay:
- Mid-Range: Skyland Resort – Stay right inside the park, offering rustic pet-friendly cabins and easy access to hiking trails. Pet Fee: $25 per pet, per night.
- Luxury: The Mimslyn Inn – Located just outside the park in Luray, this historic inn offers luxury accommodations and nearby access to both the park and Luray Caverns. Pet Fee: $50 per stay.
8. Outer Banks, North Carolina 🏖🐕
The Outer Banks are a dog-friendly paradise with many beaches that welcome dogs year-round. Take your pup for a walk on Nags Head Beach or explore the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. If you’re looking for a meal, check out The Outer Banks Brewing Station, where your dog is welcome in their large outdoor beer garden.
Where to Stay:
- Mid-Range: Travelodge by Wyndham Kill Devil Hills – An affordable, dog-friendly hotel with easy beach access. Pet Fee: $25 per pet, per night.
- Luxury: Sanderling Resort – A luxurious oceanfront resort offering beautiful surroundings and top-notch amenities for you and your dog. Pet Fee: $300 per stay.
Map Your Adventure
Check out this custom map of your dog-friendly road trip along the East Coast of the USA with all the stops pinned for easy planning.
Listen to the Podcast on this Road Trip!
For even more tips, stories, and insights about this trip along the East Coast with your dog, listen to our latest podcast episode!
How Long Does This Road Trip Take?
The entire road trip from Portland, Maine to the Outer Banks, North Carolina covers about 1,200 miles of scenic drives, charming towns, and outdoor adventures. The total driving time is around 24-26 hours, but it’s best to spread the journey over 9 to 12 days, depending on how much time you’d like to spend at each stop. Here’s a rough breakdown of the driving times between each location:
- Acadia National Park to Portland: ~3 hours (170 miles) heading south.
- Portland to Portsmouth, New Hampshire: ~1.5 hours (55 miles).
- Portsmouth to Cape Cod, Massachusetts: ~2 hours (90 miles).
- Cape Cod to Newport, Rhode Island: ~2 hours (100 miles).
- Newport to Hudson Valley, New York: ~3.5 hours (180 miles).
- Hudson Valley to Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: ~6 hours (350 miles).
- Shenandoah National Park to Outer Banks, North Carolina: ~6 hours (340 miles).
While the total driving time is manageable, plan to spend 1-2 days at each destination to make the most of the dog-friendly activities, trails, and parks. This way, both you and your pet can enjoy a relaxing, memorable road trip without feeling rushed.
Final Tips for the Perfect Dog-Friendly Road Trip Along the East Coast:
- Pack Essentials: To make your adventure smooth and stress-free, ensure you’ve packed all the essentials for both you and your dog. For a complete list of must-have items, check out our dog road trip essentials guide to make sure your pup is ready for the journey ahead!
- Stay Hydrated: Always carry extra water for your dog, especially when hiking.
- Plan Breaks: Schedule frequent breaks for walks and bathroom stops to keep your pup happy and energized.
- Dog-Friendly Dining: Many cafes and restaurants along the way have pet-friendly patios—check ahead to plan mealtime stops.
Looking for More Adventure?
If you and your dog loved exploring the East Coast, why not plan your next adventure on the opposite side of the country? From Seattle to San Diego, the West Coast is packed with stunning beaches, scenic hikes, and plenty of dog-friendly stops. Check out our dog-friendly West Coast road trip for the perfect guide to exploring the other coast with your furry travel buddy!
Pin this post and start planning your ultimate dog-friendly road trip today! Whether you’re hiking scenic trails or relaxing on the beach, these vacations will create unforgettable memories for both you and your four-legged friend.
