Traveling with Dogs? These Southern Hotels Go Above & Beyond!
Want to bring your dog on vacation without missing out on comfort, style, or fabulous amenities? These 13 Southern hotels pull out all the stops to make you AND your pup feel at home.
If you’re anything like me, your dogs are an integral part of your family dynamic. This can mean that every time you take a vacation, the plan includes dog sitting or other overnight services. But what if you can take your pups along on your trip, and they can enjoy just as fabulous a vacation as you? From in-house dog walkers to custom accessories, these Southern hotels go above and beyond when it comes to not only welcoming, but pampering your pups.
Check out our list of 18 hotels across the South where you can shower your fur baby with luxe amenities. Our list barely scratches the surface, but it’s an excellent place to start … Plus, you can admire some adorable puppies along the way!
SB Note: Nearly all of the hotels require advanced booking and additional fees to accommodate your pet(s). We recommend calling ahead or going online to inquire about hotel-specific pricing and policies.
CITY ESCAPES
The Alida | Savannah, GA
More Info: thealidahotel.com
Savannah is already a huge vacation draw, with its rich history, stately Victorian-era homes, period architecture, beautiful boutiques, and draping Spanish moss. And what better way to explore the city and all of its charm than with your canine companion?
The Alida allows you to do just that, welcoming your pup with complimentary homemade dog biscuits from the nearby Woof Gang Bakery along with other amenities you might need to make your pet’s stay as comfy as possible, such as dog bowls and dog-walking services.
Moreover, The Alida donates a portion of their proceeds to the area’s Humane Society chapter, Humane Society of Greater Savannah, to support local dog adoptions. And that’s something we can definitely get behind.
SB Note: The Alida allows two pets per room and there’s a 40-pound weight limit, so … that Great Dane may need to find other arrangements!
The Ben | West Palm Beach, FL
More Info: thebenwestpalm.com
This waterfront hotel is surrounded by beautiful beaches, fine dining, boutiques, and a wonderful art scene — the perfect locale for a bit of fun in the sun with your canine BFF! Even better, The Ben doesn’t discriminate against breed types or sizes, so your puppy pal is welcome whether he’s a chihuahua or a mastiff. Additionally, the hotel offers an amenities package upon arrival that includes trash bags, a foldable water bowl, and even a bandana.
You and your pooch can also stroll to two nearby parks and dine together on the patio at Proper Grit, the hotel’s in-house chophouse.
SB Note: The hotel waives pet fees for service animals, but members of the LGBTQ community can also check out the A Bed for Bruno offer for a special overnight package option.
Cumberland House | Knoxville, TN
More Info: Instagram
As evidenced in Welcome to Barxville, Knoxville’s adorable “dogumentary,” the city is all about welcoming pups — and The Cumberland House might just be one of the biggest supporters of that mission. While the short film is worth a watch just for its precious star, Hank the Golden Retriever, it also offers insight into Knoxville’s continued efforts to make the city even more dog-friendly.
In particular, Cumberland House is ready to serve up some “paws”itively great service, with a welcome package featuring a dog bed, treats, water, and food bowls. Even better, the hotel is within walking distance of dog-friendly eateries and green spaces such as World’s Fair Park.
The Tennessean | Knoxville, TN
More Info: thetennessean.com
Because Knoxville is so pro-pup, The Cumberland House isn’t the only downtown-area hotel that welcome dogs. Another standout dog-friendly option is The Tennessean, a luxe hotel situated at the base of the city’s iconic Sunsphere. Here, dogs can enjoy in-room amenities like dog bowls and a plush bed. Treats and special meals can be delivered via room service, and there are plenty of nearby dog-friendly places to walk, including a park by the hotel’s parking garage.
Dog-friendly travel influencers Chris and Sarah Pochiba (who explore with their pup, Kramer, in tow) recently enjoyed a stay at the hotel. Based on the photos of their trip, it appears their visit was a success — at least for Kramer!
SB Note: The Tennessean welcomes dogs up to 50 pounds.
The Foundry | Asheville, NC
More Info: foundryasheville.com
Talk about rolling out the red carpet! The Foundry arguably offers the most luxe list of pup-friendly amenities we’ve come across. This 87-room boutique hotel (formerly a steel foundry) in picturesque Asheville is all about its canine visitors.
For $460, you can purchase the Pup-Arazzi Adventure Package, which includes everything from a one-hour photography session in front of the Blue Ridge Mountains to a forest bathing walk in Pisgah National Forest and a pet-friendly hike with Asheville Wellness Tour. You even get goodies from Patton Avenue Pet Company, such as dog beer, puppy treats, and a complimentary voucher for a DIY dog bath.
