Pet-Friendly Travel Guide: New York

New York State is a big place. With so much to see, do, and experience, the Empire State is a popular destination for leisure as well as business. From the bustling energy of the Big Apple to the natural serenity of the Catskills, there’s something for everyone in the great state of New York – four-legged friends included!

We’ve rounded up a list of restaurants, bars, hotels, and attractions in three different regions of New York that will be eager to welcome you and your jet-setting pet, whether you’re traveling for work, pleasure, or a bit of both.

New York City

Pet-Friendly Attractions:

1. East Village Bark Tours – This is a great walking tour for dog parents, since your tour guide is a darling Shibapoo named Sasha who is very serious about her work (and who kindly lets her human tag along). The tour will take you and your furry friend through a variety of parks, with plenty of play and photo ops. The experience wraps up at Boris & Horton Dog Cafe, where each pup can enjoy a freshly-made treat while their humans sip coffee or tea.
2. Puppy Picasso – Give your pooch the gift of artistic exploration with this fun and unique activity. You and your dog will be led through the process of creating a one-of-a-kind masterpiece by dipping their paw in non-toxic, pet-safe paint and applying it to a canvas. Similar to a paint-and-sip experience, the two of you will be guided by a theme and specific instruction on how to create a beautiful piece of art that you can take home. Could your mutt be the next Monet? Now’s your chance to find out.
3. New York City Dog Parks – There are over 65 dog parks across all five boroughs in the Big Apple, which means you get to take your pick! Whether you and your pup are looking for water to splash around in, rocks to climb on, or a specialty park for very small or large dogs, this canine-loving city has it all.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Bars:

1. Barking Dog – If the name seems a little on-the-nose, it is – and for a good reason. While many spots accommodate pets as a courtesy to the people who care for them, this eclectic Upper East Side establishment seems to have been created with the needs of humans and canines equally in mind. Only service animals are permitted indoors, but dogs are welcome on the patio, where they can nibble on treats and drink from the Dog Bar – a water fountain built just for them. Food-wise, the Barking Dog is known for its abundant and reasonably priced brunch menu, with lines often stretching around the corner.
2. The Wilson – Treating your four-legged friend to a night on the town? Look no further than The Wilson. This higher-end Chelsea restaurant boasts a fresh and contemporary setting, a full bar, and menus for you and Fido. The grilled ribeye for dogs will set you back $42, but other offerings on the canine menu, such as pan-roasted salmon or a bowl of sliced fruits and vegetables, carry smaller price tags and are equally as worthy of a tail wag. The food for humans consists of a delightful range of American fare, from burgers to chicken and waffles to rack of lamb.
3. Lucky Dog – If you’ve always wanted to go drinking with your canine friend, look no further than Lucky Dog. Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, it’s the place to be for pet owners and dog lovers; even if you arrive sans animal companion, you’re bound to make some four-legged friends during your visit! Easygoing and casual, Lucky Dog is a fun and friendly environment to put back a few and hang with your best pal, all at the same time.
4. Shake Shack – They’ve grown into a nationwide chain, but Madison Square Park still boasts the O.G. location of this fast-food empire. While you enjoy a burger, fries, and a milkshake, your pooch can chow down on some of the Shack’s dog biscuits, specially crafted for their furry guests. Bonus perk: Jemmy’s Run, one of the city’s best dog parks, is a (very) short walk away!
5. Five Boroughs Brewing Co – This understated brewery checks off quite a few boxes. Dogs allowed indoors? Check – a must for winter trips and rainy days. Great selection of beer? You bet – all brewed right there in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park. A great place to hang out? Yup – the unpretentious industrial atmosphere makes for a low-key and laid-back visit. Swing by to enjoy craft beer, play board games, and socialize indoors with your best pal at your side. That’s a lot of perks under one roof.
6. The Grey Dog – Self-identified as “the neighborhood’s best friend,” this joint is about as pet-friendly as they come. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating areas of their four locations across the city, but the truly striking thing about this establishment is the fact that they put their money where the paws are. The Grey Dog regularly partners with rescues and nonprofits that help dogs find their forever homes, making it all the more worthwhile to spend your hard-earned money with them. The menu has plenty of healthy options, the ingredients are fresh and local, and their walls are covered in dog art – what’s not to love?

