A hotel may say it is "pet-friendly", but it does not mean the same thing everywhere. Some hotels simply allow pets in designated rooms while others design the guest experience around four‑legged travelers. Pet fees, weight limits, breed restrictions, and the number of pets vary. Rules about leaving pets unattended can vary significantly from one property to another. Within the same hotel chain, individual properties may have different pet policies.

The good news is that pet-friendly places are becoming easier to find across the United States. From budget roadside hotels to fancy city hotels and vacation spots, travelers have more options than ever in 2026.

If you are planning a trip with your four‑legged companion in 2026, this guide shows you some of the interesting pet‑friendly hotel options across the US. Since hotel rules can change, people are advised to check policies with the hotel before making a reservation.

What Makes a Hotel Pet-Friendly?

Before picking a hotel, it helps to know the difference between a place that just allows pets and one that truly supports them.

A basic pet-friendly hotel might have a room for animals and charge extra. A better option offers more than just space. These hotels often include beds, food bowls, treats, and even walking trails. They may also provide areas where pets can relieve themselves. Some go further by offering dog parks, pet menus, or easy access to beaches or parks.

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a pet-friendly hotel:

• Pet fees: Find out if the extra cost is charged each night or only once per stay.
• Weight restrictions: Some hotels have weight, breed, or pet-type restrictions, so check the policy carefully before booking.
• Number of pets: Rules might limit you to one or two animals per guest.
• Type: Some hotels accept both cats and dogs. Others only welcome dogs.
• Room restrictions: Pets may only be permitted in designated rooms, floors, or areas of the property.
• Unattended-pet rules: Some require pets to stay in crates. Others don’t allow pets to be left alone.
• Outdoor access: Nearby parks, trails, beaches, and green spaces can make travel much easier for pets and owners.
• Pet amenities: Look for items like beds, water bowls, snacks, toys, waste bags, and food choices. These small details really add up.

Note: Policies change often. Always confirm the rules with the hotel directly before making a reservation.

10 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels Across the US 

The following hotels and hotel brands stand out for their pet-friendly policies, amenities, locations, and overall convenience. Because policies can vary by property, travelers should review the specific hotel's current rules before booking.

1. Loews Hotels - Best for Pet-Friendly Luxury

Loews Hotels & Resorts stands out for its dedicated Loews Loves Pets program.

The program works on the idea that pets are part of the family. Participating properties give treats, bowls, placemats, pet beds, leashes, collars, litter boxes, dog‑walking tips, and pet‑sitting help. Some hotels even serve gourmet in‑room meals for dogs and cats.

Loews Hotels lists pet‑friendly destinations such as New York City, Miami Beach, New Orleans, Hollywood, Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nashville, Tucson, and many Orlando resort locations.

One important point is that fees and restrictions differ for each property. Loews generally allows a maximum of two pets per room, although specific restrictions and fees may vary by property. Guests may also be asked to provide current vaccination records.

Best for: Luxury vacations, city breaks, and travelers who want plenty of amenities.

2. Virgin Hotels - Upscale Option With Free Pet Stays

Virgin Hotels is a good choice for travelers who want an upscale stay but do not want to pay a pet fee at participating properties. 

“Virgin Hotels' V.I.P(ets) program offers free pet stays at participating properties, with no size or breed restrictions under the program. Pet-friendly rooms at Virgin Hotels can include a dog bed, food and water dishes, treats, and a Virgin Hotels bandana.

Participating US destinations include cities such as Dallas, Nashville, New Orleans, and Chicago.

Because the program applies to participating Virgin Hotels, it is best to confirm the current policy at the specific Virgin Hotels location before booking.

Best for: city trips, larger dogs, and travelers who want free pet stays at Virgin Hotels.

3. Red Roof Inn - Best Budget Choice

Red Roof Inn is one of the choices for travelers who want to keep pet-related costs low.

The Red Roof Policy says that Red Roof Inn and Red Roof PLUS+ hotels allow you to bring up to two well‑behaved domestic pets into a guestroom. Each pet must weigh no more than eighty pounds. The first pet stays free of charge. For the second pet, there is a $15 per night charge.

The brand also has practical rules that travelers should know. Pets must be declared at check-in, cannot normally be left unattended, and must be leashed or be in a carrier when outside the guestroom. Pets aren't permitted in areas such as restaurants, fitness centers, and pool areas. 

Best for: Road trips, budget travel, and travelers with one dog or cat.

4. Kimpton Hotels - Best Pet-Friendly Hotel Brand

If you are traveling with a pet and need a dependable pet-friendly stay in many US Cities, Kimpton is one of the best options.