SB Note: The Foundry accepts both dogs and cats; there are no breed or weight restrictions. Bookings for the Pup-Arazzi Adventure Package must be made at least two weeks before your travel dates.
The Hotel at Auburn University | Auburn, AL
More Info: auhcc.com
The Hotel at Auburn University welcomes you and your pup with open arms (paws?). Staying here means you can anticipate easily accessible pet relief spaces near the front entrance and pool. You can also enjoy some outdoor dining together on the Ariccia Cucina Italiana patio.
However, perhaps the sweetest perk of them all are the special rates and offerings if your pet is receiving treatment at the Auburn University Vet Clinic. Caring for a sick pet is already challenging enough, so the hotel is doing its best to take the edge off.
Hotel Distil | Louisville, KY
More Info: hoteldistil.com
Your pup may be unable to partake in the local whiskey, but that doesn’t mean she won’t enjoy her stay with you in Louisville! Located Downtown on Whiskey Row, Hotel Distil is a hop, skip, and jump from much of the city’s shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Thanks to the hotel’s “Bourbone” program, you aren’t the only one who can reap the benefits of your trip to the Urban Bourbon Trail. Your pup can indulge in everything from custom PupJoy goodies to a bourbon-themed chew toy to a handmade pet bed crafted from a bourbon barrel. That’s the spirit!
The Post Oak Hotel | Houston, TX
More Info: thepostoakhotel.com
There’s no doubt that The Post Oak Hotel in Houston’s Uptown neighborhood is committed to taking care of you and your pup. When it comes to pampering your pooch, this hotel is first-class all the way. Staying here means your buddy gets plush bedding, dishware, treats, toys, a bandana, and her own in-room dining menu! And we aren’t talking kibbles here. The menu features such elevated options as Roasted Chopped Filet Mignon, a salmon and egg scramble, and a decadent doggie dessert called Banana “a la Bark.”
That’s not all. If you’re looking to do a little (super) early Christmas shopping, check out the hotel’s custom “Pet Collection” HERE!
The Siena Hotel | Chapel Hill, NC
More Info: sienahotel.com
Known for being a luxurious, Italian-inspired culinary destination, The Siena Hotel in Chapel Hill is like finding a corner of Europe in the United States. You and your pup can channel a vacation to Tuscany as you stay in this 79-room boutique hotel with Juliet balconies, 12-foot ceilings, and decor fit for kings and queens.
Moreover, you can both dine in style, thanks to the award-winning Il Palio. There’s even a special room service menu for your pup! The menu is currently being revised, but past dishes have included the “Bow Wow Bucatini” and “Mutt Meatballs.” During the day, you can take advantage of dog-walking and pet-sitting services while you indulge in a bit of massage therapy or golf. The canine concierge will be happy to help you arrange whatever you need.
Virgin Hotels | Nashville, TN + New Orleans, LA
More Info: virginhotels.com
Virgin Hotel has two Southern locations — Nashville and New Orleans — and both welcome pets in a big way. No matter which location you choose, you can book the “Ulti-Mutt Vacation” package and look forward to a check-in that includes dog food, water bowls, a pet bed, and a Virgin Hotels bandana.
Depending on the location, let your pup tag along to the lobby, Funny Library Coffee Shop, and The Pool Club (though they aren’t allowed to swim!). Plus, Virgin Hotels has officially partnered with Shameless Pets, a sustainable pet treat brand.
SB Note: There are no added pet fees at any Virgin Hotels locations, and all pets are welcome regardless of weight or breed.
The Windsor Court | New Orleans, LA
More Info: thewindsorcourt.com
New Orleans has so much to offer — from streetcars and Mardi Gras festivities to strolling the French Quarter for a beignet. The next time you head that way, bring along your pup and book a room at the Windsor Court Hotel, one of NOLA’s most luxurious stays. Your pup is sure to feel welcomed by the room swag and amenities, including a pet bed, walking mat, and bowls.
The concierge can arrange grooming, pet-sitting, and dog walking, and there are pet-friendly accommodations throughout the property.
