The Best Dog-friendly Hotels in the US

Long gone are the days when traveling with your dog meant being forced to stay at roadside motels with stained carpets and questionable odors. Today, hotels at all price points are putting the "friendly" in pet-friendly by not only allowing dogs but pampering them as much as (if not even more than) their humans.

At the Bobby Hotel in Nashville and The St. Regis Aspen Resort, a resident pooch oversees the lobbies. At La Posada de Santa Fe in New Mexico and Baron's Cove in Sag Harbor, New York, pups are greeted with local treats and private, fenced-in outdoor spaces perfect for frolicking. At L'Auberge de Sedona in Arizona, they'll snooze by the fire in a plush dog bed before a day of sniffing around by the creek.

My golden retriever, Cali, spent much of her first few months of life hanging around the Travel + Leisure office, so when we set out on a cross-country road trip together, I decided it was time to put her to work. She may not be able to write a review, but if she could, I think she would agree with my conclusion that there are some key features that place the best dog-friendly hotels above the rest:

• Proximity to parks and dog-friendly activities
• Accessible outdoor space — bonus points if it's enclosed and they can roam free
• Amenities that make them feel at home, be it a dog bed and water bowl or treats and a toy upon arrival
• A dog-friendly restaurant on site or nearby
• A bathtub (or better yet, an outdoor shower) for when adventuring gets messy
• A pet-loving staff

Cali tested (and, from what I can tell, highly approved of) many of the properties that made our list herself, and I learned that if you're lucky enough to have a dog who travels well, bringing him or her along can give your vacation a huge boost. Traveling with a pet gives you a built-in excuse to talk to the locals and to spend more time outdoors exploring by foot, and it guarantees you a more enthusiastic greeting — and cuter photos — everywhere you go.

Note that some hotels charge an additional fee or deposit, block off specific rooms for guests with pets, or offer pet packages seasonally, so it's always important to call ahead if you're checking in with a four-legged guest. Typically, hotels do not allow pets to be left unattended, so it's important to plan pet-friendly activities as well.

Below are Cali's (and my) picks for the best dog-friendly places to stay in the U.S.

Baron’s Cove: Sag Harbor, NY

Author John Steinbeck spent time at this cozy, waterfront Long Island retreat, and guests who purchase the Travels With Charley package will be given a copy of the novel he wrote about his own cross-country road trip with a French poodle, "Travels with Charley: In Search of America," perfect for reading on your fenced-in front porch while your pup runs free. The package also comes with treats, a frisbee, a bed, and a daily dining credit for the humans. It's best to visit Baron's Cove with your dog in wintertime, when Sag Harbor is crowd-free and you can sit together by the fire with a glass of wine and some water, respectively, and look out at the silent harbor. South Fork beaches are generally dog-friendly all day long in winter, the closest being Havens Beach (they're not permitted on the beach from around Memorial Day to Labor Day) and Montauk Brewery is a fun dog-friendly stop half an hour east.

To book: caperesorts.com/barons-cove 

L’Auberge de Sedona: Sedona, AZ

L'Auberge de Sedona's stunning grounds on Oak Creek, surrounded by Red Rock country, are a destination in their own right. The hotel provides dog beds, bowls, leashes, and a goodie bag with a toy, treats, clean-up bags, and a map of nearby walking trails. The spacious and private cottages have open-air showers, ideal for a rinse should your pet get dirty on the beach below.

To book: lauberge.com

Bobby Hotel: Nashville

Hairy, the Bobby Hotel dog-in-residence, greets guests in this super-stylish Nashville lobby and helps raise funds for the Nashville Humane Association. Rooms come with oversized balconies offering views that will keep curious pups entertained. You can even bring your pup to the patio at the in-house cafe where you can sip on a latte while getting in some good dog watching. Riverfront Park dog park is within walking distance, and so is Broadway, the city's main strip, filled with live music and an exuberant crowd of revelers who seriously love dogs. Before you leave be sure to check out the Bobby's rooftop lounge, where you'll sip cocktails in a retrofitted 1956 Scenicruiser bus.

To book: bobbyhotel.com

Dream Hollywood: Hollywood, CA

The Dream Hollywood team enthusiastically greets guests with canine travel companions, whether they're putting out a Dream-branded pet bed or helping to dress a pet in a luxurious miniature bathrobe for a ridiculously cute photo shoot. Hollywood's star-studded sights are all within walking distance, and you can admire the surrounding hilltop homes from your bed — or shower — thanks to plenty of floor-to-ceiling windows. The Hollywood sign is directly in view from the rooftop Highlight Room grill and bar, just beyond the cabana-lined pool.

To book: dreamhotels.com/hollywood

La Posada de Santa Fe, a Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa: Santa Fe, NM

Just steps from one of the best dog-friendly activities in town — browsing outdoor galleries along Canyon Road (although many artists will invite your furry art critic inside, as well) — La Posada de Santa Fe's desert-chic rooms have enclosed yards and well-manicured grounds for walking, handy waste bag stations included. Pets are greeted with Santa Fe-themed treats (pictured: a chili pepper chew toy), and are allowed at the colorful outdoor patio of popular New Mexican restaurant The Shed, within easy walking distance. A 10-minute drive will take you to Frank S. Ortiz Dog Park, a beautiful, 138-acre expanse of desert where your dog can roam free and you can enjoy sunset views overlooking the city. Check your pet for ticks after off-leash exploring.

