10 Dog-Friendly Christmas Towns for a Holiday Getaway

Want to spend Christmas somewhere festive without dealing with the crowds of a big city? Pack your bags, grab your pup, and head to one of these charming dog-friendly Christmas towns!

You don’t have to leave your four-legged family member behind to enjoy Christmas lights, holiday festivals, decorated downtowns, and seasonal shopping. Across the country, you’ll find smaller towns that welcome dogs at outdoor events, in select shops, and at pet-friendly hotels.

Some towns go all out with millions of Christmas lights, while others offer historic streets, traditional holiday markets, horse-drawn carriage rides, or cozy mountain scenery. You can even find places where your pup can join you for holiday shopping or pose for a photo with Santa.

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The best part? You can enjoy the Christmas spirit without spending your entire vacation navigating big-city crowds.

Here are 10 dog-friendly Christmas towns worth considering for your next holiday getaway, along with things to do with your pup and pet-friendly places to stay.

1. Solvang, California

If you’ve ever wanted to experience a little Danish Christmas charm without traveling to Europe, Solvang, California, is a great place to start.

This picturesque town is known for its Danish-inspired architecture, windmills, specialty shops, and European atmosphere. While you’re unlikely to find snow-covered streets or freezing temperatures here, Solvang makes up for it with festive decorations, seasonal treats, and plenty of holiday cheer.

Solvang is also known for being welcoming to dogs throughout the year, with dog-friendly businesses and even dog water fountains around town. That makes it a fun destination for a Christmas getaway with your canine travel companion.

Things to Do with Your Dog in Solvang

Enjoy Solvang Julefest. Solvang celebrates the holiday season with Julefest, a festival featuring seasonal music, holiday shopping, food, and other festive activities. Depending on the event, your pup may even be able to join you for a holiday photo with Santa. Check the current schedule before planning your visit.

Take a horse-drawn trolley tour. The Solvang Trolley & Carriage Co., known for its replica streetcar called the Honen, offers a charming way to see downtown. The roughly 25-minute tour features local history, Danish folk tales, and highlights of the town.

Stroll along Copenhagen Drive. This is a great place to admire the decorations, browse specialty shops, and snap a photo near the famous windmill at Hamlet Square. Many businesses in town welcome dogs, although individual shop policies vary.

Where to Stay in Solvang with Your Dog

Royal Copenhagen Inn

Located in the heart of Solvang, this hotel has Danish-inspired architecture and puts you within walking distance of shops and restaurants. The property has also offered a special enclosed area called the Secret Garden, where four-legged guests can stretch their legs and take a bathroom break.

The pet fee is $25 per pet, per night, with a maximum of two pets per room.

The Landsby

Bring your four-legged friend to this pet-friendly hotel in Solvang. The exclusive Stay & Play Package ensures your pup feels just as pampered as you do. Your pup will get Dog Treats, Bone Baggie Holder & Bags and a bowl upon request.

The Landsby welcomes a maximum of 2 dogs of any size for an additional fee of $100 per stay (Stay & Play Fee).

Pro Tip: Always call the hotel where you are planning to stay to verify the pet policy. Sometimes changes don’t make it to the website.

2. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket may be best known for its historic homes, beaches, and maritime heritage, but Christmas is another wonderful time to visit.

The island’s Christmas Stroll began in 1973, when local merchants organized a holiday shopping event to encourage residents to shop locally rather than head to Cape Cod. It has since become a beloved annual tradition, with decorated streets, festive storefronts, holiday music, and seasonal events.

If you love historic towns and holiday shopping, Nantucket offers a different kind of Christmas getaway. Just remember that winter weather can be unpredictable, so pack warm layers for you and your pup.

Things to Do with Your Dog in Nantucket

Go Christmas shopping downtown. Several shops welcome four-legged customers, making it possible to browse for holiday gifts with your pup. The Black Dog General Store, Vineyard Vines, and Cold Noses are among the businesses that welcome pups. Be sure to verify that a store is pet friendly before you enter.

Explore the historic district. During the Christmas Stroll, the downtown streets fill with decorated Christmas trees, carolers, and festive storefront displays. Dogs can enjoy the outdoor atmosphere with you, provided they’re comfortable around crowds.

Watch a holiday performance. Outdoor stages host holiday concerts and carolers during the festivities. One of the signature traditions is the Town Crier announcing the Christmas Stroll, followed by Santa arriving by boat at Straight Wharf with the U.S. Coast Guard.

 Good to Know: For the 2026 season, the Christmas Stroll is scheduled for December 4–6, with Santa’s arrival listed for noon on Saturday, December 5. Check the official event schedule for other events.

