While the “Big Apple” is certainly dog friendly, it can be a challenge to find places for your four-legged friend to stretch out. Luckily, New York City is home to many dog parks that may serve as the perfect play place for your pooch.
Below, we’ll share some of the best dog parks New York has to offer. We’ll also delve into some things to consider when selecting the preferred park for your pooch.
What Should You Look For In A Dog Park?
Not all dog parks are created equally, so you’ll want to be a bit picky when choosing your next park to visit. Here are some criteria to take into account when picking out a pooch park for your four-footer.
- Plenty of room: Since space is a precious commodity in NYC, it’s certainly worth looking into the size of the dog park before heading over. Large dogs may need to visit dog parks in less populated areas so that they’re able to run around and play without limits.
- Secure fences: Responsible dog parks understand the importance of having secure fencing, especially in an area as busy as the Big Apple. Ideally, your dog park of choice should also have double-gates for entry and exit (double gates help prevent escapes).
- Comfy substrate: This can be difficult to find sometimes in the city, but it’s an extra plus if your pooch park has comfortable substrate like grass or mulch. Keep in mind that cement or pavement parks can be particularly hot for your hound during the summer. Just be sure to fit your four-footer with some protective booties if the ground is too hot or rough.
- Water access: The best dog parks have built-in water fountains for pups, and you can also find parks that have separate areas for your dog to swim or cool off in water. But even if your preferred park provides water, it’s wise to bring some for your pooch — you never know when the water fountains may break or be turned off (especially in the winter).
- Separate sections: Having separate areas for large and small dogs can help keep all pooch participants safe. It also frees your dog to play at full capacity with a reduced risk of injury.
- Garbage cans and poop bag dispensers: While you should always have disposable poop bags on hand when you’re stepping out with your pooch, the best parks provide poop bags for you. Make sure your park of choice has plenty of garbage cans as well, unless you want to carry a bag of poop around with you afterward.
- Well-lit: If your park of choice has evening hours, make sure that it has plenty of lighting so that you can keep track of your canine.
- Human amenities are nice: Having benches and bathrooms for humans certainly sweetens the dog-park deal. Also consider what area the park is in so that you can make the dog park one of the stops on your journey out on the town.
- Convenient hours: Some dog parks close shortly after working hours, which may not be convenient for all pooch parents. Just make a practice of checking park hours ahead of time so you and Fido don’t arrive only to discover the park is closed.
- Posted (and enforced) rules: Having posted and enforced rules keeps a dog park safe for our furry friends.
- Also, consider social factors: You’ll also want to take into social factors such as how responsible other dog owners are being, the noise level of the park, and how well other owners are supervising their pets. While these can be difficult to determine beforehand, scouring a couple of park reviews can help you gain a general understanding of a park’s atmosphere.
The 13 Best Dog Parks In New York City
Without further ado, here are some of the best dog parks in New York City for your best buddy to enjoy. Have fun venturing from one park to another with your furry friend!
1. Prospect Park Dog Beach
If you’re looking for a cool place for your canine to cool off, you can’t get much better than the dog beach at Prospect Park in Brooklyn. This park has generous off-leash hours and space for your pooch to roam, and it even includes a beach, so your pup can go for a swim. The park also features a dog run on the other side of the park, which is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Prospect Park, Brooklyn
- Website: https://www.prospectpark.org/visit-the-park/things-to-do/dogs/
- Phone Number: (718) 965-8951
- Open Hours: The dog run is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and you can let your pooch run off-leash from 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM, as well as between 9:00 PM and 1:00 AM.
- Size: The dog run is 7,000 square feet, and the off-leash area spans 60 acres.
- Special Notes: The dog beach is only open for the summer pool season. Keep an eye out for dog-themed events like “Coffee Bark” (a free coffee social event held for pups and humans) held periodically at the park.
2. Tompkins Square Dog Run
I personally take my 10-pound poodle mix, Spicy, to this dog run at least once a week. It has a separate play area for smaller pups and features plenty of benches so that you can comfortably relax while you watch your canine. The secured park features turf and gravel, so you won’t have to worry about wiping down muddy paws when you get home.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: East Village, Manhattan
- Website: http://www.tompkinssquaredogrun.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Open Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Size: The run is approximately 1/4 acre in size.
- Special Notes: Dogs over 25 pounds aren’t allowed in the small dog area. During the summer, this park has small dog pools available for your pooch to cool off in.
3. Rockaway Freeway Dog Park
This is the largest dog park in all of Queens, and it gives your pooch plenty of room to run around and play with his canine comrades. This park is certainly a bit further away from the heart of the city than some others, but its proximity to the beach makes it a worthy addition to a fun day trip. There are separate areas for large and small dogs along with plenty of seating for humans.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Far Rockaway, Queens
- Website: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/rockaway-freeway/facilities/dogareas
- Phone Number: (212) 639-9675
- Open Hours: Off-leash hours are permitted from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Size: This large dog park encompasses 2.25 acres.
