#barknridenc

There’s nothing like hitting the open road with your best four-legged friend by your side. North Carolina is packed with dog-friendly destinations that make for the perfect road trip, whether you’re exploring beaches, hiking mountain trails, or strolling through vibrant cities. From sandy paws on the coast to breathtaking mountain views, here’s a roundup of the best dog-friendly spots in NC that will leave tails wagging!

1. Asheville – The Dog-Friendly Mountain Town 🏞️

Asheville is dog-lover heaven and one of the most pet-friendly cities in NC. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it offers tons of activities for you and your pup.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

Biltmore Estate Grounds – While dogs can’t enter the mansion, they’re welcome to explore the beautiful gardens and trails on-leash.

French Broad River Park – A popular riverside park with a large off-leash dog park.

Dog-Friendly Breweries – Wicked Weed Brewing and Burial Beer Co. welcome dogs in their outdoor spaces.

Hiking Trails – Explore Craggy Gardens and parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

✨ Where to Stay: Book a pet-friendly cabin or Airbnb through Pawfect Vacations for a cozy and secure stay for you and your pup. Many listings offer fenced yards and pup-friendly amenities.

2. Outer Banks – Beach Bliss for You and Your Pup 🏖️

The Outer Banks (OBX) offers miles of dog-friendly beaches perfect for coastal adventures. This iconic NC destination welcomes pups year-round, with plenty of opportunities to dig in the sand or splash in the surf.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

Nags Head Beach – Dogs are allowed on-leash at all times.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore – Leashed dogs are welcome along the beaches and trails.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park – Pups can join you for a hike up the largest sand dune on the East Coast.

🐾 Pro Tip: Hit the beach during the off-season for fewer crowds and more off-leash opportunities!

✨ Where to Stay: Find beachfront cottages and pet-friendly stays through Pawfect Vacations.

3. Wilmington & Wrightsville Beach – Coastal Adventures 🌊

Wilmington is a charming coastal city full of dog-friendly parks, trails, and beaches. It’s the perfect mix of historical sites and waterfront fun for you and your pup.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

Wrightsville Beach (Off-Season) – Leashed dogs are welcome October through March.

Halyburton Park – A quiet, nature-filled park with dog-friendly walking trails.

Riverwalk Wilmington – Stroll along the Cape Fear River with your dog at your side.

Brewery Scene – Flytrap Brewing and Edward Teach Brewery welcome dogs.

✨ Where to Stay: Book a coastal retreat with pet-friendly options at Pawfect Vacations.

4. Boone & Blowing Rock – Scenic Mountain Retreats 🌄

If your pup loves mountain air and scenic drives, Boone and Blowing Rock are must-visit destinations. Both towns provide access to beautiful trails and overlooks.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park – Over 25 miles of carriage trails where leashed dogs can roam.

Julian Price Memorial Park – Hike around the lake or picnic with your pup.

Blowing Rock – The town itself is extremely pet-friendly, with many outdoor cafés welcoming dogs.

Grandfather Mountain – Although the swinging bridge isn’t dog-friendly, nearby trails are.

✨ Where to Stay: Enjoy a mountain escape with pet-friendly Airbnbs from Pawfect Vacations.

5. Charlotte – Urban Adventures with Your Pup 🌆

Charlotte’s bustling city life comes with plenty of pet-friendly options for dog parents looking for fun in an urban setting.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

Whitewater Center – Dogs can hike the trails and hang out while you enjoy the activities.

Frazier Dog Park – Large off-leash dog park in the heart of Charlotte.

Metropolitan Greenway – A scenic walking trail along the Little Sugar Creek.

Dog Bars – Lucky Dog Bark & Brew and The Dog Bar are local favorites.

✨ Bonus: Charlotte’s close proximity to Lake Norman makes for a great day trip with water-loving pups!

6. Raleigh & Durham – Parks, Pups, and Culture 🌳

Raleigh and Durham are not just known for their universities – they’re also brimming with pet-friendly spots perfect for an afternoon with your dog.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

Dorothea Dix Park – A massive park with open green spaces for pups to explore.

Eno River State Park – Scenic hiking trails along the river.

Durham Central Park – Home to pet-friendly markets and events.

Dog-Friendly Dining – Restaurants like Tobacco Road and The Federal welcome leashed dogs on their patios.

✨ Where to Stay: Browse pet-friendly stays at Pawfect Vacations.

Traveling with Your Dog?

🐾 Make your next road trip stress-free with Bark n Ride Rentals – North Carolina’s leading pet-friendly Turo car rental service. Our vehicles are equipped with:

Pet seat covers

Seat belt harnesses

Crates and barriers

👉 No pet fees, just happy tails and open roads!