Where to Stay in Nantucket with Your Dog

Brass Lantern Inn

This inn offers dog-friendly accommodations with a pet bed, food and water bowls, and a beach towel for your pup. The front desk will provide you with information about pet-friendly restaurants and places to visit around Nantucket.

Brass Lantern Inn allows 2 dogs up to 65 lbs. in designated rooms for an additional fee of $50 per pet, per night. Unfortunately, certain large breeds are not welcome. Be sure to call ahead to verify their pet policy.

Nantucket Resort Collection

This collection of accommodations puts you close to beaches, restaurants, shops, and the island’s historic downtown.

Your pup will be greeted with Pet beds, feeding bowls, squeak toys, yummy treats, and waste bags. They allow 2 dogs of any size for an additional fee of $50 per pet, per night.

3. Frankenmuth, Michigan

Frankenmuth brings a little Bavarian charm to Christmas in Michigan.

German settlers founded the community in 1845, and the town has preserved many of its Bavarian traditions through its architecture, food, shopping, and holiday celebrations. With festive storefronts and Christmas-themed attractions, it’s an appealing destination for anyone who loves traditional Christmas decorations.

Things to Do with Your Dog in Frankenmuth

Shop at Frankenmuth River Place Shops. Pick up a map of pet-friendly stores and spend some time browsing the Bavarian-style shopping village. Hello Cats & Dogs is a must stop for your pup to fill up on toys and treats.

See the lights along Christmas Lane. Pets aren’t permitted inside Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, the famous Christmas store. However, you can take a drive with your pup along Christmas Lane to see more than 100,000 lights, animated decorations, and nativity scenes. It’s a good alternative if your dog needs to stay with you while you enjoy the holiday displays.

Ride the Golden Ticket Trolley. If you’d rather leave the driving to someone else, look into a holiday trolley ride. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on this tour. They do limit it to small dogs.  

Stop at Sugar High Bakery. This bakery offers human treats as well as dog bones. Proceeds from dog-treat purchases benefit local animal rescues, making it a fun stop for a little holiday indulgence.

Where to Stay in Frankenmuth with Your Dog

Drury Inn & Suites Frankenmuth

This hotel is a convenient option for exploring Frankenmuth’s shopping and Christmas attractions.

They welcome two pets with a combined weight of 80 pounds and a pet fee of $50 plus tax per night. Pets must be leashed in common areas and cannot be left unattended in the room. A pet relief area with waste bags is available on the property.

If you’d prefer more space, you can also look into pet-friendly vacation rentals in and around Frankenmuth.

4. Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Eureka Springs is a charming Victorian town in the Ozarks, and it gets especially festive during the Christmas season. The historic downtown is known for its winding streets, unique shops, and preserved architecture. During the holidays, decorations and twinkling lights add even more character to the town.

The Christmas festivities begin around Small Business Saturday and continue through New Year’s Day. That gives you plenty of opportunities to plan a holiday visit with your pup.

Things to Do with Your Dog in Eureka Springs

Visit Basin Spring Park. Take a walk through the park to see the Christmas decorations and Christmas tree. If you’re visiting around the tree-lighting celebration, check the current date and event schedule before you go.

Take a photo with Santa. Santa has offered photo opportunities with children and pets on Saturdays in December. Confirm the current dates and whether advance reservations are required.

Drive through the Christmas Tree Forest. The Great Passion Play’s Christmas Tree Forest has featured more than 150 illuminated trees along the route to the Christ of the Ozarks statue. In 2026 it will be open Thursdays through Sundays, November 26 through January 2.

Where to Stay in Eureka Springs with Your Dog

The 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa

This historic hotel is known for its Victorian character and grounds. During its Christmas celebration, the East Lawn has featured a forest of decorated trees, while the Fountain Garden becomes a festive winter display.

They welcome two pets of any size for an additional fee of $35 per pet, per night. Both dogs and cats are allowed, and well-behaved pets may be left unattended in rooms. Treats are available for sale at the front desk. There is a grassy area for pet relief on the property, and a dog park less than a mile away.

Best Western Inn of the Ozarks

Set on approximately 30 wooded acres in the Ozark Mountain region, this property offers a quieter setting for your stay.

They welcome four dogs up to 80 lbs. for an additional fee of $20 per pet, per night. There is a pet relief area with waste station on the property.

5. Nashville, Indiana

Nashville, Indiana, is a small arts community in Brown County that’s known for its shops, live music, and beautiful fall foliage. When Christmas arrives, the town takes on a different kind of charm, with decorated storefronts, festive lights, and holiday events.