- Special Notes: Enjoy beautiful views of the Jamaica Bay from this park. Keep in mind that it can get a bit “swampy” during the summer, so pack plenty of bug repellent.
4. Lou Lodati Park
Long Island City is one of the most up and coming spots in the area, and this dog park serves as the cherry on top. The park features separate areas for smaller and large dogs and a fenced-in play area with running water so that your dog can get a drink. This park has a cement surface, so you won’t have to worry about Fido tracking dirt into your apartment after returning home.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Long Island City, Queens
- Website: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/torsney-playground/
- Phone Number: (212) 639-9675
- Open Hours: Open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Size: The full park spans about 2 acres. We’d characterize the run as being small to medium-sized.
- Special Notes: While cement can prevent your mutt from making a mess, it may not be your pup’s preferred play surface, especially during the hot summer months.
5. Washington Square Park
This city landmark also happens to be home to a dog run featuring separate sections for small and large dogs. There are public restrooms nearby, along with benches for pooch patrolling. This park also has public lawns that can be enjoyed by you and your canine companion, so long as your doggo is leashed. The location couldn’t be better, as it’s situated in one of the best spots NYC has to offer.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Greenwich Village, Manhattan
- Website: http://wspdogrun.org
- Open Hours: Open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Size: Exact park dimensions aren’t available, but we’d characterize this dog run as small to medium in size.
- Special Notes: Washington Square Park is home to many performers, activists, and artists, so it may not be the best place for your pooch if he’s easily spooked by unusual sights and sounds.
6. Sirius Dog Run
The Sirius dog run is a small but special area for pups located in Battery Park. The asphalt park features a central fountain to help cool down Fido during the hot days, and it also gives you the chance to enjoy nearby waterfront views in the Financial District. There are plenty of benches for you to relax on and it also provides a dedicated doggie water fountain for hound hydration.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Financial District, Manhattan
- Website: https://bpca.ny.gov/places/public-spaces/?selected_id=12665
- Phone: (212) 417-2000
- Open Hours: Like a good portion of the Financial District, this dog run is open 24 hours a day.
- Size: The dog run’s exact dimensions aren’t available, but we’d consider it to be small in size.
- Special Notes: This dog run isn’t super large, but it’s great for any dogs looking for a quick play session. Note that the neighboring Battery Park is an excellent place to watch your pup and enjoy scenic views, including a great view of the Statue of Liberty.
7. Sir William’s Dog Run
If your hound lives in The Heights, he’s bound to love Sir Willam’s Dog Run. This is the largest public dog run in the Manhattan borough, and features plenty of varied terrain for your dog to explore. There’s also a separate fenced-off area for smaller dogs, along with plenty of seating for humans. If you have a high energy dog that needs room to run, this upper Manhattan park is worth the trip.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Hudson Heights, Manhattan
- Website: https://www.forttryonparktrust.org/sir-williams-dog-run/
- Phone: (212) 795-1388
- Open Hours: This dog park is open from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
- Size: This dog run spans 1 complete acre.
- Special Notes: This dog park does not have water fountains so be sure to bring some H2O for you and your pooch.
8. Chelsea Waterside Park
This dog park features canine-friendly climbing structures like rocks and hilly terrain to tire out your terrier, as well as water stations (between April and November) to keep your hound hydrated. During the summer months, there is a plastic tub for dogs to take a dip in. Enjoy waterfront views while watching your best buddy from a bench.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Chelsea, Manhattan
- Website: https://hudsonriverpark.org/locations/chelsea-waterside/
- Email contact: [email protected]
- Phone: (212) 639-9675
- Open Hours: This dog park is open from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
- Size: The specific size of the dog run is not available, but we’d characterize it as being small to medium in size.
- Special Notes: This popular park can become cramped pretty quickly, so it may not be the best pick if your mutt prefers a more mellow setting.
9. St. Nicholas Dog Park
My partner and I used to take Spicy to this hidden gem when we lived up in Harlem. The mulched dog run is surrounded by trees, giving you and your pooch an escape from the hubbub of the city. The slanted dog run gives your pooch plenty of room to run around, and it also provides rocks for your dog to explore and a separate fenced-in area for more private play sessions.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Harlem, Manhattan
- Website: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/st-nicholas-park/facilities/dogareas
- Phone: (212) 639-9675
- Open Hours: This dog park is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Size: The specific size of the dog run is not available (we’d consider it medium-sized), but the entire park spans about 23 acres.
- Special Notes: In order to get to this park, you need to walk up some pretty steep staircases. It may not be the best pick if your pooch has back or mobility issues.
