Family reunions are a special time to reconnect and create wonderful new memories with loved ones. And these days, these gatherings aren’t just for humans—pets are welcome to the party, too.
As more families actively embrace their four-legged friends as part of the clan, it’s important to consider how to include them in these special events. If you’re planning a reunion in a neighboring state or halfway across the country, finding pet-friendly ways to celebrate can make the occasion even more memorable for everyone involved.
Here are some fun ideas to ensure that your next out-of-state family reunion is a hit for both humans and pets alike:
1) Plan a Pet-Friendly Beach Day
Nothing says summer like a day at the beach, and there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches across the country that welcome pets with open arms. Organize a beach day where the whole family—dogs included—can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
Look for beaches that offer off-leash areas so that all your pets can run freely, play fetch, or take a dip in the ocean. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, pet-safe sunscreen, and snacks for both the humans and the pups.
Getting personalized dog bandanas bulk buyers also look for is a good idea too, especially if you want to give everyone’s pets a uniform item to celebrate the occasion. This way, beach day with your clan will serve as more than a fun and relaxing way to spend time together, but also an opportunity to express family pride. It doesn’t hurt that the family uniform will pop against a beautiful beach backdrop, which is ideal for family photos of the occasion.
2) Rent a Pet-Friendly Cabin in the Mountains
If your family prefers the tranquility of nature, consider renting a pet-friendly cabin in the mountains. Many cabins across the United States welcome pets and provide a peaceful retreat where you can bond with your loved ones away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Spend your days hiking through scenic trails, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and enjoying the simple pleasures of outdoor life together as a family. The great outdoors also offer ample space for pets to explore, and the natural surroundings provide a perfect setting for family games, picnics, and late-night campfires.
3) Organize a Pet Parade
For big families with a lot of pets, a pet parade is a fun and festive way to celebrate an out-of-state reunion. How about organizing a mini-parade where family members can dress up their pets in costumes and parade them around a local park or neighborhood? This can be a great way to involve everyone, especially kids, who will love to create costumes and show off their pets. Add some friendly competition by offering prizes for the best costumes, most creative outfits, or funniest pet-and-owner look-alike duo.
4) Visit a Pet-Friendly Amusement Park
Yes, you read that right! Some amusement parks in the US are pet-friendly and will welcome your furry friends to join in on the fun. Parks like Dollywood in Tennessee, for example, allow pets in designated areas. There are even pet resorts where your dogs can relax while you enjoy the rides.
Visiting a pet-friendly amusement park gives you the best of both worlds: family fun and the comfort of knowing your pet is well taken care of. Look for parks that offer pet amenities such as shaded areas, water stations, and pet relief areas to ensure a comfortable visit for your pet.
5) Host a Family Picnic in a Pet-Friendly Park
A classic picnic in the park is always a great option for a family reunion, especially when the park is pet-friendly. Many parks across the country offer spacious areas where pets can roam freely, as well as facilities like dog parks, walking trails, and picnic tables.
Pack a delicious picnic basket with treats for both the humans and the pets, bring along some toys, and enjoy a relaxing day outdoors. This is an easy, low-cost way to spend quality time with your loved ones, and it gives your pets the freedom to play and socialize with other family members. Plus, the natural setting is ideal for capturing candid moments and group photos.
6) Take a Scenic Road Trip
If your family loves to hit the open road, why not plan a scenic road trip that includes pet-friendly stops along the way? Whether you’re exploring the coast, driving through the desert, or winding through mountain roads, there are plenty of destinations that cater to travelers with pets. Map out a route that includes dog-friendly hotels and restaurants so your pets can be a part of the family road trip adventure.
7) Explore a Pet-Friendly National Park
Lastly, a number of national parks are pet-friendly, and they offer a great opportunity for family members and pets to explore nature together. Parks like Acadia in Maine and Shenandoah in Virginia allow pets on certain trails, giving you the chance to hike, camp, and discover the great outdoors with your human and canine family members. Just be sure to check the park’s pet regulations beforehand, as some areas may have restrictions.
Family reunions already offer you an opportunity to strengthen the bonds among some of the most important people in your life, and including your pets in the celebration will make these moments even more special. Consider the following pet-friendly activities and destinations listed above, and help plan the ultimate family reunion out of state.