If you enjoy browsing local shops and exploring walkable downtowns, Nashville can be a relaxed alternative to a large holiday destination.

Things to Do with Your Dog in Nashville

Shop along Van Buren Street. Browse the downtown shops for gifts and seasonal finds. You’ll find pet-friendly shops including JB Goods for gifts and Bone Appetit Bakery for dog treats, making it easy to include your pup in the shopping trip.

Enjoy a wine tasting. Brown County Winery will be all decked out for Christmas and offers wine tastings daily. They welcome pups in the winery or on the deck or grounds outside of the winery. 

Stop at the visitor center. The Brown County Indiana Visitor Center is where you can find out what’s happening in town during your visit. Your pup will be greeted with yummy treats and a bowl of water.

Take a winter hike. Brown County State Park offers opportunities to get outside and explore the area’s wooded scenery. They offer guided winter hikes where your leashed dog is welcome to come along. The park is nicknamed the “Little Smokies” because of the area’s resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Where to Stay in Nashville with Your Dog

Lil Black Bear Inn

This cozy inn offers a relaxing place to unwind after a day of exploring. Guest rooms have featured gas fireplaces, and breakfast is included according to the original guide.

Their pet policy allows two pets of any size in designated rooms, with a fee of $30 per pet, per night. The property has grassy areas for pet relief and has offered treats at the front desk.

6. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Christmas in the Smoky Mountains is magical and sharing it with your dog makes it even better. Winterfest is Sevier County’s annual holiday light display, featuring over 5 million lights spread across Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. It runs from November through February, making it one of the longest holiday celebrations in the Southeast.

Things to Do with Your Dog in Pigeon Forge

Enjoy a Driving Light Tour. There are quite a few driving tours throughout the area and of course your dog can come along as you listen to Christmas music and enjoy the lights.

Visit the Island. The Island is a 23-acre amusement park with restaurants and shopping. For Winterfest it will have lots of lights, a Christmas tree and visits from Santa for photo ops. This free event at The Island runs from November 21, 2026, through January 31, 2027. Leashed dogs are welcome in outdoor areas. Many of the businesses allow your pup to come inside with you but ask first as some don’t allow pets. Be sure to stop in Build-A-Bear workshop where your pup can pick out their own stuffed animal.

Explore the Shops at Lumberjack Square. This outdoor shopping area has shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Pets are permitted in outdoor areas and some stores, making it a nice place to stroll with your dog while enjoying the lights.

Check out the Mountain Mile. This open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment destination offers green spaces and outdoor areas where leashed dogs are welcome. Some shops and restaurants with outdoor seating also accommodate pets.

Good to Know: Although many stores and restaurants are dog friendly here, the one place you will probably want to go, The Christmas Place store, is not dog friendly. So, plan ahead for care for your dog if you plan to shop here.

Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge with Your Dog

Twin Mountain Inn & Suites

This property sits along the Pigeon River and offers balconies or patios overlooking the water. It’s conveniently located for exploring town and visiting nearby attractions.

They allow two pets up to 80 pounds, with a fee of $20 per pet, per night.

Hilton Garden Inn Pigeon Forge

This hotel is located near the Great Smoky Mountains Parkway, within a few miles of Dollywood and Dolly Parton’s Stampede. The Island is also nearby.

Hilton Garden Inn Pigeon Forge welcomes 2 pets with a combined weight up to 75 lbs. for an additional fee of $75.

7. Telluride, Colorado

If your idea of a perfect Christmas includes snow-covered mountains and a traditional alpine atmosphere, Telluride deserves a spot on your list. This historic mining town sits in the Rocky Mountains and offers spectacular winter scenery.

Between the gondola, decorated downtown, and Christmas Eve traditions, Telluride makes a memorable winter getaway for travelers who enjoy snowy mountain towns. Be sure to pack your dog’s cold weather gear.

Things to Do with Your Dog in Telluride

Take a gondola ride. The Telluride Gondola provides transportation between Telluride and Mountain Village. Telluride Gondola allows pups to ride the gondola right beside you up to Mountain Village where you can walk around the shops or do a short hike in the snow.

Stroll Along Main Street. The Christmas decorations will put you in the mood for shopping and many of the stores will welcome your pup including The North Face and Patagonia.

Go to the Christmas Parade. On December 24, bundle up and bring your pup to the Telluride Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade. Telluride Ski Resort employees ski down the mountain with bright torches, lighting up the mountainside. The spectacle is viewable from downtown.

