Planning a road trip with your dog in Maine is easier than you might think. You can visit towns like Freeport and Portland and even spend time on dog friendly trails at Acadia National Park, all with your dog by your side.With leash laws in place and many parks and businesses welcoming pets, Maine gives you plenty of ways to include your dog in your travel plans.
This three-day trip lets you explore coastal towns, shop, and hike without leaving your dog behind. You’ll find nearby outdoor patios, walking paths, and scenic views that you and your dog will both enjoy. Acadia, in particular, stands out as one of the most dog friendly national parks in the country, with many trails open to dogs on leash.
Whether you’re looking for a new trail or pet-friendly shops and eats, this guide will show you how to get the most out of your Maine adventure with your dog.
Planning Your Three Day Road Trip to Maine
Taking your dog along on a Maine road trip gives you the chance to visit pet-friendly cities, walk scenic trails, and enjoy fresh coastal air. Good planning makes travel smoother and helps you and your dog make the most of each stop.
Suggested Itinerary and Routes
Start your trip in Portland, Maine. It’s a lively city with pet-friendly spots and several outdoor patios that allow dogs. Enjoy a stroll on the Eastern Promenade Trail, a popular, dog-friendly waterfront path.
Next, drive north to Freeport. This small town is famous for its shopping, including the flagship L.L.Bean store, where dogs are welcome inside. Freeport has multiple outdoor parks and walking paths, perfect for a quick break.
End your trip at Acadia National Park. Take your dog on trails like the Ocean Path or Jordan Pond Path, both wide and manageable for dogs on leashes. Acadia is about three hours from Freeport; plan for stops. You can find more dog-friendly Maine road trip ideas in local travel groups if you want to customize your route.
Here’s a simple visual guide for the route:
Packing Essentials for Traveling With Dogs
You’ll need dog gear for comfort and safety. Bring a harness, leash, travel bowls, food, and water. Pack waste bags and a pet first aid kit. Keep vaccination records handy, since some hotels or parks may ask.
Consider weather when you pack. Maine’s spring and fall can be chilly, so bring a blanket or coat for your dog. In summer, include sunscreen and insect repellent safe for dogs. Carry extra towels for muddy paws after walks or beach visits.
Don’t forget your dog’s favorite toy or bed for comfort in hotels. Resealable bags for treats keep snacks fresh on the road. A car seat cover or crate can help keep your car clean if your dog sheds.
Best Time of Year for a Dog Friendly Trip
Late spring, summer, and early fall are ideal for this kind of road trip. Many trails, parks, and outdoor dining spots in Maine allow dogs during these seasons. Summer brings warm weather but is also the busiest, so make lodging reservations in advance.
If you prefer fewer crowds, visit in late spring or early fall when temperatures are cooler and the leaves start to change. Dogs are generally allowed on walking paths year-round, but some popular areas have seasonal restrictions, particularly in Acadia National Park. Always check current rules before you go.
Winter trips are challenging due to snow and icy trails. Some outdoor seating and trails might be closed. Plan your travel dates based on weather and your dog’s comfort level with cold, wet conditions.
Exploring Dog Friendly Freeport, Maine
Freeport, Maine, is a welcoming stop when traveling with your dog. You’ll find various pet friendly restaurants, hotels, and outdoor areas where you can spend quality time with your dog.
Pet Friendly Dining and Accommodations
Many restaurants in Freeport will let you dine with your dog at their outdoor tables. Some favorite options include cafes and bakeries on Main Street, which often have water bowls and dog treats for your pet.
Freeport has several hotels, inns, and motels that cater to pets. You can find places that offer pet beds, welcome treats, and designated pet walking areas. Always check for pet fees and policies before booking, since some spots have size limits or only allow a certain number of dogs per room.
Vacation rentals are another easy option. Many local rental homeowners accept dogs with advance notice. Look for properties with fenced yards or direct access to walking trails.
Outdoor Activities and Parks for Dogs
Freeport offers dog-friendly hiking trails where you and your dog can enjoy the outdoors together. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park is a popular place for on-leash walks along the coast and through forests.
You’ll also find town parks with open fields for play and walking paths. Some local trails may be off-leash friendly during certain hours, but always check posted signs and follow leash rules.
If your dog loves to explore, there are beaches nearby where dogs are allowed during the off-season. Bring waste bags, water, and follow local guidelines to keep the spaces clean and welcoming for everyone.
Dog Friendly Experiences in Portland, Maine
You and your dog can enjoy a wide range of activities in Portland. The city offers pet-friendly shops, outdoor spots, and places to eat where dogs are welcome.
Portland’s Best Dog Friendly Attractions
Portland is known for being dog friendly, making it easy for you to explore with your dog. Many local stores and boutiques in the Old Port allow leashed dogs inside. These include bookshops, outdoor outfitters, and even some art galleries. It’s a good idea to check for a “dog friendly” sticker on their windows.
Public parks like the Eastern Promenade have large open spaces and walking paths with scenic views. Baxter Woods, a wooded city park, is another popular spot for relaxed walks.
