Are you a dog parent in New York City looking for the best places to enjoy with your furry friend? From parks and dog-friendly cafes to grooming spots and essential tips, here’s your ultimate guide to navigating NYC with your dog.
Dog-Friendly Parks and Outdoor Spaces
NYC offers several fantastic parks and outdoor areas where your dog can roam and play:
- Central Park
- Location: Starting at 59th Street, Manhattan, NY 10024
- Off-leash hours: Before 9:00 AM and after 9:00 PM
- Off-leash Designated areas: Various lawns and open spaces throughout the park, excluding playgrounds, ballfields, and other designated areas where dogs must remain leashed.
- Features: Iconic park with designated off-leash hours and scenic walking paths.
- Prospect Park
- Location: Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY 11225
- Off-leash hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Off-leash areas: Long Meadow (except ballfields), Nethermead, and Peninsula Meadow (except woodlands).
- Features: Dedicated dog beach.
- Hudson River Park
- Location: Manhattan, along the West Side Highway
- Dog runs: Chelsea Waterside Park and Pier 84, with amenities like water features and agility equipment. Open 24 hours, but dogs must remain on a leash outside designated dog-run areas.
- Features: Dog-friendly park with beautiful waterfront views, dog runs, and open spaces for play.
- Hillside Dog Park
- Location: Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn
- Features: A large, wooded park with hills and plenty of space for dogs to run and explore off-leash.
- Madison Square Park
- Location: Flatiron, Manhattan
- Dog run: Open 24 hours, but dogs must remain on leash outside designated dog run areas. Off-leash is only allowed within the fenced dog-run areas.
- Features: A well-maintained dog run with a gravel surface, shaded areas, and water fountains for dogs. There are steep hills designed for exercise and tires out your dog in no time!
Dog-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants
Enjoy a meal or coffee with your pup at these welcoming spots:
- Boris & Horton
- Location: 195 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
- Features: Dog-friendly cafe with treats for both dogs and owners.
- The Wilson
- Location: 132 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
- Features: Outdoor seating where dogs are welcome, with water bowls available.
- Shake Shack
- Various Locations: Check their website for nearest locations
- Features: Famous for its Pooch-ini treat for dogs, outdoor seating.
- Blank Slate Tea
- Location: 121 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
- Features: A dog-friendly cafe known for its tea and small bites.
- Ground Central Coffee Company
- Location: 155 E 52nd St, New York, NY 10022
- Features: Welcoming atmosphere with outdoor seating for you and your pup.
Pet Stores
Ensure your dog is well cared for with these top-notch pet stores:
- Petco Union Square
- Location: 860 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
- Features: Extensive range of pet supplies, grooming services, and adoption events.
- Zoomies NYC
- Location: 434 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014
- Highlights: Known for its stylish and functional pet products, including designer collars, leashes, beds, and clothing.
- Wagwear
- Location: 48 E 11th St, New York, NY 10003
- Highlights: Specializes in chic and durable pet apparel and accessories, including raincoats, backpacks, and beds.
- The Dog Store
- Location: 170 E 61st St, New York, NY 10065
- Highlights: Offers a curated selection of high-quality pet food, toys, and accessories. They also provide grooming services.
- Canine Styles
- Location: Multiple locations, including 830 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10065
- Highlights: Known for luxurious pet apparel and accessories, as well as grooming services. They have been a staple in the NYC pet scene for decades.
- Pawpular
- Location: 11 W 10th St, New York, NY 10011
- Highlights: Boutique store offering unique toys, and stylish accessories. They also host events and provide grooming services.
- D is for Doggy
- Location: 350 E 81st St, New York, NY 10028
- Highlights: A pet store and daycare that offers premium pet products, grooming, and boarding services.
Dog-Friendly Events and Seasonal Activities
Join in on the fun with these dog-centric events around the city:
- Dog-Friendly Beaches
- Location: Rockaway Beach, Staten Island’s South Beach
- Highlights: Spend a day at the beach with your dog, enjoying the sun and surf. Here are our best beach day safety tips for you + your dog!
- Halloween Dog Parade
- Location: Tompkins Square Park, Manhattan
- Features: Annual event with costumes and prizes for dogs and owners.
- Bark in the Park
- Location: Citi Field, Queens
- Features: Dog-friendly baseball game!
Tips for Dog Safety and Etiquette
Keep these tips in mind for a safe and enjoyable experience with your dog in NYC:
- Leash Laws: Respect leash laws and use designated off-leash areas appropriately.
- Pack Essentials: Carry water, snacks, waste bags, and proof of vaccinations.
- Weather Awareness: Monitor weather conditions for your dog’s comfort and safety.
Conclusion
Explore New York City with your dog using this guide to parks, cafes, events, and more. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these dog-friendly spots ensure you and your furry friend have a memorable time in the city that never sleeps.
