Planning a trip to Orlando with your furry bestie? Whether you’re vibing with a pup, a kitty, or even a fancy ferret, Orlando’s got your back with a ton of options for pet travellers.
Known as one of the most dog-friendly spots in the U.S., this city has many pet-friendly hotels, plus dope places to eat and play that welcome your four-legged squad. Let’s break it down with the ultimate guide to pet-friendly hotels in Orlando, Florida, plus where to grub and have fun with your pet. Ready? Let’s roll!
Orlando’s basically a paradise for pet-friendly hotels in Orlando, from budget-friendly crash pads to luxe resorts that’ll make your pet feel like royalty. Here’s the tea on some top spots to book for you and your fur baby.
If you’re hitting up Universal Studios, the four pet-friendly hotels in Orlando at Universal, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, and Universal’s Aventura Hotel, are straight-up iconic. They’ve got this “Loews Loves Pets” program that’s next-level. Think logo bowls, treats, and even a pets-only menu (fancy, right?). You can bring up to two pets (dogs or cats, vaccinated, obviously), and the pet fee is around $100–$150 per stay. Plus, they hook you up with maps for dog-walking routes and pet-sitting services. Location? Right by Universal’s rides, so you’re basically living the theme park dream.
For the Disney stans, Walt Disney World’s got four Orlando pet-friendly hotels that are dog-friendly (sorry, cats, this one’s pups only). Think Disney’s Yacht Club Resort or The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort. They roll out the red carpet with a “Pluto’s Welcome Mat” kit, bowls, pet ID tags, puppy pads, the works. Fees are usually $50 - $75 per night, and you can bring two dogs per room. The catch? Theme parks don’t allow pets (except service animals), but these hotels have tons of green space for walks. Perfect for chilling after a day at Magic Kingdom.
On a budget? No stress, Red Roof Inn in Orlando South is one of the best pet-friendly hotels for keeping your wallet happy. They let one pet (dog or cat, any size) stay for free, no fees, no drama. Just crate them if you’re stepping out. It’s near the Florida Mall, so you’ve got dining and shopping vibes close by.
Pro tip: There’s a pet relief area out back, so your furry friend’s got space to do their thing.
Want to flex a bit? The JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes is giving major luxury energy for travel with pets. You can bring two pets (no size limits mentioned, but check with the hotel), and the grounds are a chef’s kiss for walks, think lush gardens and chill lakes. Fees are around $150–$200 per stay, but the vibes are worth it if you’re looking to pamper yourself and your pet. It’s a bit further from the parks but perfect for a bougie getaway.
International Drive’s where it’s at for convenience, and pet-friendly hotels, like Sonesta ES Suites Orlando (both I-Drive and Lake Buena Vista locations), are a lifesaver. They allow two pets with no strict breed or weight rules (double-check, though). Expect fees around $75–$150 per stay. These suites are like mini-apartments with kitchens, so you and your pet can spread out. Plus, you’re super close to Universal, SeaWorld, and ICON Park. Other I-Drive faves include Embassy Suites by Hilton and Wyndham Orlando Resort, both with solid pet policies and fees around $50–$125.
Okay, so you’ve got a place to crash, but where do you eat with your pet? Orlando’s got a bunch of spots that are down to let your furry friend chill while you grub. Here’s the lowdown.
For travel with pets, Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando is a must. The park is a one-mile loop with plenty of room for your dog to stretch their legs, and swan paddle boats. There are pet-friendly patios nearby in cafes and restaurants. Visit venues like Relax Grill at Lake Eola, where you can sit sipping a drink and munching on grilled sweetcorn while your dog relaxes at your side. Just keep them well-behaved and leashed.
Just north of downtown, Winter Park houses sites like Barnie's Coffee & Tea Co., where you can grab a oat-milk latte and let your pet lounge on the outside patio. You can even make a day of it because the nearby Alfond Inn is also a small, pet-friendly hotel. Do you know what brings real calm? Pair your coffee run with a walk through the dog-friendly parks nearby.
Although Universal's parks are off-limits for pets, CityWalk has some outdoor areas your furry buddy can visit. Hard Rock Cafe Orlando has a pet-friendly patio, so you may sit and absorb the atmosphere while you eat some fries. Just make sure your pet is calm around crowds, because this location is crowded.