To book: laposadadesantafe.com

Cyprus Inn: Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Late Hollywood icon and animal activist Doris Day was a co-owner of Northern California's Cyprus Inn, and she reportedly agreed to purchase the 1929 Spanish-Moroccan landmark only if it allowed dogs. Today, the Cyprus Inn, which still embodies that Golden Age of Hollywood mystique, carries on her dog-loving legacy, offering blankets and bowls, a glamorous patio to hang out on, and an outdoor shower just for rinsing off those four sandy legs after a romp at the beach.

To book: cypress-inn.com

Montage Palmetto Bluff: Bluffton, SC

Between Savannah, GA, and Hilton Head Island, SC, Montage Palmetto Bluff sits on 20,000 acres of fiercely preserved Lowcountry land, making it the perfect place to get outside with your pet. Inn rooms, cottages, guesthouses, suites, Village Homes, and Signature Montage Residences are all dog-friendly, and dog beds, homemade treats (like sweet potato chews and minty oat cookies), and bowls are provided to all of the "preferred pups." Deep soaking tubs will keep your pup put if you need to clean up after time in the woods. Nearby restaurants aren't the most pet-friendly, but all the more reason to order in! You and your furry friend can enjoy room service, as the hotel has a full gourmet in-room dining menu just for pets.

To book: montagehotels.com/palmettobluff

Mandarin Oriental, Miami

A peaceful retreat for owners of small dogs (25 pounds or less) on Brickell Key, the Mandarin Oriental is a slice of luxury with a quiet community feel. Relax on a lounge chair with your pet overlooking the infinity pool and the bay, and take a stroll to Brickell City Centre, where you can shop together. Dog bowls and beds are provided, and guests can contact the hotel if you're interested in learning about any pet packages, which have included dog trainer and butler services.

To book: mandarinoriental.com/miami/brickell-key

Pendry, San Diego

Located in the lively Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego, the pup-loving Pendry has plenty to do within walking distance. Petco Park, home of the Padres and one of the most dog-friendly stadiums in Major League Baseball thanks to its Barkyard seating option, is steps away, as are breweries and picturesque Seaport Village. While in town, be sure to hit Coronado Dog Beach, and if you're both up for an adventure, you can even take your dog paddleboarding with Aqua Adventures. Then, head back to the Pendry where a dog bed and bowls will be waiting.

To book: pendry.com/san-diego

The Barrymore Hotel: Tampa, FL

The Barrymore Hotel is an ideal vacation spot for dogs and their owners thanks to its pet-loving staff and perfect location. Perched on the Tampa Riverwalk and just steps from a dog park, you'll never run out of ways to spend time outside with your pup. Pack the collapsible dog bowl provided and take a sunny stroll to Armature Works, a market and waterfront hangout spot where you can eat anything from empanadas and sushi to barbecue and ice cream, and play games out on the front lawn (dogs are allowed on outdoor grounds). Or, take your pet along for a BYOB boat cruise on the Tampa Bay Fun Boat and see all of Tampa's top sights the way they're meant to be seen — by water.

To book: barrymorehotel.com

Paséa Hotel & Spa: Huntington Beach, CA

Huntington Beach is known among Southern California pet owners for its 1.5-mile-long, off-leash Huntington Dog Beach, which even hosts an annual surf competition for dogs. But if you're coming from out of town, the Paséa Hotel has its own pup play park, Paw-Séa, complete with a lifeguard station dog house and dog-themed wall mural for photos. Dogs can also indulge in puppy parfaits, protein bowls, "pupcakes," and banana splits from the special pet menu at onsite restaurant, Tanner's, and the rooftop Treehouse Lounge. The hotel often hosts dog-themed events, from puppy adoptions to fashion shows. The V.I.P. Paw-séa Room Package treats pets to a keepsake dog collar, leash, and toy, plus an entree from one of the pet menus, plus nearby Top Dog Barkery creates custom cakes for pups.

To book: meritagecollection.com/pasea-hotel

Washington School House Hotel: Park City, UT

The Washington School House is run by dog owners, and guests will be able to tell: The boutique hotel, built in an 1889 school house, provides pet beds and bowls, and is happy to help accommodate a dog's needs. Steps from Main Street, it's the perfect base for exploring Park City and its many pet-friendly shops. Although the area is known for its skiing, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun in summertime too.

To book: washingtonschoolhouse.com

The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills: Los Angeles

Repped by two English bulldog mascots, Winston and Churchill, the undeniably chic The London West Hollywood, which sits right on the crossroads of Beverly Hills and central LA, is VIP (Very Important Pets) only. The hotel is known for its spacious suites — a feature anyone who has shared a room (or bed) with a four-legged friend can appreciate. It boasts the largest penthouse in Los Angeles, a two-story "villa in the sky" that includes a rooftop deck with views for days.

