9 Bucket List Adventures For Dogs & Dream Destinations For Animal Lovers

For animal lovers, travel takes on a special meaning when it involves connecting with animals in unique and profound ways. Across the country, destinations cater to those who seek memorable experiences with pets or interactions with rescued animals. Whether it’s the serenity of a cat sanctuary, the excitement of dog-friendly resorts, or the heartwarming mission of farm animal rescues, these destinations inspire, educate, and rejuvenate.

This curated collection of dog-friendly places to visit and bucket list experiences offers something for everyone. Prepare to discover dog-friendly tourist attractions where compassion meets exploration and where unforgettable memories await both two-legged and often four-legged travelers, too!

Dog-Friendly

When planning a getaway, animal lovers often seek destinations where their furry friends are welcome. Dog-friendly accommodations cater to pet owners, offering amenities like spacious grounds for exploration, pet-friendly rooms, and even special treats for canine guests. These are the most extravagant places, perfect for travelers who want to share every moment of their adventure with their four-legged companions, creating memories together.

The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch (Avon, CO)

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Avon, Colorado, The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch is a luxury resort that takes pet-friendly travel to a whole new level. This retreat welcomes dogs and celebrates them with exclusive amenities and experiences designed to ensure they enjoy the stay as much as their humans. From gourmet dog treats to custom pet beds, the resort’s thoughtful touches create an unforgettable experience for canine guests.

The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch’s canine ambassador program, launched in the early 2000s by former PR director Kristin Yantis, was established to highlight the hotel’s long-standing commitment to being dog-friendly. The resort’s canine ambassador, Bachelor, a 98-pound Saint Bernard, offers friendly greetings and photo opportunities for those traveling without a pet.

Dogs are treated like royalty with personalized care packages, special menus, and access to the resort’s stunning hiking trails. Guests can take in the beauty of the surrounding mountains while exploring the great outdoors with their furry companions. These trails are perfect for energetic dogs and provide opportunities for bonding in a serene environment.

For a more social experience, the resort hosts “yappy hours,” where dogs and their owners can mingle. These lively gatherings are a great way to meet fellow travelers and their pets while enjoying the luxurious ambiance of the resort. Humans can sip cocktails and unwind as their dogs enjoy treats and playtime.

Staff members are attentive to each pet’s needs, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes every visitor feel at home. The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch offers a unique combination of luxury and pet-friendliness, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a sophisticated escape with their dog.

The Paw House Inn (Rutland, VT)

In the foothill mountains of Vermont is The Paw House Inn, a charming bed-and-breakfast that is dedicated to dogs. Established in 2001, the Inn was born out of its founders’ frustration with the lack of truly dog-friendly travel options. Leaving their careers in New York City, they moved to Vermont with their two Labrador Retrievers and a vision to create a vacation destination that catered entirely to dog lovers. Ignoring skeptics, they built a “dog-centric” getaway where guests could enjoy all the comforts of home—alongside their beloved pets.

Designed with canine guests in mind, this unique accommodation offers amenities and services tailored to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both dogs and their humans. From private dog parks to canine daycare, every detail is thoughtfully planned to cater to canine travelers. In fact, there is a $10 fee if you DO NOT bring a dog.

The property features rooms equipped with dog beds and other pet-friendly amenities, creating a home-away-from-home atmosphere. Humans can relax knowing their pets are safe and comfortable, whether lounging in the room or playing in the inn’s private dog park. The park has dog-centric activities such as picnicking, dog agility, playtime, and general romping.

A standout feature of The Paw House Inn is its daycare service. Guests can explore the local area while their dogs are cared for by attentive staff. This service allows humans to enjoy sightseeing, hiking, or dining without worrying about their pets.

For those who prefer to stay close, the inn offers plenty of on-site activities to enjoy with their dogs, including kayaking. The inn’s location in Vermont’s picturesque countryside provides opportunities for outdoor adventures. Guests can explore nearby hiking trails, visit local farms, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature. The Paw House Inn’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for visitors to unwind and connect with their pets in a serene environment.

