Pet-Friendly Travel Guide: New England

There’s nowhere in the world quite like New England. With dramatic coastlines, gorgeous autumn foliage, and cozy country snowscapes, this corner of America packs on more seasonal charm than just about anywhere else – and don’t even get us started on the seafood!

Whether you want to visit incredible historical sites and monuments, enjoy fresh lobster on a coastal wharf, take a stroll through a quaint hillside village, or head deep into the great outdoors, you and your four-legged friend will be sure to find something to enjoy. Read on for the best attractions, restaurants, and accommodations that will welcome you and your pup with open paws.

Maine

New England’s northernmost state offers a wealth of activities for you and your pet. Take a ride back in time on the historic Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, or see the sights via a trolley or boat with Portland Discovery Tours – your well-behaved pup is always welcome on board. When you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the Portland Lobster Company for a seat on the dog-friendly waterfront patio and enjoy the best lobster roll you’ve ever had. Your taste buds will thank you, and so will your furry friend… as long as you share.

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

1. Inn By the Sea (Cape Elizabeth) – If you’re looking for a seaside resort that takes a love of dogs to a whole new level, this is the place for you. Located on a mile of sandy beach, Inn By the Sea doesn’t just offer accommodations to travelers, they foster dogs on-site too. The rescue dogs are up for adoption, and to date, the hotel has helped place over 150 pups in loving homes. During your stay, your pets will be treated like royalty: there’s a gourmet menu available just for them, and they can even join you for a meal in the Fireside Lounge. That’s not a mistake on your bill, either – there’s no pet fee! Sign us up.
2. The Bay View Collection (Camden) – This group of three separate Camden facilities offers the highest in hospitality to you and your faithful friend. The Pampered Pooch Accommodations package treats each four-legged guest like a VIP, with a comfortable plush bed, gourmet biscuits, bowls for water and food, customized tennis balls, and an extensive list of outdoor recreational activities to take advantage of nearby. With three locations to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot.
3. 250 Main (Rockland) – For a boutique waterfront hotel with understated luxury and tastefully modern ambience, look no further than 250 Main. Upon check-in, you and your dog will be greeted with treats and a water bowl in your elegant room. Your pet is welcome in the lobby – don’t miss the informal Yappy Hour in the afternoons – and there’s fresh air to be found up on the rooftop deck. When it’s time to stretch your legs, leash up your pal and head to the Rockland Boardwalk, conveniently located right across from the hotel, or take a dip at the nearby Sandy Beach.

Vermont

Rustic, wild, and untamed, Vermont is a nature lover’s paradise. Whatever your preferred outdoor adventure, this state has it all: ski the ample slopes, relax on the shores of beautiful Lake Champlain, or take a walk through the woods in Green Mountain National Forest. In the wintertime, Base Camp Outfitters will get you set up for a dog-friendly cross-country skiing session, and during the warmer months, visit Dog Mountain and check out the hiking trails and multiple dog ponds. Hungry? Head to the Lake House Pub and Grille on the shores of Lake Bomoseen, which offers delicious pub fare and a specialty canine menu for your faithful friend.

