Traveling is a great way to explore new places and go on fun adventures, but it can become stressful when you have a dog. If you decide to leave your furry friend behind, you have to arrange care for them and you both may be stressed out by the separation. On the other hand, if you decide to bring them with you, you’ll have to face places that may not be dog-friendly – that’s where planning ahead and using a dog-friendly travel guide can help. If you’re headed to “The Volunteer State” with your pup, use this Tennessee dog-friendly travel guide to start your research and plan a trip both you and your dog can enjoy stress-free:

13 Dog-Friendly Activities in Tennessee

No matter where your travels take you in Tennessee, you’ll want to make sure there are dog-friendly activities on your trip itinerary. Here are a few dog-friendly activities in Tennessee to consider adding to your list:

1. Smoky Mountain River Rat

If you find yourself near Townsend, make sure you leave plenty of time to enjoy the Smoky Mountain River Rat. This dog-friendly attraction is the perfect stop for people and pooches who love the water.

You can go tubing, rafting, or kayaking down the Little River and your dog is welcome to join you in the lower section, which is the main outpost. Although you can get a tube and a tether for your dog, life jackets are not offered for dogs.

So, make sure you bring your own doggie life jacket if this stop is included on your trip. This is one of the top safety tips for swimming with your dog, so make sure you have a life jacket that fits well, is comfortable for them to wear, and is in good shape.

2. Stones River Greenway

Should you find yourself in Nashville and need a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown, plan to spend some time on the Stones River Greenway. This trail system is paved, stretches for 10 miles, and connects Shelby Bottoms to Percy Priest Lake.

It also links to Two Rivers Park, Heartland Park, and the YMCA on Lebanon Road along the trail system. Your dog is welcome to join you anywhere along this trail as long as they are leashed. There is also a large dog park at the entrance of the trail where your pup can run free. Make sure you bring along plenty of water as there are no water fountains along the trail.

3. Malco Summer Drive-In

This drive-in theater is located in Memphis and is a great dog-friendly attraction where you and your pup can relax and watch a movie after a day of exploring. Malco Summer Drive-In is open for most of the year and shows movies nightly during the summer and on weekends only in the fall.

4. Founders Park

Founders Park is located in the Downtown district of Johnson City. Your dog is welcome to join you in this 5-acre green space as long as they are leashed. The park is open to the public unless it has been reserved for a specific event. If you happen to be traveling nearby in October, be sure to check out when the annual Barktoberfest event is going on.

5. Chattanooga Ghost Tours, Inc.

If the spooky and macabre is your style and you’re around Chattanooga, make sure Chattanooga Ghost Tours, Inc. is one of your must-see attractions. TripAdvisor and USA Today named this attraction one of the top 10 ghost tours in the country. Several adventures are available and your dog is welcome to join you as long as they are leashed and well-behaved.

6. Beechcraft Heritage Museum

Aviation fans will enjoy the Beechcraft Heritage Museum. This aviation-themed gem is located in Tullahoma and traces the lineage of the Beechcraft family of airplanes in a “living and working” museum environment.

Your leashed dog is welcome to join you in the museum and the gift shop. As long as your dog is well-behaved, they are welcome to be off-leash on the grounds! The museum also offers an Annual Beech Party for a weekend in October and your dog is welcome at that event as well.

7. The Apple Barn and Cider Mill

The Apple Barn and Cider Mill is located in Sevierville and is a working apple farm. There is plenty to explore on the property including the ground, two restaurants, a candy shop, a winery, a general store, and a Christmas Shop.

This attraction is popular with locals and tourists alike and is open year-round. Although your dog cannot come into areas where food is prepared or served, they are welcome to join you in all of the outdoor areas. There are plenty of shady spots and places to sit, and there’s also a creek right across the street if your dog wants to take a quick dip and cool off.

8. The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

If interesting museums and oddities are your thing and you’ll be traveling near Gatlinburg, consider adding The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum to your trip plan. This stop features over 20,000 salt-and-pepper shaker sets from all over the world!

And, your dog is welcome to join you as you explore as long as they are leashed. Make sure you leave plenty of time to explore and check out the gift shop. You can pick up a cool new pair of shakers and who knows what other cool souvenirs you might find?

9. The General Store at Apple Valley Mountain Village

If you’re headed to the Great Smoky Mountains and need a break, spend some time exploring The General Store at Apple Valley Mountain Village in Townsend. With upwards of 10,000 items, there is something for everyone. You can explore locally-made jams, jellies, fudge, and other treats in addition to shirts, hats, games, toys, and more.

And, your dog is welcome to join you in the store as long as they are leashed and well-behaved. There is even an entire section dedicated to pet items. When you’re done shopping, you can take a stroll on the bike path nearby. The full path is a 10-mile loop that winds through the town, passes under the highway, and loops back to the store.