AutoCamp (Various Locations)

For those seeking a modern twist on camping, AutoCamp offers luxurious Airstream accommodations at stunning locations across the United States, including Yosemite, Cape Cod, and Joshua Tree. These pet-friendly glamping sites are perfect for travelers who want to explore nature without sacrificing comfort. With stylish interiors and thoughtful amenities, AutoCamp provides a unique and convenient way to experience the outdoors with your pet.

Each AutoCamp location offers pet-friendly Airstreams and designer tents to accommodate travelers and their furry companions. Dogs are welcomed with treats and amenities like bowls and beds, ensuring they feel right at home. The Airstreams are beautifully appointed, featuring plush bedding, modern kitchens, and spa-like bathrooms.

The surrounding landscapes are the true highlight of AutoCamp, with access to trails, beaches, and parks. Whether it’s hiking in Yosemite, strolling the shores of Cape Cod, or exploring the desert beauty of Joshua Tree, every location provides opportunities for adventure with your dog. Many trails are pet-friendly, allowing for shared exploration of stunning natural environments.

In addition to outdoor activities, AutoCamp fosters a sense of community among guests. Communal fire pits, gathering spaces, and events like yoga or stargazing create opportunities for interaction and relaxation. Dogs often join these gatherings, adding to the inclusive and friendly atmosphere.

AutoCamp combines the tranquility of nature with the comforts of luxury travel. It’s an exceptional choice for a pet-friendly getaway for those who want to experience the great outdoors without compromising on style or convenience.

I stayed at an AutoCamp in the Catskills in New York and brought our Cavalier. We loved the big outdoor shared play area with grab-and-go food, a kitchen, and a bar. There was a trail around the property with a small pond and lots of dogs to play with. We can’t wait to check out another Autocamp soon!

Canine Camp Getaway (Pennsylvania & New York)

Set in two locations—Gettysburg, PA, and the Catskill Mountains of East Durham, NY—Canine Camp Getaway offers a weekend of adventure and relaxation for you and your furry friend. Held on select dates throughout the year, both venues provide ample open space for outdoor activities, ensuring plenty of opportunities to rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit while forging an even stronger bond with your dog.

Canine Camp Getaway is a haven for dog lovers seeking the ultimate pet-friendly vacation. Packed with activities and sports designed for dogs and their humans, the camp offers something for everyone. From agility courses, barn hunts, and swimming in a dog-friendly pool to doga (dog yoga), nose work, lure coursing, and even canine freestyle dance, this retreat is all about fun, learning, and connection. You can also take part in classes on canine CPR, nutrition, and more, ensuring both you and your pup leave enriched and inspired.

Whether your dog is an expert in dog sports or trying them for the first time, there’s no need for prior training or experience. Friendly instructors, trainers, and on-site veterinarians are ready to guide you and your pup every step of the way. If you want a more laid-back experience, simply relax by the pool, attend “Yappy Hour” in the lounge, or explore scenic hiking trails together.

Your room and board includes accommodations, activities, and meals, so everything is taken care of for you! From “Barks and Crafts“ to dog-friendly karaoke and movie night, there’s something for every human and dog.

Canine Camp Getaway is more than a vacation—it’s a chance to create unforgettable memories with your best friend. With activities and amenities tailored for both dogs and their humans, this retreat is truly a treat for all.

Inn by the Sea (Cape Elizabeth, ME)

Tucked along the coast of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, Inn by the Sea has offered a luxurious yet welcoming retreat for travelers and their pets for over 30 years (being one of the first pet-friendly resorts in New England). This eco-luxury resort prioritizes sustainability and comfort while ensuring dogs are treated as cherished guests. Its stunning seaside location provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure, with a private beach steps away.

Dogs receive personalized welcome packages, including cozy blankets, bowls, and gourmet treats. The rooms, ranging from spacious suites to charming cottages, are designed to make both humans and their furry companions feel at home. They include pet-friendly features like hardwood floors and direct access to outdoor spaces.

