RV Road Trip with Your Dog: A Weekend in Miami for a Football Game
There’s something magical about hitting the road in an RV, especially when your furry friend is by your side. Whether you’re traveling to a major sporting event or just exploring new cities, bringing your dog along for the ride adds a sense of adventure. This weekend, we’re taking you on a trip to Miami for a thrilling football game—and we’re doing it all in the comfort of an RV with our loyal pup in tow.
1. Preparing for the Trip: Dog-Friendly RV Essentials
Before you hit the road, you’ll want to make sure both you and your dog are set for a weekend of adventure. Here are some essentials to pack for both you and your four-legged companion:
Food and Water: Pack enough food for the entire trip, plus extra in case of any delays. Bring a collapsible bowl for water and food that’s easy to clean after every meal.
Leash and Harness: Miami may be dog-friendly, but some areas require your dog to be on a leash. Bring your dog’s favorite harness or leash for easy walks and bathroom breaks.
Bedding and Comfort Items: Your dog will appreciate a cozy spot in the RV. Pack their favorite bed, blanket, or even a toy that they can snuggle with to feel at home on the road.
First Aid Kit: Just in case, make sure you have a dog-specific first aid kit with essentials like flea medicine, bandages, and any medications your dog might need.
Waste Bags and Cleaning Supplies: You’ll need these for bathroom breaks along the way and at the RV park.
2. Hitting the Road: The Drive to Miami
With your dog settled in the RV and snacks packed, it’s time to hit the road. A weekend trip to Miami means a scenic drive (if you’re coming from a nearby state) and plenty of opportunities to stop along the way for walks and potty breaks.
Tip for the Road: Stop every 2-3 hours for a bathroom break and some stretching time. RV parks, truck stops, and rest areas usually have designated dog walking areas. These stops not only give your dog a chance to relieve themselves but also allow you to stretch your legs and refresh.
Fun Fact: Some RV parks and campgrounds along the way may have pet-friendly amenities like dog parks or hiking trails. It’s worth checking in advance and making stops at places that will be enjoyable for your dog.
3. Where to Stay in Miami with Your Dog
Miami is a bustling city with tons of things to do, but you’ll want to make sure you have a pet-friendly place to park your RV. Here are some options for RV parks where your dog is welcome:
Miami Everglades RV Resort: Located just south of the city, this RV park is pet-friendly and offers full-hookup sites. It’s also close to some nature trails, making it a great place for an early morning walk with your dog.
Tropical Trail RV Resort: Another dog-friendly park, located near Miami’s beautiful Biscayne Bay. It offers spacious sites, and many of the surrounding areas are dog-friendly.
Make sure to check pet policies in advance and ask about any breed restrictions or extra fees for dogs.
4. Game Day: Miami Dolphins Football Game
The main event of the weekend! Miami is known for its electric football atmosphere, especially at Hard Rock Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins. While dogs aren’t allowed inside the stadium for games (unless they’re service animals), you can still have an exciting time with your pup before and after the game.
Before the Game: Take your dog for a walk around the stadium area or nearby parks. There are some dog-friendly spaces like Morningside Park and Biscayne Bay where you can enjoy the beautiful Miami weather.
During the Game: While you’re cheering on the Dolphins, leave your dog in the RV, where it’s comfortable and safe. Make sure you leave the windows cracked (but not too much), so the temperature stays moderate. Leave a fan or air conditioner running if necessary, and don’t forget a fresh bowl of water for your dog to stay hydrated.
5. Post-Game Fun: Miami Beaches and Parks
Once the game is over, it’s time to explore Miami with your dog. Fortunately, there are several dog-friendly parks and beaches to check out.
Virginia Key Beach Park: A beautiful, pet-friendly beach where dogs can roam off-leash. It’s a great spot to unwind and let your dog run around after a long day.
South Pointe Park: A large park near the tip of South Beach, with paths for walking, picnicking areas, and amazing views of the ocean. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and pets are welcome on the leash.
If you’re looking for a good place to grab a bite after a day of sightseeing, Miami also has plenty of dog-friendly restaurants. Many cafes and bars with outdoor seating welcome dogs, especially in areas like Wynwood and South Beach.
6. The Journey Home: Wrapping Up the Weekend
After an exciting weekend of football and exploration, it’s time to head back home. The journey back is just as important as the destination, so make sure your dog is comfortable for the ride. Remember to take breaks, keep their water bowl filled, and check that they have their favorite blanket or toy to help them relax.
Before you know it, you’ll have made unforgettable memories with your dog on the open road—and a great football game to top it all off.
Conclusion
Traveling in an RV with your dog to Miami for a football game is the perfect way to combine your love for adventure with your passion for sports. With a little preparation, some dog-friendly planning, and a sense of adventure, your weekend will be one you and your dog will never forget.
In a quest to sniff my way across the U.S. and Canada I convinced my humans to pack up our RV and set out on the trip of a lifetime. For the next several months I will be claiming my territory and telling my story as seen through my doggy eyes.