10. MoonPie General Store and Original Book Warehouse

If you’re traveling to Pigeon Forge and you like interesting shops, carve out a big chunk of time for the MoonPie General Store and Original Book Warehouse. Your leashed dog is welcome to join you in the store as you explore. If you like moonpies, this is the stop for you. You’ll be able to find bakery-fresh moonpies available individually and by the box in seven different flavors!

Even if you’re not a fan of moonpies, this is still a great stop for some shopping, whether for other snacks and drinks or other items entirely. In addition to plenty of books, there are also a variety of souvenirs in addition to games, toys, home goods, and more. There is also a large extra shopping area in the basement, so don’t miss out.

11. Burgess Falls

If you love spending time in nature and your travels will bring you around Sparta, take some time to visit Burgess Falls State Park. This state park is right along the Fall Water River and is full of trails to explore. The park features four waterfalls. They cascade down from over 250 feet and offer gorgeous views. The last of the four falls cascades over 130 feet down into the gorge.

Your dog is welcome to join you as long as they are leashed and you clean up after them. Just make sure you and your dog are up for it and that you bring plenty of water for both of you. Also, check in with the park website when you go to make sure that it is open. If there is snow on the trails or the road or the river is too high from recent rains or snow melt, the park will be closed.

12. Backbeat Tours

Memphis is full of historic and interesting places to explore. If you’re interested in history and enjoy guided tours, consider booking space on one (or more!) of the sightseeing tours from Backbeat Tours.

This company offers guided walking tours as well as bus tours around Memphis. Your leashed and well-behaved dog is welcome to join you on the Memphis Mojo Tour, the Beal Street Walking Tour, the History Memphis Walking Tour, and the Memphis Walking Ghost Tour.

However, if you and your dog decide to go on the ghost tour, they will not be permitted inside the stop at Ernestine & Hazel’s. Leashed and well-mannered dogs can also join you on the bus tours provided the bus is not too crowded and other passengers are fine with it.

13. Johnny Cash Museum

If you love Johnny Cash’s music and you’ll be in Nashville, set aside some time for the Johnny Cash Museum. You can learn more about his life, check out memorabilia and artifacts up close, and even explore interactive exhibits. And, your dog is welcome to join you as long they are leashed, well-behaved, and housebroken. The museum is carpeted, so you need to know that your dog won’t go to the bathroom inside the museum before you go.

7 Dog-Friendly Hotels in Tennessee

After a long day full of adventures, you and your dog will need a place to stay. Start your research with these dog-friendly hotels in Tennessee and book early when you find the one you want to make sure both you and your pup are welcomed with open arms:

1. Baymont Inn & Suites

The Baymont Inn & Suites Pigeon Forge is a dog-friendly hotel in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Two dogs of any size are welcome to join you for your stay. There is an additional pet fee, which is $20 per night, per pet. A few of the amenities include free wifi, free breakfast, free parking, and more. There is an indoor and outdoor pool, but your dog will not be able to join you in them.

2. Dancing Bear Lodge

Should you need to stay overnight in Townsend, consider a reservation at the Dancing Bear Lodge. Up to two dogs of any size are welcome to join you for an additional pet fee of $75 per stay.

Dogs are allowed in the cabins, but cottage rooms and villas are not pet-friendly. This dog-friendly lodging is a great option for enjoying a rustic Smoky Mountain experience with hotel-like amenities. Plus, all cabins are equipped with full kitchens and the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro is nearby.

3. La Quinta Inn & Suites

If you’re staying in Chattanooga, La Quinta Inn & Suites Chattanooga – East Ridge is a dog-friendly hotel to consider. Up to two pets of any size are welcome to join you for your stay. There is an additional and non-refundable pet fee, which is $25 per night with a maximum of $75 per stay.

Free wifi, breakfast, parking, and more are just a few of this hotel’s amenities. Just make sure to book your room in advance so you’re guaranteed a pet-friendly room when you show up.

4. Cabin at Autumn Dancer Llama Farm

For something a little different, you can stay at the Cabin at Autumn Dancer Llama Farm. This is a 3-bedroom vacation rental located in Parrottsville. You are permitted to bring up to five dogs of any size and there is no additional pet fee!

In addition to a full-feature cabin that is a home away from home with a fantastic mountain view, there is also a ½-acre backyard that is fenced so your dogs have plenty of room to run. If this is where you want to stay, book your reservation early and make sure your dog is flea and tick-free before entering the cabin.

5. Hampton Inn Pigeon Forge

If you’re planning to stay overnight in Pigeon Forge, consider reserving a room at the Hampton Inn Pigeon Forge. This hotel is located near several popular Pigeon Forge attractions including Dollywood.

This hotel offers some dog-friendly rooms where up to two dogs, up to 75 pounds are welcome to join you for your stay. There is an additional pet fee, which is $75 for 1-4 night stays and $125 for stays longer than that.

6. Virgin Hotels Nashville

If you’ll be planning to stay overnight in Nashville, consider booking a room at Virgin Hotels Nashville. Not only is this hotel located in a prime downtown location that puts you within walking distance of tons of cool stuff, but it also has dog-friendly rooms available.

