Pet-Friendly Hotels in Major US Cities

Traveling with our beloved pets is becoming increasingly common, and thankfully, more and more hotels are recognizing the importance of catering to furry companions. No longer do you have to leave your dog or cat behind when embarking on a business trip or a leisurely vacation. This comprehensive guide explores some of the best pet-friendly hotels in major US cities, ensuring both you and your animal companion have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. We’ll delve into specific hotels, their pet policies, amenities, and nearby attractions suitable for pets.

New York City: A Pawsome Urban Adventure

The Big Apple might seem like a concrete jungle, but many hotels in New York City welcome pets with open arms. Navigating the city with your pet requires some planning, but the rewards of exploring iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods together are well worth the effort.

The Benjamin Royal Sonesta New York

The Benjamin Royal Sonesta New York is known for its exceptional pet program, offering a personalized experience for your furry friend. They provide amenities like plush pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a “pet room service” menu. The hotel is conveniently located near several parks where you can take your dog for a walk, including St. Vartan Park.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Maximum weight limit: 25 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $75 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and a “pet room service” menu

Kimpton Muse Hotel

As part of the Kimpton family, the Kimpton Muse Hotel embraces a “no breed restrictions” policy and welcomes pets of all sizes and shapes. They offer complimentary pet amenities, including beds, bowls, and waste bags. Their concierge can also provide recommendations for nearby dog-walking services and pet-friendly restaurants.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• No weight or breed restrictions
• No pet fee
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, waste bags, and concierge recommendations

Loews Regency New York

Located in the heart of Manhattan, the Loews Regency New York offers a luxurious experience for both humans and their pets. Their Loews Loves Pets program provides comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and gourmet pet menus. They also offer dog-walking and pet-sitting services for an additional fee.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: 75 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $100 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, gourmet pet menus, dog-walking and pet-sitting services

Pet-Friendly Activities in New York City

Beyond the hotels, New York City offers several pet-friendly activities. Central Park has designated off-leash hours in certain areas, allowing your dog to run and socialize. Many restaurants with outdoor seating welcome well-behaved dogs. Consider taking a ferry to explore the harbor with your pet, or visiting a local dog park for some playtime.

Los Angeles: Sunshine and Tail Wags

Los Angeles, with its sunny weather and outdoor lifestyle, is a paradise for pets. From beach walks to hiking trails, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city with your furry companion. Many hotels in Los Angeles cater to pets, offering amenities and services to make their stay comfortable.

The Beverly Hills Hotel

The iconic Beverly Hills Hotel extends its luxury service to pets, welcoming them with personalized amenities and services. They offer custom-designed pet beds, gourmet pet menus, and even dog-walking services. The hotel’s lush gardens provide ample space for pets to stretch their legs and enjoy the sunshine.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: Varies depending on breed
• Pet fee: $35 per night
• Amenities: Custom-designed pet beds, gourmet pet menus, dog-walking services, and pet-sitting services

Kimpton Everly Hotel

Another gem from the Kimpton family, the Kimpton Everly Hotel in Hollywood welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes without any breed restrictions. They provide complimentary pet amenities, including beds, bowls, and treats. The hotel’s location is ideal for exploring Hollywood with your pet, with several dog-friendly parks and restaurants nearby.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• No weight or breed restrictions
• No pet fee
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and concierge recommendations

Shore Hotel

Located in Santa Monica, the Shore Hotel offers stunning ocean views and a pet-friendly atmosphere. They provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even dog-walking services. The hotel’s proximity to the beach allows you to take your dog for a stroll along the sand (check local regulations for off-leash areas).

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: 50 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $75 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, dog-walking services, and treats

Pet-Friendly Activities in Los Angeles

Los Angeles boasts numerous dog-friendly beaches, parks, and hiking trails. Runyon Canyon Park is a popular spot for hiking with dogs, offering stunning views of the city. Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach is a designated off-leash beach where dogs can run and play in the sand. Many restaurants with outdoor patios welcome well-behaved dogs.

Chicago: Windy City Adventures with Your Furry Friend

Chicago, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, also offers a warm welcome to pets. Despite the “Windy City” moniker, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy with your animal companion. Many hotels in Chicago provide pet-friendly amenities and services to ensure a comfortable stay.

