Dog-friendly destinations
gone with the dogs
Some places have just gone to the dogs! We've assembled an eclectic list of destinations around New England that we think are interesting, unusual, or just plain special. The one thing they all have in common? They are places of interest to people that also allow our furry companions.
Following are a several general ideas for dog-friendly travel fun and links to specific dog-friendly options in each of the six New England states.
Wineries
Plan a wine-tasting tour! Imagine walking through a scenic, working vineyard, enjoying a picnic lunch and sampling delicious wines. In many cases, your canine companion can come along. New England has a number of wineries and many of them allow dogs. See a full list at Sip New England. Be sure to call before you go to make sure dogs are welcome. If we know a winery is dog-friendly, we'll list it on its state Doggie Destination page.
Breweries
Breweries are everywhere in New England and very often dog-friendly, sometimes even inside. They frequently host events that are both dog and family friendly as well.
Museums and Historic Sites
You can still enjoy many of the historic sites around New England when traveling with your pets. Granted dogs are not allowed inside museums and historic homes but they are often welcome on the grounds. If you have a traveling companion, you can take turns visiting the inside of these historic places. A nice (and less buggy) alternative to hiking, walk through the sculpture park at the Decordova Museum in Lincoln, MA, go back in time at Mystic Seaport in Connecticut, or see one of Maine's famous lighthouses like Pemaquid Point.
Whale Watches and Scenic Cruises
Set sail for a seaside adventure. New England has a long and storied maritime history and there's much to see on the rivers, lakes, and Atlantic coast. See whales and seals, visit harbor islands, take a scenic sunset cruise, or go fishing. Just call ahead to see if the cruise of your choice is dog-friendly. We'll list the ones we know about on the appropriate Doggie Destination page.
Drive-in Movies
Evenings can be tough when traveling with kids, pets, or both! There's nothing better than a good old-fashioned drive-in movie. Not all are dog-friendly so be sure to check before heading over. If we know they are dog-friendly, we'll list it on the appropriate doggie destination page.
Boat Rentals
Can't find a dog-friendly voyage? Want to be captain of your own ship? Rent your own ride! Many boat rental places around New England allow dogs. Choose from kayaks and canoes to motor and sail boats. And as always, if we know of a specific location, we'll list it! Just make sure your dog is sea-worthy!
Dining Al Fresco
There's nothing like enjoying a nice meal on a warm summer evening. Many restaurants, from casual seafood places in Maine to more upscale dining in Boston, will allow well-behaved dogs to join you on their deck or patio. Just call ahead.
Apple Picking
In the fall, many of the area's apple orchards allow dogs to join you in our fall rite of passage - apple picking. Many orchards also have events and activities such as hay rides and mazes plus fall goodies like cider donuts, hot cider, and pumpkins. Just call ahead to be sure it's ok to bring the dog.
Share your favorite doggie destinations and photos of your dog enjoying them!
