From the bright lights of Vegas to the sands of the Mohave Desert and the mountains of the Sierra Nevadas, there’s plenty to do in the state of Nevada. But what about if you’re visiting with a dog? Find out some ideas for dog-friendly things to do in Nevada on your next trip, plus answers to whether some other popular attractions are dog-friendly.
Are Dogs Allowed on the Las Vegas Strip?
Even if you’re not interested in having a flutter in the many casinos of Las Vegas, it’s still a must to walk along the Las Vegas Strip, taking in the bright lights and other attractions, from the Fountains of Bellagio to the miniature Eiffel Tower.
However, despite being a public sidewalk, did you know that there are restrictions on bringing along your dog? There is a Clark County animal ordinance that states that animals are prohibited along Las Vegas Boulevard between Sahara Avenue and Sunset Road, plus 200 yards either side, between 12pm and 5am. (While not stated, I assume service animals are exempt.)
Thus, if you want to walk along Las Vegas Boulevard with your pet dog, you can only do so between 5am and noon – not the most popular time period! Also keep in mind that dogs of course should be leashed, with the animal ordinance requiring leashes no longer than three feet.
If you want to revisit later in the day, you’ll need to find someone to look after your pup. On the other hand, there are a number of dog-friendly hotels right on the strip – enquire whether you can leave your pup behind in their crate while you head out.
#1 Take a Selfie at the Welcome Sign
At the southern end of Las Vegas Boulevard is the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Nevada” sign. Dating back to the 1950s, it’s still a popular spot for selfies, and of course you shouldn’t leave out your dog from joining you for a selfie or two! There’s even professional photographers on site who will take your photo in return for a tip.
While technically the sign is just north of Sunset Road, so in the section of the strip where animals are prohibited between 12pm and 5am, we experienced no issues parking up and taking photos with our dog in the afternoon – there’s some parking spaces just to the south.
Note that the most popular time of day for selfies is the late afternoon and evening – be prepared for a queue of up to 15 to 20 minutes. Arrive earlier in the day or late at night for shorter queues.
#2 Hit the Craft Breweries in Vegas
Recommended by Chris Heckmann of Around the World With Me
Another great thing to do in Las Vegas with your dog is to take them to one of the many dog-friendly breweries in town. While internationally known for nightclubs and casinos, Las Vegas has a surprisingly robust craft brewing scene, and many of the breweries welcome your furry friend to their patio areas.
After a nice afternoon hiking in the mountains outside the city it’s nice to stop in at a local brewery for a cold beer. And in Vegas you won’t have to leave your dog at home, so long as you’re okay with the patio. While the breweries are mostly dog friendly, pets are not allowed inside in Vegas.
Some breweries that are great to take your dog to are Las Vegas Brewing Company, Hop Nuts, Lovelady, and Able Baker, among others. Just note that not all the trendy breweries in the Arts District, which has some amazing breweries and restaurants, are dog friendly at the moment. Most of them have small outdoor patios where you can sit with your dog. But some, like HUDL, do not yet allow pups. Be sure to check the policy of the brewery before bringing your dog!
As you know, it can be really hot in Las Vegas, so the breweries offer water for pups so they can enjoy a drink too while you’re enjoying one of the city’s finest craft brews!
#3 Explore the Valley of Fire State Park
Recommended by Dhwani of Trrips and Maps
Valley of Fire State Park is a 47,000 acre state park located in the Mojave Desert in Nevada. It is famous for its vibrant red Aztec sandstone formations that were formed over millions of years. Valley of Fire Road is the main road to drive through the park and witness the beautiful swipes of red and orange hues that makes this rocky landscape absolutely stunning.
Our family visited Valley of Fire State Park in April during spring break. The fiery landscape was a welcome departure from the mossy and rainy landscape we are used to experiencing in the Pacific Northwest outdoors.
The easy to climb rock formations, the family friendly hikes and scenic overlooks makes the visit to Valley of Fire State Park very interactive and fun. Pets are welcome at all of the locations in the state park, except inside the visitor center. While visiting, pets must be kept on a leash of not more than six feet in length.
