Traveling can be a great way to relax, experience something new, and explore. It’s exciting to plan a trip, but can get stressful if you have to leave your furry best friend behind. Between arranging care and the stress of being apart, it can make you wonder whether your trip is even worth taking. Instead of stressing out, plan to take your dog with you! If you’re headed to the “The Peach State”, use this Georgia dog-friendly travel guide to plan a trip both you and your dog will enjoy!

25 Dog-Friendly Activities in Georgia

When you travel with your dog, it’s a much more enjoyable trip for you both if you can experience fun, new things together. Add some of these dog-friendly activities in Georgia to your trip itinerary to ensure your dog doesn’t have to stay behind or at a doggie daycare while you explore.

1. Ghost Talk Ghost Walk

Savannah, Georgia is a historic town with a long past and plenty of stories, including ghost stories. If spooky tours are your thing and you happen to be traveling around Savannah, be sure to go on a Ghost Talk Ghost Walk tour.

The tour will take you around Savannah’s most haunted spots. Plus, it’s dog-friendly! As long as your pup stays leashed and you clean up after them, they are welcome to join you on the tour for your own Scooby-Doo-style adventure.

2. Centennial Olympic Park

The Centennial Olympic Park is located in Atlanta and is one of the largest city parks in the country. With 21 acres for you and your dog to explore, it’s a great way to relax in nature and get out some extra energy.

Your dog needs to be leashed and well-behaved at all times, but is welcome to enjoy the park with you. Make sure you check out the Fountain of Rings!

3. Broad River Outpost

If you and your pooch are dedicated outdoor enthusiasts, add Broad River Outpost to your trip itinerary. It’s located in Danielsville and you can rent a kayak or canoe to take a trip on the water.

Plus, your dog is welcome to join you as long as they are friendly to other dogs and people. They need to be leashed while on land, but are welcome to come along with you as you take your dog paddling and slowly cruise down Broad River.

4. Raven Cliff Falls Trail

Nestled in Helen, Georgia is the jewel that is Raven Cliff Falls Trail. This trail is five miles long and is mostly shaded. You can enjoy the gorgeous scenery along the way as well as a waterfall with a dog-friendly swimming hole.

Not only is playing in the water a great dog-friendly summer activity, but the swimming hole is a great fit for a quick dip. It’s five feet deep and will be a great way for your pup to jump in the water and cool off. It’s a great experience if you’re an outdoor enthusiast and enjoy hiking with your dog.

5. Jekyll Island Dolphin Tours

If your dog does well out on the water and you’re near Jekyll Island, consider going on a sunset tour boat trip with Jekyll Island Dolphin Tours. The sunset tours last around 90 minutes, sail around the waterways of the Golden Isles, and are informative.

The tours leave an hour before sunset and might allow you to see dolphins and other sea life along the way. Your dog is welcome to join you on board provided they are leashed and well-behaved. Just make sure you call the tour operator ahead of time to make sure there is room for your dog on the private tour.

6. Oliver Bentley’s Historic Dog Walk Tour

Should you and your dog be making a stop in Savannah in the winter, spring, or fall, consider reserving Oliver Bentley’s History Dog Walk Tour. The tours are by reservation only and are not offered in the summer (June through September) because of the high temperatures.

However, if you’re going to be there during the time they are offered and reserve one, you and your dog can explore a guided, informative tour along a one-mile stroll through historic Savannah. You can see and learn about Savannah’s historical sites in a dog-centric way on these tours tailored specifically to you and your dog.

Your dog must be leashed and well-behaved and you must be ready to clean up after them. There is a limit of two dogs per person on the tour. In addition to a tour that is built for dogs and their humans, every dog on the tour will receive a bag of original recipe Ollie B. biscuits as a bonus.

7. Fort Pulaski National Monument

If you enjoy history and you’ll be around Tybee Island, consider spending some time exploring Fort Pulaski National Monument. The fort itself is a large outdoor exhibit where you can explore the main structure in addition to outlying features. Other outdoor features include drawbridges, ditches, dikes, demilune, and more.

And, your dog is welcome to join you in the fort, on the hiking trails in and around the monument, and even along the shoreline provided they are leashed, well-behaved, and you clean up after them. However, they are not allowed inside the Visitor Center. As an important note if you plan to venture to the shoreline, you should not enter and you should not allow your dog to enter the water as there is a very strong current.