The VIP (Very Important Pet) rate includes an INNcredible Pet Package: a two-night stay with an Inn by the Sea dog bowl from Yeti, a personalized L.L. Bean dog bed with pet turndown service, and a nightly selection from a gourmet pet menu.

During the off-season, Crescent Beach allows dogs to run and play, creating endless opportunities for seaside fun. Nearby lighthouse trails are just a few ways to soak up Maine’s natural beauty. Many of these experiences are designed with pets in mind, ensuring no one is left out of the adventure.

Inn by the Sea is more than just a luxury hotel. They are a safe place for pups in need of loving homes. In partnership with the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, the Inn’s foster program allows guests to interact with shelter dogs cared for by the staff, often leading to adoptions. About 45 dogs each year enjoy a temporary stay at the seaside resort. Many adopted dogs return with their new families, creating a heartwarming cycle of connection and community.

Accommodations With Animals (But Not Allowed To Bring)

Not every destination allows outside pets, even when animals play a significant role in the experience. Some locations prioritize the harmony of their resident animals or the unique setting they’ve cultivated, making it necessary to restrict outside pets for safety and tranquility. These places often feature ranch dogs, barn cats, or other resident animals that enhance the atmosphere and offer opportunities for guests to connect with animals in a meaningful way when they cannot bring their own. Here are a couple of those experiences.

Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch (Parshall, CO)

Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch in Parshall, Colorado, offers an authentic Western experience steeped in rustic charm and natural beauty. While the ranch warmly welcomes animal lovers, it does not permit outside pets on the property. This policy ensures the safety of all animals and the peaceful enjoyment of the ranch environment for every guest. However, the ranch is home to several friendly ranch dogs who are well-acquainted with the setting, horses, and attention from guests, providing a delightful and welcoming presence.

For travelers who wish to bring their dogs along on their vacation, the ranch is happy to assist in arranging local boarding options nearby. This allows guests to keep their pets close while ensuring they remain safe and well-cared for during the trip. The policy also ensures the ranch’s carefully maintained environment and harmony among its resident animals and visitors.

Guests at Bar Lazy J can immerse themselves in classic ranch activities such as horseback riding, fishing, and hiking, surrounded by Colorado’s stunning landscapes. The ranch’s serene setting, with its open meadows, winding trails, and a nearby river, invites visitors to connect with nature and savor the laid-back pace of ranch life.

Communal meals and evening campfires offer guests opportunities to come together, share stories, and form lasting connections. The friendly ranch dogs often become a cherished part of these experiences, adding warmth and personality to the ranch’s welcoming atmosphere.

Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch perfectly blends Western tradition and modern comforts. While outside pets are not allowed, the ranch offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the company of its resident dogs and the unspoiled beauty of the Colorado wilderness, creating an unforgettable getaway for nature and animal lovers alike.

Purradise Springs Cat Sanctuary (Fort White, FL)

Purradise Springs Cat Sanctuary in Fort White, FL, is a haven for cat lovers seeking a peaceful retreat. This one-of-a-kind destination offers a unique combination of glamping and feline companionship, creating a restorative place for abused, abandoned, and legacy cats. Guests are invited to stay in beautifully appointed accommodations, each designed to blend comfort with the tranquility of nature.

What is special about Purradise Springs is its feline residents—dozens of friendly, free-roaming cats eager to play, snuggle, and simply be in your presence. The sanctuary provides three Yurts available for rent on Airbnb with opportunities for guests to connect with these charming creatures through guided activities, interactive play sessions, or quiet moments in serene outdoor spaces. As the cats lounge in the sun or frolic in lush gardens, their relaxed demeanor creates an atmosphere of calm that is truly contagious.

Beyond the joy of feline companionship, Purradise Springs also emphasizes education and advocacy. Visitors can learn about responsible pet ownership, the importance of spaying and neutering, and the sanctuary’s role in rescuing and rehabilitating stray cats. With every stay contributing to the care and well-being of the cats, guests leave with cherished memories and the satisfaction of supporting a vital cause.

