32 US landmarks to experience with your dog
The United States is filled with historical landmarks that people travel across the country to see. From the Statue of Liberty to the Grand Canyon, many of these landmarks mark historical events of the country's history.
There are endless US landmarks to experience with your dog that will have your pooch barking with joy. So why not adventure together?
When you're planning your routes, or deciding which landmarks to see first, you'll want to be sure that you have the essentials ready to go. You'll need one of the best dog leashes for the trails and maybe some of the best dog toys if you decide to play around at a national park.
Whether you're a history buff or nature enthusiast, there is sure to be something on this list that both you and your pup will love. Let's check out the best US landmarks to experience with your dog.
32 US landmarks to experience with your dog
1. Central Park, New York
Central Park would be at the top of any dog's bucket list. That could be due to the 843 acres of green space it includes. This is a great place for a walk, run, or a game of tug of war with one of the best rope dog toys.
2. Hollywood sign, California
The famous Hollywood sign has been featured in countless movies and shows. The sign was originally only meant to stand for 18 months and is now over 90 years old. While you cannot hike directly to the sign, due to the steep cliffs, there are three different trails you can hike that will take you close to it.
3. Gateway Arch, Missouri
The Gateway Arch stands at 630 feet tall and is equally as wide. You and your pooch will marvel at its size and sleek design. It is situated in Gateway Arch National Park, so there will be plenty of space for your dog to stretch their legs.
4. Statue of Liberty, New York
The Statue of Liberty is one of America's most popular sites. Lady Liberty was gifted to the United States from France, as a celebration of freedom and peace between the countries. You can take a ferry to Liberty Island, where the statue rests. While dogs are not allowed on Liberty Island, they are welcome on the ferry if they are leashed.
5. Freedom Trail, Massachusetts
The Freedom Trail is 2.5 miles and can be the perfect walk if you have a high energy dog breed. The trail includes 16 nationally significant historical sites that follow the history of America's founding fathers. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed inside the museums and houses but they are welcome on the trails.
6. Gettysburg National Memorial Park, Pennsylvania
Gettysburg National Memorial Park is a historical site that marks the place of the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the American Civil War. While pups are not allowed inside the buildings, they are encouraged to be out on the trails with their owners as long as they are on a leash.
7. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
The largest US history museum in the world is nestled right here in Virginia's capital. It spans 301 acres and is open 365 days a year. Chowning’s Tavern Garden and the Social Terrace at the Williamsburg Inn are pet friendly eateries that your pooch can take a rest in after walking across this giant museum.
8. Mount Vernon, Virginia
The home of America's first president has been restored into this mansion. It is 11,000 sq. feet and is two and a half stories tall. Dogs are not allowed in the museum itself but are welcomed in the outdoor areas. Some museums have water bowls outside the doors, to ensure your pup stays hydrated.
9. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park has around 1,200 square feet of forest, trails, and even a waterfall. If you know how to have a fabulous time camping with a dog, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
10. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Considered to be one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, it is unknown how old the Grand Canyon actually is or how it was created. We do know that it offers different trails you can take with your pup as long as they are on a leash.
If you have one of the best dogs for warm climates, you may consider visiting in the the summer months. But be advised to keep an eye out for signs your pup is overheating and be sure to offer plenty of water and some of the best dog treats.
11. National Mall and Memorial, Washington D.C.
Often dubbed as "America's Front Yard," the National Mall is home to many of the country's iconic memorials. It covers 1,000 acres of green space, plenty of space for your pooch to walk around.
12. Golden Gate Bridge, California
The Golden Gate Bridge is just under two miles long and at either end is the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, where you can hang out with your pup on a leash. There are free guided walking tours you can register for, but unfortunately, only service dogs are permitted on these.
13. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore features four former presidents of the United States, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. Their faces are carved into the mountain as a patriotic tribute. Dogs are welcome on the trails but not inside the museum. However, there is a pet exercise area which can be found by following the yellow paw prints.
14. Lincoln Memorial, Washington D.C.
This memorial stands at 100 ft. tall and if you venture inside you will come face to face with a 19ft. statue of Abraham Lincoln, America's 16th president. While your pup is not allowed inside the memorial they are welcome to climb up and down the steps with you.
As steps can be one of the everyday fears and phobias in dogs, this is a good way to practice with your pooch.
15. Washington Monument, Washington D.C.
Standing at an impressive 550 feet tall, this monument was created to honor George Washington, America's first president. While dogs cannot go inside the monument, there are plenty of grassy areas and trails around for your pup to enjoy.
16. Niagara Falls State Park, New York
Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the United States established in 1885. You'll want to be sure to pack some of the best puppy treats, as there are 400 acres of trails, forests, and open spaces for your pup to explore. They'll be sure to work up an appetite.
17. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Nestled in Ohio and stretching into Pennsylvania, The Cuyahoga Valley National Park boasts 33,000 acres of forests, canyons, and green spaces. If you have one of the best dog breeds for hiking, you'll be happy to know there are endless trails to choose from.
18. Brooklyn Bridge, New York
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States and is just over a mile long. Your dog will love the views of the East River that can be seen on either side.
19. Pensacola Beach, Florida
Pensacola Beach is home to one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the United States. With its white sand and clear water, you're pup will never want to leave. Which is just fine because there are endless ways your dog benefits from swimming so splash away.
20. Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Washington D.C.
Built to honor the author of the Declaration of Independence, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial is a sight worth seeing. The open-air memorial holds a statue 19 ft. statue of Thomas Jefferson with the Declaration of Independence in his hand.
21. Monument Valley, Arizona
One of America's natural wonders, Monument Valley is full of mystery, as no one quite knows how the pillars came to be. You and your hound can follow the Wildcat Trail, which is four miles long and will take you to the most picture-worthy spots of Monument Valley.
22. Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Antelope Canyon was formed by floods and erosions over thousands of years ago. The canyon is divided into two sections, the upper and lower and it is said that the best time to visit is in the summer.
If you are feeling extra adventurous or looking for ways to workout with your pet, you have the option of kayaking through the canyon as well.
23. Cloud Gate, Illinois
Cloud Gate is the first outdoor artwork to be displayed in the United States. It is 110 tons of plated stainless steel and the inside arch stands at 12 feet tall. You and your pooch can walk underneath and see your reflections, or marvel at the Chicago skyline on the outside.
24. Bunker Hill, Massachusetts
Marking the Battle of Bunker Hill, the American Revolution's first battle this memorial stands at 221 feet tall and it is 294 steps to the top. While pups are not allowed inside the memorial there are plenty of open green spaces on the outside for you and your dog to relax on.
25. Trail of Tears
In 1831, Native American tribes were forcibly removed from their homes and forced to travel on foot to an Indian Reservation camp in what is today, Oklahoma. This walk was known as the Trail of Tears where over 3,000 Native Americans died, according to the National Park Service.
The trail stretches across five states and is over 5,000 miles. You can plan your visit and see the different trails on the National Park Service website.
26. Hoover Dam, Nevada
It might be an understatement to say, but this is no ordinary dam. The Hoover Dam is 726 ft. tall and 1,244 ft. long and controls the flooding of the Colorado River. It is worth visiting The Dog Who Owned a Dam exhibit next door. This exhibit features a black dog that was said to be part labrador, who was born on the site during the construction of the Hoover Dam and acted as a mascot during the construction period.
27. Dog Mountain, Vermont
While Dog Mountain, is technically not a historical landmark, it is a top US attraction, especially for those with dogs. Burrowed in the cozy Vermont hills, it is every dog's dream vacation spot. Dog Mountain has hiking trails, swimming ponds, and the well-known Dog Chapel, where pet parents can put photos and letters of their deceased pets.
Leashes are not mandatory here, so if you want to play a game of fetch with the best rope dog toys, this is the place to be.
28. Acadia National Park, Maine
If you are a proud dog parent to one of the best dog breeds for cold climates, we would recommend visiting Acadia National Park in the winter for skijoring, where your pup can pull you along on your skies. This park also has 158 miles of trails for your pooch to enjoy.
29. Route 66
If you are a lover of road trips, this may be ticket for you. Route 66 is one of the oldest highways in America and can take you from California to Chicago. It is a major pop culture icon and has been featured in countless songs and movies.
Your pup will love the open air and seeing all the sights along the way. One of our tips for traveling with pets is to be make sure you dog is safely secured in the car with one of the best dog car harnesses.
30. Biltmore Mansion, North Carolina
George Vanderbilt, grandson of shipping entrepreneur and industrialist Cornelius “the Commodore” Vanderbilt, built this massive estate as a family home in 1895. Perfectly preserved today, the Biltmore encompasses 8,000 acres and has 20 miles of trails that will give the best dog walks in the US a run for their money.
31. Oliver Bentleys Historic Dog Walk Tour, Georgia
This walking tour winds through Savannah's Historic District and doesn't just allow pets to come along but welcomes them. The tour is just a mile long and gives dogs plenty of time to sniff around. The tour guide will also point out dog-friendly establishments along the way.
32. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
White sands like you've never seen are waiting for you and your pooch in New Mexico. With their paws in the sand, your pup will have the time of their lives. Be sure to keep them hydrated, as it can get very hot. Having one of the best pet water fountains is a great way to ensure your pooch is getting enough water in.
