Knoxville — Everybody needs a vacation, but one of the toughest parts of heading out of town is leaving your furry friend behind.
Lucky for us, Tennessee has a plethora of dog-friendly places to enjoy with your best friend. Dave Jones with Tennessee Tourism stopped by to share his top spots for you and your pooch.
“It will make you put things on your itinerary that you might not go!” said Jones.
CHATTANOOGA:
Rock City: This is one of the city’s biggest outdoor attractions. Snap a shot of your pup seeing seven states form the top of Lover’s Leap. Or visit Fairland Caverns. Don’t forget to grab a treat from local company Nooga Paws on your way home!
Nooga Paws: If your dog gets dirty you can clean them off and get a treat! The company also features local dog products.
Glen Falls: Takes about an hour, great place to visit.
Pedestrian Walnut Street Bridge: Connecting one half of Chattanooga to the other, this bridge is a half-mile long stretch that allows you and your dog to take in the views of the city as you stroll over the Tennessee River.
JOHNSON CITY:
Jones says this is an amazing place for the outdoor with a hub of things to do outside. They’ve revitalized downtown so go eat and drink at Yee-haw brewing company and Duck Taco. Visit Founders Park and Tweetsie Trail. Hop over to Carter County and Roane Mountain. Rhododendrons are blooming in the spring. Carver’s Gap is a nice place to take your animal. Take your dog to a cave north in Blountville at Appalachian Caverns.
NASHVILLE:
The music city offers 211 pet-friendly hotels for travelers, as well as several restaurants with good southern food and pet-friendly patios.
Jones suggests the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.
SEVIER COUNTY:
The GSMNP offers two trails for dogs on a leash; the Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail.
If you have plans to visit Dollywood, you can drop your pooch of at 'Doggywood' a special place onsite where they can play with other dogs while you enjoy the theme park.
Check out TN Vacation's full guide on pet-friendly places