Traveling with a well-mannered dog and looking for a real bed-and-breakfast that welcomes pets in Central New York? Well-mannered dogs are welcome at Grand Colonial, no application process, no special pet wing, just a friendly inn that happens to know dogs are part of the family. Here’s what to know, plus what’s around the inn that’s pet-friendly for the rest of your visit.
The short version of our pet policy
Well-mannered dogs are welcome. Tell us when you book, direct bookings make this easiest because we see the request immediately and can confirm the right room. For more on why traveling with your dog at a real inn beats either a chain hotel or boarding, see our piece on the paw-fect getaway.
What we provide
We can typically set up the following on request, just let us know in advance:
- Water and food bowls
- An old towel or two for muddy paws (springtime in Herkimer is real)
- A spare blanket for the floor
- Recommendations for the nearest 24-hour vet if you’re worried
Pet-friendly things to do nearby
Walking and hiking
The Erie Canalway Trail is the obvious pick, flat, well-maintained, leash-friendly, and the Frankfort-to-Little Falls section is one of the best stretches in the state. See our Frankfort to Little Falls guide, most of those highlights work as a slow walk with a dog, not just a ride.
For shorter walks: historic downtown Herkimer is a 15-minute leashed loop with old brick streets and quiet sidewalks. Little Falls’ Canal Place is also a great walking destination, 15 minutes by car.
Outdoor restaurants and breweries
Several local spots have dog-friendly outdoor seating in season. Brewery Ommegang near Cooperstown is one of the more reliably pet-welcoming outdoor venues during their concert season, call ahead to confirm policy on any given day.
Cooperstown with a dog (mostly outside)
The downside of Cooperstown for dog-traveling guests is that most museums (Hall of Fame, Farmers’ Museum, Fenimore Art) don’t allow pets inside. The upside: Glimmerglass State Park on Otsego Lake does allow leashed dogs in most areas, a great half-day outing in good weather.
Herkimer Diamond Mines
Dogs are typically welcome on the grounds at the Diamond Mines (call ahead to confirm current policy). The mining pits aren’t the right place for an off-leash dog, but a tied-up shaded spot near the visitor center while you dig works for many guests.
Driving routes that work for dogs
Plan for stops every 90 minutes if you’re driving a long distance to get here. Our stress-free road trip tips apply double when there’s a dog in the back. See our drive-times guide for distances from the inn to dog-friendly regional walks.
Book your pet-friendly stay
Mention your dog when you book, easiest way is to book direct and add a note, or call us at (315) 982-5004 and we’ll get you set up. Direct bookings get our lowest rate plus the $10/night return-guest discount.
Planning your pet-friendly trip? Our guide Roving with Rover: Dog-Friendly Travel in Central New York maps out dog-welcoming spots, parks, and trails within easy reach of Grand Colonial.
For pet owners who snowmobile in winter: our snowmobile trail lodging guide covers what to expect on a Central New York riding weekend.