Enter the Gateway to the West with Fido on a visit to the Gateway Arch National Park in downtown St. Louis. Leashed pups can explore trails, relax on a grassy hillside overlooking the Mississippi River, and have their photo taken with the iconic monument. Plan your trip to coincide with the annual ‘Purina Pooches in the Ballpark’ baseball game at nearby Busch Stadium and let Fido cheer on the St. Louis Cardinals from a seat in the stands. If you miss the event, baseball mutts can still watch a game with other sports fans at Over/Under Bar & Grill, a sports bar that welcomes pups on the patio to enjoy televised Cardinals games.

After exploring the city, Fido is in for a special treat with a stay at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis. Pet amenities provided at check-in include a comfy dog bed, bowls, snack, and bottled water. The hotel is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, within walking distance to Gateway Arch National Park and Busch Stadium. Book an Arch-View room or admire skyline views from a poolside cabana.

Discovered by a farmer’s dog in 1862, Fantastic Caverns was first explored by a dozen local women who answered a Springfield newspaper ad seeking explorers. During Prohibition, the massive cave was used by bootleggers as a speakeasy and casino. In the 1950s, it was transformed into an underground auditorium by country greats like Buck Owens. Today, your dog can ‘mark his territory’ on America’s only Jeep-drawn cave tour. During the one-hour tour, you’ll hear more fascinating tales about this Springfield landmark and see stunning stalactites and stalagmites at every turn. With a natural temperature of 60 degrees year-round, Fantastic Caverns is a perfect spot to visit with your pooch in any season.

After a day of spelunking with your canine companion, spend a night in downtown Springfield at the Hotel Vandivort. This industrial-chic urban retreat offers Fido treats and toys upon arrival. Relax by the fireplace in the cozy lobby sitting area and gaze at the cityscape from the rooftop lounge.