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Pet-friendly Wenatchee

A fun, family getaway

The unique Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center and Tasting Room in downtown Wenatchee where you can get visitor’s information while tasting wine, cider or ale. Photo credit: Marguerite Cleveland

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Wenatchee, the apple capital of the world, is situated on the banks of the Columbia River and makes a great family getaway which can include the family dog. Plan to stay at the Holiday Inn Express Wenatchee, which is the most pet-friendly hotel we have ever visited. All rooms are open to pets, and there are no pet fees. Breakfast is included, which is always nice on a family budget. 1921 N. Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, 509.663.6355

The Apple Capital Loop Trail and the Pybus Public Market are two must-see destinations in Wenatchee. The market features local farm goods, restaurants, specialty shops and Arlberg Sports - Riverfront, which rents bikes. The paved trail is over 10 miles in length, and runs on both sides of the Columbia River, which you cross twice if you complete the whole length. Plan to rent bikes, or just stroll the area. Arlberg offers one bike trailer that can also carry a pet. The trail runs right past the Pybus Public Market. The Wenatchee side is more developed with boat launches, a playground, a miniature railway, a sheltered swim area and large sculptures. There are also plenty of benches and picnic tables. Plan to grab a picnic from the market, which has many takeout options. The East Wenatchee side of the trail is much less developed with wetland and wildlife areas. 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., daily, 3 N. Worthen St., Wenatchee, 509.888.3900, pybuspublicmarket.org

Downtown Wenatchee is part of the Washington State Main Street Program, which helps cities revitalize their downtown. The downtown area is walkable with wide sidewalks and plenty of parking for shops and restaurants. Make sure to stop in the Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center and Tasting Room. Not only do they have local information but they have a tasting room set up in a 1946 Ford Pick-Up that came from a fruit orchard. Taste not only wine, but cider and local ales. The tasting room is located in a 1926 building, at the beginning of the historical area of downtown. Around the corner is a footbridge that crosses over the railyard. Train lovers will love the view from above. 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Wednesday; 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday-Friday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 137 N. Wenatchee Ave. Suite 101, Wenatchee, 509.662.2116, visitwenatchee.org

For a nice dinner, try McGlinn's Public House downtown, which has pet-friendly outdoor seating. With a tagline of "Always Fresh, Always Local," you know it is going to be good. The menu has a good variety of items that appeal to adults, while also serving kid-friendly burgers and pizzas. The company strives to provide the freshest ingredients possible through their partnerships with local businesses. Wenatchee Avenue is the main drag through the newer and older sections of the city. On the way back to the hotel, plan an interesting evening activity by driving Wenatchee Avenue and check out all the vintage neon signs. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight, Friday; 8 a.m. to midnight, Saturday; 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sunday, 111 Orondo Ave., Wenatchee, 509.663.9073, mcglinns.com

When planning a pet-friendly vacation, remember, with warmer summer temperatures it is not safe to leave pets in the car. Plan for activities and meals your pet can join in. As a family we enjoy having our dachshund join us on trips. For must-see indoor activities, we just take turns watching him. Be considerate of others and clean up after your pet. Make sure to pack water, portable bowl, food and pet bags for waste. Always confirm that hotels, restaurants and activities are pet-friendly. Some restaurants will allow a dog to enjoy their outdoor spaces, and others will not. Finalize your plans and get on the road. The weekend is calling.

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