There’s only one thing I hate about traveling. It’s not the flight delays; delays mean more time to sit at the bar before boarding time. It’s not the long lines at security or going through customs; gotta love TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. And it’s not waiting at baggage claim. I never check a bag. The flight back is different because sometimes you’re forced to check your bag.
If this story’s headline didn’t give it away, then let me clue you in on what I hate about traveling: It’s leaving my dog, Stella, behind. She’s a 5-year-old English bulldog who is my shadow when I’m home. There are no U.S. or European airlines that will accept my 54-pound dog, never mind that she’s an emotional support animal. Earlier this year, during a 12-day road trip along Route 66 from Santa Monica to Chicago, Stella stayed behind because we had to fly from Austin, Texas, to Los Angeles to kick off the road trip. If you’re a dog parent, you understand that those 12 days can feel like 12 weeks.
If you have a Stella in your life, traveling can be challenging. Fortunately, there are plenty of hotels across the country that are happy to welcome your fur baby. National Dog Day is just around the corner — Aug. 26, to be exact — and if you’re looking to celebrate, these hotels will roll out the red carpet for you and your four-legged pal.
Hotel Emeline (Charleston, South Carolina)
You know a hotel is dog-friendly when they proudly advertise a VIP (Very Important Pet) package, which includes a custom-made treat made by the hotel’s pastry chef, a bowl, and a comfortable bed.
The staff will also assist with suggesting dog-friendly restaurants and nearby parks for your pooch. Your dogs can also lounge in the hotel’s lush courtyard while their paw-rents chill and sip on craft cocktails from Frannie & The Fox.
The Belgrove Resort & Spa (West Palm Beach, Florida)
West Palm Beach’s only resort has partnered with Chewy to make sure that your pooch gets the royal treatment. At The Belgrove Resort & Spa, dogs are allowed to lounge poolside and mingle at the exclusive pet lounge that is stocked with treats and Chewy’s best dog toys.
The 150-room property, a member of the Marriott Autograph Collection, offers photo ops for paw-rents who can’t get enough pics of their dogs. The Belgrove is serious about catering to dogs, thanks to a pet menu that includes chicken sausage, baked salmon, beef tartar, and, of course, puppuccinos.
For the humans, The Belgrove offers three pools with private cabanas and the nearby Deep End for the requisite cocktail.
Kimpton EPIC Hotel (Miami, Florida)
What truly makes Kimpton EPIC stand out is that there are no pet fees, no deposits, and no size, weight, or breed restrictions when you book. It’s a rare perk, indeed.
Guests who book at this Miami oasis can expect a dog bed and food/water bowls waiting for you in your room. What’s more, there’s a nightly hosted wine reception where pets are also welcome to join.
Kimpton EPIC offers a myriad of luxury amenities, but its two rooftop pools make this property unique. Enjoy sweeping skyline and Biscayne Bay views while sipping on a cocktail — with your pup in tow.
The Docent’s Collection (Portland, Maine)
Your home away from home. The Docent’s Collection offers apartment-style lofts tucked in the heart of Old Port Square. The lofts — curated with Maine-made art and handcrafted furniture — are spacious with open-concept layouts, hardwood floors, and even a full kitchen. Again, your home away from home with an elevated experience.
The Docent’s Collection, comprised of four historic buildings in Old Port, features dedicated pet beds, custom food and water bowls, and welcome treats. This stay is perfect for dog parents who want to enjoy a low-key getaway. From the cobblestone streets to dog-friendly boutiques and cafes, The Docent’s Collection promises some serious R&R.
With the Fall foliage just around the corner, too, there’s no better time to visit The Docent’s Collection.
ModernHaus SoHo (New York City)
For the urban pup, how do you like them apples? ModernHaus SoHo also offers a “VIP Pet Package” that truly pampers your dog. In addition to a dog bed and bowls, you also get a tote bag and 25 percent off all services at SoHo’s top dog daycare center, Popculture. Book your next stay through this link or by using the code “VIPPET” at checkout. This nightly rate includes an additional cleaning fee of $75.
ModernHaus features 114 rooms and the incredible JIMMY Rooftop, which is perched 18 floors above SoHo. JIMMY offers picturesque views of the Freedom Tower, the Hudson River, and the bridges spanning the East River.
InterContinental Boston offers a Mr. B’s VIPaw’s Pet Getaway package, which includes a gourmet welcome treats, a plus dog bed and bowls, a souvenir bandana, dog-friendly guide to Boston, including waterfront walk suggestions and pet-friendly stops, breakfast for two (humans), and late checkout.
The hotel also features a Bone Appétit Menu, which includes a bark burger (lean beef patty served plain), chicken and rice bowl, salmon supreme, and a peanut butter pupcake for dessert.
While the hotel only allows one small pet up to 25 pounds per room and charges a $150 nonrefundable fee, InterContinental Boston does offer dog-sitting and walking services for an additional cost.
Enjoy gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean at this Santa Monica gem. On top of catering to your dog, Sandbourne also features an on-site dog park.
Sandbourne Santa Monica is within walking distance to the famed “Route 66 Ends” sign at the Santa Monica Pier. Some of the hotel’s amenities include beach cruiser bike rentals, two on-site bars, a brand new sauna and steam room, and the fabulous Marelle seafood restaurant, headed by chef Raphael Lunetta.