Traveling with your dog can turn any ordinary road trip into an unforgettable adventure. But for many pet parents, the logistics of finding a pet-friendly car rental can be challenging. Many rental companies either don't allow pets or charge hefty fees for bringing your four-legged friend along. That’s where Bark n Ride Rentals steps in – North Carolina’s first pet-centric Turo car rental service designed specifically for dog owners.

At Bark n Ride Rentals, we know firsthand that pets aren’t just companions – they’re family. Whether you're planning a trip to the beach, heading into the mountains, or visiting friends across the state, we’re here to ensure your pup rides in style and safety.

Why Choose Bark n Ride Rentals?

We’re not your average car rental service. Bark n Ride Rentals was created with pet parents in mind, offering a seamless experience that makes traveling with your dog enjoyable and stress-free. Here’s why we’ve become North Carolina’s go-to for dog-friendly car rentals:

🐾 No Pet Fees – We believe pets deserve to travel for free. Unlike traditional car rental companies that charge extra cleaning fees, we welcome your dog without hidden costs. 🐾 Dog-Approved Interiors – Each car is equipped with pet seat covers, crates, dog seat belts, and protective barriers, keeping your pup safe and comfortable while ensuring your rental stays clean and fur-free. 🐾 Convenient Pick-Up & Drop-Off – Renting from us is as simple as booking through Turo. We offer flexible pick-up and drop-off times. 🐾 Spacious Options for Big Pups – Whether you’re driving with a small dog or a large breed, we offer a variety of vehicles – from compact sedans to roomy SUVs – designed for both short trips and long-haul adventures.

Where Can You Take Your Pup in North Carolina?

One of the best parts about living in (or visiting) North Carolina is the abundance of dog-friendly destinations. From sandy beaches to mountain trails, there are endless places to explore with your pup by your side.

Here are a few must-visit spots to consider for your next trip:

🏖️ Outer Banks (OBX): Many beaches along the Outer Banks allow dogs year-round, with certain stretches allowing off-leash play during specific hours. A Bark n Ride SUV makes the perfect beach cruiser for your next OBX vacation. 🏞️ Asheville & the Blue Ridge Parkway: Asheville is famous for its pet-friendly breweries, hiking trails, and mountain views. Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway with your pup in tow – and stop for photo ops along the way. 🌲 Pisgah National Forest: Hiking, waterfalls, and endless trails make this forest a dream come true for outdoor-loving dogs. 🍻 Raleigh & Durham: The Triangle area boasts multiple dog-friendly cafés, breweries, and spacious dog parks. Take your pup for a city stroll or brewery crawl. 🎡 Charlotte’s Whitewater Center: The Whitewater Center isn’t just for adrenaline junkies – it’s a great spot to bring your dog for hiking, paddling, and riverside walks.

Travel Tips for Dog Owners

A successful road trip starts with preparation, and traveling with your pup is no exception. Here are a few tips to ensure your dog stays safe, happy, and comfortable during your adventure:

Secure Your Dog – A loose dog in the car can be distracting and dangerous. All Bark n Ride rentals come with seat belts, harnesses, or crates to keep your dog safe during the drive.

Take Breaks – Schedule regular breaks to let your dog stretch, go potty, and enjoy some fresh air. This is especially important during long drives.

Pack Smart – Bring your dog’s essentials, including water, food, a favorite blanket, toys, and any necessary medication.

Keep It Clean – Use the provided seat covers and barriers to protect the car from dirt, fur, and drool – and make post-trip cleaning a breeze.

Hydrate & Snack – Keep a portable water bowl handy and offer water regularly, especially during hot weather. Pack healthy treats for the ride to reward your pup.

Pair Your Rental with Dog-Friendly Lodging

If you’re planning a multi-day trip, finding pet-friendly accommodations is just as important as securing the right vehicle. Luckily, Doggie Day Out NC partners with Airbnb hosts across the state to provide dog-friendly stays that match the comfort and convenience of Bark n Ride Rentals.

From fenced-in mountain cabins to beachfront cottages with outdoor dog showers, there are plenty of lodging options that cater to pet owners. Combining Bark n Ride with Doggie Day Out NC means your entire vacation – from car to cabin – is designed to accommodate your pup.

👉 Pro Tip: Book an Airbnb with a yard or nearby dog park to give your pup space to play after a long day of travel.

The Bark n Ride Difference

What sets Bark n Ride Rentals apart isn’t just the pet-friendly perks – it’s the passion behind it. As a service created by dog lovers, we understand the importance of keeping your pup safe, happy, and included in every adventure.

Unlike traditional rentals that see pets as an inconvenience, we see them as VIP passengers. Our goal is to make every trip with your dog smooth, comfortable, and fun – because the best journeys are the ones taken with your furry friend by your side.

Ready to Hit the Road with Your Pup?

Booking with Bark n Ride Rentals is simple. Just head over to barknriderentals.vip, select the perfect ride for you and your dog, and start planning your next great adventure.