Traveling with a Large Dog? These Austin Hotels Won’t Turn You Away
Planning a trip to Austin with your big dog? Finding a truly pet-friendly hotel that doesn’t discriminate based on size can be frustrating. Many listings claim to welcome pets—until you arrive with your 85-pound Labrador and face strict weight limits or hidden fees. This guide highlights the best dog-friendly hotels in Austin for large dogs, with no size restrictions and plenty of space for your four-legged companion to feel right at home.
Downtown Luxury Options
The Fairmont Austin (101 Red River Street) stands out for its VIP (Very Important Pet) program. Unlike many hotels with restrictive weight limits, the Fairmont welcomes dogs of all sizes with a reasonable $50 per stay pet fee. They provide plush dog beds, water bowls, and a special welcome treat. The best part? Their dedicated pet relief area means no long elevator rides when your pup needs an urgent bathroom break at 2 AM (learned that lesson the hard way at other hotels).
Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt sits at 605 Davis Street, right in the heart of the Rainey Street District. It’s a great spot for travelers with large dogs.
This hotel doesn’t just allow big dogs—it celebrates them.
There are no weight restrictions.
There are no pet fees.
Your pup is treated like a VIP from check-in to checkout. The hotel offers loaner beds, bowls, and even hosts a complimentary wine hour where pets are invited to socialize. The staff keeps treats at the front desk and can direct you to the nearby Butler District Park for morning walks.
Mid-Range Dog-Friendly Stays
Aloft Austin Downtown (109 East 7th Street) offers their ARF (Animals Are Fun) program with no weight restrictions. They provide dog beds, bowls, treats, and toys for a one-time $50 cleaning fee. Their location near Republic Square Park gives you easy walking access to green space for bathroom breaks.
The Carpenter Hotel (400 Josephine Street) welcomes dogs of all sizes for a $50 per-stay fee. This boutique hotel features ground-floor rooms with direct outdoor access – a game-changer for those middle-of-the-night potty trips. Their spacious lawn area provides on-site relief options, and Zilker Park is just a short walk away.
Budget-Friendly Options
La Quinta Inn & Suites Austin Southwest at Mopac (4424 South Mopac Expressway) stands out in the budget category with a truly pet-friendly policy – no pet fees and no weight restrictions. While not luxurious, their first-floor rooms provide easy outdoor access, and the nearby Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park offers excellent walking trails.
Extended Stay America Austin – Northwest/Arboretum (10100 North Capital of Texas Highway) allows up to two pets of any size for a reasonable $25 per pet, per night fee. It is capped at $150 per pet for longer stays. Their suites include kitchens, making it easier to prepare your dog’s meals. The location near Bull Creek District Park provides excellent walking opportunities.
Unique Pet-Friendly Accommodations
The Lodgewell Hotel (4904 Peace Avenue) in East Austin offers pet-friendly tiny houses and cabins with fenced private yards – a rare find in hotel accommodations. They welcome large breeds for a $75 cleaning fee and provide outdoor spaces where your dog can safely roam off-leash. The nearby Govalle Neighborhood Park offers additional walking options.
When booking any pet-friendly accommodation, I’ve learned to call directly rather than relying solely on website information. Policies can change, so always mention your dog’s breed and size upfront to avoid surprises at check-in. Ask specific questions about pet relief areas, additional fees, and nearby walking options.
Most importantly, be a responsible pet owner by keeping your room tidy and addressing any barking promptly. Never leave your dog unattended unless the hotel explicitly allows it.
Have you stayed at any of these pet-friendly Austin hotels with your large dog? Or have you discovered another hidden gem that welcomes big pups? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below!