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

1. Phineas Swann Inn & Spa (Montgomery Center) – Whenever the topic of pet-friendly hotels comes up, the name Phineas Swann is never far behind. The owners describe their inn, located in northernmost Vermont just six miles from the Canadian border, as “beyond dog-friendly, but rather, dog-fanatic.” It’s been named by CNN as one of the best hotels in the world for dogs, and it’s easy to see why. Your furry friend will be given all the comforts of home, including their own bed in front of the gas-log fireplace in your room. The inn’s location at the foot of a popular ski hill makes for a fun getaway, especially since the staff at Phineas Swann will happily walk your pup for you while you hit the slopes.
2. The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa (Manchester) – With more than 900 acres of protected land for dogs and their humans to hike through, The Equinox is a haven for people and pets alike. Your four-legged friend will receive an extravagant dog bed upon arrival, and additional amenities, such as bowls, organic bones, and CBD treats, are available upon request. Bring your pup to the on-site pond for a fly-fishing lesson, or find a spot on the lawn and take in the peaceful scene. Offering myriad activities and unbeatable luxury in the heart of the beautiful Green Mountains, this is the perfect place for you and your best pal to relax and unwind to your hearts’ content.
3. Sterling Ridge Resort (Jeffersonville) – Calling all nature lovers! Miles of walking trails, beautiful ponds, and stunning mountain views make this resort an ideal place to bask in the great outdoors. Your cozy dog-friendly cabin comes complete with a Dog Kit, which contains towels, sheets, a bowl, and a treat. Each cabin has a fully-equipped kitchen, a wood stove or fireplace, free WiFi and cable, and some even offer private hot tubs. There are plenty of nearby adventure opportunities with your furry friend, but if you’re craving some time on your own, take advantage of the hotel’s dog walking services.
4. Four Columns Inn (Newfane) – Decadent rooms, 138 lush acres, an in-ground pool, and farm-to-table dining await at Four Columns. This nature-lover’s paradise offers an off-the-beaten-path destination for anyone looking to get away – and your pup is welcome, too. Upon arrival, your pet will be greeted with a special treat, water bowl, and waste bags. Whether you prefer the inn’s pristine gardens or the surrounding national park and ski area, there’s plenty to explore. Cap off the day with an exquisite meal at Artisan, the on-site restaurant using locally and sustainably-sourced ingredients, and enjoy the warmth of your in-room fireplace before drifting off to sleep.
5. Woodstock Inn & Resort (Woodstock) – You’ll find historic grandeur at its finest here! Bursting with New England culture and elegant accommodations, the Woodstock Inn was established by Laurance and Mary Rockefeller and is rich with old Vermont heritage for you and your furry friend to enjoy. Dog biscuits will be waiting upon check-in, and you’ll also receive beds and bowls for your pet’s use during your stay. Pups and their humans can take in Vermont’s fresh air while exploring the nearby Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, which welcomes leashed dogs on its trails, and canine companions are welcome in Gillingham’s, Woodstock’s general store. Take a breather with an afternoon in the spa, and enjoy a world-class culinary experience at one of the resort’s award-winning eateries.
6. Basin Harbor (Vergennes) – This century-old resort sits on 700 sprawling acres on the shores of Lake Champlain and is a haven for dogs and their humans. Your pup will relish the opportunity to splash and play at the designated off-leash dog swimming area, and you’ll love the wide array of amenities, including water sports, golf, tennis, hiking, and even a day camp for the kids. Release your stress with a rejuvenating massage, learn the ins and outs of beekeeping, or tour local vineyards. Once you and your dog are all tuckered out, you can retreat to your luxurious pet-friendly cottage, where a bed, bowls, and toys await your precious pal. For a truly decadent New England lakeside getaway, there’s no better place than this.
7. The Pitcher Inn (Warren) – Located in the Mad River Valley in the heart of Green Mountain National Forest, this country experience will take your breath away. Your pup is welcome in the pet-friendly suite, where you can snuggle in front of the fire. Endless outdoor activities are at your disposal, many of which will accommodate your four-legged friend, such as hiking and swimming. If wine is your thing, you’ll be happy to know that The Pitcher Inn received Wine Spectator’s “Best Award of Excellence” for the 500+ bottles in their superb wine cellar. Multiple dining options are available, so whether you’re seeking a casual lunch or an exquisite five-course meal with all the fixings, the Inn has got you covered.

New Hampshire

There’s no shortage of adventure to be had in New Hampshire! Rich with history and full of opportunities for outdoor recreation, you and your pup will have the time of your lives in the Granite State. The Winnipesaukee River Trail, once a historic railroad line that’s since been paved over, will lead you and your pup on a five-mile trek through the woods and wilds of rural New Hampshire. For a more exciting excursion, rent a boat and bring your pup out on to Squam Lake for a day on the water. Stop at the quaint and cozy Covered Bridge Farm Table for a dog-friendly meal on the lovely patio – your dog will receive a water bowl of their own while you enjoy delicious New England culinary classics.

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

1. Glynn House Inn (Ashland) – This historic Victorian masterpiece, built in 1896, aims to serve generous doses of romance, recreation, and relaxation. As an added bonus, the establishment is famously pet-friendly. Your room will come equipped with everything you and your dog could possibly need for your stay, ensuring the highest level of comfort and luxury for you both. Venture away from the Inn and experience dozens of hiking trails, perfect for nature walks in the warmer months or snowshoeing in the wintertime. Canoes, rafts, and pontoon boats offer a fun way to spend a sunny afternoon with your best pal. Bonus: there are many pet-friendly restaurants and shops nearby, so you can hit the surrounding towns with your dog in tow.

