Florida’s dog-friendly beaches, boat tours, train trips and more!

It’s sunny, it’s warm, and Florida is packed with dog-friendly beaches, boat tours, train rides, parks, and other activities you can enjoy with your pooch. Fasten your seatbelt because today we’re introducing you to the best dog-friendly attractions and activities in Florida.

Top Dog-Friendly Attractions and Activities in Florida

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park – St. Augustine, Florida

If you like learning a bit of history while visiting dog-friendly attractions, don’t miss the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. Dating back to 1513, it is the location of an original spring recorded in a 17th-century Spanish land grant.

But eternal youth isn’t the only thing you’ll find at the archaeological park: you and your dog can explore the area’s rich history on 15 acres of waterfront land. And lots of trees provide plenty of shade.

Enjoy visits to Discovery Grove, the blacksmith exhibit, the Timucuan burial ground and village, Mission Nombre de Dios, the 1565 Menendez settlement, the excavation site, the Spanish lookout post, cannon firing, the Founders Observation Riverwalk, and (of course!) a sip from the Spring House fountain. Your pup will have a great time watching the beautiful Indian peacocks roaming all around.

Shell Key Shuttle – St. Pete Beach, FL

What dog doesn’t love a cruise?! Breathing in the fresh air and feeling the ocean breeze is a dog’s dream come true, and Shell Key Shuttle offers relaxing, dog-friendly sunset cruises.

Read more⇒ 5 Questions to Ask Before Taking Your Dog on a Boat

If you’re looking for a unique way to watch the sunset and spot dolphins with your dog, this is the place for you. This dog-friendly Florida boat tour takes you around five residential islands, learning about historic cypress beach cabins and seeing new modern mansions. If you love learning about shore birds, the Shell Key Shuttle is another great option. Our fantastic narrators will point out all the birds in the area and answer your questions, making this a boat tour you’ll never forget.

Red Train Tours – St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is a fantastic dog-friendly city with plenty of dog-friendly activities, sights to see and amazing architecture to explore. One of the best ways to see and learn about the city is to join a guided tour.

Since 1953, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! has been running Red Train Tours, taking guests and their pets small enough to fit on their laps on an extensive and educational tour of St. Augustine. The train’s conductor narrates the entire trip, and their love for “America’s Oldest City” is sure to come through.

Read more⇒ Pet Friendly St. Augustine: What to do while visiting?

The Incredible Story of Ripley! – St. Augustine, Florida

If you love weird, unusual and shocking discoveries, then visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not. This dog-friendly attraction is like no other. Exhibits range from interesting facts to downright creepy. It’s a fun, indoor (and air-conditioned) adventure you can take your dog on. Come see for yourself.

Sunset at Pier 60 – Clearwater Beach, Florida

This isn’t your typical Florida beach “sunset viewing” experience. It’s so much more. This dog-friendly festival takes place 364 days a year, starting two hours before sunset and running for two hours after. Each night of the celebration features street performers, artisans, crafters, kids’ games, food, and of course, amazing views of the sunset over the world-famous Pier 60.

Please note that dogs are not allowed directly on the pier, but it is a great landmark to take in the fun sunset atmosphere.

Paradise Grill – Pass-a-Grille, Florida

For a laid-back sunset experience, head to Paradise Grill, located right on the beach in historic Pass-a-Grille. This outdoor grill not only serves great food, but also hosts a nightly Sunset Bell Ringing Party that’s perfect for families and dogs. Enjoy dinner and drinks while you ring in the night. *Please note that dogs are not allowed on Pass-a-Grille beach.

Rainbow Springs State Park – Dunnellon, Florida

Warm sapphire blue waters, beautiful gardens, sloping hills, waterfalls and lush hiking trails – what’s not to like about Rainbow Springs State Park? The springs are stunningly clear and inviting, so clear you can see the fish and turtles.

Legend has it that the waters of Rainbow Springs have magical healing powers, so I couldn’t resist dipping my feet in. My father-in-law took the plunge and went all in. It’s no wonder that soaking in the springs is such a time-honored tradition. *No dogs allowed in any of the springs.

Tarpon Springs, Florida

Tarpon Springs is a unique dog-friendly town located right on the water. If you’re interested in the history of sponges or want to experience the difference between real and synthetic sponges, this is the town for you.

Stroll through the historic sponge docks and chat with local divers and captains. When you get hungry, you can relax with your dog at a variety of restaurants with outdoor seating. Plan some souvenir shopping as Dexter and I were welcomed at many of the local stores.

Fort De Soto Park and Beach – Tierra Verde, Florida

This Florida island is a Pinellas County park that’s perfect for pets, with dog-friendly beaches, nature trails, campgrounds and a historic fort. Wander the fort grounds, touch the mortar battery and climb the fort’s steep steps for great views. *Please refrain from bringing pets into the museum.

Read more⇒ Fort De Soto Park and Dog Beach

Dogedin – Dunedin, Florida

Dunedin, known to locals and tourists as Doggedin, is home to some amazing Murals for Sale, part of the Florida Mural Trail and a must-see for dog lovers. This small town has lots to offer dog-friendly families, including a walkable downtown and great dog-friendly restaurants. You and your dog will have a great day out in Dunedin.

About the author: Tonya Wilhelm is a dog training expert who has traveled across the United States spreading positive ways to prevent and manage behavioral problems with a holistic approach. She loves exploring new places with her trusty sidekick Dexter and is also a vlogger, writer, blogger and published author. Tonya’s mission is to inspire pet owners to live and explore life. Learn more about Tonya on her blog: About This Site

Guest post from GoPetFriendly.com: We love sharing stories of people who enjoy traveling with their pets! And your Maybe your pet travel experience will inspire someone else to pack up and hit the road with their best friend. If you’re interested in guest posting for Take Paws, let us know!

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