If you’re in Boston and looking for the perfect day out with your dog, Rover has you covered. We talked to our community of dog people in Boston to get their recommendations for the best dog-friendly activities their city has to offer. This complete route includes a fabulous dog walk, dog park, and dog-friendly restaurant. Your dog is ready for this! Read on for all the details you need.
For more dog adventures, check out our dog-friendly guides to cities across the country.
Total Distance: 1.9 miles / 41 minutes total walking time
In Boston, start your day at the RUFF North End Dog Park, considered the premiere dog park in the city! After working up an appetite, head for some dog treats at Polkadog Bakery. Start out south on Snow Hill Street until you reach Prince Street where you’ll veer left. Continue on until you’ve reached Salem Street where you’ll take a right and continue until you reach Polkadog on your left.
After your dog’s treat tooth is satisfied, go for a photo opp at Boston Common, one of the oldest city parks in the U.S. Head towards Cross Street where you’ll take a right and then your first left once you’ve reached Sudbury Street. Continue onto Somerset Street until Beacon Street where you’ll take a right. The entrance to Boston Common will be on your left.
Close out your day with a bite to eat and a craft beer at the Night Shift Owl’s Nest Esplanade along the Charles River. Head west on Beacon Street and take a right on Clarendon Street, then take your first left on Back Street and cross the Esplanade.
Dog's Day Out: Boston
RUFF North End Dog Park
Address: BOST-0301936000, Boston, MA 02113
Accessible through Prince Street through the Delfilippo Playground and the intersection of Snow Hill and Hull Street
R.U.F.F. (Responsible Urbanites For Fido) is a group of volunteer dog lovers whose mission is to work towards healthy dog living and work with the community to better neighborhood relations. RUFF promotes responsible dog ownership, dog education, and outreach within their community. RUFF wants to highlight the benefits of dog ownership and show North End community that both dogs and humans can share a small but wonderful neighborhood.
Hours:
- Mon-Fri: 6am-9pm
Why we love it:
Considered one of the best dog parks in the city, RUFF North End Dog Park is maintained by a neighborhood organization.
Fully fenced in with multiple levels to keep pups engaged.
Polkadog Bakery – North End
Address: 57 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113
Polkadog features all-natural quality treats for dogs and cats, handcrafted in Boston. They bake and prepare delicacies for your pup using the finest ingredients.
Contact Info: (857) 310-5184
Hours:
- Mon-Thurs: 9am-8pm
- Fri-Sat: 9am-9pm
- Sun: 10am-6pm
Why we love it:
Polkadog Bakery is said to be one of those places that dogs remember and drag their owners to while walking nearby.
Treat recommendations include duck kabobs, chicken strips and peanut butter wonder nuggets.
Boston Common
Address: 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111
Boston Common is a central public park in downtown Boston, Massachusetts. It is sometimes erroneously referred to as the Boston Commons. Dating from 1634, it is the oldest city park in the United States.
Hours:
- Daily, 24 hours
Why we love it:
Enjoy the beautiful landscape and features of America’s oldest city park located in the heart of Boston.
Perfect for a water break or some much-needed shade on a warm summer day, and don’t forget to look for the perfect photo opportunity.
Night Shift Owl’s Nest – Esplanade
Address: BOST-0502496000, Boston, MA 02116
Located right along the Charles River, this is the perfect summer spot to hang after work, relax after a run, or catch up with friends.
Contact Info: (617) 294-4233
Hours:
- Closed Mon-Tues
- Wed-Fri: 4-10pm
- Sat: 12-10pm
- Sun: 12-8pm
Why we love it:
Located on the river, this serene location boasts tons of green space.
Extremely family-friendly – including dogs – you’ll find craft beer, food trucks, family games, local events, etc.
More Dog-Friendly Activities in Boston
You’ve taken the walk, but are hungry for more dog-friendly activities. We’ve got you covered with our picks for dog parks in and around Boston.
- Top 10 Boston Dog Parks
- Dog-Friendly Campgrounds Near Boston
- Our Favorite Dog-Friendly Bars in Boston
Featured Image: Pixabay
