Introduction
Gone are the days when traveling with a pet meant staying in a roadside motel with stained carpets. Today, luxury hotels across the USA are rolling out the red carpet for four-legged guests. We are talking about canine room service, plush memory foam dog beds, and even “Yappy Hours” with non-alcoholic dog beer.
For pet owners, the “Pet Friendly” filter is the most important button on a booking site. But there is a big difference between “Dogs Allowed” and “Dogs Loved.”
In this guide, we have ranked the 10 best pet-friendly hotels in the USA. These resorts don’t just tolerate your furry friend; they treat them like royalty with zero weight limits and VIP (Very Important Pet) amenities.
Traveling with the whole family? Check out our guide to Best Family-Friendly Hotels in USA
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Kimpton Hotels – Nationwide (Best Overall)
If there is one brand that owns the pet game, it is Kimpton. Their motto is: “If it fits through the door, it’s welcome.”
- Why It Wins: Zero pet fees. No size limits. No breed restrictions.
- The Perks: Every room comes with loaner water bowls, mats, and a concierge list of nearby dog parks.
- On a budget? Read our Budget Family Travel Tips to save elsewhere.
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The Liberty Hotel – Boston, Massachusetts
Located in a former historic jail, this hotel is ironically incredibly freeing for pets.
- The Event: They host a weekly “Yappier Hour” in the lobby yard where dogs socialize while owners sip cocktails.
- The Location: Right next to the Charles River Esplanade, perfect for long morning walks.
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The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch – Avon, Colorado
Luxury meets rugged nature. This ski-in/ski-out resort has a resident St. Bernard dog named “Bachelor” who greets guests.
- For Dogs: They offer a “Bachelor’s Pack” spa menu for dogs, including in-room massages for tired pups after a hike.
- Love the mountains? See our guide to Secluded Cabins for Couples
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Paséa Hotel & Spa – Huntington Beach, California
Located in “Surf City USA,” this hotel is a paradise for water-loving dogs.
- The Amenities: A dedicated 1,100-square-foot outdoor dog park called “Paw-séa.”
- Dining: A customized “Puppy Parfait” menu available at the outdoor restaurant.
- Virgin Hotels – Various Locations (Chicago, Nashville, etc.)
Richard Branson’s hotel chain loves pets. They don’t charge any pet fees, which is rare for 5-star hotels.
- The Bed: Every dog gets a porcelain “Watchdog Mary” statuette outside the door and a super-comfortable Virgin-branded dog bed.
Insider Booking Tip: The “Pet Fee” Trap
Always read the fine print. Many hotels claim to be “Pet Friendly” but charge a $100 to $250 non-refundable cleaning fee per stay.
- The Hack: Stick to brands like Kimpton, Virgin, and Aloft, which typically charge $0 for pets. If you must stay elsewhere, call ahead to ask if the fee is “per night” or “per stay”—it makes a huge difference.
Want more money-saving hacks? Read our Hotel Booking Tips & Hacks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I leave my dog alone in the hotel room?
Most hotels prohibit leaving pets unattended in the room due to barking concerns. However, many luxury hotels (like the ones listed above) offer pet-sitting or dog-walking services if you need to go out. - Are big dogs allowed in hotels?
It depends. Many hotels have a 50 lb weight limit. However, Kimpton and Virgin Hotels have NO weight limits. You could bring a Great Dane, and they would welcome it. - Do pet-friendly hotels smell bad?
Not the good ones. Luxury pet-friendly hotels use industrial-grade HEPA filters and deep-cleaning protocols to ensure rooms smell fresh for the next guest (even if they don’t have pets). - What if my dog barks?
If your dog causes a disturbance, the hotel has the right to ask you to leave. It is best to bring quiet toys and ensure your dog is tired from exercise before bedtime. - Are cats allowed?
Yes, most “Pet Friendly” hotels allow cats too, but dogs are more common. Always specify “Cat” when booking so they provide a litter box if available.
