Pet-Friendly Attractions and Venues North of Boston

Traveling and sightseeing can be fun as a family but traveling with your furry friends is even better! Man’s best friend may be welcome on your sofa and sometimes in your bed, but some local restaurants and attractions have rules about allowing your faithful companion into their establishment unless they are a service animal. 

Here are a few pet-friendly attractions and venues where Fido is allowed during certain special weekends and events for your family’s pleasure. So head out confidently knowing where your pet companion will be permitted in advance. 

Crane Beach 

Crane Beach in Ipswich, Massachusetts is part of the beautiful Crane Estate run by the Trustees. While pets are not allowed on the beach during the peak summer season, they are allowed with their owners between October 1 and March 31 (free for Member dogs and $5/dog for Non-member dogs.) Dog regulations will be shared with dog walkers at the beach gate.

Smolak Farm 

Fall is the perfect time to spend the weekends exploring local farms, apple orchards, and corn mazes that dot the North of Boston area. It is indeed a New England thing to do! 

If you don’t want to leave your pet at home while you have fun, head to Smolak Farms where you can enjoy the farm stand, animals, and all the pick-you-own fruit you can manage! While dogs are not permitted in the farm stand or any of the berry-picking areas, leashed pups can join you in other outdoor spaces.

Halibut Point 

The walking trails and views at Halibut Point in Rockport, Massachusetts just can’t be beat, especially when you pair them with spending time with your most faithful companion. Take a walk with your pup along the 2.5 miles of walking trails that will lead you past a granite quarry, rocky shores, and eventually the majesty of the Atlantic Ocean! For more information and to download a map visit: www.thetrustees.org/halibutpoint.

Woodman’s of Essex 

After a day of exploring and tasting the fall flavors, treat yourself to a traditional seafood dinner at the iconic Woodman’s of Essex. 

The restaurant, located in Essex, Massachusetts offers a variety of classic seafood including lobsters, fried clams and scallops, and of course the traditional New England bowl of clam chowder. Plan a clam bake or just an evening sitting outdoors while you enjoy your pet’s company and the beautiful views from their outdoor seating area. 

For more pet-friendly venues and attractions, visit North of Boston and search through the pet-friendly filter.