Are There Dog-Friendly Amusement Parks?

Planning a dog-friendly vacation can be tricky. You need to focus on outdoor activities, but even then, not all outdoor events allow pets. Many big theme parks, such as Disney, Universal, and Six Flags, don’t allow dogs besides service dogs, but those are some of the most popular travel destinations. So, are there any dog-friendly amusement parks? And should your furry friend visit them?

Do Dog-Friendly Amusement Parks Exist?

Yes, you might be surprised to learn that there are lots of pet-friendly amusement parks. However, just because dogs are welcome in the park doesn’t mean they’re allowed in every area. Big rides and indoor dining areas are just a few places where pets might not be allowed. Always check a park’s pet policies and restrictions before bringing your dog there.

While some dogs will have a blast at these action-packed settings, others may feel very overwhelmed. Before taking your dog to a new environment like this, ask yourself if your canine companion will enjoy it. If they typically get anxious in unfamiliar places or around crowds of people, an amusement park probably isn’t the best place for them. Your pet’s comfort should always be a priority when traveling.

Best Dog-Friendly Amusement Parks

There’s a wide range of dog-friendly theme parks around the world. Some include big rides while others are more laid-back with walk-through exhibits. If you’re wanting to plan a vacation with your pup, consider one of the following destinations.

1. Knoebels Amusement Resort - Pennsylvania, USA

Knoebels offers free admission for pets and humans, but you have to pay for each ride. Pets can be in any outdoor areas of the park as long as they’re leashed and well-behaved. They cannot enter any buildings, including the restrooms, so make sure you visit with more than one person so they can hold your dog when you go in indoor areas. Dogs cannot be left unattended at any time. Even though pets can’t enjoy most of the activities, it’s an exciting new place for them to walk and explore.

2. Dinosaur World - Florida, Kentucky, and Texas, USA

I’ve visited Dinosaur World in Florida with my dog, Mabel, and she had a great time. This theme park doesn’t have rides, but instead, it’s a walk-through experience. It has lots of trails with dinosaur sculptures and information about dinosaurs. There’s also a similar park in Kentucky and Texas. Dogs aren’t allowed in the museum buildings, so my family and I took turns waiting outside with Mabel, but all the outdoor trails are pet-friendly, so there’s lots for dogs to explore.

3. Tweetsie Railroad - North Carolina, USA

Tweetsie is a Wild West theme park that has rides, trains, shows, and a deer park zoo. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome in the park, but there are some restrictions. They cannot go on most of the attractions for safety reasons, so it’s mostly just a place for pets to explore while some of your group hops on rides. Only service animals are allowed in areas with food.

4. Lagoon Park - Utah, USA

Lagoon Park has all types of rides and attractions, including slow, gentle rides for toddlers and intense roller coasters for adults and older kids. While most of the attractions aren’t safe for dogs, there are plenty of paved trails that are pet-friendly. There are lots of great smells for your dog to enjoy, and there are lots of adorable places for canine photo opportunities.

5. Bakken - Denmark

Bakken is known as the world’s oldest amusement park, originally opening in 1583. Entrance is completely free, so everyone can explore the park at no cost, but many of the rides and other attractions cost extra. Dogs can walk around the park with their humans, as long as they’re leashed and well-behaved. Of course, not all attractions are pet-friendly though. This dog-friendly amusement park is a unique piece of history that’s worth stopping by if you’re near Klampenborg, Denmark.

6. Fun Spot - Florida and Georgia, USA

Fun Spot is a free-to-visit theme park that has two locations in Florida and one in Georgia. Mabel and I walked around one of the Florida locations, and dogs are allowed to explore all outdoor areas, but they can’t go on the rides (which you have to pay extra for). Yet, dog parents can still have fun with their furry friends by playing games, walking around, taking photos, and eating snacks.

7. Flamingo Land Resort - United Kingdom

Flamingo Land has a wide range of attractions, including thrill rides, family rides, kid playgrounds, and animal experiences. Most areas of this resort welcome dogs, with the exception of the zoo and some children’s play areas. As much as dogs would love to be in these spots, they could make animals and children uncomfortable. Dogs must be kept under control, otherwise you may be asked to leave.

8. Centreville Amusement Park - Ontario, Canada

This Toronto Islands amusement park has lots of kid-friendly rides, making it a great family destination. There’s no entrance fee, so you only have to pay for the rides you choose to go on. Since it’s free to enter, dog parents can walk their well-behaved dogs around the park at no cost. Like most pet-friendly theme parks, dogs aren’t allowed on the rides for safety reasons.

9. Europa-Park - Germany

This popular Europe theme park has taken a lot of inspiration from Disney, including a structure that closely resembles the EPCOT ball. It has over 100 different attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and shows. They allow leashed dogs in the park, but unfortunately, they don’t allow all breeds. Dogs cannot go on the rides, but they can explore the park with their humans and take advantage of some perks, such as dog water stations and treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Disney Dog-Friendly?

No, Disney is not dog-friendly. Only service dogs are allowed in the park and on select rides. Some Disney World hotels allow dogs, but unfortunately, dogs cannot join you in any of the parks.

Is Universal Dog-Friendly?

No, Universal is not dog-friendly. They allow service dogs in the parks, but not pets. They do have a dog boarding area for visitors, but it's not the most comforting atmosphere, so your dog would probably be more relaxed staying at a dog-friendly hotel nearby.

Is Six Flags Dog-Friendly?

No, Six Flags doesn’t allow dogs besides service dogs. Some Six Flags locations offer kennel services, but it’s probably best to leave your dog at home during your trip if possible.

Can Emotional Support Dogs Go to Amusement Parks?

No, emotional support dogs are considered pets rather than service dogs, so they can’t go to amusement parks that aren’t dog-friendly. Emotional support dogs differ from service dogs because they aren’t trained to perform a specific task.

Is a Pet-Friendly Amusement Park Right for Your Dog?

Dog-friendly theme parks are fun places to visit with your canine companions, but they aren’t ideal for every dog. Amusement parks are often crowded and loud, which can be too much for anxious dogs. If your dog doesn’t do well in new environments, the destinations mentioned above are probably too much for them. Only plan a dog-friendly vacation if you know your dog will be comfortable.

Theme parks aren’t the only places to visit with dogs. If you’re worried your dog will be stressed at a busy park like these, consider adjusting your vacation plans. I always recommend camping with dogs as a pet-friendly trip because all the activities are outside, so it’s easy to bring your dog along. Of course, you should still make sure your dog is okay with staying away from home before booking your trip.