Massachusetts

Many travelers to Massachusetts share a destination in common: Boston. With its reputation for innovation, endless appreciation for arts and culture, and vast green spaces, it’s easy to see why. And with so many dog-friendly activities, your pup will love the city as much as you do. Pawsh Boutique carries one-of-a-kind finds for your precious pal, making it easy to stock up on anything you might need. The Esplanade offers fresh air, scenic views, walking paths, and canoe and kayak rentals on the Charles River for you and your four-legged friend. Your dog can even make a splash at Castle Island Beach, where leashed pets are welcome.

Hungry? No problem: many restaurants will be happy to accommodate you and your pup at a patio table. Try some Spanish-style tapas at Toro, sample craft beer at Cambridge Brewing Company, treat yourself to a world-famous gourmet burger at Mr. Bartley’s, or splurge on a fine French feast at the upscale Petit Robert Bistro. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll be sure to leave with a full belly and – in your dog’s case, anyway – a wagging tail.

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

1. The Brass Lantern (Nantucket) – The island of Nantucket is a dog-friendly place, so it should come as no surprise that the Brass Lantern is too. Upon arrival, your furry friend will be greeted with a yummy treat, a cozy dog bed with a crate option, food and water bowls, and their very own beach towel. Best of all is the property’s fenced-in dog run, complete with a fire hydrant, for your best pal to stretch their legs and socialize with other pups. This charming B&B offers easy access to the waterfront, the Nantucket Ferry, and downtown, making it the perfect location for your island getaway.
2. Kimpton Marlowe (Cambridge) – If you’re visiting in the summertime, there’s no better place than the Kimpton Marlowe. Living up to their pet-friendly standard, they created an outdoor series, Dogs and Drafts, to welcome dogs and their human companions. The series runs June through October and offers craft beers from local breweries alongside barbecue from the hotel’s restaurant. The event welcomes hotel guests and local residents alike, and dogs are treated to a free gourmet treat bar courtesy of Polkadog Bakery.
3. Loews Boston (Bay Village, Boston) – In the year 2000, Loews Hotels became the first national hotel chain to launch a pet program, paving the way for jet-setting fur babies everywhere. Today, the program includes gourmet room service menus for cats and dogs, specialized bedding, essentials such as leashes, collars, and litter boxes, and extras like treats and dog-walking maps. The humans in your party will be impressed with the hotel’s stately and sophisticated atmosphere, the fine dining options, the elegant sunken patio, and the close proximity to many must-see Boston spots.
4. XV Beacon (Beacon Hill, Boston) – This luxury boutique hotel gives meaning to the word “chic.” Housed in the 1903 landmark Beaux Arts building, it’s full of elegant and artistic touches, from the grand marble staircase to the original caged elevator. Your pup will receive a personalized plate of homemade dog biscuits, a plush dog bed, and turndown service with filtered water. Pets are welcome on the scenic rooftop deck – the perfect spot for fresh air and people-watching. Best of all, 100% of the suggested pet fee is donated to various animal charities throughout Boston. Now that’s what we call service.
5. Kimpton Onyx (West End, Boston) – Consistently ranked one of America’s pet friendliest hotels, Kimpton Onyx is so enthusiastic about dogs that they have two of them on staff to welcome guests and their canine companions. Bandit and Bowser, a pair of two year-old long-haired Chihuahuas, are ready and waiting to shower your furry friend with puppy love. Amenities include gourmet all-natural dog biscuits and fleece-top beds, and there’s even a Pampered Pet in-room dining menu – only the best for man’s best friend.
6. Mandarin Oriental (Back Bay, Boston) – The Mandarin Oriental pulls out all the stops where lavish elegance is concerned – and four-legged travelers are no exception. This five-star hotel offers premium care for your pooch, with luxuries from gourmet menus to elite specialty dog services, all through its Pampered Pup Package. Your best buddy will be greeted with a deluxe dog sofa, food and water dishes, a personalized carrot cake, and a Wag Bag full of customized gifts and treats. Additionally, your pup will have the opportunity to meet the hotel’s Ambassadors of Pet Relations – two golden retrievers named Bonnie and Tara, who are always ready to welcome new friends.
7. Aloft Boston Seaport District (Boston) – Understanding that guests consider pets to be part of the family, Aloft’s mission is to make sure that their canine visitors feel as comfortable as their human companions. In addition to a welcome package with everything your pup will need during your stay, the restaurant and bar menu comes equipped with “bark bites” for your hungry friend to enjoy. You’ll find dog treats and water bowls placed throughout the lobby, and a stretch of grass in the back of the hotel provides a perfect walking location. What’s more, Aloft has a history of partnering with local dog rescue organizations to host adoption events, so you can rest assured that you’re among true canine enthusiasts here.