The Thompson Hotel Chicago

The Thompson Hotel Chicago, located in the Gold Coast neighborhood, offers a stylish and pet-friendly experience. They provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a “pet turndown service” with treats. The hotel’s proximity to the Magnificent Mile allows you to explore the city’s shopping district with your pet.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: 75 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $75 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and a “pet turndown service”

Hotel Lincoln

Hotel Lincoln, located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, offers a boutique hotel experience with a pet-friendly attitude. They provide complimentary pet amenities, including beds, bowls, and waste bags. The hotel is situated near Lincoln Park, a vast green space with walking trails and a dog-friendly area.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: No weight limit
• Pet fee: $50 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and waste bags

The Langham, Chicago

The Langham, Chicago offers luxurious accommodations and a sophisticated pet program. They provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a gourmet pet menu. The hotel’s concierge can arrange dog-walking and pet-sitting services. Situated downtown, it’s close to the Riverwalk which makes for a pleasant stroll with your pet.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: Varies depending on breed
• Pet fee: $100 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, gourmet pet menu, dog-walking and pet-sitting services

Pet-Friendly Activities in Chicago

Chicago offers several pet-friendly parks and attractions. Lincoln Park has a designated dog-friendly area where dogs can run off-leash. Montrose Dog Beach is a popular spot for dogs to swim and play in Lake Michigan (seasonal). Many restaurants with outdoor patios welcome well-behaved dogs. Architectural boat tours sometimes allow dogs, check with the tour operator in advance.

San Francisco: Golden Gate Adventures with Your Companion

San Francisco, known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and hilly terrain, is also a welcoming city for pets. From walks along the waterfront to exploring Golden Gate Park, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city with your furry friend. Many hotels in San Francisco offer pet-friendly amenities and services.

Hotel Nikko San Francisco

Hotel Nikko San Francisco offers a unique pet program called “PETS are Welcome,” which includes a rooftop dog run where dogs can exercise and socialize. They also provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a pet concierge to assist with any pet-related needs. This is one of the more comprehensive programs you can find.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: 80 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $75 per stay
• Amenities: Rooftop dog run, pet beds, bowls, pet concierge, and treats

Kimpton Hotel Monaco San Francisco

As expected, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco San Francisco welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes without breed restrictions. They provide complimentary pet amenities, including beds, bowls, and treats. The hotel’s location in the heart of downtown makes it easy to explore the city with your pet.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• No weight or breed restrictions
• No pet fee
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and concierge recommendations

Argonaut Hotel, a Noble House Hotel

Located in Fisherman’s Wharf, the Argonaut Hotel offers a nautical-themed experience and a pet-friendly atmosphere. They provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a welcome kit with treats and waste bags. The hotel’s proximity to Pier 39 allows you to watch the famous sea lions with your pet (from a respectful distance).

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: No weight limit
• Pet fee: $75 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, welcome kit with treats and waste bags

Pet-Friendly Activities in San Francisco

San Francisco offers a wealth of pet-friendly activities. Golden Gate Park has designated off-leash areas where dogs can run and play. Lands End offers stunning coastal trails with breathtaking views. Many restaurants with outdoor seating welcome well-behaved dogs. Consider a visit to Fort Funston, known for its dog-friendly beach and scenic cliffs.

Miami: Sunshine and Sandy Paws

Miami, with its vibrant culture and beautiful beaches, is a great destination to enjoy with your pet. Many hotels in Miami cater to pets, offering amenities and services to make their stay comfortable and fun. Always check beach regulations regarding dogs, as they vary by location.

The Betsy South Beach

The Betsy South Beach offers a sophisticated and pet-friendly experience. They provide luxurious pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a gourmet pet menu. The hotel’s location on Ocean Drive puts you steps away from the beach, where you can take your dog for a walk (check local regulations for specific dog-friendly areas).

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: 75 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $150 per stay
• Amenities: Luxurious pet beds, bowls, gourmet pet menu, and dog-walking services

Kimpton EPIC Hotel

Staying true to the Kimpton brand, the Kimpton EPIC Hotel welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes without any breed restrictions. They provide complimentary pet amenities, including beds, bowls, and treats. The hotel’s rooftop pool area offers stunning views of the city and the bay (pets are generally not allowed in the pool area, but the surrounding deck may be permissible).

Pet Policy Highlights:

• No weight or breed restrictions
• No pet fee
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and concierge recommendations

1 Hotel South Beach

1 Hotel South Beach offers a eco-conscious luxury experience and a pet-friendly atmosphere. They provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even organic pet treats. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability extends to its pet amenities, ensuring a healthy and eco-friendly stay for your furry friend.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: 25 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $150 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, organic pet treats, and dog-walking services

Pet-Friendly Activities in Miami

Miami offers several pet-friendly parks and beaches. Haulover Beach Park has a designated dog park where dogs can run off-leash. Hobie Island Beach Park is a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding with your dog. Many restaurants with outdoor patios welcome well-behaved dogs. Consider a stroll along Lincoln Road Mall, a pedestrian-friendly street with shops and restaurants.

Seattle: Emerald City Exploration with Your Pet

Seattle, known for its coffee culture and stunning natural beauty, is a great destination for pets and their owners. With numerous parks, hiking trails, and pet-friendly establishments, you can enjoy the Emerald City with your furry companion. Many hotels in Seattle welcome pets with open arms, providing amenities and services to ensure a comfortable stay.