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

1. Innside New York – Just a short walk from the Empire State Building, Innside is a lavish destination for you and your pet. Dine at The Wilson (mentioned above) and treat your dog to a delicious steak or grilled chicken breast from the canine menu. Enjoy the contemporary interiors, thoughtfully curated artwork, and state-of-the-art fitness center. Request a room with a terrace for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
2. Hotel Pennsylvania – Leaving furry friends at home is never easy – which is why Hotel Pennsylvania is rewarding travelers who bring their jet-setting pets with them. Guests are invited to take advantage of the Four-Legged Fun Package, an opportunity for dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes to feel right at home. The package includes discounts, fun souvenirs, and relaxed check-out times, proof that this newly remodeled hotel truly understands that pets are family.
3. Kimpton NYC – For travelers visiting New York City with their furry companions, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, which has been pet-friendly since its founding in 1981, features three Manhattan-based properties that offer pet services and amenities. Two of these properties, Kimpton Hotel Eventi and the Kimpton Muse Hotel, do not charge for pets, nor is there a limit on the number of pets allowed. Your pup will be greeted by name upon arrival and provided with a bed, food and water bowls, and all kinds of other great resources for checking out the city.
4. The High Line Hotel – This Collegiate Gothic beauty offers 60 oversized, light-filled rooms with hardwood floors, unique locally-sourced furniture, and – best of all – a completely dog-friendly experience. This is evident immediately upon entering the welcome lobby, where bowls of treats await. A variety of outdoor spaces mean plenty of opportunities for you and your pal to socialize and make connections, and the cocktail garden even offers all-natural, non-alcoholic “doggy brews” for your pup to enjoy. If you’re visiting in October, the annual Halloween Dog Costume Parade is an unforgettable event. With a nearby dog park, recommended walking services, and no additional cleaning fees, the High Line Hotel provides the ultimate NYC stay for dogs and humans alike.
5. Courtyard New York Midtown West – Located steps away from Hudson Yards and the Jacob Javits Convention Center, this 399-room hotel is bringing elevated amenities to one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Travelers can take advantage of the Puparazzi package, which includes a plush dog bed, bowls, doggy bags, and a local map of pet-friendly spots.
6. Hotel Indigo – If Brooklyn is your destination, Indigo is your hotel. Located in the heart of Williamsburg, you’ll have access to the neighborhood’s best culinary, nightlife, arts, and shopping destinations. If your pup is under 45 pounds, you can book a room in advance with a $100 deposit. Upon arrival, they’ll receive welcome treats and all the comforts of home, plus access to a fenced-in area for dogs to play off-leash, right across the street.
7. Gild Hall – If you really want to give your pet the royal treatment, look no further than Gild Hall. This Lower Manhattan-based boutique hotel boasts a pet amenity and “paw-cierge” service in partnership with dog wellness company Lord Jameson. Guests who book the pets package ahead of their stay receive a dog bed and water bowl, a bag of organic dog treats, and a $20 grooming gift certificate. Also worthy of mention is the hotel’s new Ambassador of Pet Relations: a cocker spaniel named Jameson. Pinkies up!

Lower Hudson Valley & Long Island

Pet-Friendly Attractions:

1. Walkway Over the Hudson (Poughkeepsie & Highland) – This former railroad bridge-turned-walkway is an incredible opportunity for a walk with your furry friend. Situated over 200 feet above the river, this elevated pedestrian bridge is the longest in the world. Enjoy the views, the fresh air, and the dog waste stations and water bowls along the way – but be sure to check the temperature to avoid hot pavement on tender paws.
2. Rockefeller State Park Preserve (Pleasantville) – This beautifully maintained preserve offers 45 miles of wide carriage roads winding through bucolic forests and pastoral valleys. The pathways are well-groomed, making them perfect for your pet’s paws.
3. Fishkill Farms (Hopewell Junction) – Located about an hour and a half north of New York City, this orchard is a great opportunity to pick your own seasonal fruits! Berries, peaches, apples, pumpkins, and more are available at different times throughout the year. Dogs are welcome, and with almost 300 acres of space, there’s plenty of room for roaming.
4. Old Westbury Gardens (Old Westbury, Long Island) – Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this spectacular estate features 160 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, extensive lawns, and tranquil water features. In the spring and fall, the estate hosts Dog Days: pets and their humans are invited in to take a walk through the grounds, while vendors sell pet products and food.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Bars:

1. Poughkeepsie Ice House – Perched right on the shores of the Hudson, this establishment is ready to welcome you and your dog to their extensive patio. Enjoy the sweeping view of the water, the restaurant’s intriguing history (the building was once used to store massive blocks of ice from the river in the days before refrigeration), the American classics on their menu, and a complimentary bowl of fresh water under the table for your pup.
2. American Beauty Bistro – This dining establishment in Massapequa offers a large menu, inventive cocktails, and a patio where you can dine with your dog – the water bowls are ready and waiting!
3. Billy Joe’s Ribworks – Located in Newburgh, this no-frills eatery boasts “legendary BBQ and spectacular views.” Bring your four-legged companion to the pet-friendly section on their patio and enjoy mouthwatering ribs, decadent burgers, or any of the other classic southern fare on their menu. Be sure to drop some table scraps – your dog will thank you.