Kimpton has earned a reputation for treating pets as hotel guests, not just letting them stay. In 2026, travel reports that Kimpton remained listed as one of the pet-friendly hotel brands, mainly because its properties usually accept pets without size restrictions or pet fees. Although, travelers should confirm the policy at their chosen hotel. 

Kimpton hotels often give beds, water bowls, treats, mats, and waste bags. Kimpton concierges can also point you to dog parks, friendly restaurants, groomers, and boutiques near the hotel.

One of Kimpton's advantages is its broad pet-friendly program across many destinations, giving travelers a familiar starting point when planning a trip with a pet. Whether you are planning a city break, a road trip, or a weekend getaway, Kimpton offers owners a familiar starting point.

Best for: Dogs of all sizes, travelers who desire lodging, and people who want simple pet-fee policies.

5. Paséa Hotel & Spa - Best Beachfront Stay for Dogs

If you want a coastal vacation, Paséa Hotel & Spa in Huntington Beach, California stands out as one of the best pet-friendly places in 2026.

The Paw-séa program does more than just allow dogs. The hotel has an outdoor dog park that is about 1,100 square feet, and it also offers a dog-focused room-service menu.

The Huntington Beach location is another advantage for Paséa Hotel & Spa. Guests can walk along the coast. Do outdoor activities, and the hotel gives special amenities for pets.

If you want a vacation that's fun for both people and dogs, Paséa Hotel & Spa is especially appealing.

Best for: Beach vacations, active dogs, and travelers looking for pet amenities.

6. Arizona Biltmore - Best Luxury Resort Experience

The Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix combines luxury with a pet-friendly approach.

The Arizona Biltmore welcomes up to two dogs per room. Gives dogs beds, bowls, and treats. The big grounds and close walking paths are great for guests who want their dogs to run around or stay inside all the time. The concierge can arrange pet‑sitting if needed.

The desert setting makes the Arizona Biltmore especially appealing in the cooler months, but pet owners must check Phoenix temperatures before planning long outdoor walks. For each pet, there is a one‑time $150 non‑refundable service fee.

Best for: Luxury resort stays, couples or families traveling with dogs, and travelers who value outdoor space.

 7. Regent Santa Monica Beach - Best for a Luxury California Escape

Santa Monica is an ideal destination for pet owners who want a combination of luxury, ocean views, and outdoor recreation.

Regent Santa Monica Beach welcomes dogs of any size. Pet amenities can include plush beds, designer bowls, and custom bandanas. Remember that the pet fees are included in the resort fee, which is USD 90. 

The hotel's beachside setting makes it especially attractive to travelers who want easy access to walking routes and the Southern California coastline.

Best for: Luxury beach vacations and travelers with larger dogs.

8. The Foundry Hotel - Best for Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina, is a place for people who love the outdoors and have pets. The nearby mountains, paths, green spaces, and a downtown area that is easy to walk offer many chances to bring a dog along on a trip. There is a fee of 75 dollars for each pet per stay, and the hotel offers pet-friendly amenities designed to make stays more comfortable for guests traveling with animals. 

The Foundry Hotel, which is part of Hilton's Curio Collection, was one of the options for pet-friendly hotels. It has a unique style, which makes it a good choice instead of regular chain hotels, especially for people who are planning to stay for a few days and want to enjoy Asheville's food, its culture, and the nature around it.

Best for: Trips into the mountains, couples, and people who want unique places to stay.

9. Four Seasons Resort Maui - Best for an Island Vacation

For travelers going to Hawaii, leaving a pet behind can be hard because the distance is so big. Four Seasons Resort Maui gives a choice for people who have small pets. Dogs and cats are allowed, but can't be left alone in the rooms. The resort provides beds, bowls, and treats for both dogs and cats. There are spots around the property, and the resort sits right on the beach.

Current 2026 information indicates that the resort permits up to two pets without a pet fee, subject to its current pet policy.

Note: Hawaii has specific animal-entry requirements. Travelers should review the state's current requirements well in advance and complete all required veterinary procedures and documentation before departure.

Best for: Small pets, luxury travelers, and special-occasion vacations.

10. Motel 6 - Best Budget Option

Not every trip with a pet has to mean staying at a resort. 

For people who love road trips or are watching their budget, Motel 6 is the best option. Many Motel 6 locations welcome pets without an additional fee, although individual property policies may vary. Now, you can find places that welcome up to two pets as long as they follow certain rules.

It’s not the same as a five-star hotel experience. When you’re driving through several states with your pet, being able to stay without paying more for your dog or cat matters a lot.

Best for: Road trips, overnight stops, and budget travelers.

Note: Pet fees, size limits, breed restrictions, and available amenities can vary by property, even within the same hotel brand. Always confirm the current policy with the individual hotel before booking.