Hotel Theodore

Hotel Theodore, located in downtown Seattle, offers a stylish and pet-friendly experience. They provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a welcome kit with treats and waste bags. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore the city’s attractions with your pet.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: 50 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $75 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, welcome kit with treats and waste bags, and dog-walking services

Kimpton Hotel Vintage Seattle

Yet another Kimpton hotel demonstrating consistency, the Kimpton Hotel Vintage Seattle welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes without any breed restrictions. They provide complimentary pet amenities, including beds, bowls, and treats. The hotel’s wine-themed decor adds a unique touch to your pet-friendly stay.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• No weight or breed restrictions
• No pet fee
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and concierge recommendations

The Maxwell Hotel

The Maxwell Hotel, known for its colorful and whimsical decor, offers a fun and pet-friendly atmosphere. They provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a “pet psychic” service (availability may vary). The hotel’s playful vibe makes it a unique and memorable destination for pet owners.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: No weight limit
• Pet fee: $25 per night
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and a “pet psychic” service (availability may vary)

Pet-Friendly Activities in Seattle

Seattle offers a variety of pet-friendly activities. Discovery Park has miles of trails with stunning views of Puget Sound. Magnuson Park has a designated off-leash area where dogs can run and play. Many restaurants with outdoor patios welcome well-behaved dogs. Consider a visit to Kerry Park for panoramic views of the city skyline (dogs must be leashed).

Atlanta: Southern Hospitality for You and Your Pet

Atlanta, known for its rich history and Southern charm, is also a welcoming city for pets. From parks and gardens to pet-friendly patios, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city with your furry friend. Many hotels in Atlanta offer pet-friendly amenities and services to ensure a comfortable stay.

The Whitley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Atlanta Buckhead

The Whitley, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Atlanta Buckhead, offers a luxurious and pet-friendly experience. They provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a gourmet pet menu. The hotel’s location in the upscale Buckhead neighborhood makes it a convenient base for exploring the city’s attractions.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: 40 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $100 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, gourmet pet menu, and dog-walking services

Kimpton Shane Hotel

Consistent as always, the Kimpton Shane Hotel in Atlanta welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes without breed restrictions. They provide complimentary pet amenities, including beds, bowls, and treats. The hotel’s location provides great access to the arts and culture Atlanta has to offer.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• No weight or breed restrictions
• No pet fee
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and concierge recommendations

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta

The Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta provides an opulent experience and a special program for pets. Expect luxury pet beds, food and water bowls, gourmet pet menus and even bespoke walking and sitting services. This hotel is truly an experience for your pet!

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: Varies based on breed
• Pet fee: $75 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, gourmet pet menus and bespoke walking/sitting

Pet-Friendly Activities in Atlanta

Atlanta has plenty of pet-friendly activities. Piedmont Park offers designated off-leash areas. The Atlanta Botanical Garden allows leashed dogs on certain days. Many restaurants with outdoor patios welcome well-behaved dogs. Consider a walk along the BeltLine, a multi-use trail that connects several neighborhoods.

Washington, D.C.: Historical Adventures with Your Pet

Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and pet-friendly attractions. From exploring the National Mall to strolling through charming neighborhoods, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city with your furry friend. Many hotels in Washington, D.C., welcome pets, providing amenities and services to ensure a comfortable stay.

The Hay-Adams

The Hay-Adams, located across from the White House, offers a luxurious and pet-friendly experience with stunning views. They provide comfortable pet beds, food and water bowls, and even a “pet turndown service” with treats. The hotel’s prime location makes it easy to explore the city’s iconic landmarks with your pet.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• Weight limit: 25 lbs per pet
• Pet fee: $100 per stay
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and a “pet turndown service”

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington D.C.

Continuing the trend, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington D.C. welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes without any breed restrictions. They provide complimentary pet amenities, including beds, bowls, and treats. The hotel’s historic building and central location make it a unique and convenient choice for pet owners.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• No weight or breed restrictions
• No pet fee
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and concierge recommendations

Hotel Palomar Washington D.C.

Located in Dupont Circle, the Hotel Palomar Washington D.C. provides an artsy experience and a good pet policy. This hotel, like other Kimpton properties, welcomes all pets, offers pet beds and water bowls.

Pet Policy Highlights:

• No weight or breed restrictions
• No pet fee
• Amenities: Pet beds, bowls, treats, and concierge recommendations

Pet-Friendly Activities in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., offers several pet-friendly parks and attractions. The National Mall allows leashed dogs. Meridian Hill Park (Malcolm X Park) has a designated dog park. Many restaurants with outdoor patios welcome well-behaved dogs. Consider a stroll through Georgetown, a historic neighborhood with charming streets and shops.