There is also a Bark Ranger program available for dogs and their owners. Your dog can learn what each letter of B.A.R.K. stands for, practice those lessons during your visit, and earn a special free tag they can wear on their collar.

8. Cool River Tubing

If you and your dog enjoy adventures on the water and your travels will bring you to Helen, consider tubing down the Chattahoochee with Cool River Tubing. There are a variety of tube rides available when this seasonal attraction is open.

The tubes have covered bottoms and your dog can either ride with you in a tube or ride in a tube of their own. This activity is not recommended for dogs that are hyperactive or anxious on the water. If you’ll be going tubing with your dog, make sure you have a life jacket for them and it’s not a bad idea to have protective rugged boots for their paws.

9. Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure

Should your travels bring you to Tybee Island and you want to have some fun in the sun on the water, Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure could be the perfect addition to your trip plan. Provided your dog does well on a boat and is well-behaved, they are allowed to join you provided they are leashed.

Dolphin tours are available as private chartered daytime tours or sunset tours. They last around 90 minutes and are historically narrated. So, in addition to enjoying the views and potentially seeing dolphins and other sea life, you can also learn more about some of the sites you’re seeing.

The boat features higher horsepower, seating for everyone, room to get up and walk around once it’s all clear to do so, and both covered and uncovered areas for shade or sun. You can bring your own drinks and snacks provided there is no glass. You can also purchase snacks and soft drinks from the dock house before you leave.

10. Bonaventure Cemetery

Although cemeteries don’t usually top the list of things to see, locals and visitors in Savannah both consider the Bonaventure Cemetery a must-visit and must-see. This cemetery is a historical site that is over 170 years old and is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world.

There is no admission fee to stroll the ground and there is a free tour offered on the second weekend of every month. Plus, your dog is welcome to join you. Just make sure they remain leashed, you remain on the main pathways, and you clean things up and respect the property. Comfortable clothing and shoes, bug spray, sunscreen, and water are also recommended.

11. Savannah Cruzers

If you want to explore Bonaventure Cemetery and need or want to ride instead of walk the grounds, Savannah Cruzers offers guided electric golf cart tours of the grounds. Five seats are available per tour and tours last about one to one and a half hours.

You can also book an electric car tour of historic Savannah. Instead of a golf cart, the electric tour car for this tour features a clear roof, open windows, and six seats. Quite, comfortable, and small, you can get a personalized narrated tour of all the sights, sounds, and stories of historic Savannah.

Your dog is welcome to join you as long as they are leashed and well-behaved. You assume full responsibility for your dog on foot and while in the open vehicle, so it’s important that they remain leashed and will be calm in the situation and around new people or other dogs.

12. Providence Canyon State Park

If you and your dog enjoy spending time outside and exploring nature and your travels will bring you to Lumpkin, consider making time in your trip to explore Providence Canyon State Park. Considered Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon”, this state park features more than ten miles of trails that range in and around the colorful canyons.

Both short and long trails are available and your dog is welcome to join you. If you’re not up for hiking with your dog, you can also just enjoy the scenery from the picnic areas. If you do plan to take on some of the trails, make sure you pack the right supplies and prepare ahead of time.

There is often water runoff at the bottom of the canyons and mud, so dog boots to protect your dog’s paws and towels in the car for when you are done are a good idea. There is no water or trash cans along the trails; you will want to bring plenty of water for you and your dog as well as waste bags to clean up after your dog.

Also, make sure you check the weather before, during, and after your visit as well as any warnings from the park. Heavy rains and other weather can erode the ground and make the trails treacherous and unsafe to navigate.

13. B.J. Reece Orchards

If your travels will bring you to Ellijay and you feel like exploring orchards and picking up some fresh produce, consider planning to stop at B.J. Reece Orchards. These orchards are family-owned and operated and they are dog-friendly.

Your dog is welcome to join you on the grounds and on wagon rides provided they are leashed and well-behaved, and that you clean up after them. Your dog is not permitted inside the bakery, the apple house, or the petting farm.

Opening times for the U-pick orchards vary from year to year. In general, they are open between July and December, but it is recommended to call and confirm before you visit. Depending on the season and what’s available, you can explore the orchards and pick your own peaches, apples, pears, nectarines, and vegetables that are in season.