It’s also possible to try dog friendly brewery patios. Many breweries in Portland offer space for your dog to rest while you sample local craft beers. The city’s focus on dogs means you’ll feel welcome almost everywhere you go.
Walking Tours and Scenic Trails
Several walking tours in Portland include well-behaved dogs. You’ll find guided history tours and even some food tours that let you bring your dog along. Look for companies that clearly state their dog policy before booking.
The Eastern Prom Trail is a favorite for its ocean views and easy, flat path. This trail connects to other walking paths in the city, so you can make your stroll as long or as short as you like. Fort Allen Park is another highlight. It sits on a hill above the harbor and is perfect for a quiet walk or picnic.
If your dog enjoys nature, nearby Presumpscot River Preserve offers more wooded hiking. Always keep dogs leashed and bring water for both you and your pup.
Where to Eat With Your Dog in Portland
Portland has a strong patio dining culture, so you’ll find many restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. Some places go beyond just allowing dogs and offer water bowls or even dog treats. Look for signs or ask staff if dogs are okay before you sit down.
Breweries usually have outdoor areas where dogs can stay by your side while you eat or enjoy a drink. Food trucks in parks or open markets can also make for a relaxed, dog friendly meal.
Try spots near the waterfront for a great atmosphere and views. Being able to include your dog in your dining experience makes Portland an easy choice for pet owners. For more ideas, this Portland travel guide for dog owners highlights some top places.
Dog Friendly Trails at Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park offers miles of hiking trails and carriage roads where dogs are welcome. With clear pet rules and several dog friendly restaurants and places to stay nearby, it’s a great destination for people traveling with their dogs.
Top Dog Friendly Hiking Trails
You and your dog can explore over 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads at Acadia. Many trails offer easy to moderate options, perfect for walking with your pet. Some of the most popular dog friendly hikes include:
- Ocean Path: A scenic, mostly flat path along the rocky shoreline.
- Jordan Pond Path: Flat trails looping around the pond with lovely views.
- Gorham Mountain Trail: Offers both great views and a manageable climb.
- Great Head Trail: Ocean views with a mix of woods and open spaces.
Some trails have rough terrain or steep ladders, so always check trail descriptions and avoid routes that are not safe for pets. For more dog friendly hike suggestions, visit the Acadia dog friendly hikes guide.
Rules and Tips for Visiting Acadia With Pets
Dogs are welcome on most trails and all carriage roads, but you must keep your pet on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Dogs should be under control, and you should clean up after your pet. Be sure to carry waste bags and plenty of water.
Some areas, such as swimming beaches and certain trails with steep sections or ladders, are off-limits to dogs. Always check current restrictions before heading out. The National Park Service provides up-to-date information about Acadia’s pet rules.
Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for hiking with your dog, especially in summer. Watch out for wildlife and other hikers. Bring enough snacks and take breaks in shaded areas.
Dog friendly Stays and Outdoor Eateries
Bar Harbor and the nearby towns have several pet friendly hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Many places offer amenities like water bowls, waste bags, and dog treats at check-in. Some campgrounds even have dog walking areas or nearby trails.
For dining, you’ll find outdoor patios and picnic areas at restaurants and cafes in Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island. Places with dog friendly patios often provide water buckets or treats for pets. Call ahead to make sure dogs are allowed on the patio before you go.
Picnic spots around Jordan Pond and near the carriage roads are also good choices for outdoor lunches with your dog. A quick look at local travel forums or AllTrails can help you find more dog friendly trails and activities in Maine for your trip.
Travel Tips for a Stress-Free Dog Friendly Maine Adventure
Traveling through Maine with your dog is rewarding but requires planning. Your pup’s health and access to dog-friendly tools can make your trip smoother and safer.
Health and Safety Considerations for Dogs
Before you leave, schedule a visit to your vet. Make sure your dog’s vaccinations and flea, tick, and heartworm prevention are up to date. Bring a copy of vaccination records in case you need them at hotels or parks.
Pack a travel kit with essentials like waste bags, food, water, medications, and a first-aid kit. Take frequent breaks during the drive so your dog can stretch and go to the bathroom. Many rest stops and parks in Maine offer pet relief areas, which helps keep the trip comfortable for your dog.
Maine’s weather can change quickly, so bring layers for your pet—a lightweight jacket in spring or fall and extra water in the summer. Always keep your dog on a leash when exploring new trails, especially in places like Acadia National Park, to protect wildlife and follow park rules.
Dog Friendly Travel Resources and Apps
Several resources and apps help you find dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and trails:
- BringFido: Lets you search for pet-friendly accommodations and activities near your route.
- AllTrails: Filters trails by dog-friendliness, so you can see which Maine trails are suitable for your dog. (check out our other article here for more information on AllTrails)
- Roadtrippers: Plots your route while showing pet-friendly stops along the way.
Many local sites, like Visit Portland, list up-to-date information on dog policies for restaurants and outdoor spots. Save addresses and contact numbers in your phone before the trip, so you do not have to search while on the road. Having these resources ready will make your road trip less stressful and more enjoyable for your pet.