OUTDOOR GETAWAYS
Barnsley Resort | Adairsville, GA
More Info: hotels.com
Set on 3,000+ acres of historic woodland, Barnsley Resort offers over 10 miles of dog-friendly hiking trails made for exploration. Their “Pampered Pets for Paws” package delivers bowls, toys, treats, bottled water, and a Crew LaLa bandana for your pup, while your pet fee supports local rescues. On-site pet sitting means you can enjoy a spa session, a round of golf, or fine dining without worry. Standard cottages welcome dogs for $195 per stay, and multi-bedroom cottages for $295, with no weight limits.
Hawks Cay Resort | Duck Key, FL
More Info: hotels.com
In the Florida Keys, Hawks Cay rolls out the red carpet with branded Pup Pass swag, a VIP play ball, and even a “Pup Nap Time” door sign. The new Pup Paradise Park offers shaded turf for off-leash fun, while pet-friendly restaurants serve everything from “quarter hounder” burgers to dog beer. Pups can lounge in shaded poolside cabanas or join you on charter boat adventures. A dedicated Pup Planner ensures no detail is missed. Fees start at $150 per night for up to two dogs, with a portion donated to a local shelter.
Montage Palmetto Bluff | Bluffton, SC
More Info: hotels.com
This 20,000-acre Lowcountry estate pampers pets with plush beds, house-made treats, and a dedicated pet room service menu. The resort’s Canine Ambassadors — Cauley, Finch, and Bodie — charm guests during daily meet-and-greets. Dogs can join you on paddleboards, golf cruisers, and scenic trails, while the concierge arranges walks or spa treatments for your pet. Up to two dogs are welcome per reservation (no breed or weight limits), with fees starting at $150 per stay.
Salamander Resort & Spa | Middleburg, VA
More Info: hotels.com
In the heart of Virginia’s horse country, Salamander Resort & Spa blends refined Southern hospitality with canine-friendly luxury. Four-legged guests are welcomed with plush dog beds, food and water bowls, fresh-baked organic treats, waste bags, and even a special toy. A “Dog In Room” sign signals your pup’s VIP status, while the resort’s scenic grounds offer miles of walking trails through manicured gardens and rolling countryside. Staff can arrange everything from dog-walking services to a “puparazzi” photo session, ensuring your pet enjoys the spotlight. Up to two dogs of any size are welcome in designated rooms for a $150 flat fee per stay.
Skyline Lodge| Highlands, NC
More Info: skyline-lodge.com
There are so many reasons to love Highlands, NC. For starters, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer one of the most sought-after panoramas around, whether you’re taking in the scenery on a hike, sipping coffee as the sun rises, or perusing the area’s charming antique shops. And doesn’t your dog deserve to live in the lap of luxury, too?
Skyline Lodge makes that easy with its doggie VIP experience. The package includes a bed, water bowl, treats, and even a homemade meal. But we also heard a rumor that check-in includes peanut butter treats, a Puppuccino-style welcome drink for Fido, and a glass of something sparkling for you! Skyline’s in-house restaurant, Oak Steakhouse, boasts a covered terrace, which means you and your pup can dine in tandem, and there are plenty of dog-friendly hiking trails in the area, so get ready to spend time reconnecting with nature together.
SB Note: Skyline Lodge allows up to two dogs and a maximum of 60 pounds total. They do not have any breed restrictions.
The Umstead Hotel & Spa | Cary, NC
More Info: hotels.com
The Umstead raises the bar with its fully fenced, on-site dog playground — rare among upscale hotels. Dogs (and cats) are greeted with treats, bowls, and toys, and can enjoy leisurely strolls around a three-acre lake. The resort welcomes unlimited pets of any size or breed for a $200 cleaning fee plus $250 per stay.
The Willcox | Aiken, SC
More Info: thewillcox.com
There’s a lot to be said for Southern hospitality … especially when it comes to our dogs! The Willcox in Aiken, SC, certainly adheres to that principle. The 19th-century historic hotel is practically begging you to bring your pet along. Upon arrival, the attentive staff offers up an official “Guest of the Willcox” collar tag, a snack, and all the information you and your furbaby might need for a relaxing stay, such as a map of nearby walking trails and dog-friendly businesses.
Plus, your pooch gets evening turndown — a piece of turkey jerky waiting on his bed. A number of other services are available during the day, such as pet sitting, walking, and off-site grooming, and you can even commemorate your trip with a photography session.
Safe travels to you and your pup!
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Jenna von Oy Bratcher
Jenna von Oy Bratcher is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor and Lead Nashville Writer. The East Coast native moved to Nashville almost two decades years ago, by way of Los Angeles. She is a lover of dogs, strong coffee, traveling, and exploring the local restaurant scene bite by bite.