Animal Sanctuaries

Animal sanctuaries offer a unique and meaningful way to connect with animals while supporting their welfare. These safe havens provide rescued animals—many from abuse, neglect, or factory farming—with the care and compassion they deserve. For visitors, sanctuaries are not just places to observe animals but spaces to engage with them on a deeper level, learning their stories, witnessing their resilience, and understanding the importance of protecting their well-being.

The Gentle Barn (California, Tennessee)

The Gentle Barn is a sanctuary with locations in Los Angeles, CA, and Nashville, TN, renowned for its unique approach to healing and connection. One of its most famous offerings is Cow Hug Therapy, where visitors can experience the calming presence of rescued cows. These gentle giants, once victims of abuse or neglect, now thrive in a peaceful environment where they offer comfort to guests through simple acts of presence and touch.

In addition to cows, The Gentle Barn is home to a diverse array of animals, including turkeys, horses, pigs, and goats. Each animal has a story of survival and recovery, and visitors are invited to meet them during guided tours. These tours share inspiring tales of rescue while educating guests about the importance of empathy and kindness toward all living beings.

The sanctuary’s serene environment fosters mindfulness, making it a perfect destination for those seeking respite from the demands of daily life. Visitors often describe the experience as transformative, with many leaving with a renewed appreciation for the interconnectedness of life. The Gentle Barn also engages in community outreach, hosting programs for children and individuals needing therapeutic animal interactions.

Beyond the emotional connection, visiting The Gentle Barn is an opportunity to contribute to its mission. Proceeds from tours and events directly support the care and rehabilitation of the animals, ensuring that they continue to live in comfort and safety. For those who wish to support further, sponsorship opportunities allow guests to play a lasting role in the lives of the animals.

Animal Place (Grass Valley, CA)

In 1988, Kim Sturla and Ned Buyukmihci sold their homes, used their entire savings account, and purchased 60 acres in Vacaville, CA. While creating the sanctuary, they lived in a trailer without electricity, septic, phone, or other amenities. What started as a volunteer-run, small sanctuary has transformed into one of the most respected sanctuaries in the country, with more than 20 employees.

Situated in the rolling landscapes of California, Animal Place is a sanctuary spanning 600 acres that provides a safe haven for farm animals rescued from abuse and neglect. This sanctuary invites visitors to connect with animals like cows, goats, chickens, and pigs while learning about their individual stories and the broader mission of advocating for animal welfare.

Animal Place offers guided tours that are as educational as they are heartwarming. During these tours, guests are introduced to the sanctuary’s residents and hear about their journeys to safety. The sanctuary also features hands-on opportunities for visitors, such as helping with feeding or grooming, allowing deeper connections with the animals.

A standout aspect of Animal Place is its focus on sustainable living and plant-based eating. The sanctuary hosts vegan cooking classes and community events that highlight the benefits of compassionate lifestyles. These programs inspire visitors to reflect on their choices and consider their impact on animals and the planet.

The sanctuary’s picturesque setting provides a tranquil backdrop for these experiences, with rolling pastures, shaded groves, and peaceful barns that invite reflection and relaxation. Visitors often find the calm atmosphere of Animal Place a welcome contrast to the pace of daily life, leaving with a sense of renewal and purpose.

Where Will You (& Your Pup) Escape To?

From luxurious seaside retreats to transformative animal sanctuaries, these bucket list destinations offer unforgettable adventures for dogs and animal lovers. Each place celebrates the unique bond between humans and animals, providing opportunities to relax, explore, and connect. Whether you’re cuddling cats under the California sun, exploring Vermont’s scenic trails with your dog, or learning about farm animal rescue in New York, these adventures leave a lasting impact on both travelers and the animals they meet.

Pack your bags, leash up your pup, or bring your love for animals—it’s time to embark on a journey that will inspire your heart and create cherished memories for a lifetime.

Do you have a favorite animal-inspired destination or a dream trip you’ve been planning? We’d love to hear about your favorite places to take your dog! Share your experiences or bucket list ideas in the comments, and let us know the places that have captured your heart. Your story could inspire fellow animal lovers to embark on their own memorable adventures!

And if and when you do travel, make sure you are prepared to fly with your dog and are buckled up with a dog car seat for safety.