14. The Pooch Pontoon

If you and your dog enjoy being out on the water and you’ll be in Atlanta, consider booking an excursion on Lake Lanier with The Pooch Pontoon. You and your dog can enjoy the lake on a 22ft pontoon boat. The boat will also make stops throughout the excursion at small inhabited islands and you and your dog are welcome to explore and run around the islands.

Life jackets, water, soda, and light snacks are included for two people and their dogs, but space can be reserved for up to 6 people and their dogs depending on the sizes of everyone. Excursions are private and are available from 1 hour to 4 hours.

15. Savannah Bee Company

If you are a fan of honey and honey products and you are in Savannah, consider swinging into Savannah Bee Company. Your dog is welcome to join you inside the store provided they are leashed and well-behaved. Water and treats are often available for canine customers.

You can explore specialty honey and honey treats for you as well as to honey-based skincare products. There are even mead and honey samples at the tasting bar! In addition to products for humans, you can also find plenty of items for your dog. There is beeswax paw balm, honey-based dog treats, and more to explore.

16. Georgia State Railroad Museum

If you like trains and your travels will bring you around Savannah, consider taking some time to explore the Georgia State Railroad Museum. This historic landmark features steam and diesel locomotives, a fully-operational turntable, handcars, and, of course, train rides. Small dogs fewer than 25 pounds are welcome to join their owners as long as they are leashed.

17. Unicoi State Park

Unicoi State Park is located in Helen, Georgia. There is an entrance fee that is levied per vehicle, but it can be well worth your time. With over 1,029 acres full of activities, there is plenty to explore, including a 53-acre lake, Anna Ruby Falls, and tons of trails.

Your dog is welcome to join you as long as they are leashed and friendly, and you clean up after them. There is also a small dog park that is fenced located next to the park’s main office if you want some off-leash time for your dog.

18. Blue Orb Ghost Tours

Savannah is a historic city, which also means there is a ton of history and plenty of local legends and ghost stories. If you’re a fan of spooky things, check out Blue Orb Ghost Tours.

There are three different walking tours available in addition to Bonaventure Cemetery Tours which include round-trip transportation. Plus, all walking tours are pet-friendly. Your dog is welcome to join you as long as they are leashed and comfortable around other people and pets.

19. The Black Dog General Store

If you’re in the mood for some shopping or just need to pick up some supplies and you find yourself in Savannah, The Black Dog General Store probably has what you need, including apparel, supplies, homemade treats, and more. With a dog-friendly atmosphere and plenty of Black Dog merchandise for humans and canines alike, this shop can be a fun stop for you and your dog.

20. Blue Ridge Adventure Wear

If you and your dog are fans of outdoor activities and adventures and your trip will bring you into Blue Ridge, stop by Blue Ridge Adventure Wear to check out some new gear. With camping, hiking, and outdoor gear from top brands for people and dogs, you’re bound to find the gear you’re looking for. Plus, your dog is welcome to join you while you shop as long as they are leashed.

21. Blue Ridge Adventure Dog

If you’re already in Blue Ridge, carve out some time for a visit to Blue Ridge Adventure Dog. This space offers a place for humans and canines alike to relax, refresh, and socialize. There are snacks and a selection of beer and wines available for people and a variety of treats and toys available for dogs.

There is a large outdoor dog park on the premises where your dog can run and play. There is also a separate area for smaller or shyer dogs. And, if you don’t have a dog, but want to be surrounded by them, you’re still welcome to stop in and enjoy the outdoor patio!

22. Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater

Located in Trenton is a popular drive-in movie theater. Provided your dog is well-behaved and quiet during movies, they are welcome to join you in the car as you drive in, sit back, and relax at the Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater.

The theater has a fully-stocked concession stand and is cash only, so make sure you keep that in mind. Also, make sure you check the schedule ahead of time to ensure they are open during your visit.

23. Tunnel Hill Heritage Center & Museum

If history is your hobby and you’ll be in Tunnel Hill, make some time for the Tunnel Hill Heritage Center & Museum. The Western & Atlantic Railroad Tunnel was the first major railroad tunnel through the Appalachian Mountains and in the South.

It was completed in 1850 and played a role in the Civil War. Your dog is welcome to join you on the grounds and on private tours provided they are leashed and well-behaved.

