BringFido's Ruff Guide to Massachusetts

Posted by Jason Halliburton

Thinking of meandering with your mutt on a trip to Massachusetts? If so, he’s one lucky dog. The editors at BringFido have dedicated themselves to digging up the dog-friendliest things to do in The Bay State, as well as the rest of the country. And we've assembled it all in the latest edition of our book, Ruff Guide to the United States.

Now in its second edition, the book features over 365 of the best places to stay and play with your dog in all 50 states. Order your copy today and save 50% off the retail price when you use the discount code BAYSTATE.

For a preview of the book, here are a few of our editors' top picks for dog-friendly things to do in Massachusetts.

Day Trip to Nantucket

Nantucket, MA
“You’re the light of my life.” Photo by @lilly_goldenretriever

Travel with your dog by air or sea to beautiful Nantucket Island. Start your adventure with a flight from Hyannis on Cape Air & Nantucket Airlines. If your pup would rather float than fly, dogs ride for free on the Steamship Authority’s high-speed ferry. Either way, once you arrive in Nantucket, it’s time to catch ‘The Wave’ (the island’s public bus service). Take the Madaket Route to Sanford Farm for a six-mile Ocean Walk, or visit the island’s unofficial dog park at Tupancy Links. For more beach fun, head to Nobadeer Beach, where Fido can run off leash year-round. If you want to explore the island with your own set of wheels, visit Young’s Bicycle Shop to rent a bicycle for yourself and a bike trailer for Fido. Before your day is over, grab a cold beer and local seafood at dog-friendly Cisco Brewers.

For a quintessential Nantucket experience, spend the night in a ‘Woof Cottage’ at The Cottages & Lofts at Nantucket Boat Basin - a waterfront property located right on the dock at Straight Wharf. The staff will ensure that Fido is provided a comfy pet bed, food and water bowls, and a basket of nautical chew toys during your stay. Doggy turndown service is also provided nightly.

Walk Free With Fido

Boston, MA
“They’ll never take our freedom!” Photo by Maria Andrews of White Whiskers Photography

Fido can walk in the footsteps of America’s founding fathers by following the Freedom Trail through downtown Boston. All you need to enjoy this free attraction is your dog’s leash and a good pair of walking shoes. The 2.5-mile red brick trail will lead you right to 16 of Boston’s most historic sites, so you don’t even need a map! Starting at the Boston Common, America’s oldest public park, you’ll pass by Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere’s House, and the site of the Boston Massacre, before ending at the USS Constitution in Charlestown. Once there, you can hitch a ride back to Faneuil Hall on the Boston Water Taxi. Or, better yet, ask to be dropped off at Boston’s Long Wharf, where you can stop for ‘chowdah’ and freshly shucked oysters at State Street Provisions.

After conquering the Freedom Trail, Fido can rest his weary paws at XV Beacon Hotel. Centrally located in Beacon Hill, the property offers a boutique hotel feel with full-service amenities, including dog treats at check-in. After a restful night’s sleep, bring your pooch to the nearby Public Garden to enjoy a morning constitutional through America’s first public botanical garden.

Art in the Park

Lincoln, MA
“Replicas of our hearts!” Photo by @thatpuppepp

Bring your furry art critic to explore over 60 large-scale modern and contemporary sculptures at the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, located along the shore of Flint’s Pond in Lincoln. This 30-acre park is the largest of its kind in New England. Most of the exhibits are on loan to the museum and are constantly changing, making each visit to this attraction unique. Your pup is welcome to wander the trails with you as you marvel at the beautiful lawns, gardens, fields, and forests. Take a guided tour of the grounds, or set your own pace and pause for a picnic in the park. Dogs must remain leashed at all times. The park is open daily during the summer and Wednesdays through Sundays during the winter. Children under 12 and dogs enjoy complimentary admission when accompanied by a paying adult.

Following your art walk, rest up at the Westin Waltham Boston. Just 15 miles from downtown Boston, this hotel offers Fido plenty of grassy space to stretch his legs. In the evening, you are invited to sip a glass of champagne or have a cocktail in the Lobby Lounge or outdoor terrace. Other perks include complimentary treats at check-in and a Westin Heavenly Dog Bed for your pup.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt


If this Ruff Guide to Massachusetts preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code BAYSTATE to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!

What are your favorite pet-friendly attractions in Massachusetts? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by @lilly_goldenretriever.