Photo by Stephen Crane on Unsplash
Oftentimes when we have free time, we want to do something fun, but we don’t want to leave our beloved pet behind. The good news, though, is we live in one of the most pet-friendly states in the country. Pennsylvania ranked ninth in a list by Dogster of the most dog-friendly states in the United States, with Florida taking the top spot. Next time you’re looking for a fun outing for the whole family, consider these seven pet-friendly attractions in Pennsylvania.
1. Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway – Jim Thorpe
Sit back, relax with your pet, and watch the scenery – including the Lehigh River and Lehigh Gorge State Park – pass by on a train ride with Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway in Jim Thorpe. Well-behaved pets are welcome on all train rides. When you book in advance or purchase your ticket on the same day, let the ticket agent know your pet will be joining you, and they’ll receive a special ticket.
While the railway offers regular 70-minute scenic rides throughout the year, it also hosts special events, including the 45-minute Autumn Leaf rides and 70-minute Holiday Trains.
To ensure a seat at your desired time, buy your tickets ahead of time. You can purchase tickets online or by calling 570-325-8485 (option 1). However, you must purchase tickets the same day for all Autumn Leaf rides.
Trains have bathrooms and a snack and souvenir car. Alcohol is prohibited, but you’re allowed to bring snacks and drinks, if you prefer.
Address: 1 Susquehanna Street, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
2. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens – Philadelphia
Embrace your imagination at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, home to the work of renowned artist Isaiah Zagar. Founded by Zagar and his wife Julie, the South Street attraction, comprised of Magic Gardens Museum and Magic Gardens Studios, features an outdoor sculpture garden, colorful mosaics, public murals, and rotating exhibits in two indoor galleries.
Plan a minimum of a half-hour for your visit, and save a bit of time to check out the gift shop too. Because Magic Gardens doesn’t have a water fountain, consider bringing bottled water, including for your pup, as much of the attraction is outdoors.
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens welcomes leashed, friendly dogs as long as you pick up after your pooch. Timed tickets, which tend to sell out quickly, are available for purchase online. Guided tours are also available.
Address: 1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
3. Baldwin’s Book Barn – West Chester
Explore five stories brimming with used and rare books at Baldwin’s Book Barn, a West Chester gem since the 1940s. Tucked in a historic stone building that dates back to 1822, the dog-friendly destination features arched doorways, stone walls, a wood-burning stove, and windows that allow the sunlight to pour in.
Wander around the shop to find that book you’ve been searching for or discover a new-to-you gem. Then grab a spot in one of the cozy nooks to sit, relax with your pup, and read.
Baldwin’s Book Barn boasts a collection of more than 300,000 used books.
Address: 865 Lenape Rd, West Chester, PA 19382
4. Pins Mechanical Company – Pittsburgh
Treat yourself to old-school fun at Pins Mechanical Company in Pittsburgh. The dog-friendly attraction welcomes leashed dogs, although management “reserves the right to turn dogs away” during busier times to ensure everyone’s, both humans and pups, comfort.
Pins Mechanical Company is all about old-fashioned fun with duckpin bowling, pinball, giant Jenga, ping pong, foosball, and patio pong. Try to beat the high score on favorites like Donkey Kong and Pac-Man. Even better? You can play for free. For a real old-school experience, fill your pockets with quarters, and drop them in each time you play. All quarters are donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities.
While you can bring your own food or have it delivered, Pins Mechanical Company pours a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including beer, cocktails, and slushies. Or order a mocktail for the kiddos.
Pins Mechanical Company is family-friendly. However, guests under 21 are not admitted after 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Address: 407 Cinema Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15203
5. Abe’s Buggy Rides – Lancaster
Climb aboard a buggy for a tour of Amish Country with Abe’s Buggy Rides in Lancaster. Leashed dogs are welcome on the tours. The longstanding Amish attraction, which opened in 1968, offers five routes, the shortest of which lasts 20 minutes with the longest taking one hour and 15 minutes. The hour-long tour features a stop at an Amish and Mennonite craft and bake shop, where you can treat your sweet tooth to a shoofly pie, a Pennsylvania staple.
Abe’s Buggy Rides is open, weather permitting, Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rides are first come first serve.
Address: 2596 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird in Hand, PA 17505
6. Green Dog Barkery – Wyoming
Don’t let the name Green Dog Barkery fool you. This popular pet shop in Wyoming offers homemade treats for dogs and artisan goodies for cats. It offers such handcrafted products, baked in the shop, as grilled cheese prepackaged treats and fresh breath bites.
Green Dog Bakery also sells pet supplies and toys, features a self-serve pet wash station, and offers professional dog training classes.
Consider joining Green Dog Barkery’s Dog Social Club, which allows you and your pup to get to know other pet parents and their pooches. The Dog Social Club hosts events, breed meet-ups, and BYOB happy hours. You can even throw a party for your pup or celebrate another special occasion at Green Dog Barkery. Joining the club is free, although events typically have a fee.
Address: 1024 Wyoming Ave, Wyoming, PA 18644
7. Country Junction – Lehighton
Follow the Yellow Brick Road that will lead you through Country Junction, a 50,000-square foot destination in Lehighton known as “The World’s Largest General Store.” The pet-friendly store features cleaning carts to make it easy to clean up any accidents your pet has.
Even if you’re not shopping for anything in particular, you’ll likely find gems as you explore the massive general store that sells a little bit of everything, including home décor, furniture, gifts, and pet supplies. Treat yourself to something sweet – maybe a freshly-baked pie or homespun fudge – too.
Country Junction is more than a general store; it’s a destination. After meandering through the shop, make new furry friends at the petting zoo, play your favorite arcade games, try mini bowling, and enjoy a ride on the bumper cars.
Keep an eye on the Country Junction website, too, as the popular general store often hosts events, including photos with the Easter Bunny, trunk or treat during the Halloween season, and pictures with Santa.
Address: 6565 Interchange Rd, Lehighton, PA 18235
These pet-friendly attractions in Pennsylvania make it easy to spend time and create memories with your pets. If you’re up for a leisurely stroll, consider checking out one of these pet-friendly hikes in Pennsylvania. The paved paths make it easy to explore with your leashed pup or a pet in a stroller.