Connecticut

There’s truly something for everyone in Connecticut. Chill coastal vibes? Check. Gently rolling farmland, lush forests, and quaint rural villages? Yup. Close proximity to New York City? You bet. Whatever you aim to achieve on your getaway, there’s a good chance you can do it in Connecticut – and with your best pal along for the ride. For some outdoor fun, bring your pup to Babcock Preserve in Greenwich for hiking, jogging, cross-country skiing, or picnicking, or head to the 14-acre Southbury Dog Park, where your pooch can socialize, play, and even take a dip in the river. For some fresh coastal cuisine, head to Stowe’s Seafood, the quintessential New England crab shack, where you and your dog can hang out on the patio and eat to your hearts’ content.

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

1. DELAMAR Greenwich Harbor (Greenwich) – For a waterfront hotel with uncomplicated elegance, look no further than DELAMAR. The welcome kit includes a comfortable bed, bowls, and bottled water, and your pup can receive a plethora of sumptuous services from the Pet Services Menu, including walking, grooming, and dog massage. You’ll appreciate the private marina, the decadent full-service spa, and the waterfront terrace at the hotel’s upscale French restaurant, as well as the convenient location close to shopping, food, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
2. Winvian Farm (Morris) – The remote countryside setting of this luxury resort lends for a peaceful escape from the everyday. Nestled on 113 acres in Litchfield Hills, the property features an array of designer cottages, each one more unique and artistic than the last (and many of which are dog-friendly, equipped with treats, bowls, and pet beds). Ride through the woods on one of the resort’s complimentary bicycles, take your dog for a swim at the nearby Bantam Lake, go for a walk around the organic gardens, enjoy a yoga class, unwind in the spa, and have one of the best meals of your life at the resort’s five-diamond seed-to-table restaurant.

Rhode Island

It may be the smallest state in the U.S., but Rhode Island is big on recreational opportunities for canine travelers and their humans. For stunning sea views, leash up your pup and head for the Cliff Walk, a beautiful path right alongside the water’s edge that also affords glimpses of the famously gawk-worthy historical mansions on the coast. For a more up-close-and-personal view of the water, bring your pup on board one of Antique Yacht Collection’s charter boats. Enjoy a meal of contemporary Mexican fare on the extremely dog-friendly patio of Diego’s, or accompany your pup to Norey’s in the evening for live music, a legendary wine list, and incredible small plates.

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

1. Hotel Viking (Newport) – You and your pup will both feel right at home at Hotel Viking! This gorgeous old brick estate contains over 200 rooms, each of which is kept to the highest standard of luxury and comfort. Your dog will be enthusiastically welcomed with treats, dishes, and a bed, and doggy day care services are available so your best pal never needs to be left alone. Hotel Viking has two pet-friendly outdoor dining venues – a garden patio at the luxurious bistro, and the rooftop lounge – and the “Paws on the Patio” menu offers scrumptious snacks for your deserving pup. After experiencing the award-winning restaurant, the heated pool, and the world-class spa, you’ll never want to leave.
2. Paws on Pelham (Newport) – Located in the heart of historic Newport, this inn is so dedicated to dogs that it’s named after them. Paws on Pelham prides itself on its commitment to canine comfort, as evidenced by all the decor throughout the inn and the whimsical dog beds and food bowls in each room. Your pooch can enjoy freshly-baked cookies upon arrival, and pets are welcome up on the “rufftop” deck for some fresh air and sunshine. Head to the nearby park for some playtime – you’ll be steps away from it, as well as from all the dog-friendly attractions of downtown.