24. Mountain Laurel Antique Mall

If you enjoy vintage items and antiques and your travels will bring you to Cleveland, consider setting aside some time to explore the Mountain Laurel Antique Mall. With over 40 vendor booths ranging from crystal, art, and tools to dinnerware, furniture, and more, there is plenty to see. Plus, your leashed and well-behaved dog is welcome to join you as you shop. Who knows what cool items or great deals you’ll be able to sniff out?

25. Blue Ridge Cotton Company

If you’re in Blue Ridge and looking to shop, spend some time exploring what the Blue Ridge Cotton Company has to offer. Known for its dog-friendly atmosphere, philanthropy, and extensive pet section, you’re bound to find something you and your dog like.

From clothes for humans and dogs to books, leashes, treats, gifts, and more, there are plenty of things to look at. Plus, the store donates a portion of every purchase to various local animal charities.

7 Dog-Friendly Hotels in Georgia

After all of your adventures throughout the day, you and your pooch need a comfortable place to rest. Not every hotel will welcome your pup with open arms, so make sure you plan ahead to ensure you have reservations with a dog-friendly hotel. You can start your search with these dog-friendly hotels in Georgia:

1. Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island

The Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island is a dog-friendly hotel that allows two pets of any size, which includes big dogs. There is an additional pet fee, which is $30 per pet, per night. There is a walking area on site.

You can experience island luxury with a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean and the beach within walking distance. You can also leave your dog unattended in your room as long as they are crated and are well-behaved and quiet when you are not around.

2. The Brice, A Kimpton Hotel

Located in historic Savannah is The Brice, A Kimpton Hotel. It’s considered “the southern belle of hotels”. Any number and size of pets are welcome to join you, including big dogs, and there is no additional pet fee. In some hotels, pets are even welcome at the nightly wine receptions!

You and your dog can enjoy a classic room on the first or second floor in addition to a courtyard. Washington Square and Emmet Park are also just across the street. There is also an on-site restaurant serving Italian fare; you may need to order takeout for your dog to be able to join you for a meal. If you’ll be going somewhere and your dog cannot join you, you can ask the concierge about pet sitting and walking services.

3. Hotel Indigo Atlanta Airport – College Park

If you’re planning to stay in Atlanta, check out the Hotel Indigo Atlanta Airport – College Park. They allow up to two pets of any size, including big dogs, to join you for your stay. There is an additional pet fee, which is $50 per room, per stay.

It’s located close to the Jackson Atlanta International Airport and has an on-site restaurant serving American cuisine, beer, and cocktails. Your dog may not be able to join you in the restaurant, but you can certainly pick up some things to enjoy with them in your room.

4. Unicoi State Park and Lodge

If you’ll need to stay overnight in Helen and want to plan a getaway to the mountains, explore the accommodation options at Unicoi State Park and Lodge. Although dogs are not allowed in the lodge or lodge rooms, campsites in the state park and cabins on the grounds are dog-friendly.

Camping with your dog can be a lot of fun. If roughing it at a campsite isn’t quite the vacation you had in mind, you can book one of the pet-friendly cabins. They have cabins in a few different locations, have ADA-accessible options, and also have a variety of cabins with 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms.

5. Olde Harbour Inn

If you want to experience historic luxury in Savannah, consider booking a room at the Olde Harbour Inn. This boutique hotel is located on the riverfront in the heat of the entertainment district and boasts amazing views.

They also have dog-friendly rooms available. Your dog is welcome to join you for your stay. There is an additional pet fee, which is $75 per stay. A welcome bag with waste bags, tennis balls, a brochure of pet-friendly activities, and organic treats is provided at check-in. Emmet Park is located in front of the hotel and your dog can be left alone unattended in your room provided they are well-behaved and quiet when you are not around.

6. East Bay Inn

Also located in Savannah is the East Bay Inn. East Bay Inn is in the heart of the historic district. In addition to being within walking distance of major Savannah attractions, you’re also across the street from the river.

On top of that, it’s dog-friendly. There are several dog-friendly rooms available and even two dog-friendly suites that have private enclosed patios. Up to two dogs of any size are welcome to join you for your stay. There is an additional pet fee, which is $50 per stay.

Treats, waste bags, and dog walk maps are available at the front desk. There is no relief area on site, but there are several dog walks located conveniently nearby. You are also permitted to leave your dog in your room unattended as long as they are well-behaved when you are not around.

