Great November Pet Friendly Getaways

Unfortunately, dogs and cats can’t vote. If they could, I’m sure the world would be a better place. And so, every November, it’s up to us humans to try to fix the mess we’ve made. It’s a big responsibility and one we should all take seriously. No matter what your political leaning, it’s important to vote and participate in the national dialogue.

But after you’ve pulled that lever or penciled in the form, it’s time to feel good about yourself!

And one of the suggestions we have is to pack up your whole family and head out for a November pet-friendly get-away. While early to mid-November is not one of the prime seasons for travel, we think that’s what makes it a great time to go. All those leaf peepers have since headed home leaving plenty of room for you and your best buddy to hit the highways, byways, trails—and even beaches. And though the autumn colors may be gone and the snow not yet fully arrived, it is a wonderful seasonal transition period where the world seems laid back, gauzy and open to exploration. A perfect balm after the heated rhetoric of the election. So, take a vote in your own house and see who’s up for the trip. We’re sure it will be a landslide and, before you know it, you’ll be hitting the road for some great November fun.

Here are a few great November pet friendly getaways to check out before it starts getting crowded again during the upcoming holiday season.

Hudson River Valley

We mention this destination first because that’s where Petswelcome is located and so obviously we spend most of our time here. An easy trip north from New York City, the Hudson River Valley covers 140 miles of the river. Studded with amazing trails, historic sites and quaint river towns, there are plenty activities for you and your pooch to participate in.

Be sure to visit Minnewaska State Park, a 23,000 acre preserve which is located on the amazing Shawangunk mountain ridge which towers more than 2,000 feet above sea level. A mecca for rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts it has three lakes and plenty of waterfalls and trails where you and your best friend can romp to your hearts’ delight. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and are not allowed in buildings, camping, picnic or bathing areas.

Not far from the park is the town of New Paltz, home to SUNY New Paltz, a state college town where you can mix with plenty of other dogs and their owners. Another great town is Beacon, NY.  One of the most popular towns on the river, it has a ton of great restaurants and bars. A great place to find pet friendly lodging is Fishkill, NY, which is centrally located in the Hudson Valley.  If pet friendly Airbnbs are more your style, you can find plenty of them in New Paltz and Beacon.

Door County

A lot of people are familiar with Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, but if you want to get a different view of Lake Michigan, head to Door County, WI, across the lake. It’s is also a peninsula, approximately 70 miles long, and is made up of 34 islands and a lot of small cities and towns that have their own distinct look and feel.

Door County has a unique maritime history that can be explored by hitting some of the coastal towns, including Sturgeon Bay known for its shipbuilding, parks and lighthouses. Visit pet-friendly Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek which has stunning views of Lake Michigan from the west side of the peninsula. And, while you probably won’t go swimming in November, check out our Pet Friendly Guide to Door County Beaches and go for a long walk. It’s a great way to spend a fantastic (and chilly) afternoon with your favorite animal.

After you’ve built up an appetite, be sure to visit the Harbor Fish Market and Grille in Baileys Harbor. It has its own doggy menu which features Larry’s Rover Easy, Tiffany’s Chilly Paws, Sadie’s Burger Heaven, and Ellie’s Meaty Scramble. Yum!

Cape Cod

Yup. Cape Cod. Yes, we know it’s a summer destination but we like it best this time of year. From Yarmouth to Provincetown, you can find tons of great things to do with your family. We strongly suggest visiting the Cape Cod National Seashore. Made up of 40 miles of beaches, marshes and cranberry bogs, the Seashore opens up many of trails to dogs from the end of October through May. This includes the Province Lands Bicycle Trail, the Freshwater Ponds and the Sunset Horse Trails in Province Lands. Check out our guide to Pet Friendly Cape Cod Beaches and Dog Parks to find out more.

Of course, you can find awesome pet friendly lodgings in Cape Cod as well including the Palmer House Inn, a beautiful Queen Anne Victorian in Falmouth (book now and you’ll receive a free bottle of Champagne). There’s also the Lamb and Lion Inn in Barnstable and the Inn at Swan River in West Dennis.

So be sure to take advantage of the quiet days between Halloween and Thanksgiving and head out for a great early November pet friendly getaway.