10. West 72nd St. Dog Run
This Upper West Side dog run has separate sections for large and small dogs. There’s plenty of benches for you to relax on and the gravel won’t make your pup’s paws dirty. It’s also located within the beautiful Riverside Park which features waterfront views of New Jersey, and plenty of walking trails to explore with your furry friend.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Upper West Side, Manhattan
- Website: https://www.dogrun72.org
- Phone: (212) 870-3070
- Open Hours: This dog park is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Size: This dog run is approximately 1 acre.
- Special Notes: There aren’t any public restrooms nearby so be sure to prepare accordingly.
11. Bronx River Park Dog Run
This well-maintained park in the Bronx is sparkling clean and features separate sections for large and small four-footers. The park is filled with sand and provides plenty of seating space for two-footers. There are also a few rocks for your pooch to climb on and enjoy. This open area is perfect for pups who like to run around and chase other pups.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Bronx Park East, The Bronx
- Website: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/bronx-park/facilities/dogareas
- Phone: (212) 639-9675
- Open Hours: This dog park is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Size: The exact size of this dog run is not available, but we’d characterize it as medium-sized.
- Special Notes: There aren’t any water fountains available for Fido, so you’ll need to pack some water for your pooch. Unfortunately, there aren’t public restrooms available either.
12. Madison Square Park Dog Run
This dog run is located in one of NYC’s landmark locations, Madison Square Park. The dog run features two separate sections for small and large dogs. This park is well-maintained, and features complimentary waste bags, and plenty of places to sit. You can also head over to the Shake Shack located in the park afterwards for some Fido-friendly treats.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Flatiron District, Manhattan
- Website: https://madisonsquarepark.org/park/park-guide/location/dog-run/
- Phone: (212) 520-7600
- Open Hours: This dog park is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
- Size: The exact size of the dog run is not available, but we’d consider it to be medium-sized.
- Special Notes: While the dog run is secure, it’s located in a busy section of the city, so it’s not an ideal pick if your pooch is sensitive to loud noises. There isn’t a bathroom inside the park, but there is a DOT bathroom located nearby.
13. Hillside Dog Park
This doggie den is situated in Dumbo, Brooklyn and is covered in wood chips, grass, and dirt, giving your dog plenty of terrain options. The large dog park gives your dog a ton of space to roam around in, and the park has several water fountains and kiddie pools too. You can watch your pooch from a picnic table or bench and enjoy the shaded areas of the park.
Info:
- Area/Burrow: Dumbo, Brooklyn
- Website: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/hillside-park
- Phone: (212) 639-9675
- Open Hours: This dog park is open from 6:00 Am to 1:00 AM.
- Size: This large dog park spans 1.4 acres.
- Special Notes: There isn’t a separate area for petite pups, so this may not be the best pick for dogs under 25 pounds.
Feeling hungry or thirsty? You’re in luck! There are tons of great dog-friendly bars and dog-friendly restaurants in New York.
Dog Park Manners & Etiquette
Don’t forget the importance of proper dog park etiquette while venturing out to new places with your furry best friend. We’ll review some of the basics below.
- Leave the food and toys at home. Even if your disciplined dog knows not to steal other pups’ toys or treats, this isn’t a guarantee for other puppers at the park. To be safe, leave any food, treats, or toys at home.
- Keep an eye on your furry friend. Watching your dog at the park is the responsible thing to do and ensures that your furry friend stays safe. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for signs of stress from your dog — if your pupperino starts getting stressed out, you should probably call it a day.
- Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations. Keeping your dog up to date on his vaccinations ensures that the canine park community stays safe (it’s actually a rule for most NYC parks). Also, you’ll want to think twice about bringing a dog that’s under 6 months old to the park even if he’s fully vaccinated. This will likely be too overwhelming for your puppy.
- Make sure your mutt has manners. Your pooch should know basic commands like “Come,” “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Drop it” before coming to the park. Make sure your dog knows how to play properly with other pooches before heading in to play.
- Pick up after your pooch. It’s common courtesy to clean up after your canine during walks, and the same rules apply at the dog park.
- Respect park rules. It’s important to respect park rules to keep your dog safe. Dog park rules are usually posted near each entrance and exit.
- Make sure your dog actually enjoys going to the dog park. Not all dogs enjoy the dog park and that’s okay! If you still want Fido to get in some social time, check out these dog park alternatives.
***
The dog park can be an excellent place for your pooch to get much-needed playtime in New York City. Enjoy exploring these amazing dog parks throughout the city with your furry friend.
And if you’re not a fan of these dog parks, you could always check out our list of the best dog parks in New Jersey and head over there instead! On a cross-country road trip? Make sure to check out our list of the best dog parks in Boston, Massachusetts too, as well as our collection of all the best dog parks in major US cities!
Have you visited any of these dog parks? Which is your dog’s favorite? We’d love to hear all about it in the comments below!
All park photos taken from the affiliated municipal or non-profit website.
Leave a Comment