7. Best Western Plus Valdosta Hotel & Suites

If you’ll need to stay overnight in Valdosta, look into reserving a room at the Best Western Plus. Conveniently located near Route 41 and Interstate 75, it’s easy to get to and to get around. Plus, it’s dog-friendly.

Up to two dogs are welcome to join you for your stay. There is a weight limit of up to 80 pounds and an additional pet fee, which is $20 per day. Dog-friendly rooms are on the first and second floors and there are grassy relief areas on site.

Waste bags are available at the front desk if you forget yours in your room. Dogs can be left unattended in your room as long as they are crated and remain well-behaved while you are gone.

7 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Georgia

Exploring can really rack up an appetite! You’ll want to make sure you have plenty of snacks and water on hand for your dog and plenty of dog-friendly restaurants on your list so you can both grab a bite to eat and replenish energy for the rest of your adventures. Consider grabbing a bite at these dog-friendly restaurants in Georgia if your travels bring you nearby:

1. Kayak Kafé

If you get hungry while visiting Savannah, you can stop by the Kayak Kafé for some nourishment. Your dog is welcome to join you on the outdoor patio. This restaurant is known for its delicious sandwiches, Mexican food, and American food. Plus, they also offer vegan and vegetarian options.

2. North Georgia Barbeque Company

If you’re in Helen and in the mood for some mouth-watering barbeque, the North Georgia Barbeque Company is the place to stop. They don’t have any indoor seating, but they do have a large outdoor patio that is also dog-friendly.

This place has the “best BBQ in town” and is a great stop where you can relax while enjoying a meal of Southern BBQ and plenty of fantastic sides. Plus, there are two locations in Georgia – one in Cleveland and one in Dahlonega.

3. Mama’s Boy Restaurant

If you’re in Athens, Georgia, Mama’s Boy Restaurant is an awesome place for a southern-style meal. Serving breakfast and lunch, their menu features Southern staples with plenty of options for everyone in addition to daily specials.

This restaurant is a local favorite for breakfast for several years running. It’s also dog-friendly and your pup is welcome to join you at the outside tables. Plus, there are two locations in Athens – one on Macon Highway and one downtown on Oak Street.

4. The Three Sisters Vineyards & Winery

If your travels take you near Dahlonega, stop by The Three Sisters Vineyard & Winery. You can relax and taste different wines as you take a break and unwind. Your pooch is welcome to join you as long as they are clean, on a leash, and do not bark while indoors.

During the month of June, The Three Sisters hosts the Georgia Wine Country Festival every weekend! It’s a must-stop for every wine-lover traveling through this part of Georgia.

5. Engleheim Vineyards

If you enjoy sampling wine and your travels will take you near Ellijay, consider spending some time relaxing at Engelheim Vineyards. These vineyards are located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, feature 15 acres of estate-grown grapes, and are known for award-winning wines.

You can sample a variety of wines and can even pair your samples with a charcuterie board for some food. Plus, your dog is welcome to join you inside and outside provided they are leashed and well-behaved. They must also get along with other dogs as the Engel Family includes dogs and there may be other dogs visiting the vineyards as well. Water bowls and treats are often available.

6. Savannah River Brewing Company

If you enjoy good brews and your travels bring you into August, consider spending some time at the Savannah River Brewing Company. In addition to a varied menu plus food truck options, this brewing company boasts 15 different types of their own beer on tap.

Plus, they are dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome inside and out. And, their outdoor patio is almost completely fenced. It’s a popular stop for local dogs and their owners, so make sure your dog is comfortable making new friends if you plan to go!

7. Hofbrauhaus Restaurant

If you’ll be in Helen around a mealtime and enjoy German food, consider grabbing some food and relaxing at the Hofbaruhaus Restaurant. It’s located right along the Chattahoochee River with plenty of outdoor seating.

In addition to German beers on tap, this restaurant features authentic German food options on the menu in addition to American favorites. Plus, the outdoor patio is dog-friendly. Bowls of water are available for canine customers as well as a complimentary hot dog.

Traveling can be so much more fun when you’re able to bring your dog along. Dog-friendly travel guides are often a big help in planning a great adventure you and your dog can enjoy together. Here’s to safe travels, wagging tails, new adventures, and great memories with your furry best friend!