Dog-Friendly Parks and Trails in New York City

New York City may be a bustling metropolis, but it’s also packed with green spaces where your pup can run, play, and explore. From riverside trails to forested parks, NYC offers a surprising number of dog-friendly spots for every type of canine adventurer. Whether you’re a local or just visiting with your furry friend, here’s your go-to guide to the top dog parks and scenic trails in the city.

1. Central Park (Manhattan)

Central Park is a dog owner’s paradise, offering over 840 acres of walking trails, open fields, and wooded areas. Dogs are allowed off-leash before 9 AM and after 9 PM in most areas (except playgrounds and sports fields).

• Leash Rule: Off-leash allowed before 9 AM and after 9 PM
• Highlights: Great Lawn, The Ramble, open meadows
• Google Maps

2. Prospect Park (Brooklyn)

This lush park in the heart of Brooklyn is home to Long Meadow and Nethermead—perfect spots for off-leash morning and evening play. There’s also a Dog Beach where pups can splash safely.

• Leash Rule: Off-leash hours before 9 AM and after 9 PM
• Highlights: Dog Beach, off-leash fields, wooded trails
• Google Maps

3. Riverside Park (Manhattan)

Stretching along the Hudson River, Riverside Park is a scenic place to walk your dog with beautiful waterfront views. Several designated dog runs make it easy to give your pup time off the leash.

• Leash Rule: Dogs must be leashed except in dog runs
• Highlights: Multiple dog runs, waterfront breeze, shade from trees
• Google Maps

4. Fort Tryon Park (Manhattan)

Located in Upper Manhattan, Fort Tryon Park features stunning views of the Hudson and the Cloisters Museum. It’s quieter than most NYC parks and has lovely winding paths and a dog run.

• Leash Rule: Dogs must be leashed except in designated dog run
• Highlights: Peaceful, hilly trails, river views
• Google Maps

5. Astoria Park (Queens)

With views of the East River and Triborough Bridge, Astoria Park is a great local favorite in Queens. There’s a fenced-in dog run and lots of wide paths for leashed strolls.

• Leash Rule: Dogs must be leashed outside the dog run
• Highlights: Scenic views, wide open space, active community
• Google Maps

6. Inwood Hill Park (Manhattan)

One of NYC’s last natural forests, Inwood Hill Park offers a true escape into nature. There’s a designated dog run, plus miles of forested trails your dog will love to sniff around.

• Leash Rule: Leashed dogs only, except in dog run
• Highlights: Natural forest, quiet, hiking trails
• Google Maps

7. McCarren Park (Brooklyn)

A lively Williamsburg spot, McCarren Park has a well-maintained dog run with separate areas for big and small dogs. Great for social pups who love to make new friends.

• Leash Rule: Off-leash in dog run only
• Highlights: Active community, spacious dog run, near cafes
• Google Maps

8. Hudson River Park (Manhattan)

Running along the west side of Manhattan, Hudson River Park has multiple dog runs and scenic routes for long walks. It’s one of the best places for sunset strolls with your pup.

• Leash Rule: Dogs must be leashed outside the dog runs
• Highlights: Multiple dog runs, waterfront paths, skyline views
• Google Maps

9. Pelham Bay Park (Bronx)

NYC’s largest park offers a wild and expansive setting that feels far from the city. It has beaches, forests, and hiking trails, along with designated areas where dogs can roam.

• Leash Rule: Leashed dogs only
• Highlights: Huge space, forest trails, beach access
• Google Maps

10. Forest Park (Queens)

A hidden gem, Forest Park is a woodland escape in Queens with bridle paths and dog-friendly trails. There’s also a dog run near the park entrance for off-leash fun.

• Leash Rule: Leashed dogs only, except in dog run
• Highlights: Quiet forested walks, wildlife, bird-watching
• Google Maps

Ready to Explore NYC with Your Dog?

With parks in every borough and trails for every temperament, New York City is more dog-friendly than ever. Always check posted signs for updated rules, and pack water, waste bags, and maybe a treat or two.

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