New York City homes aren’t known for their green spaces. Often, if you want your furry friend to enjoy some fresh air and time outside, taking them to a pet-friendly park or beach is the best way to do so. But with so many parks and beaches across the Big Apple, it can be challenging to discern which allow pets and at what times of day.
This guide to pet-friendly parks and beaches in NY is a great starting point for planning your next outing with your furry friend. While you’re at it, take time to research a veterinary hospital in New York so you’re prepared for your pet’s next health checkup.
Best New York Parks for Dogs
You can take your dog to many parks across New York City. Generally, dogs are allowed in parks that do not have signage prohibiting them. But some parks offer better amenities and more green spaces than others.
These are some of the best dog-friendly parks in New York. For more information, it doesn’t hurt to check each park’s website prior to visiting and learn any updated pet policies.
Central Park
You may be surprised to learn that Central Park is one of the most dog-friendly parks in NYC. Dogs are welcome in the park at any time of day. During off-leash hours, which are from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., you can let your furry friend roam leash-free in designated areas.
Popular dog walking spots in Central Park include Cedar Hill, Harlem Meer, East Meadow, and Mineral Springs. Meanwhile, the Central Park Conservancy maintains a list of locations in the park in which dogs must remain leashed at all times.
Riverside Park
Riverside Park runs along the Hudson River and features several dog runs where pups can play off-leash during certain hours. Three dog runs are located on Riverside Drive at West 105th, West 87th, and West 72nd, for example.
In some designated areas, dogs can be off-leash from the time the park opens at 9 a.m. until it closes at 9 p.m., according to NYC Parks.
Chelsea Waterside Park
Chelsea Waterside Dog Park is a 7,400-square-foot off-leash area where dogs love to roam and play. This designated dog park offers amenities like:
- Separate areas for large and small dogs
- Water features with spray jets
- Low concrete mounds with boulders
- Fresh drinking water for pets
- Tiered seating for dog owners
- Hose reels and trash cans
Dogs can climb, romp around in the water, and make friends in this safe, clean environment open daily from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Best Pet-Friendly Beaches in NY
Taking your furry friend to a pet-friendly beach is a great way to enjoy beautiful views, get your pup some exercise, and let them feel the sand between their toes. But many public beaches throughout NYC are not pet-friendly.
These three beaches allow dogs under certain conditions. Always double-check the rules before bringing your pup along for a beach day.
Prospect Park
If your dog loves romping around in water, consider bringing them to Prospect Park, which features a lakeside beach. Dogs can be off-leash at the Middle & Upper Long Meadow, Peninsula, and Nethermead sections of Prospect Park from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Otherwise, be sure to keep your pup on a leash, even when they’re swimming.
Plumb Beach
Plumb Beach is a dog-friendly area of Rockaway Inlet. Dogs are allowed year-round but must remain leashed at all times. This beach is a popular spot for kite surfing and other wind sports, and walking paths throughout the park offer scenic views that you and your pup can enjoy.
Other New York City Beaches
Dogs are allowed on-leash in certain areas of New York City’s numerous beaches. NYC Parks states that these rules apply to certain beaches across the city.
- Dogs can be on-leash on the sand and boardwalk at Coney Island & Brighton Beach, Rockaway Beach, Manhattan Beach, South Beach, and Midland Beach between October 1 and May 1.
- Dogs can be on-leash on the boardwalk and promenade at Coney Island, Orchard, Midland, Brighton, South, and Manhattan Beaches.
What About Cat-Friendly Spaces?
The parks and beaches above are excellent dog-walking spots in New York, but what about cat-friendly outdoor spaces? City parks don’t have specific guidelines about bringing cats. If you’re training your cat to walk on a leash, consider quieter areas of parks and beaches where dogs must remain on-leash.
Some NYC residents have reported seeing cats on leashes in Central Park. You can also check out neighborhood parks and gardens, which may be quieter and more secluded. Many of the same rules that apply to dogs will apply to your cat, so keep them leashed and be sure to clean up after them.
Tips for Taking Your Furry Friend to a Public Outdoor Space
Before you visit one of the pet-friendly parks or beaches above, review the following tips for making the most of your outdoor experience with your furry friend:
- Ensure that your pet is up to date on vaccines and schedule veterinary services for dogs before taking them to a public space where they can encounter other animals.
- Always keep your eyes on your furry friend, even in fenced-in pet recreation areas.
- Make sure your dog is licensed and has tags.
- Clean up after your pet and dispose of animal waste properly.
This pet parenting guide is a great starting point for learning to be a responsible pet owner on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.
Schedule Veterinary Services Before Visiting Pet-Friendly NYC Parks and Beaches
Whether you’re enjoying Central Park with your pup or taking your cat through a neighborhood garden, getting outdoors with your furry friend is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and spend meaningful time with them. But before you start exploring pet-friendly parks and beaches, make sure your pet is up to date on vaccines and veterinary checkups.
Hudson Animal Hospital is conveniently located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and provides compassionate, comprehensive veterinary services. Schedule an appointment today by calling 212-706-4088.