Pet-Friendly Hotels by Travel Style

Choosing the hotel isn't only about the property. The right choice depends on the type of vacation you're planning.

• For beach vacations

Consider Paséa Hotel & Spa in Huntington Beach or Regent Santa Monica Beach. Both combine destinations with dedicated pet amenities. Their coastal locations can make it easier to combine hotel stays with walks and outdoor activities. You can walk along the sand together, relax by the pool, and feel like home when you are away. 

• For city breaks

Kimpton properties and Virgin Hotels are places to start. Their urban locations allow pet owners to enjoy restaurants, shopping, parks, and cultural attractions without choosing accommodation outside the city center. You do not have to sacrifice your pet’s comfort to see the sights. Many of these hotels welcome pets with dedicated amenities such as beds, bowls, and treats.

• For road trips

Motel 6, Wingate by Wyndham, and other roadside-oriented properties can be practical because they prioritize accessibility and convenience. These hotels are often located close to highways and offer reliable service. They may not have all the luxury features. They make staying with pets easy. You can pull into the parking lot, walk your dog, and get a night’s rest without long detours.

• For luxury travel

Arizona Biltmore, Four Seasons Resort Maui, Regent Santa Monica Beach, and select boutique hotels offer higher‑end experiences where pets are treated as part of the stay. These places go above and beyond to make pets feel special. Think pet suites, gourmet meals, and even spa services for pets. The attention to detail makes every moment of your trip feel more memorable.

• For outdoor adventures

Look for properties close to hiking trails, beaches, parks, or large green spaces. A beautiful room matters less if your dog has convenient exercise. You want a hotel that supports your lifestyle. Choose a place where your pet can run, play, and explore. This way, your adventure stays fun and full of energy, not just for you but for your four-legged companion too.

How Much Do Pet-Friendly Hotels Cost?

Pet fees vary across the United States. Some places do not charge any fees while others may add a nightly pet fee or a one-time cleaning fee. Pet fees can range from no additional charge to substantial nightly or one-time fees, depending on the hotel and property.

When comparing prices, don't look only at the advertised room rate. Calculate the total cost of the stay, including:

• Pet fees
• Resort fees
• Parking
• Taxes
• Cleaning charges
• Additional pet deposits
• Extra charges for multiple animals

Note: A room that costs more can sometimes be a better deal if it has no pet fee. 

Tips for Booking a Pet-Friendly Hotel in 2026

• Confirm the pet policy before paying

Check the pet policy before making a payment. Do not assume that a hotel’s overall brand policy applies to every location. Each property may have its set of rules and restrictions.

• Ask about size and breed restrictions

This is especially important if you are traveling with a dog. Some hotels only allow medium-sized pets. Make sure your pet fits within the guidelines.

• Ask whether pets can be left alone

Rules about leaving pets unattended vary widely. Some hotels say pets cannot be left alone at any time. Other hotels let pets be left alone only if certain rules are followed. It is important to read the policy carefully.

• Look for pet-friendly amenities

When choosing a hotel, think about nearby parks, walking trails, and pet-friendly restaurants. These features can make your stay more enjoyable for both you and your pet.

• Request a pet-friendly room

Even if a hotel allows pets, not all rooms are suitable. Some rooms may not be designated for animals. Be sure to ask for a friendly room when booking.

• Research the neighborhood

A hotel may say it is pet-friendly, but that does not mean the area around it is convenient for pets. Look for green spaces, walking paths, and veterinary services. A good location adds to the comfort of your trip.

• Pack Your Pet’s Essentials

Bring your pet’s regular food, any needed medications, leash, bowls, favorite toy, waste bags, and bedding. Familiar scents and objects can help your pet feel more at ease in a new environment.

• Respect the Hotel’s Pet Rules 

Keep your pet off furniture if they are not used to it. Never leave food out where pets can access it. Good behavior helps ensure that friendly hotels will continue to welcome pets in the future.

The Bottom Line 

The pet‑friendly hotels in the United States in 2026 are moving beyond the idea that pets are simply tolerated. The strongest pet‑friendly hotels make animals part of the guest experience, offering amenities, convenient outdoor access, thoughtful service, and sometimes memorable extras such as dog parks and dedicated menus.

For an all-around brand, Kimpton remains one of the easiest choices because of its broad pet-friendly approach and generally favorable fee structure. For an experience, I have seen that Paséa Hotel & Spa stands out for its dedicated dog facilities. Budget travelers and road trippers can look toward properties such as Motel 6 and participating Wingate by Wyndham locations.

With pet‑friendly hotels embracing genuine pet hospitality, 2026 is an excellent year to make your next American vacation a trip the entire family, including the four‑legged members, can enjoy.