Story by Rebecca West
Whether you’re looking to get away for the day, overnight, or the weekend, you’ve got plenty of choices for bringing Fido along for the ride. Check out these five terrific travel opportunities with pet owners in mind.
Bisbee & The Carrick Hotel
A favorite for Arizonans, who doesn’t love a quick trip to Bisbee? Set within the Mule Mountains, it’s generally cooler and greener, and just a whole lot of fun. It’s also considered extremely pet-friendly. While you’re there, you and your furry traveling companion(s) can hike the Bisbee 1000 Trail, visit the Old Bisbee Brewing Company for a cold one, or stop for a bite at one of the many dog-friendly restaurants. Even the local visitor center usually has treats on hand for dogs!
But if you decide you want to zip down and spend the night, then you’ll want to stay at the dog-friendly Carrick Hotel on Howell Ave. Constructed in 1903, it underwent extensive renovations after its purchase in July 2022. Furnished throughout with an eclectic mix of period and contemporary pieces, as well as vibrant artwork, this multi-storied boutique hotel has 16 suites.
The Carrick routinely hosts pet-focused events, such as a holiday fashion show in December, a Halloween costume contest with prizes in October, and Easter bunny photo opportunities in the spring. If you’re looking for a noise-free zone during the July 4th celebrations, fireworks are banned within city limits. thecarrick.com
Tombstone
Also offering slightly cooler temps in the high desert is historic Tombstone, with approximately 15 places to stay that accept pets, and that’s not including AirBnBs or campgrounds. A popular option just a short walk from Courthouse State Historic Park is the Tombstone Bordello Bed & Breakfast, which allows up to three dogs. Canines are such a common sight in town that many of the shops on Allen Street put out water bowls for visiting pooches.
Debuting in 1879—the same year Boothill Cemetery was established—dogs are welcome in the famous Crystal Palace Saloon, as well as walking and trolley tours, the 1880s Butterfield Stage Coach, and Good Enough Mine Tours even welcome dogs on their underground excursions.
Concerning food and drinks, the town too tough to die has the dog-friendly OK Café with outdoor seating for breakfast or lunch, the Cowboy Coffee Bar, the Shotgun Café, and the Tombstone Brewing Company, among others. tombstonechamber.com
Mount Lemmon
Hands down, Mt. Lemmon is the place to be for beating the heat. Perfect for day trips, overnight stays, or weekend getaways to recharge and refresh, pet-friendly activities here regularly center on outdoor fun. Dogs are permitted on leash in the Coronado National Forest, including popular routes like the Aspen Trail, Marshall Gulch Loop Trail, Butterfly Trail, and Green Mountain Trail.
Dog-friendly establishments are also present. For instance, there’s the Mt. Lemmon Coffee and Tea Co., which offers a walk-up window with pup cups and dog treats for visitors traveling with canine pals, and the nearby Sawmill Run Restaurant where you can find The Pack’s Snacks.
As for lodging, the Mt. Lemmon Hotel offers pet-friendly accommodations with up to three pets per cabin—including cats—and there’s the Mt. Lemmon Lodge. Plus, there’s the tiny, unincorporated community of Summerhaven for cabin rentals that throw down the welcome mat to pet owners. Additionally, there are AirBnBs and campgrounds in the area that allow pets, so you’ve got choices galore if you decide to stay the night.
The great thing about Mt. Lemmon is that this little slice of paradise, acting as an oasis of sorts for desert dwellers, is also popular in the winter months when the road is clear. Go to
mtlemmonhotel.com/planning-a-
Tubac Golf Resort & Spa
Deeded in 1789, the historic 500-acre Otero Ranch has been operating as the Tubac Golf Resort & Spa since 1959. Featuring hacienda-style casitas, a championship 27-hole golf course (Tin Cup was filmed there), full-service spa, mission-style chapel, and exceptional dining with three eateries on the premises, it is considered one of southern Arizona’s hidden gems.
While it’s an award-winning destination in its own right, the best part about this old-world-style getaway is that it’s pet-friendly, offering a dozen rooms for guests with their little nippers in tow. And if you’re concerned that you’ll have to stay closeted in your room for the duration of your stay due to their presence, you’re mistaken.
Instead, explore the adjacent Juan Bautista de Anza Trail connecting Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Tumacácori National Historical Park. Perfect for hiking, biking, or a leisurely stroll, this scenic route follows the Santa Cruz River, offering stellar views and glimpses of wildlife throughout the year. For shopping, fooderies, galleries, museums, and other spots that welcome dogs, there’s the colorful village of Tubac.
Another popular idea is investigating the rolling hills of Sonoita Wine Country. For additional information or to book a stay, visit azhideawaycollection.com/
Four Tails Vineyard & Winery
Speaking of Sonoita Wine Country, vino connoisseurs and dog lovers will find this next pet-friendly option perfect for day trips and celebrations. With 10 acres under vine, what started as a labor of love has since grown into a thriving estate. The vineyard, which is located in Pearce, got its name from the owners’ four rescue dogs:
“We have always had a deep love for rescue dogs, maintaining a loving pack of four at home. When it came time to name the winery, Four Tails was the natural choice.”
The tasting room in nearby Sonoita is where the majority of the events take place. Open Thursday through Sunday from noon to 6pm, the public is invited to visit and bring their four-legged friends. The same goes for special gatherings, like the Barks & Blossoms Sunday Brunch, where a charcuterie board is available with canines in mind.
Besides incredible scenery in a relaxed atmosphere, tastings frequently include pairings with freshly prepared dishes, as well as their regular menu items, such as bacon-wrapped jalapenos and tomato basil flatbread, to try. In case you’re wondering, yes, there are dog snacks on the menu as well. Check out fourtailsvineyard.com for all the details. They often host animal rescue and welfare-related events.
