By Stacey Wittig
Orlando, Florida, was named in the top dozen “Most Pet-Friendly Cities” by a recent WalletHub study. Delightful dog parks near Disney and Universal Studios make the “Theme Park Capital of the World” one of the best places to escape with your four-legged traveler this winter.
Sniff out the concrete tunnels in the off-leash areas, roll on a sandy hill, and then wash up at a hybrid fountain at Park of the Americas.
Or get your splash on in the dog-friendly swimming hole at Lake Baldwin Dog Park in Winter Park. Afterward, hit the doggie showers to clean up for lunch at one of the many dog-friendly restaurants in the charming suburb.
We enjoyed gastropub fare at The Ravenous Pig, which just earned “The Best Brunch in Orlando” by the prestigious Michelin Guide.
Later, walk off the calories at the gorgeous Kraft Azalea Garden on the shore of Lake Maitland. You and your leashed pups will love exploring the secluded park, an authentic secret garden.
On top of all this, there are at least a dozen doggie daycare and boarding services in the area for those who want to spoil their fur babies while visiting Disney World, “Most Magical Place on Earth,” or other theme parks in the area.
Mix beach time into your magical getaway by exploring Sarasota County, another ‘paw-some’ Florida destination.
Frolic in the white sands of Brohard Beach Paw Park in Venice, one of the most loved Florida dog beaches by local and visiting pup lovers alike.
What makes it unique are the doggie showers, and that it’s the only beach in all of Sarasota County where Fido can run free on the beach. (A gated play area is also on-site.)
In downtown Sarasota, stroll under the shady trees of Sarasota Bayfront with your leashed furry companions. The park affords impressive views of the marina and the John Ringling Causeway, connecting the downtown historic district to St. Armands Key.
There you’ll find St. Armands Circle, an upscale, pet-friendly shopping, gallery, and spa area where four-legged guests enjoy a wide choice of outdoor patios.
Our favorite is Crab & Fin, which serves ever-changing menu items created from the freshest food from around the world and water bowls for dog-accompanied patrons. Finally, don’t miss Beach House boutique, which sells Puppie Love™ apparel that supports rescue dogs.
Another must-visit, dog-friendly spot is Rise & Nye’s coffee and ice cream shop, run by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“Eighty percent of these guys never get a job, but here, they’re running the place,” says cofounder Beaver Schriver, who has a long family history with the Special Olympics.
The café is located in the heart of downtown, where the Sarasota Farmers Market takes place every Saturday. “During the farmer’s market, there are more dogs down here than people,” laughs Beaver. Maybe that’s why baking dog biscuits is the next project at Rise & Nye’s.
With almost 500 pet-friendly hotels and campgrounds in Sarasota County, it’s hard to choose, but we stayed at the art-inspired Art Ovation Hotel right in historic downtown. It’s within walking distance of Sarasota Bayfront and the landmark Selby Five Points Park.
Duval’s, a local’s lauded seafood eatery, is three blocks away, where the outdoor seating is Fido-friendly. (The community voted them Best Seafood Restaurant, Best All-Around Restaurant and Best Lunch.) We recommend the oyster Po’Boy sammie and the seafood bruschetta.
As always, check dog park websites for open hours, and let your hosts know ahead of time when you bring your four-legged pal.
Stacey Wittig is a travel writer based near Flagstaff. Enjoy these tips? Then follow her adventures at UnstoppableStaceyTravel.com.
