4 New York City Parks With Off Leash Areas
If you’re looking for a place where your dog can stretch his legs in the Big Apple, you’re in luck. Four Manhattan parks have designated areas where dogs can frolic off-leash during certain hours.
There are also more than 25 dog runs throughout the city – fenced-in areas with ample space for your pooch to get some exercise off leash.
“Created with the expertise of a Parks Department landscape architect and volunteers, the runs encourage play while supplying good drainage, safe lighting and healthy plantings,” notes the City of New York City Parks & Recreation Department website.
Your dog can play in the designated off leash areas of each of the following parks from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., and from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Dogs are not permitted in any of these park areas: playgrounds; zoos; swimming pools; bathing areas and beaches; fountains; ball fields; or basketball, handball and tennis courts.
Before you take your dog to any New York City park or run, be aware of these local rules and laws:
Your dog must be kept on a leash that is no more than 6 feet long when you’re outside of designated dog-friendly areas.
You must bring proof that your dog is licensed and up-to-date on his rabies vaccinations.
Don’t let your dog chase birds, squirrels or other wild animals.
You must pick up your dog’s poop and dispose of it in park containers.
If your pooch is new to dog parks, be sure to read 10 Tips for Your First Trip to a Dog Park before you go.
1. Central Park – Central Park S. and 7th Avenue (map)
This largest (843 acres) and most famous of New York City’s parks has 23 dog-friendly areas. It even provides 15 drinking fountains just for pooches.
According to the park’s official website, along with playgrounds, fountains and ball fields, dogs are not permitted in any of these areas:
Bodies of water reserved for wildlife
The Elm Islands at the Mall
Sheep Meadow
East Green
Strawberry Fields
You must keep your dog on leash wherever signs are posted and in these areas:
Bridle path
North Woods and Ramble woodlands
Conservatory Garden
Cedar Hill
The model boat pond at Kerbs Boathouse Plaza
Arthur Ross Pinteum
Turtle Pond
See “A Dog Owner’s Guide to Central Park,” published by the Central Park Conservacy, for more information.
2. East River Park – FDR Drive between Montgomery Street and East 12th Street (map)
Dogs are allowed off leash in the sunken circle area (between Delancey and Houston Streets, next to the tennis courts) of this nearly 46-acre park on the Lower East Side.
3. Fort Washington Park – 165th Street and Riverside Drive (map)
Located underneath the George Washington Bridge, this 160-acre park is home to the charming Little Red Lighthouse, the only lighthouse in Manhattan.
4. Randall’s Island Park – 20 Randall’s Island Park (map)
Your dog is welcome to romp off leash everywhere but in prohibited areas during designated hours at this 480-acre park. It has miles of waterfront pathways and takes up most of Randall’s Island on the East River.
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3 New York City Food Trucks for Dogs
Top 5 Most Dog-Friendly Cities in the U.S.
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PHOTO: jackiembarr
Laura Goldman
Laura Goldman is senior social media writer for i Love Dogs, Inc. She does love dogs. And elephants and turtles. Along with writing about the loves of her life, Laura likes to play with her two pound pups and tell anyone who’ll listen just how awesome Pit Bulls are.
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