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

1. Tarrytown House Estate – This upscale historic gem is situated on the Hudson River 45 minutes north of New York City and boasts stunning 19th-century construction and a wide array of luxuries and extras to suit every taste. Pet owners can take advantage of their Pet-Friendly Package, which includes a BarkBox welcome amenity upon arrival. Coming soon is the new “Yappy Hour,” which will include delicious treats for furry guests, as well as light bites for humans courtesy of celebrity chef Dale Talde.
2. The Time Hotel – If you’re looking for a boutique hotel with an urban-inspired sophistication and creative flair, look no further than the Time Hotel in Nyack, on the west bank of the Hudson. You and your pet can take up residence in one of the artfully decorated rooms, with a bed for each of you. The town of Nyack provides endless opportunities for shopping, hiking, biking, and yoga, as well as an array of restaurants and bars, many of which set out water bowls for thirsty pups on the go.
3. Southampton Inn – Classic, unassuming, and utterly charming, the Southampton Inn is an idyllic backdrop for your getaway. Located within the historic Village of Southampton and about a mile from the beach, there are plenty of nearby attractions and leisure activities, and the hotel itself boasts an impressive array of amenities. If you’re traveling with a dog or cat, be sure to request one of their designated pet-friendly rooms.

Upstate New York

Pet-Friendly Attractions:

• Sampson State Park (Seneca Lake) – The ultimate go-to for all things outdoor, Sampson State Park consists of 2000 acres on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake. Camping, trails, and designated dog swimming areas make this a paradise for your four-legged friend!
• Buttermilk Falls (Ithaca) – Take a hike to these gorgeous falls, or engage in any of the other recreational offerings nearby, including fishing, camping, hiking trails, and even playgrounds for any non-furry children you might have.
• TLC Blueberry Farm (Barton) – Fruit-picking is abundant in the Finger Lakes region, and at TLC Blueberry Farm, your dog can tag along! Stock up on fresh blueberries for you and your pup – they’re a delicious and nutritious canine snack!
• Wegmans Good Dog Park (Liverpool) – Think all dog parks are created equal? Think again. With 40,000 square feet of tail-wagging fun, Wegman’s Good Dog Park is a leap above the rest. Your furry friend will love the exercise area, with its tunnels, jumps, and bridges, and a separate area for small dogs means your tiny pup won’t get trampled playing with the big kids.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Bars:

1. Village Tavern (Hammondsport) – The Village Tavern restaurant is an award-winning eatery specializing in seafood. Bring your best bud to the dog-friendly patio and let them be spoiled with their own water bowl and a selection of treats!
2. Zugibe Vineyards (Geneva) – Visit Zugibe for an abundance of wines to taste, Mediterranean small plates, and its dog-friendly atmosphere. Your furry friend is welcome in this elegant, yet relaxed, establishment.
3. Emack & Bolios (Albany) – If you’re in need of “ice cream that’s out of this world,” Emack & Bolios is your go-to destination. You’ll be happy about the frozen desserts, chocolates, pastries, and cakes… and your canine companion will love the doggy sundae!
4. Last Chance Restaurant (Tannersville) – Quaint, colorful, and sure to induce a bout of nostalgia, Last Chance features low-key American fare in a casual setting – as well as a secret menu just for four-legged friends!

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

1. The Lodge at Grist Iron Brewing (Finger Lakes) – This newly renovated lodge and brewery is located in the Finger Lakes region and offers gorgeous views of Seneca Lake. For those traveling with their furry friends, designated dog-friendly rooms are available, all of which have private outdoor entrances to facilitate convenient potty-breaks. Upon arrival, dogs are greeted with a welcome pack that includes food and water dishes, treats, and a listing of local pet-friendly spots.
2. La Tourelle Resort and Spa (Finger Lakes) – If you’re looking to get away from it all, La Tourelle is the place to go. Various pet-friendly rooms are available, including the King Room, which offers direct access to the outdoors via a private deck and dog gate. Enjoy the 70 acres of outdoor space for you and your four-legged friend. Ped beds are available upon request.
3. The Laurentide Inn (Finger Lakes) – Meet Fletcher, the eight-year-old Havanese who loves to greet two-legged and four-legged guests at this stately 1830’s-era heritage home. Upon check-in, you’ll receive welcome treats, a dog toy, food and water bowls, and a list of dog-friendly parks, wineries, breweries, and restaurants.
4. Think Big: A Tiny House Resort (Catskills) – If you’re ready to think outside the box when it comes to your lodging, this might be the place for you! Relax with your canine companion in a luxury tiny house, fully equipped with everything you’ll need for your stay. This collection of ten distinctive rentals offers fenced-in decks, tennis balls, food and water bowls, a large selection of doggy toys, and a dog park where your pal can run off-leash to their heart’s content. Enjoy all the comforts of home, plus an inground heated pool, hiking trails, gardens for picking herbs and vegetables, and a hen house for collecting free eggs. With spa services, kayaking, goat yoga, and more, this is an off-the-beaten-path destination like no other.
5. Eastwind Hotel & Bar (Catskills) – This boutique establishment offers an array of outdoor adventures for pets and their parents, including guided foraging walks. Humans can forage for ingredients that will be served in farm-to-glass drinks at the hotel bar, and furry friends can keep an eye out for squirrels and other woodland creatures. Whether you’re into “glamping” or a more luxe experience, Eastwind has something for you and your pet!