Finding a place for your beloved friend to romp and play in the concrete jungle isn’t as difficult as you might think! When it comes to providing pet-friendly spaces with engaging features, New York has outdone itself. Regardless of where you reside in the Big Apple, there is probably a dog park within walking distance! As long as everybody plays by the rules and respects each other’s space, the city will be able to continue to provide this much-needed service and city dogs will rejoice!
Top 10 Dog Parks in New York City
- Sirius Dog Run
- Central Park
- Madison Square Dog Park Run
- Hillside Dog Park
- Washington Square Dog Run
- Tompkins Square Dog Park
- West Village D.O.G.
- Mercer/Houston Dog Run
- Hudson River Park Pier 84 Dog Run
- Chelsea Waterside Park
1. Sirius Dog Run
Located in the Financial District
Sirius dog run was built as an homage to one of the brave service dogs that made the ultimate sacrifice during the rescue events of 9/11. This lovely dog park is located in Battery Park and offers some great amenities to the dogs that visit and their owners. There are plenty of shade trees and benches to rest upon. The dog run is fully paved and comes complete with a dog wading pool that fills up and empties on a timer, making it a safe and exciting place for you and your dog to visit. This park is a free service.
2. Central Park
Located in Central Park
If you’ve never been to Central Park, you’re in for a treat! This enormous preserve is loaded with breathtaking views, interesting people, vendors, and activities. Aside from certain designated times and places, all dogs are welcome but must remain leashed while in the park. Don’t let that dissuade you, though; there are a whopping 23 areas within the park that are accessible for off-leash fun! Before 9am and after 9pm, dogs are allowed to run freely with others and may enjoy any of the 13 beautiful dog fountains! This is a very popular place to meet up with other dog-lovers and enjoy the great outdoors! This park is a free service.
3. Madison Square Dog Park Run
Located near Gramercy
This park is smaller than many others but is big in popularity! The double-gated area makes getting in and out a breeze, especially in the busy summer months. There are lots of features that make this location special, including the umbrellas, shade trees, and benches for resting; the provided water for pets, and the private area for small dogs to play without the danger of getting trampled on by the big guys! If you haven’t tried the Madison location, you’re missing out! This park is a free service.
4. Hillside Dog Park
Located in Brooklyn
This large park has gotten some raving reviews by the locals. Being one of the larger off-leash dog parks, Hillside has a lot to offer dogs and owners of all ages! There are many places to relax and socialize while the dogs have fun on over 2 acres of free space. The park is fenced in and includes a wooded area for curious exploration. There is a separate area for small dogs to enjoy without the hassle of big dogs. There are watering holes for both dogs and humans to take advantage of! This park is a free service.
5. Washington Square Dog Run
Located in Greenwich Village
If you live near Greenwich Village, you have probably seen Washington Square (aka. George’s Dog Run). This beautiful little park is surrounded by trees and park benches for your enjoyment and viewing pleasure. The Robin Kovary Run for Small Dogs is located near this park so if you are worried about your little friend mingling with the big dogs, there’s a special spot for him nearby! There are lots of other activities happening in the park so it can get busy! It’s a beautiful space with lots of music to listen to and people to chat with. This park is a free service.
6. Tompkins Square Dog Park
Located in East Village
This historic dog park has been around since 1990 and was the first dog park opened in New York City. The beautiful location in the East Village attracts dog owners from all over the city. There are great people, great pools, and tons of fun to be had by pets and owners at the “First Run.” This park is a free service.
7. West Village D.O.G.
Located in West Village
This small park does have a first-come, first-served membership fee because it is not located in a public park. Volunteers work diligently to keep the park updated and nice for all who visit. There are useful amenities available to dogs and owners, such as: first-aid kits, balls and toys, cleaning items, lights and benches, and dog pools. The cost is $75 per year.
8. Mercer/Houston Dog Run
Located in West Village and the Soho District
This exclusive, members only, dog run have been a labor of love for many years. After a lot of remodeling and researching, a park was created that benefits the dogs and owners of this area! The well-drained, well-kept grounds have plenty of amenities for owners to feel comfortable and safe while the dogs can have the time of their lives. There are pools, fresh water, and seating available. This park is located in a busy and exclusive location so there are a lot of passers-by with cameras who are usually entertained by the dogs’ silly antics and frolicking play. The cost is $60 per year.
9. Hudson River Park Pier 84 Dog Run
Located near the Garment District
This exciting and unique location boasts a waterfront property and the use of a restaurant to entice dog owners from the area! The indoor and outdoor restaurant and bar is so convenient for dog owners to grab a quick lunch or beverage while watching their best friends run and play. Once on the west side, this great location has access to the Westside Hudson River Parkway which will take you up and down the river, passing many other dog parks along the way! This is a great way to spend summer afternoons with your pooch and get some excellent exercise! This park is a free service.
10. Chelsea Waterside Park
Located in Chelsea
This dog run is a great choice if you have a very active or athletic dog! The beauty of the park is not in its size but what it offers. The grounds are riddled with natural and man-made rocks for dogs to run amidst and climb on. It’s very entertaining to play hide-and-seek and to watch the dogs play and climb together! This is a very interactive park.
Additional Resources:
- http://www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/dogareas
- http://www.bringfido.com/attraction/266/#photos
- http://www.centralparknyc.org/assets/pdfs/cpc_dog_owners_guide.pdf
- http://www.dogspin.com/dog-runs-parks/
- http://www.wvdog.org/about-our-run/
- http://www.centralparknyc.org/about/programs/central-park-paws.html
See also: more area dog parks in Top Off-Leash Dog Parks in Brooklyn.
