Missouri

Missouri is a fantastic place to explore with your furry friend. Here’s a fun and dog-friendly 3-day itinerary that will have both you and your pup wagging your tails with joy!

Day 1: St. Louis Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Mud House: Start your day at this cozy café in the heart of St. Louis. They have a lovely outdoor patio where your pup can join you while you enjoy a delicious breakfast. Try their famous breakfast burrito or a hearty omelet!

Mid-Morning:

• Forest Park: After breakfast, head over to Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. It’s dog-friendly, and you can stroll along the trails, visit the beautiful gardens, or even take a walk around the picturesque lakes. Don’t forget to stop by the St. Louis Art Museum, which has a lovely outdoor area.

Lunch:

• Pappy’s Smokehouse: Grab some mouth-watering BBQ at this iconic spot. They have a dog-friendly patio where you can enjoy their famous ribs while your pup relaxes by your side.

Afternoon:

• The Gateway Arch: Take a walk along the riverfront and enjoy the views of the Gateway Arch. While dogs aren’t allowed inside the Arch, you can take some great photos and enjoy the park area around it.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Crossing: This restaurant has a dog-friendly patio and offers a great selection of dishes. Enjoy a nice meal while your pup enjoys the fresh air.

Day 2: Exploring the Ozarks

Morning:

• Drive to Branson: After breakfast, head to Branson (about a 3-hour drive). The scenic drive through the Ozarks is beautiful, and you can stop at some overlooks for a quick photo op with your pup!

Mid-Morning:

• Table Rock Lake: Once in Branson, head to Table Rock Lake. There are plenty of trails and areas where dogs are welcome. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore or take a hike on one of the dog-friendly trails.

Lunch:

• The Paddlewheel: This restaurant offers a dog-friendly outdoor seating area with a view of the lake. Enjoy some classic American fare while your pup enjoys the breeze.

Afternoon:

• Dogwood Canyon Nature Park: Spend the afternoon exploring this beautiful park. There are miles of trails, and dogs are welcome on leashes. You can also rent bikes or take a tram tour if you want to explore more of the park.

Evening:

• Dinner at Big Cedar Lodge: This stunning resort has several dining options, and you can find dog-friendly spots. Enjoy a lovely dinner while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

Day 3: Kansas City Culture

Morning:

• Drive to Kansas City: After breakfast, head to Kansas City (about a 3-hour drive). Once you arrive, grab a coffee at a local café with outdoor seating, like The Roasterie.

Mid-Morning:

• Loose Park: This beautiful park is perfect for a morning stroll. It has lovely gardens and plenty of space for your pup to run around. Don’t forget to check out the rose garden!

Lunch:

• The Farmhouse: This farm-to-table restaurant has a dog-friendly patio and offers delicious, locally sourced dishes. Enjoy a hearty lunch while your pup relaxes in the shade.

Afternoon:

• West Bottoms: Explore this trendy area filled with antique shops and boutiques. Many shops are dog-friendly, so you can browse while your pup tags along.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Cashew: This casual eatery has a dog-friendly patio and offers a variety of tasty dishes. It’s a great way to wrap up your trip!

Bonus Tips:

• Always check ahead for dog policies at restaurants and attractions.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks for your pup, especially during outdoor activities.
• Don’t forget to pack a leash, waste bags, and a comfy blanket for your dog to relax on.

I hope you and your furry friend have an amazing time exploring Missouri! Safe travels! 🐾✨