Where to Stay in Telluride with Your Dog

The Hotel Telluride

The Hotel Telluride is situated in the historic mining town and majestic mountains a short walk from all of the excitement and activities of the town and mountain. Your pup will be pampered with treats, bowls and a bed upon arrival.

They allow 2 dogs of any size for an additional fee of $25 per pet, per night. Dogs may be left in the room unattended if a ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign is placed on the door. There is a grassy pet relief area on the property. Sorry, no cats.

Camel’s Garden Hotel

Ideally located steps from Telluride’s Gondola, ski resort access lifts, restaurants, shopping, San Miguel River, and your favorite mountain adventures.

They welcome two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $50 per pet, per stay.  There is a plaza next to the hotel and a river trail behind the hotel for dog relief. Sorry, cats are not allowed.

8. St. Augustine, Florida

For a Christmas getaway without the need for heavy winter coats, consider St. Augustine, Florida. The milder Florida weather can make outdoor sightseeing more comfortable for dogs who aren’t fans of snow and freezing temperatures.

Known as the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine celebrates the holiday season with a spectacular display of lights throughout its historic district. The city’s Nights of Lights event illuminates historic buildings, streets, and waterfront areas, creating a festive atmosphere that’s especially beautiful after dark.

Things to Do with Your Dog in St. Augustine

Enjoy Nights of Lights. The historic district glows with millions of lights during this annual celebration. The 2026–2027 season is November 21, 2026, through January 18, 2027. Walk through the historic streets or across the Bridge of Lions to see the decorations. Keep your pup leashed and be prepared for crowds, particularly on busy weekends.

Take a trolley tour. A dog-friendly Red Train Trolley Tour is another way to see the displays and explore the city. Check current pet policies and ticket requirements before booking.

Watch the Holiday Regatta of Lights. Experience this annual holiday parade, hosted by the St. Augustine Yacht Club on Dec. 12th.  The boats will be decorated with brilliant lighted displays beginning at 6 p.m. The boats will light up St. Augustine’s Matanzas Bay between the Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos.

 Where to Stay in St. Augustine With Your Dog

Bayfront Marin House

Bayfront Marin House, located in the heart of the bayfront historic district, will be decorated for the season and will fill Fido’s dreams with visions of sugarplums.

Bayfront Marin House welcomes two pets up to 75 lbs. in designated rooms for an additional fee of $35 per pet, per night. Treats are available and there are grassy pet relief areas on the property.

The Saint Augustine Beach House

All rooms are pet friendly at The Saint Augustine Beach House, located directly on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in beautiful Vilano Beach, just minutes north of the historic town of Saint Augustine.

The Saint Augustine Beach House allows 2 dogs of any size for an additional fee of $35 per pet, per night. Treats are available, and pet towels and blankets are provided upon request. There is a fenced dog run with waste station on the property. The pet-friendly beach provides a dog shower.

9. Hendersonville, North Carolina

Hendersonville is a charming mountain town with a festive downtown, historic storefronts, and plenty of small-town character. During Christmas, decorated windows and twinkling lights make its streets feel especially inviting.

If you prefer browsing local shops and enjoying seasonal events at a relaxed pace, Hendersonville is worth considering for a holiday getaway with your dog.

Things to Do with Your Dog in Hendersonville

Explore historic downtown. Take a leisurely walk with your pup to admire the holiday window displays, lights, and seasonal entertainment. Strolling carolers and festive decorations add to the atmosphere.

Attend the Christmas parade. The parade is a highlight of activities in Hendersonville and leashed pets are welcome to join the fun on Dec. 5th, where you may meet Santa.

Go Shopping. Mast General Store not only welcomes your pup to shop with you, but they have a section just for your pup. The Emporium On Main and Wild Mountain Trading company are two more dog friendly stores.

 Where to Stay in Hendersonville with Your Dog

Hampton Inn Hendersonville

This hotel is a traveler’s favorite pet-friendly hotel in Hendersonville. Conveniently located right by the I-26/US-64 intersection, three miles from downtown Hendersonville.

Hampton Inn Hendersonville welcomes 2 dogs up to 75 lbs. with a pet fee of $50 per stay. A convenient pet relief area is located nearby.

10. Portland, Oregon

Portland and the surrounding area offer several holiday light displays and Christmas events that can be fun to explore with your pup.

Rather than spending the entire visit downtown, consider building a holiday itinerary around outdoor displays, festive shopping, and nearby seasonal attractions. Some events welcome dogs in designated areas, while others have restrictions inside buildings.

