Maine Dog-Friendly Destinations

Maine offers numerous state parks perfect for camping, hiking, boating, and enjoying nature, making it a fantastic destination for dog-friendly travel. Interestingly, their leash requirement is no longer than 4'. For a complete listing of dog-friendly lodging in Maine, follow the link.

Southern Coast

Kennebunk

First Chance Whale Watch

If the boat is not full, your dog may be able to join you on a scenic cruise, enhancing your experience exploring the beautiful waterways.

Kennebunkport is a charming village ideal for strolling around and enjoying ice cream. There are delightful galleries and gift shops, so someone can stay outside with the dog while you shop. The surrounding area is also lovely to tour by car, and there’s a trolley museum that welcomes dogs and features trails. They are open from May to October.

Kittery

Fort McClary State Historic Site

As recently as World War I, this historic fort protected Maine from outsiders. Open during the warmer months, the fort preservation group sometimes hosts events, making it a good stop for dog-friendly outdoor activities in Maine.

Ogunquit

Finestkind Scenic Cruises, Perkins Cove

A long-time family business, these traditional Maine-built wooden boats allow well-mannered dogs to join you for a cruise in this beautiful area, and even on a lobstering trip, provided others on board don’t mind having canine company.

Wells

Wells Harbor Park Concerts

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm summer night listening to live music, especially when it’s free! Captain Satch and Sons offers fishing excursions where you can catch your own dinner—feel free to bring your dog along as long as the other guests are agreeable.

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Dogs are allowed on the Carson Trail, which is open year-round and features stunning views, making it a great choice for dog-friendly outdoor activities in Maine.

York

New England Curiosities Walking Tours, York and Seacoast, NH

Explore gravesites, lighthouses, and other scenes of New England's haunted past on these tours. You can book private groups and customized tours, which can be tailored for dog-friendly travel in Maine.

Portland is a very dog-friendly and walkable city, making it a great destination for dog-friendly travel in Maine. Many of the restaurants in the Old Port welcome dogs on their patios during the summer, perfect for enjoying meals with your furry companion. 

Casco Bay Lines allows dogs on their boats that connect to area islands, although they must be ticketed. These scenic cruises are an excellent way to explore Maine’s beautiful waterways. 

For outdoor adventures, don’t miss the Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, situated within Fort Williams Park. This historic lighthouse is one of Maine's most famous landmarks and offers access to lovely walks, making it an ideal spot for enjoying Maine outdoor activities for dogs. Plus, nearby Maine beaches for dogs make it easy to let your pet splash in the surf. For those looking for dog-friendly lodging, Maine offers a variety of options to accommodate your stay.

Boothbay

Boothbay Railway Village

A must for old car buffs, the museum showcases over 50 examples of the country's transportation history, making it a great stop for dog-friendly travel in Maine. Don’t forget to check out nearby dog-friendly lodging options to make your visit comfortable for your furry friends.

Boothbay Region Land Trust

The trust manages numerous trail networks in the area, perfect for outdoor activities with dogs. Visit their site for locations of trails that welcome leashed pets, ensuring both you and your dog can enjoy the beautiful Maine scenery.

Camden

Take a sail on the Schooner Olad or the Appledore! Afterward, explore some of the nearby Maine beaches for dogs that are perfect for a day of sun and play.

Port Clyde

Monhegan Boat Line

Visit the muse of many artists - Monhegan Island. The boat line also offers scenic cruises, and there are options for dog-friendly lodging in the area, ensuring you can travel with your pets at ease.

Acadia National Park is one of the few national parks that are dog-friendly, making it a fantastic destination for dog-friendly travel in Maine. There is no shortage of trails and breathtaking views to enjoy with your furry companions. 

Bar Harbor offers various options for exploration, including Downeast Windjammer Cruises, where you can take a cruise on the schooner Margaret Todd, enjoy a fishing expedition, or hop on a ferry ride with your pet.

Another fun boating option is riding on a wooden lobster boat, where dogs are welcome if the other passengers agree. For a unique experience, consider the Sea Princess Nature Cruises to soak in the beauty of Acadia from the sea.

If you're venturing to Baring, don't miss the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge, which showcases nature at its most stunning. As the easternmost national wildlife refuge, it contains over 50 miles of trails and roads perfect for hiking with dogs.

Traveling to Eastport? The Deer Island Ferry allows you to extend your journey beyond just Maine to enjoy some Canadian hospitality for a day trip.

In Millbridge, Robertson Sea Tours provides more opportunities to experience nature, where you can spot puffins, seals, and ospreys—plus enjoy the delightful scent of the sea!

Steuben is home to the Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge, which is known for its peregrine falcons and other magnificent birds. Part of this oceanside refuge is accessible by car, while other parts can be explored by boat. And of course, in Maine, you can’t miss a stunning lighthouse, enhancing your dog-friendly beach outings and outdoor activities for dogs at Maine’s state parks.

Grafton

Mahoosucs Reserve

Experience nature and stunning views at this reserve, where you can even connect to the Appalachian Trail. It’s a perfect spot for dog-friendly travel in Maine, giving you and your furry friends a chance to explore.

Newry

Sunday River Farm Loop

This ski resort features a dog-friendly cross-country trail, allowing you and your pet to enjoy the beauty of Maine’s outdoors together.

Oquossoc

Bald Mountain Reserve

Immerse yourself in nature's finest offerings with opportunities for hiking, fishing, swimming, and primitive camping. It’s an excellent location for outdoor activities for dogs in Maine, ensuring your canine companions have a fantastic time.

River's Edge Sports

Whether it's summer or winter, rent kayaks or snowmobiles to explore the breathtaking landscapes. They also provide guide services to enhance your outdoor adventures.

Stratton

Bigelow Preserve

This preserve showcases beautiful mountain views and 30 miles of the Appalachian Trail. With primitive campsites available for free, it's a wonderful option for those seeking dog-friendly lodging in Maine.

Five Fields Farm

Visit to pick apples in late summer and fall or take in the miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Maine beaches for dogs, perfect for a day out with your pet!

Augusta

Viles Arboretum

This 200-acre spot is a great place to take a walk, enjoy the trees and plants, and is perfect for dog-friendly travel in Maine. It's a wonderful option for those seeking dog-friendly lodging in Maine, offering ample opportunities to explore Maine state parks and engage in outdoor activities for dogs. Plus, it's relatively close to some of the best Maine beaches for dogs.