Leaving your best friend behind at the kennel or in an empty house when you go on vacation is hard. Sometimes, you just wish you could take them along, too. Of course, doing so means planning ahead and finding out who welcomes four-legged friends. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered. Calling all dogs! Bring your owners to the Bays de Noc for one tail-wagging time. Grab your dog's leash, load them into the car next to their favorite rolled-down window and head up to the Bays de Noc. These are all the pet friendly destinations near Escanaba where you and your pampered pup can both enjoy vacation.

Things to do with your pet

Parks to take your pup

Ludington Park

Bring your pup on a walk at this mile-long coastal park on Little Bay de Noc. There are plenty of outdoor activities here including disc golf, biking trails, a swimming beach, tennis courts, sand volleyball, picnic areas, a playground for kids and more. Be sure your dog is leashed and honor signs where pets aren’t allowed. Time your summer vacation to enjoy a free, family-friendly concert on Monday evenings or a movie on Saturday nights at Karas Memorial Bandshell. Visit the circa 1867 Sand Point Lighthouse, too. While your dog cannot come inside the lighthouse, you are welcome to walk the grounds together to marvel at the beautiful bay view and sunsets.

Fayette Historic State Park

If you enjoy Michigan history, give this iron-smelting ghost town a visit. Campers and visitors can bring pets as long as they are quiet and on a six-foot leash. However, pets aren’t allowed in the historic buildings or on the swimming beaches. For more information, call 906-644-2603.

Escanaba Dog Park

Vacation is a time to let loose. Make sure your dog has a chance to do that by taking them to this dog park near the Delta County Airport, on Airport Road, where they can play with other dogs, leashless. If you want to make sure your four-legged friend makes friends of their own, check out this Facebook group where dog owners schedule park pet playdates. There are areas for both big and small dogs here. No toys are allowed, but water and bags for pet cleanup are available.

Van Cleve Park

With about 65 acres along the Little Bay de Noc, this park has ample room to explore. View wetlands and wildlife as you meander the boardwalk. Honor signs about pet boundaries!

Days River Pathway Trail

Enjoy the nine miles of this tranquil, scenic trail along Days River with your pup – just make sure they are leashed. Five loops create this trail within Escanaba River State Forest, offering increasing difficulty with each loop. The first two loops are kid-friendly. Mountain bikers will also enjoy the trails that jut off the main path.

Restaurants that allow dogs

Dobber’s Pasties

It wouldn’t be a trip to the Upper Peninsula without devouring a pasty. Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio, where you can enjoy several pasty fillings, including breakfast, beef, chicken, veggie and pizza. Slip a bite under the table — it isn’t a vacation unless everyone is eating well.

Upper Hand Brewing Co.

Enjoy some Michigan-made brews at Larry Bell’s Upper Peninsula brewery. Try their Yooper Ale, Upper Peninsula Ale and more. Upper Hand Brewing Co. has a large grassy area with pet waste clean-up supplies provided for the furry friends you bring along.

Dog friendly coffee runs

Stop in for your daily caffeine dose at Escanaba’s Express Coffee Co. or Jo to Go! Get yourself a drink and don’t forget to ask for a puppy treat for your dog.

Jim’s Dari-Kreme

Enjoy an ice cream cone or dish outside with your dog at this local treat. Let them have a lick, too!

Plan your pet friendly stay in Escanaba

Several of our hotels are happy to host you and your pooch. Book a stay at any of these hotels to extend the days of memory making with your furry friend. You can find events happening during your visit on our website. If you do plan to bring your dog here, please keep your furry friend hydrated. Make sure to clean up after your pet and have materials to do so when they aren’t provided. Lastly, take plenty of photos and send them our way by tagging us with #visitescanaba. You and your pup may be featured on our Instagram page!