Local Tips

The 8 Most Dog-Friendly Cities in America

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Find the Perfect Assignment for You and Your Pup

Dogs are a person's best friend, and many cities in America recognize the importance of creating a pleasant environment for both you and your pup. Finding a town that caters to your furry friends is essential for travel nurses and allied clinicians with pets. You have lots of options for your next assignment, and we're here to help you find the perfect fit.   
 

Keep reading to explore some of the most dog-friendly cities in America - Whether it's dog parks, pet-friendly cafes, or off-leash areas, these cities have it all! 

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is often referred to as the Emerald City for a good reason! Over 14,000 acres of parkland make this city a haven for two and four-legged travelers. Many of the city's parks allow dogs to roam freely off-leash, including:  

 

  • Magnuson Park Off-Leash Area  
  • Grandview Off-Leash Area  
  • Woodland Off-Leash Dog Park  
  • Marymoor Dog Park (aka Doggy Disneyland)

 

Seattle Travel Nurse & Allied Jobs
Dog overlooking water

San Francisco, California

San Fran boasts over 220 parks, including the famous Golden Gate Park, which features miles of trails for dogs and their owners to explore. Some of The Golden City's many dog-friendly attractions include:  

 

  • Golden Gate Park  
  • Fort Funston  
  • Lands End  
  • Baker Beach  
San Francisco Travel Nurse & Allied Jobs
Dogs on beach in front of golden gate bridge

Portland, Oregon

Portland is known for its craft breweries, lush hiking spots, and world-renowned restaurants, but it's also considered one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country. There are over 30 dog parks in the Portland-Metro area, including the famous Thousand Acre Dog Park. Some of the most dog-friendly attractions in The Rose City include:  

 

  • Sellwood Riverfront Park 
  • Mt. Tabor 
  • Angel’s Rest 
  • Forest Park 
Portland Travel Nurse & Allied Jobs
Woman and her dog

Austin, Texas

Austin is a city known for its lively music scene but is also an excellent destination for dogs. The city has over 20 off-leash dog parks, including the popular Zilker Metropolitan Park. Some of Austin's best dog-friendly locations include:  

 

  • Red Bud Isle  
  • Dog House Drinkery  
  • Neighbors Dog Park  
  • The Buzz Mill  
Austin Travel Nurse & Allied Jobs
Dog in front of Austin skyline

Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City has something for everyone, including dogs! Chicago offers a range of activities and amenities specifically designed to cater to dogs and their owners. Some dog-friendly attractions in Chicago include:  

 

  • Montrose Dog Beach  
  • Logan Square Farmers Market  
  • Midwest Coast Brewing  
  • Morton Arboretum  
Chicago Travel Nurse & Allied Jobs
Dog sitting in front of Chicago skyline

New York, New York

New York City may be known for its fast-paced lifestyle, but that doesn't mean it's not a great dog-friendly destination. The city has over 50 dog parks, including the famous Central Park. Some activities for NYC dogs include:  

 

  • The Wilson  
  • Tompkins Square Dog Run  
  • Boris & Horton  
  • Prospect Park Dog Beach
NYC Travel Nurse & Allied Jobs
Dogs with NYC skyline behind

Denver, Colorado

Denver is a dog-loving city, and it shows! You can expect a welcoming and accommodating environment for your pup in the city with over 20 off-leash dog parks. A few of the best activities to do with your dog in Denver include:  

 

  • Berkeley Lake Dog Park  
  • Cherry Creek State Park  
  • Washington Park  
  • The Watering Bowl  
Denver Travel Nurse & Allied Jobs
Woman and dog hiking in denver

San Diego, California

Known for its sunny weather and stunning beaches, San Diego is also a dog haven! The city has over 20 off-leash dog parks with many additional activities you can do with your dog, including:  

 

  • Dog Run Beach  
  • Balboa Park  
  • Rooftop Cinema Club  
  • SUP Pups
San Diego Travel Nurse & Allied Jobs
Dog on the beach

From off-leash dog parks and hiking trails to pet-friendly restaurants, there are plenty of dog-friendly cities to take advantage of for your next travel nurse or allied health assignment. If this is your first time traveling with your pup, check out our 10 Tips for Traveling With Your Dog! 

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Since 2006, FlexCare Medical Staffing has become a nationwide leader in travel nursing, allied health, therapy, and LVN / LPN staffing services for top healthcare facilities. With office locations in Roseville, California and Charlotte, North Carolina, FlexCare is committed to creating a transparent environment that prioritizes clinician experience. As a result, industry authorities like BluePipes, Staffing Industry Analysts, and Travel Nursing Central continually recognize FlexCare as a top healthcare staffing company.