If you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas and bringing your dog along, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is where you’re staying. For travelers drawn to the vintage energy of Fremont Street, the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino is often on the list. It’s the oldest hotel in Las Vegas, offering a nostalgic, classic Vegas vibe with updated rooms and an unbeatable downtown location. But if you’re traveling with your four-legged friend, there’s one important question to ask: Does the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino allow dogs?

Golden Gate’s Pet Policy

Let’s get right to the point: the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino does not allow pets. They have a strict no-pet policy that applies to all non-service animals, no matter how small or well-behaved your pup may be. The only exception is for ADA-compliant service animals, which are allowed under federal law. If you were hoping to relax in one of the hotel’s vintage-style rooms with your dog curled up at your feet, you’ll need to consider other nearby options.

So, What Are Your Options Nearby?

Fortunately, Fremont Street isn’t totally off-limits for dog lovers. While many of the classic casino hotels downtown don’t allow pets, there are a few nearby properties that do—offering modern comforts, designated pet relief areas, and clear policies designed for guests traveling with dogs. Whether you want to be close to the heart of the Fremont action or prefer a quieter stay just a few blocks away, here are two solid, dog-friendly alternatives.

Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino

Just around the corner from Fremont Street, Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino is one of the best dog-friendly hotels in the downtown area. The vibe is fresh and modern, with a rooftop pool, walkable surroundings, and updated rooms that feel far removed from the chaos of the casino floor. It also happens to have one of the more straightforward pet policies in Las Vegas.

The Downtown Grand welcomes two dogs up to 50 lbs in designated rooms for an additional fee of $75 plus tax per night, along with a $50 refundable deposit per night. Pet-friendly rooms are located in the Grand Tower, and the hotel provides bowls and a mat to help your dog settle in. While cats aren’t permitted, this hotel strikes a nice balance between pet access and contemporary downtown cool—making it one of the strongest nearby alternatives to the Golden Gate.

The ENGLiSH Hotel, Las Vegas, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

If you don’t mind staying a few minutes away in the Downtown Arts District, The ENGLiSH Hotel Las Vegas, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel offers a quiet, stylish alternative that’s very pet-forward. The hotel is adults-only, with a sleek courtyard, popular restaurant, and a non-gaming atmosphere that makes it feel worlds away from the buzz of Fremont Street—even though it’s just a short walk or drive away.

The ENGLiSH Hotel welcomes two dogs up to 75 lbs for an additional fee of $75 per pet, per night. Rooms are modern and well-appointed, and while there’s no dedicated pet relief area, the surrounding neighborhood has tree-lined sidewalks and small patches of grass perfect for quick walks. If your dog prefers a calmer environment—and you’d rather skip the neon chaos—this hotel is an excellent option.

What to Know About Bringing Your Dog to Vegas

Bringing your dog to Las Vegas is absolutely doable, but it does require a little more planning than your typical dog-friendly destination. Vegas isn’t a beach town or a quiet mountain village. It’s hot, loud, and built for people—not pups. That said, with the right accommodations and a solid plan, your dog can absolutely enjoy the trip by your side.

Watch Out for the Heat

The Vegas heat is no joke—especially in the summer. Temperatures often top 100°F, and pavement and asphalt can easily reach 130°F or more. That means your dog’s paws can get burned within seconds of walking outside, even during the early morning or after sunset.

Before heading out, always test the pavement with the back of your hand. If it’s too hot for your skin, it’s too hot for your dog. You can protect your pup’s paws with booties or a wax-based balm, and whenever possible, stick to shaded sidewalks, turf patches, or indoor pet-friendly spaces. Bring water not only for drinking but in case your dog overheats or needs a quick rinse. Hydration and timing are everything in this kind of climate.

Plan for Potty Breaks in Advance

The Fremont Street area may have personality, but it’s short on greenery. Grass is in short supply downtown, and not all hotels offer dedicated relief areas for pets. Before you arrive, scope out where you’ll be taking your dog for walks and bathroom breaks.

Some hotels like the Downtown Grand have small pet relief areas, but if you’re staying elsewhere, you may need to walk a few blocks. A quick look at our directory on Dog Friendly Las Vegas will show you exactly where to go and what to expect. Don’t wait until your dog’s doing the potty dance to figure it out—knowing your nearest relief spots in advance can save you from a late-night scramble.

Pet Sitting and Doggy Daycare Are Easy to Arrange

Las Vegas has plenty to offer, but let’s be honest—not all of it is dog-friendly. From concerts and casino floors to fine dining and nightlife, there are plenty of times you’ll need to step away from your pup for a few hours. And since most hotels won’t let you leave your dog alone in the room, you’ll want to arrange pet care in advance.

Luckily, Vegas has a great network of dog walkers, sitters, and even doggy daycares that cater to out-of-town visitors. Many hotels with pet-friendly programs—like Virgin Hotels or The Cosmopolitan—can connect you with recommended providers. Or you can book someone through Rover or Wag! who will come to your hotel and keep your dog company while you’re out. Some even offer grooming or “dog spa days,” so your pup can get pampered while you hit the Strip.

In a Nutshell

While it’s disappointing that Golden Gate Hotel & Casino doesn’t allow dogs, there are still great pet-friendly options nearby that offer location, comfort, and convenience. Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino and The ENGLiSH Hotel both offer solid alternatives within walking or short driving distance—without sacrificing style or pet access.