To book: thelondonwesthollywood.com

The St. Regis Aspen Resort: Aspen, CO

At the base of Aspen Mountain, this popular ski destination loves its pets. The pet offerings includes a dog bed and bowl, plus dog sitting and walking. The pet menu includes a protein bowl, sushi roll, beef tenderloin, and more, and a monthly Bark'n'Brews patio "pawty" raises money for a local animal rescue. Most importantly, the hotel's Bernese mountain dog, Kitty Jacob Astor II, has his own Instagram and it is epic.

To book: stregisaspen.com

Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery: New Orleans

All rooms at the Old No. 77 are dog-friendly. Dogs are given their own beds, bowls, treats, a toy, and a custom-made name tag with the hotel's contact info, just in case. Housed in a converted coffee warehouse in the Arts District of New Orleans, the hotel has lots of artwork on display, plus Artist Loft rooms and galleries to tour nearby. And before you ask, yes, Cafe Du Monde is pet-friendly, so you can take your best friend out for chicory coffee and beignets.

To book: provenancehotels.com/old-77-hotel

Wythe Hotel: New York

This popular Brooklyn hotel in a converted 1901 factory defines industrial-chic, and its spot near the waterfront means it boasts unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline from its best rooms. It's within walking distance to both the McCarren Park and Bushwick Inlet Park dog runs, and the Happy Dogs at McCarren Park daycare, should you have human-only plans on your trip. Lucky Dog is a divey bar with a backyard space and you guessed it — pups are welcome to join.

To book: wythehotel.com

Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa: Hot Springs, AK

Located within Hot Springs National Park and beside its dog-friendly hiking trails, thermal waters are pumped directly into the historic Arlington Hotel's spa. Though you won't be able to take your furry friend for a proper hot spring soak there or on neighboring Bath House Row, you can take him or her to Superior Bathhouse Brewery to hang out while you enjoy a flight of local craft beers while people watching on Central Avenue. The beer there is made with the 143-degree hot spring water.

To book: arlingtonhotel.com

Under Canvas Zion: Moab, UT

Take your pet hiking or kayaking at this 196-acre glamping site beside Zion National Park. All of the Under Canvas locations — which include Grand Canyon, Moab, Yellowstone, Great Smoky Mountains, and more — are pet-friendly. Each glamping tent has a king bed and furnishings, a full bathroom, and some have private decks. The stargazer tent comes with a window over the bed for a direct view of the night sky.

To book: undercanvas.com/camps/zion

The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago

With oversized windows overlooking the city and Lake Michigan, The Ritz-Carlton in Chicago's swanky Gold Coast neighborhood is for dogs who expect five-star service. When the weather is nice, guests can walk their pets to many of the city's best shops or hang out on Navy Pier. In colder weather, they might opt to stay in and enjoy their spacious room or suite together.

To book: ritzcarlton.com/hotels/chicago

Lorien Hotel & Spa: Alexandria, VA

Alexandria's Old Town is full of dog lovers and dog-loving venues, and the Lorien Hotel & Spa, on one of its most charming brick-lined streets, welcomes breeds of all sizes. The rooms' outdoor terraces are ideal for four-legged travelers, and there's a dog-friendly park a block away at the end of Harvard Street. The concierge also provides a list of dog-friendly fun to be found nearby.

To book: lorienhotel.com

Inn at the 5th: Eugene, OR

Guests at the Inn at the 5th have access to scenic riverside bike trails and the nearby urban wine trail full of pet-friendly tasting rooms. Furry guests are welcomed with dog bowls, treats, and other surprises. A short drive away, the Oregon coast is full of pet-friendly trails and beaches.

To book: innat5th.com

1 Hotel West Hollywood: Los Angeles

West Hollywood's 1 Hotel is right on the Sunset Strip, but dogs (and humans) will feel as though they've stepped into a natural oasis. The eco-conscious space is filled with native plants and reclaimed wood, and its outdoor spaces have sweeping views of Downtown LA and the Hollywood Hills. West Hollywood is one of LA's most walkable neighborhoods, so you and your furry friend can easily get out and about. Staff's attention to detail includes leaving a dog bed and bowl full of treats waiting in your room. They can also provide information about the best local dog parks, pet shops, grooming salons, and sitting services.

To book: 1hotels.com/west-hollywood

El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara: Santa Barbara, CA

Santa Barbara has long been called the "American Riviera" — and El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel has been one of its most luxurious retreats for over 100 years. Many of the Spanish-style rooms, bungalows, and suites come with private terraces or patios, surrounded by lush gardens. Pets are welcomed with treats and their own beds, and they're even invited to afternoon tea. Santa Barbara is an extremely dog-friendly city, with its off-leash Arroyo Burro Beach and pup sailing opportunities with Sunset Kidd. During your stay at El Encanto, treat your pooch to the "Chilly Dog" frozen yogurt offering from Rori's Artisanal Creamery at the Santa Barbara Public Market.

To book: belmond.com