Planning a getaway with your four-legged best friend? Vaughan welcomes pets with dog-friendly hotels, patios, shopping spots, parks, trails and off-leash adventures. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or just looking for new places to explore together, here’s your guide to some of the city’s most paw-some destinations.

There are so many parks, walking paths and trails in Vaughan that your canine companion will be over the moon with excitement! The City of Vaughan understands the value of creating local off-leash dog areas. All off-leash dog areas in Vaughan are secure, fenced-in spaces where dogs and their families can get exercise outdoors, socialize and roam free – safely. Each of the City’s off-leash areas has a locked gate, is accessible only to those who want to enter and is separated from playgrounds and other park facilities.

Here are a couple of off-leash areas to let your dog loose for a run. Mackenzie Glen District Park (220 Cranston Park Ave.) serves dogs of all sizes, with separate spaces for large and small breeds. Also, there’s Sugarbush Heritage Park (91 Thornhill Woods Dr.). This outdoor park facility has a 2.4-kilometre walking trail, a playground, and community garden.The secure off-leash area is perfect for dogs who love their freedom.

And here are the on-leash parks available in Vaughan. Pets are welcome at Kortright Centre for Conservation (9550 Pine Valley Dr.). For the safety and enjoyment of everyone, ensure your dog is always kept on a leash and clean up after them. Pets are not allowed in the Visitor Centre but can enjoy the extensive hiking and forest trails. Boyd Conservation Park (8739 Islington Ave.) is very dog-friendly, welcoming pets on all scenic trails and open picnic spaces. Pets must be on a leash no longer than two metres, owners must clean up after them, of course, and there is a maximum of three pets per person or family. Also, dogs are not permitted inside the Aquatic or Visitor Centres.

Finally, although not a park, Kleinburg Village is a highly dog-friendly destination. This historic village features walkable tree-lined streets and nearby nature trails. From there, feel free to escort your furry pals to the William Granger Greenway along the Humber River – ideal for scenic, dog-friendly weekend walks.

The Woodbridge Village Farmers Market (9201 Islington Ave.) is a friendly, big-hearted market located at the Al Palladini Community Centre (9201 Islington Ave.)The market runs every Saturday, rain or shine, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. from mid-June to early October and visitors are welcome to bring their leashed dog through the market while you shop.

Dogs are allowed inside Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World (1 Bass Pro Mills Dr., Unit A1). As long as they are leashed and well-behaved, they are welcome to join you as you browse. While Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World itself is dog-friendly, remember it is attached to the Vaughan Mills mall, which prohibits pets, only permitting licensed service animals. To avoid issues in the common mall areas, it is best to enter Bass Pro Shops directly from the exterior parking lot.

Looking for accommodations in Vaughan that will welcome your furry friend(s)? Check out these options! Staybridge Suites Toronto – Vaughan South (3600 Steeles Ave. W.) is pet-friendly, with per night fees applicable for up to four nights. After that, a flat fee per pet applies. But remember, pets must weigh a maximum of 75 pounds and no exotic pets are allowed. Pets are also welcome at Residence Inn by Marriot Toronto/Vaughan (11 Interchange Way). There are fees for room cleaning, and a maximum of two pets per room is allowed.

Then there’s Novotel Toronto Vaughan (200 Bass Pro Mills Dr.), a very pet-friendly property. They’re pleased to welcome all guests who are traveling with their pets. They accept domesticated dogs and cats only, that are under 60 pounds. Fees apply depending on the length of your stay. Dogs are also welcome at Aloft Vaughan Mills (151 Bass Pro Mills Dr.), as long as they’re under 40 pounds, and only one per room, with a per-night fee. Both Novotel Toronto Vaughan and Aloft Vaughan Mills are so close to (1 Canada’s Wonderland Dr.) they can serve as great bases of operations. But remember, Canada’s Wonderland only allows service dogs into the facility. There is a self-service Pet Kennel Facility at the park for dogs and cats.

Here are a few more to check out if you’re travelling with your fur-baby. Be sure to check the specific pet policy for each hotel for restrictions and fees. At Avid Hotel Toronto – Vaughan Southwest (6800 Highway 7), pets are part of the family, and they welcome the whole family. Pet-friendly, Element by Westin Vaughan Southwest (6170 Highway 7) is “built green from the ground up” and is the first hotel of its kind in Canada. Homewood Suites by Hilton Toronto Vaughan (618 Applewood Cres.) also welcomes your dogs and cats, with a two-pet-per-room policy.

Sugarhill Desserts (9100 Jane St.) is a dog-friendly bakery in Vaughan. Your friend Fido is welcome to join you at a table on the outdoor patio as you enjoy hot and cold drinks, ice cream, waffles, crepes, cakes and sundaes. There are plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options as well. State and Main (3584 Major Mackenzie Dr.) serves elevated comfort food and cocktails, providing a vibrant atmosphere. Come over to experience great food, drinks and laughs! And if you want to bring your fur baby along, dogs are welcome on the dog-friendly patio.

There’s a reason your dog is your best friend. They’re loyal companions, eager adventurers and always ready to make new memories alongside you. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or simply exploring somewhere new, pack the leash, grab a few treats and get ready to enjoy a tail-wagging adventure together. Find the parks, trails, hotels, restaurants/cafés that your dogs will love by heading to visitvaughan.ca.

As you explore all that Vaughan has to offer, don’t forget to tag us at #VisitVaughan and follow us on Instagram at @visitvaughan!