Things to Do with Your Dog Near Portland

Attend the Lights & Leashes Dog Walk. The Lights & Leashes Dog Walk event at Winter Wonderland is a dog-friendly walking event that invites you and your pup to take a stroll and enjoy over a million holiday lights up close. The event takes place on Nov. 30th and Dec. 1st.

Between Nov. 27th through Dec. 31st the magical light show continues with the Lights & Leashes Dog Walk turning into the Drive the Lights event. Bring your dog along for the ride and the whole family can cruise through the light displays from the comfort of your car.  

Visit the Silverton Christmas Market. Located in Silverton, outside Portland, this German-inspired Christmas market has offered festive pathways, unique gifts, live music, and a Biergarten. Open from November 20th until December 31^st, this is a great place to explore with your pup. You can take a stroll through festive pathways with your furry friend, explore the authentic German Christmas Market with unique gifts, enjoy live music and a brew in the Biergarten, and even visit Santa for a photo.

Explore The Grotto’s Christmas Festival of Lights. The Grotto’s holiday display features illuminated pathways and seasonal decorations. Dogs are welcome to walk around the lower level of lights. They aren’t allowed in any of the buildings on the upper level, however. It is open Nov. 27th through Dec. 30th.

Where to Stay in Portland with Your Dog

Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel

Riverfront stay beside Tom McCall Waterfront Park with one of the most generous pet policies in town and easy walking routes along Willamette.

Two pets of any size are welcome at no additional fee. Pet beds, bowls, litter boxes, and treats are available at the front desk.

Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland by IHG

Downtown Hotel with Kimpton’s famously dog-friendly approach, plus easy access to central Portland shopping and dining.

Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland by IHG allows two pets of any size in designated rooms for no additional fee. Pet amenities include bowls, beds, treats and litter boxes. There is a waterfront area just a short walk away for furry friends.

Tips for Planning a Christmas Vacation with Your Dog

Before booking your holiday getaway, keep a few things in mind. A town may be dog-friendly overall, but that doesn’t mean every attraction, shop, restaurant, or event will welcome pets.

-Check event rules before you go. Some Christmas light displays allow dogs on walking routes but not inside buildings or on certain tours.

-Confirm hotel pet policies. Ask about pet fees, size limits, breed restrictions, unattended pets, and available pet relief areas.

-Plan around crowds. Holiday weekends can get busy. If your pup gets overwhelmed by noise or crowds, consider visiting displays earlier in the evening or on quieter weekdays.

-Prepare for the weather. A Florida Christmas and a Colorado Christmas call for very different packing lists. Bring appropriate clothing, paw protection, and other supplies for your dog’s needs.

-Have a backup plan. Some attractions won’t allow pets indoors. Know your options before you arrive and never leave your dog in a vehicle in unsafe temperatures.

Bring the basics

For most outings, you’ll want:

Fresh water and a travel bowl – A collapsible bowl works well for both during the activity and for the ride there. These can be carried on a strap for easy transporting.

Leash and harness or collar – A 6 ft. leash is a good length not only for better control but also this is the required length for many parks and public places. We like this heavy-duty leash because of the padded handle.

Poop bags – Always clean up after your dog even outdoors. Nuff said.

Treats – These should be a given for any trip.

A towel – You never know when your pup is going to find that one small puddle and end up a dirty mess. These microfiber towels are good because they dry quickly.

Identification- At the very least, a tag on their collar or go all out with a microchip. Be sure that the tag is secure.

Any medications your dog needs

A small first-aid kit -you can make a basic one with gauze pads and antiseptic cream or buy this travel first aid kit that covers a lot of unexpected accidents.

A light or reflective gear for evening adventures. This light hooks on your dog’s collar and is rechargeable.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Christmas with Your Dog

Christmas is a wonderful time to explore somewhere new, and bringing your dog along can make the trip even more special.

You don’t have to choose a big city with overwhelming crowds to enjoy a festive holiday. These smaller towns offer their own Christmas traditions, from historic downtowns and decorated shops to spectacular light displays and cozy mountain scenery.

The key is finding a destination where you and your pup can enjoy the activities together while still having places to relax when the festivities get busy. Whether you choose the Danish charm of Solvang, the Bavarian Christmas atmosphere of Frankenmuth, the snowy mountains of Telluride, or the millions of lights in St. Augustine, there’s a holiday adventure waiting for you.

So, pack your bags, bring your furry travel companion, and make some new Christmas memories together.

We love sharing tips and ideas to help you find your next adventure. Hopefully, these dog-friendly Christmas destinations inspire you to plan a holiday getaway that the whole family, including your four-legged member, can enjoy.