One of the most popular road trip routes in the USA is from New York to Florida. There’s even a name for New Yorkers who head down to the Sunshine State, either in the winter or for retirement (“snowbirds”). I’ve done this trip many times throughout my life like a typical New Yorker, and I’ve even brought my dog with me. While taking I-90 all the way down is the fastest way, I always try to make a trip out of it and stop at some cool spots along the way. Though these are not all on a straight-shot route, these are my favorite dog-friendly hotels and stops when embarking on a New York to Florida.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philly is not necessarily on the way, but being such a historical city, it’s well worth a stop to spend the night with your furry friend. Philadelphia is extremely dog-friendly, with cafes like White Dog Cafe, where your pooch is allowed in the fenced area and offered their own water bowl, and outdoor eateries like Parc Brasserie and Pizzeria Vetri. Of course, no trip to Philly is complete without comparing cheesesteak rivals Pat’s and Geno’s. Get one of each to go and see which one wins you over. Philadelphia might be early on in the trip, but it’s well worth a stop.
- Where To Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center (perks: they have a special dog menu for room service and offer cheesesteaks)
Baltimore, Maryland
Fewer US cities have a worst reputation than Baltimore, so admittedly, I almost skipped this stop. However, I love going to places where the masses tell me not to (prime examples being Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Brazil), so why not do it in my own home country? The Baltimore Inner Harbor is gorgeous, and no place provides better views of its beauty than Four Seasons Baltimore. I was on the 17th floor, and the views from my floor to ceiling windows were stunning. I highly recommend staying here and catching the sunset from the comfort of your room. Four Seasons Baltimore also went above and beyond when it came to Bowie. When we checked in, Bowie had a Four Seasons ball, his own bed, treats from a local bakery, poop bags, and he was spoiled with his own “bone appetit” menu, where he particularly loved “bark side of the moon” (a burger patty with rice and broccoli). Aside from this amazing hotel, Fells Point is a vibrant neighborhood with colorful houses and tons of mom and pop shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. I’m certainly glad Bowie and I made it a point to stop in Baltimore; it’s safe to say we will both be back.
- Where To Stay: Four Seasons Baltimore
Virginia Beach, Virginia
While Virginia Beach is technically a little out of the way, it’s well worth the pit stop much due to how dog-friendly it is. The boardwalks are dog-friendly year round, which is a rarity since many popular beach destinations don’t allow puppers in the summer in busier parts of town. The beaches, however, have some specific rules for summer pet-friendly travel. Dogs are allowed on the beach before 10AM and after 6PM. Pets are limited to frolic on the north end of Virginia Beach above 42nd Street and the south end of Virginia Beach in the Sandbridge area before 10AM and after 6PM.
- Where To Stay: Homewood Suites By Hilton Virginia Beach
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a somewhat sleepy beach town that has a special level of nostalgia and charm. It’s one of the most popular beach destinations on the east coast, and it’s perfect for a pit stop on your way down to Florida with your pup. Walk the boardwalk with your fur baby, and enjoy the slow way of life in the U.S. South. Don’t leave without trying frogmore stew, which, no, is not a stew of frogs despite its name, but instead, a “lowcountry boil,” typically consisting of sausage, shellflish like shrimp and crab, corn, potatoes and onions.
Aside from seafood, South Carolina is known for some southern classics specific to the Palmetto State. South Carolina claims to be the birth of barbeque, a bold claim in itself, and is known for its mustard-based barbeque sauce.
- Where To Stay: Homewood Suites by Hilton Myrtle Beach Coastal Grand Mall
Savannah, Georgia
You’re in the final stretch, but we have one more stop before making it to Florida. Possibly one of the best stops on the way is Savannah, Georgia. Savannah is a historical town that often gets overlooked by Georgian visitors for more populous Atlanta. Head to this dog-friendly city and explore the Historic District, with dog-friendly eateries such as Olympia Cafe, District Smokehouse, Belford’s Savannah Seafood & Steaks, Cha Bella, Leopold’s Ice Cream, and the Coffee Fox (all referenced from Visit Savannah’s website).
Savannah is so dog-friendly that you can even bring your fur baby on some tours throughout the city. There’s even Oliver Bentley’s Historic Dog Walk Tour which is specifically designed for you to bring your dog with you! Safe to say, there are fewer dog-friendly cities in the US than Savannah.
- Where To Stay: The Alida, Savannah, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Orlando, Florida
You’ve made it to Florida! Congratulations. There’s nothing better than when you first get to Florida after the long trip down. Depending on where you’re going in the Sunshine State, you might want to add just one more stop to your itinerary: Orlando! Orlando is one of the most popular cities in Florida, much thank to Disney World, but it also just so happens to be home to my favorite hotel in the USA which is totally worth the splurge, and, yes, it’s dog-friendly. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World is the epitome of luxury, and that’s coming from someone who has traveled all around the world. I would go out of my way to go to Orlando just to stay here. The cuisine is top-notch, it’s home to the only adults-only pool on Disney premises, and the hydrafacial at the spa is the best spa service I’ve ever had (seriously). It’s totally worth every penny and I highly recommend making it a pitstop.
- Where To Stay: Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
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