Orlando’s not just about theme parks (which, TBH, aren’t pet-friendly except for service animals). There are tons of other spots to have fun with your pet. Here’s where to take your furry BFF.
We already mentioned Lake Eola for dining, but it’s also a top spot for play. The park’s got a huge trail for walks, and your dog will love sniffing around the open spaces. It’s super Insta-worthy, too, with the iconic fountain and skyline views. Just keep your pet leashed and clean up after them.
For some nature vibes, hit up the Bear Creek Nature Trail. It’s a chill spot for a hike with your dog, with shady paths and plenty of room to roam. If your pup’s got energy to burn, Yucatan Dog Park is nearby and perfect for off-leash play. Both are great for keeping your pet happy while you soak in Orlando’s natural side.
Orlando’s got a lively scene for pet-friendly events. Check out local farmers’ markets like the Winter Park Farmers’ Market, where leashed pets are welcome, and you can grab some fresh treats for yourself. Some hotels, like those in the Rosen chain, even host pet-friendly events. Keep an eye out for those if you’re staying at one of their pet-friendly hotels in Orlando, Florida.
Before you pack your pet’s favourite toy and hit the road, here are some Gen Z-approved tips for travel with pets in Orlando:
From Disney's magic resorts to Universal's pet-pampering Loews hotels, Orlando offers pet lovers a whole atmosphere with pet-friendly hotels in Orlando, Florida, to fit any budget and style. Combine pet-friendly patios at locations like Relax Grill and outdoor adventures at Lake Eola or Bear Creek, and you have a trip lit up for both you and your furry best friend.
Where to Stay: The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Orlando
Orlando’s basically a paradise for pet-friendly hotels in Orlando, from budget-friendly crash pads to luxe resorts that’ll make your pet feel like royalty. Here’s the tea on some top spots to book for you and your fur baby.
Loews Hotels at Universal Orlando: The VIP Pet Experience
If you’re hitting up Universal Studios, the four pet-friendly hotels in Orlando at Universal, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, and Universal’s Aventura Hotel, are straight-up iconic. They’ve got this “Loews Loves Pets” program that’s next-level. Think logo bowls, treats, and even a pets-only menu (fancy, right?). You can bring up to two pets (dogs or cats, vaccinated, obviously), and the pet fee is around $100–$150 per stay. Plus, they hook you up with maps for dog-walking routes and pet-sitting services. Location? Right by Universal’s rides, so you’re basically living the theme park dream.
Disney’s Pet-Friendly Resorts: Magic for You and Your Pup
For the Disney stans, Walt Disney World’s got four Orlando pet-friendly hotels that are dog-friendly (sorry, cats, this one’s pups only). Think Disney’s Yacht Club Resort or The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort. They roll out the red carpet with a “Pluto’s Welcome Mat” kit, bowls, pet ID tags, puppy pads, the works. Fees are usually $50 - $75 per night, and you can bring two dogs per room. The catch? Theme parks don’t allow pets (except service animals), but these hotels have tons of green space for walks. Perfect for chilling after a day at Magic Kingdom.
Budget-Friendly Gems: Red Roof Inn Orlando South
On a budget? No stress, Red Roof Inn in Orlando South is one of the best pet-friendly hotels for keeping your wallet happy. They let one pet (dog or cat, any size) stay for free, no fees, no drama. Just crate them if you’re stepping out. It’s near the Florida Mall, so you’ve got dining and shopping vibes close by.
Pro tip: There’s a pet relief area out back, so your furry friend’s got space to do their thing.
Luxe Vibes: JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes
Want to flex a bit? The JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes is giving major luxury energy for travel with pets. You can bring two pets (no size limits mentioned, but check with the hotel), and the grounds are a chef’s kiss for walks, think lush gardens and chill lakes. Fees are around $150–$200 per stay, but the vibes are worth it if you’re looking to pamper yourself and your pet. It’s a bit further from the parks but perfect for a bougie getaway.
International Drive Hotspots: Sonesta ES Suites & More
International Drive’s where it’s at for convenience, and pet-friendly hotels, like Sonesta ES Suites Orlando (both I-Drive and Lake Buena Vista locations), are a lifesaver. They allow two pets with no strict breed or weight rules (double-check, though). Expect fees around $75–$150 per stay. These suites are like mini-apartments with kitchens, so you and your pet can spread out. Plus, you’re super close to Universal, SeaWorld, and ICON Park. Other I-Drive faves include Embassy Suites by Hilton and Wyndham Orlando Resort, both with solid pet policies and fees around $50–$125.