#4 Visit the Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
Recommended by Ossama of Awesome Traveler
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park is a dog-friendly destination and one of the most fun things to do in Reno in Nevada. It is the largest and most dynamic park in Washoe County. It extends to 580 acres of land with plenty of sightseeing and lush landscapes.
Dogs are allowed in the park, but generally must be on a leash. There is only one place in the park where dogs are permitted off-leash. The area is known as the Multi-Use Pasture and is located in the center of the park, just south of N McCarran Boulevard.
The Rancho San Rafael Regional Park is well known for hosting the Great Reno Balloon Race, which is celebrated during the early days of September and lasts for three days. As you look up to the sky of Reno, you see it filled with colorful hot air balloons. I can assure you this event will amaze you in so many levels. There is a reason why it has won many special awards, such as the best event in Reno.
#5 Head to Seven Magic Mountains
Recommended by Imee Magbag of Journey To Nevada
Visiting Seven Magic Mountains is one of the best things to do in Las Vegas and one of the most fantastic places to visit in Nevada.
This awe-inspiring, large-scale public art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone is located in the Mojave Desert, about 10 miles south of Las Vegas. The vibrant artwork features seven towering stacks of brightly colored boulders, each standing between 30 and 35 feet high.
Seven Magic Mountains is also a great place to take your dog for a short, scenic outing. It’s a fun spot to get some fresh air and capture Instagram-worthy photos with your furry friend. Just make sure to leash up your dog and take a walk around the sculptures.
There’s plenty of space for your dog to sniff around and explore, and you’re sure to get some great photos with the colorful rocks in the background. Keep an eye on your dog to ensure they don’t chase other visitors.
Since there are no waste bags or disposal bins at Seven Magic Mountains, be sure to bring your own and clean up after your dog. Besides admiring this beautiful masterpiece, you can also explore the Mojave Desert, adding another layer of adventure to your visit.
#6 Hike at Red Rock Canyon
Recommended by Daria of Explore Baja California
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area located just to the west of Las Vegas is a perfect place for a walk with your dog. Also known as “The Red Rock” among locals, this area welcomes pets as long as they stay on designated trails and are leashed.
There are many easy trails within the Red Rock where you can take your four-legged friend like Calico Basin Trail, Moenkopi Loop and Pine Creek Canyon, which has a small ponderosa pine forest at the end of the canyon where you can relax after hiking.
In addition to trails, dogs should always be leased in public areas like campgrounds, visitor center, and overlooks. Always pick up waste after your dog.
The best time to hike Red Rock with Fido is from October through March, when temperatures stay around mid 60’s to 70’s during the day, but there’s still plenty of sun.
You can also hike in summer, but you should plan your outings for early morning or evenings, as temperatures often reach triple digits from May through September.
Can You Visit the Hoover Dam with a Dog?
Another popular destination just outside of Vegas is the Hoover Dam. This massive dam was built across the Colorado River between 1931 and 1936, on the border between Nevada and Arizona. It’s about a 40 minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip.
When I last visited Nevada with my dog, we planned to stop off at the dam, but gave up due to the massive traffic jam heading down to the dam wall. Just as well, as the Hoover Dam is not a dog-friendly attraction.
Not surprisingly, dogs aren’t allowed inside the buildings including the visitor center, accessible by paid ticket or on paid tours. But pet dogs are also not allowed on top of the dam either. I have seen a photo of a sign stating “no pets on trail or bridge walkway”.
The official website states this also applies to comfort animals, but trained service animals are welcome. The website also states that animals cannot be left in vehicles unattended.
I’ve read reports that staff at the entrance to the main parking station on the Nevada side of the dam will ask whether you have pets in your car, and deny entry.
If you are still keen on visiting, it’s best to head to the parking lots on the Arizona side of the dam and take turns visiting, while someone minds your pet. The parking lots up the hill after parking lot 9 are free. There are also free information signs along the path.
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About the Author
Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.