Tips for Traveling with Your Pet

Traveling with your pet can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry companion:

Before You Go

• Visit Your Veterinarian: Schedule a check-up for your pet to ensure they are healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. Obtain a health certificate if required by the airline or destination.
• Microchip and Identification: Ensure your pet has a microchip and wears a collar with identification tags containing your current contact information.
• Pack a Pet Travel Kit: Include essentials such as food, water, bowls, leash, collar, waste bags, medications, first-aid kit, favorite toys, and a comfortable bed or blanket.
• Research Pet Policies: Contact hotels, airlines, and attractions in advance to confirm their pet policies, including weight limits, breed restrictions, and fees.
• Practice Crate Training: If your pet will be traveling in a crate, familiarize them with it beforehand to reduce anxiety.

During Travel

• Travel Comfortably: Ensure your pet has adequate space and ventilation during travel. Provide water and food as needed.
• Frequent Breaks: Stop frequently for bathroom breaks and exercise, especially during long car rides.
• Keep Your Pet Safe: Secure your pet in a carrier or with a pet seatbelt during car travel to prevent injuries in case of an accident.
• Stay Calm: Your pet can sense your anxiety, so remain calm and reassuring throughout the journey.

At Your Destination

• Familiarize Your Pet: Allow your pet time to adjust to their new surroundings. Provide familiar items, such as their bed and toys, to create a sense of security.
• Establish a Routine: Maintain a consistent feeding and exercise schedule to help your pet feel comfortable and secure.
• Be Respectful: Be mindful of other guests and residents. Clean up after your pet and keep them on a leash in public areas.
• Explore Pet-Friendly Activities: Take advantage of pet-friendly parks, trails, and restaurants in the area.
• Supervise Your Pet: Never leave your pet unattended in a hotel room unless explicitly permitted by the hotel.

Understanding Pet Policies

Pet policies vary significantly from hotel to hotel. Understanding these policies is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free stay. Here’s a breakdown of common pet policy considerations:

Weight Limits

Many hotels impose weight limits on pets, typically ranging from 25 to 75 pounds. Some hotels may have different weight limits for different breeds or types of pets. Always confirm the weight limit before booking.

Breed Restrictions

Some hotels may have breed restrictions, particularly for dogs perceived as “aggressive” or “dangerous,” such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans. These restrictions are often based on insurance regulations or concerns about guest safety. However, as exemplified by the Kimpton chain, more hotels are abandoning breed restrictions in favor of a more inclusive approach.

Pet Fees

Most hotels charge a pet fee, which can be a one-time fee per stay or a nightly fee. These fees help cover the costs of cleaning and maintenance associated with pets. The amount of the pet fee can vary widely, so be sure to factor it into your budget.

Amenities and Services

Pet-friendly hotels often offer a range of amenities and services to make your pet’s stay more comfortable, such as pet beds, food and water bowls, treats, waste bags, dog-walking services, pet-sitting services, and even gourmet pet menus. Check what amenities are included in the pet fee and what are available for an additional charge.

Rules and Regulations

Hotels typically have rules and regulations regarding pet behavior, such as leash requirements, restrictions on leaving pets unattended, and guidelines for cleaning up after your pet. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these rules and follow them diligently to avoid any issues.

Finding the Right Pet-Friendly Hotel

With so many pet-friendly hotels to choose from, finding the right one for you and your pet can seem overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you narrow down your options:

Use Online Resources

Websites like BringFido, PetsWelcome, and Expedia have comprehensive databases of pet-friendly hotels. You can search by city, state, or specific amenities. Read reviews from other pet owners to get an idea of their experiences at different hotels.

Contact the Hotel Directly

Once you have identified a few potential hotels, contact them directly to confirm their pet policies and ask any specific questions you may have. This is especially important if you have a large breed dog or a pet with special needs.

Consider Location

Choose a hotel that is conveniently located near pet-friendly parks, trails, and restaurants. This will make it easier to enjoy the city with your pet and avoid long car rides or walks.

Read Reviews

Pay attention to reviews from other pet owners. Look for comments about the hotel’s pet-friendliness, cleanliness, and the availability of pet-related amenities.

Factor in Your Budget

Pet fees can add significantly to the cost of your hotel stay, so factor them into your budget when comparing different options. Consider whether the amenities and services offered justify the pet fee.

Conclusion

Traveling with your pet can be a wonderful and enriching experience. By choosing the right pet-friendly hotel and planning your itinerary carefully, you can create lasting memories with your furry companion. Remember to research pet policies, pack essential supplies, and be mindful of other guests and residents. With a little preparation, you and your pet can enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable vacation in any of these major US cities. So, pack your bags, grab your leash, and get ready for a pawsome adventure!