Where to Eat: Pet-Friendly Dining in Orlando
Okay, so you’ve got a place to crash, but where do you eat with your pet? Orlando’s got a bunch of spots that are down to let your furry friend chill while you grub. Here’s the lowdown.
Lake Eola Park Area: Pet-Friendly Patios Galore
For travel with pets, Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando is a must. The park is a one-mile loop with plenty of room for your dog to stretch their legs, and swan paddle boats. There are pet-friendly patios nearby in cafes and restaurants. Visit venues like Relax Grill at Lake Eola, where you can sit sipping a drink and munching on grilled sweetcorn while your dog relaxes at your side. Just keep them well-behaved and leashed.
Winter Park: Cute Cafes and Chill Vibes
Just north of downtown, Winter Park houses sites like Barnie's Coffee & Tea Co., where you can grab a oat-milk latte and let your pet lounge on the outside patio. You can even make a day of it because the nearby Alfond Inn is also a small, pet-friendly hotel. Do you know what brings real calm? Pair your coffee run with a walk through the dog-friendly parks nearby.
Universal CityWalk: Quick Bites with Pets
Although Universal's parks are off-limits for pets, CityWalk has some outdoor areas your furry buddy can visit. Hard Rock Cafe Orlando has a pet-friendly patio, so you may sit and absorb the atmosphere while you eat some fries. Just make sure your pet is calm around crowds, because this location is crowded.
Where to Play: Fun Spots for You and Your Pet
Orlando’s not just about theme parks (which, TBH, aren’t pet-friendly except for service animals). There are tons of other spots to have fun with your pet. Here’s where to take your furry BFF.
Lake Eola Park: The Ultimate Pet Hangout
We already mentioned Lake Eola for dining, but it’s also a top spot for play. The park’s got a huge trail for walks, and your dog will love sniffing around the open spaces. It’s super Insta-worthy, too, with the iconic fountain and skyline views. Just keep your pet leashed and clean up after them.
Bear Creek Nature Trail & Yucatan Dog Park
For some nature vibes, hit up the Bear Creek Nature Trail. It’s a chill spot for a hike with your dog, with shady paths and plenty of room to roam. If your pup’s got energy to burn, Yucatan Dog Park is nearby and perfect for off-leash play. Both are great for keeping your pet happy while you soak in Orlando’s natural side.
Pet-Friendly Events and Markets
Orlando’s got a lively scene for pet-friendly events. Check out local farmers’ markets like the Winter Park Farmers’ Market, where leashed pets are welcome, and you can grab some fresh treats for yourself. Some hotels, like those in the Rosen chain, even host pet-friendly events. Keep an eye out for those if you’re staying at one of their pet-friendly hotels in Orlando, Florida.
Tips for Traveling with Pets in Orlando
Before you pack your pet’s favourite toy and hit the road, here are some Gen Z-approved tips for travel with pets in Orlando:
- Call ahead: Policies at pet-friendly hotels can change, so ring the hotel to confirm fees (usually $50–$200) and rules (like weight limits or vaccination proof).
- Pack smart: Bring your pet’s vaccination records, a leash, and their favorite blanket to make hotel stays cozy.
- Plan for parks: Theme parks do not permit pets, so explore boarding possibilities like Best Friends Pet Care at Disney or pet sitting services provided through your hotel.
- Check fees: While opulent hotels like JW Marriott may hit you with a $150 to $200 fee, budget rooms such as Red Roof Inn are light on your pocket!
- Explore beyond parks: Orlando offers dog parks, trails, and lakes that are far more pet-friendly than roller coasters.
Final Thoughts
From Disney's magic resorts to Universal's pet-pampering Loews hotels, Orlando offers pet lovers a whole atmosphere with pet-friendly hotels in Orlando, Florida, to fit any budget and style. Combine pet-friendly patios at locations like Relax Grill and outdoor adventures at Lake Eola or Bear Creek, and you have a trip lit up for both you and your furry best friend.
Get ready for a trip that is pawsitively unforgettable (pun definitely intended!) by picking one of these Orlando pet-friendly hotels with your pet. Let us know where you're first staying! (Image source: Unsplash)