At this hotel, up to two dogs of any size are welcome to join you for your stay. There is no additional pet fee and depending on availability, there are also dog beds, food bowls, and doggie Virgin Hotel bandanas.

7. The Mallard Hotel

Should your travels bring you near Copperhill and you’ll need to stay overnight, look into reserving a room at The Mallard Hotel. Located right off Highway 68 on Five Points Dr, this hotel is easy to find and offers views of the Blue Ridge Mountain Range from every room along with carefully curated design details inside the rooms.

It also puts you within easy reach of several outdoor adventures and shopping only a quick drive away. Plus, this hotel offers dog-friendly rooms. You have to call before booking to check availability and ensure you have a dog-friendly room reserved, but dogs of any size are welcome to join you for your stay. And, there is no additional pet fee.

7 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Tennessee

Even if you bring your own, stopping for food and breaks will definitely be a part of your travels. Gas stations, convenience stores, and fast food can get tiring. Besides, why not try some local flavor while you’re exploring a new town? Try one of these dog-friendly restaurants in Tennessee to get a taste of something new in a place where both you and your dog will be welcome:

1. Joshua’s Pet Treat Bakery

Although you won’t find a snack for yourself here, Joshua’s Pet Treat Bakery is a must-stop if you travel near Crossville. This bakery features homemade, low-fat, and all-natural dog treats in a variety of flavors.

Treats are available in flavors like peanut butter, bacon, sweet potato, and more. Plus, your dog is welcome to join you while you shop as long as they are leashed.

2. Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro

Whether you’re staying at the Dancing Bear Lodge or just passing through Townsend during mealtimes, the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro is a good stop.

This farm-to-table restaurant offers a varied menu featuring fresh, local ingredients and regionally-inspired dishes. The patio seating is dog-friendly, so your dog is welcome to join you in the outdoor seating area.

3. Hair of the Dog Pub

The Hair of the Dog Pub is located in Chattanooga. Along with a great selection of booze and brews, this restaurant also features a menu of British-inspired pub fare. From Knight sliders to beer cheese soup and other delicious options, there is something on this menu for everyone. Plus, dogs are welcome to join you on the patio.

4. Maddog’s Creamery & Donuts

This dog-friendly gem has two locations – one in Pigeon Forge and one in Gatlinburg. Maddog’s Creamery & Donuts is an ice cream and donut shop that serves 24 flavors of ice cream and several other dessert options, including donuts and funnel cake. Plus, your dog is welcome to join you and there are even doggie donut treats and a selection of dog toys available!

5. Sugarlands Distilling Company

There is no food at this stop, but if you enjoy spirits and you’re in Gatlinburg, consider stopping by Sugarlands Distilling Company. This industrial moonshine maker offers numerous spirits, including moonshine, whiskey, and more, a preset tasting menu that changes every day as well as indoor and outdoor tours.

Make sure you try some of their twists on classics like root beer! There are also often live music events. You can also just kick back, relax, and have a drink. Plus, the entire venue is dog-friendly. Your dog is welcome to join you inside or outside on the patio.

6. Frothy Monkey

If you are a foodie and a coffee lover, Frothy Monkey is the stop for you. This all-day cafe has a few locations in Tennessee and is a local favorite for its specialty lattes, all-around good coffee, and delicious food in every one.

They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with seasonal menus. Plus, they have a spacious patio that is dog-friendly. Tennessee locations include Franklin, Chattanooga, Knoxville, and four Nashville locations.

If you’re in Nashville, you can find a Frothy Monkey at 12South on 12 Ave S, Downtown on Rep John Lewis Way N, The Nations on 51st Ave N, and East Nashville on Fatherland St. The 12South location is the original.

7. Maple Street Biscuit Company

Should your travels bring you into Chattanooga around breakfast or lunch, check out the Maple Street Biscuit Company. This local favorite is known for its delicious biscuits and waffles available with a variety of toppings, breakfast tacos, brunch bowls, beverage menu, as well as yummy sides.

This place is known for comfort food with a twist and “biscuits that wow”. Plus, your dog is welcome to join you out on the covered patio. You can even order something for them from the special dog menu!

In addition to this Broad Street location in Chattanooga, Maple Street has another Chattanooga location, as well as locations in Knoxville, Johnson City, Murfreesboro, and Nashville, and locations in Georgia, Alabama, Ohio, Texas, Florida, North and South Carolina, Kentucky, and Virginia.

Plan a Dog-Friendly Trip to Tennessee

With this Tennessee dog-friendly travel guide, you’re one step closer to a trip that both you and your dog will love. Although this guide is a good start, it certainly doesn’t cover everything. If you find something else you want to do, make sure it’s dog-friendly or that you have a plan for your dog before it goes on your trip plan.

If you’re traveling somewhere else, check out the other dog-friendly travel guides available to help you plan your trip. Here’s to safe travels, happy trails, and wagging tails no matter where your adventures take you!