Watch CBS News

Best Pet-Friendly Getaways Near Baltimore

If you're feeling that itch to get away but don't have a pet sitter, don't stress. Vacations with pets are not only possible, they're more fun and memorable because the whole family can enjoy it together. Choose any of these top five getaways near Baltimore for a pet-friendly atmosphere and exciting activities for adults, kids and pups.

Wisp Resort
(credit: wispresort.com)

Wisp Resort
296 Marsh Hill Road
McHenry, Md. 21541
(301) 387-4000
www.wispresort.com/

Price: $50 pet fee

Literally a mountain of possibilities, Wisp Resort is an attractive destination for families and their pets all year round. However during the winter season, Wisp offers an incredible winter playground with 132 acres of ski terrain including snow tubing trails and a terrain park. Plus the nearby Deep Creek Lake area boasts limitless options like ice skating, snowshoeing, hiking trails and more. Dogs are welcome to join their owners and play in the snow as this resort's dog policy invites small dogs of less than 40 pounds with a non-refundable $50 pet fee. Larger, well-behaved dogs may be allowed, but must be arranged with the resort and approved in advance. Wisp also provides pet-friendly lodging partners on its website or upon inquiry. (Note: No pit bull breeds.)

Related: Best Places To Go Ice Skating In Baltimore

TurfValley
Turf Valley has 36 holes of golf and features two separate courses, both 18 holes. (Credit: turfvalley.com)

Turf Valley
2700 Turf Valley Road
Ellicott City, Md. 21042
(410) 465-1500
www.turfvalley.com

Price: $75 cleaning fee

Just a short drive from Baltimore, Turf Valley encourages pet parents not to leave their dogs behind. This proud, dog-friendly property greets its four-legged guests with a yummy treat, and guests receive an arrival kit with suggested walking routes on the property and a special sign for the door. Upon request, dogs may even receive dog bowls or beds to make their stay more comfortable. Meanwhile, owners relax and de-stress with incredible spa packages like a hot stone massage, Swedish relaxation massage or deep-tissue massage. Turf Valley requires a $75 per stay pet fee that is applied toward cleaning the room to ensure high-quality lodging for future visitors.

Hudson, Puppy Club

The Inn at Perry Cabin
308 Watkins Lane
St. Michaels, Md. 21663
(410) 745-2200
www.perrycabin.com

Price: $75 pet fee

Enjoy the best of Maryland's Eastern Shore with a stay at St. Michaels, and soak in the rich history of the "Town that Fooled the British," or enjoy the nautical adventures that the region is famous for. Pets and their owners will appreciate the town's mild winter weather and limited snow fall, which enables vacationers to partake in long walks or bicycle rides, historic tours and chain-free shopping. The Inn at Perry Cabin is a luxurious grand manor resort that features great amenities from spa services to gourmet dining. Well-mannered dogs weighing less than 75 pounds are permitted at a $75 fee per pet each stay, but owners must provide advanced notice. Dogs must be leashed and properly cleaned up after during the visit.

Cute puppu feature
(photo credit: Thinkstock)

Pier 5 Hotel in Downtown Baltimore
711 Eastern Ave.
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(410) 539-2000
www.harbormagic.com/

Price: No additional fee for pets

Sometimes the best vacations to take are the closest to home, and luckily, Baltimore is home to numerous pet-friendly hotels and bed and breakfasts to accommodate any vacation plans. For those planning some sight-seeing around the Inner Harbor, the Pier 5 Hotel is a great, pet-friendly option located adjacent to the National Aquarium. With a very accommodating, liberal pet policy, Pier 5 Hotel guests love that there are no additional pet fees, or weight or breed restrictions placed on dogs.

Lab puppy - Mindie Burgoyne
Photo Credit: Mindie Burgoyne

Harpers Ferry KOA
343 Campground Road
Harpers Ferry, W.V. 25425
(800) 562-9497
www.harpersferrykoa.com

Price: $2 pet fee

The Harpers Ferry KOA campground is close enough to squeeze in a fun day trip to Washington, D.C., or families and their pets may enjoy some of the major attractions in West Virginia like the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, historic civil war battlegrounds and scenic hiking trails along the Appalachian Trail in Harpers Ferry. While the campground requires a low pet fee, this includes access to the Kamp K9, a doggie playground. This pet paradise, located near the entrance of the park, is a great place for dogs that enjoy meeting and playing with new friends. All sizes of mutts are allowed, however aggressive breeds are not, so if in doubt, call the campground and inquire before making reservations.

Related: Best Walking/Biking Trails In Maryland

Keri Ann Beazell is a Baltimore writer following the latest developments in arts and culture, natural wonders, lifestyle and pets. She enjoys promoting thought-provoking discussions, education, new ideas and smiles among readers. Follow her on Twitter at @KtBlue16 and online at Examiner.com

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.