New York’s Most Dog Friendly Neighborhood
I’ve been visiting New York City with dogs for several decades now. Exploring different neighborhoods, I’ve discovered that some areas are better suited to canine travelers than others. The city has many dog friendly restaurants, hotels, and parks, but often they are spread out and inconvenient. If you are looking for just one New York neighborhood offering everything your pup could desire, head downtown to the dog friendly East Village.
Where to Stay and Play in the East Village with Dogs
The Standard East Village – 25 Cooper Square
I recommend staying at the Standard East Village hotel to explore New York’s most dog-friendly neighborhood conveniently. The hotel allows pets of any size for no additional charge. You must sign a waiver at check-in, but well-behaved pets can be left unattended in your room. The Standard East Village has several dog friendly dining areas available year-round. It is also a great base for exploring the Soho, and Greenwich Village neighborhoods.
Tompkins Square Dog Run – 99 St Marks Place
Just a 10-minute walk from the Standard East Village is dog friendly Tompkins Square Park. The park is home to New York’s first off-leash dog run. Tompkins Square Dog Run is reportedly the largest in the city, with separate areas for big and little pups. The small dog side is quite luxurious, with artificial turf and a lot of shade. Large dogs have more room to run, but the surface is primarily dirt. Both sides have ample benches and clean-up supplies.
Dog Friendly Cafes & Bars in the East Village
Boris & Horton – 195 Avenue A
A few blocks north of Tompkins Square Dog Run, you’ll find Boris & Horton, New York’s first cafe to allow dogs inside. Just place your order at the outside window, then bring your food & drinks inside to the
Besides being a cafe, Boris & Horton serves as an unofficial canine social club. They host activities like puppy portrait sessions, performances, and breed meetups several days a week. One of the most popular events at Boris & Horton is the regular dog friendly trivia nights with Puppy Bowl referee Dan Schachner.
D.B.A. – 41 1st Avenue
If you are in the mood for a low-key bar where everybody knows your (dog’s) name, check out D.B.A. This dog friendly East Village bar welcomes pups on the back patio and in the climate-controlled interior. D.B.A. does not serve any food, but people are welcome to bring food to enjoy with their craft beers and cocktails. Rumour has it that the bartender keeps a stash of dog biscuits behind the bar if your pup gets hungry.
I’m so excited to have found your blog! We too try to take our dog, Kona, on all our adventures! While she’s more of a mountain girl, it will probably be awhile before she sees the likes of New York City but I’m still interested in your content about traveling with dogs in general. We’re headed to Florida later this year for a wedding and contemplating the possibility of taking her with us… Any thoughts?!
Hi Lindsey, Louis & I haven’t traveled in Florida but have heard it’s very dog friendly! It’s generally easier visiting warm weather destinations where you can take long walks and enjoy meals outside with your dog year round. Where would you be going in Florida? I have a board on Pinterest where I’ve compiled some information on dog friendly places around Florida.
This is so awesome. So cool to know if I’m ever in NY with my dog I gotta find this place and go to just hangout. This sounds like a totally awesome place!