Living in Orlando, Florida, where many people come on vacation, is great, but sometimes you and your dog need a change of scenery. Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic dog-friendly destinations just a short drive away. Here are some top picks for a weekend escape with your canine companion.
St. Augustine: America's Oldest City (2 Hours Northeast)
- Stroll the historic downtown streets
- Visit the dog-friendly grounds of Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
- Enjoy the beach at St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park
- Stay at the pet-friendly Casa Monica Resort & Spa
Tampa Bay Area: Urban Adventures and Beach Time (1.5 Hours Southwest)
- Explore the Tampa Riverwalk
- Visit dog-friendly breweries like Coppertail Brewing Co.
- Romp on the beach at Fort De Soto Dog Beach Park
- Book a room at the Aloft Tampa Downtown, known for its pet-friendly policies
Mount Dora: Quaint Charm in a Lakeside Setting (45 Minutes Northwest)
- Browse pet-friendly shops in the historic downtown
- Take a scenic boat tour on Lake Dora
- Hike the trails at Lake Norris Conservation Area
- Stay at the charming Lakeside Inn, which welcomes pets
New Smyrna Beach: Laidback Beach Town Vibes (1 Hour Northeast)
- Walk along the dog-friendly sections of the beach
- Explore Smyrna Dunes Park, with boardwalks and beach access
- Dine at pet-friendly outdoor cafes on Flagler Avenue
- Book a pet-friendly condo or beach house rental
Crystal River: Nature Lover's Paradise (1.5 Hours Northwest)
- Take a boat tour to spot manatees in cooler months
- Hike the dog-friendly trails at Crystal River Preserve State Park
- Paddle the crystal-clear springs (rentals available for dogs, too!)
- Stay at the Hampton Inn Crystal River, which offers pet-friendly rooms
Tips for a Successful Getaway
- Always call ahead to confirm pet policies at accommodations and attractions
- Bring your dog's bed or favorite toy for comfort in new surroundings
- Research local veterinary clinics at your destination, just in case
- Make sure your dog’s ID tags and microchip information are current
While these getaways are perfect for dog-friendly adventures, we understand that sometimes you might need to travel without your furry family member. If that's the case, consider bringing your dog for a boarding stay to Dogtopia in Orlando. We offer a safe, fun, supervised environment where your dog can enjoy their own little vacation, and our live webcams let you check in on your pup while you're away.
Learn more about our daycare and boarding services at one of our six locations in Orlando, and click here to arrange a Meet & Greet for your dog at the nearest Orlando Dogtopia!