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  9. Pet-friendly New York City: things to do in NYC with a dog

Pet-friendly New York City: things to do in NYC with a dog

TrustedHousesitters blog author - Hayley Ward
Hayley Ward
25 March 202515 min read
View on downtown of Manhattan, New York City

Live in the Big Apple with a four-pawed pal, or putting together a list of pet-friendly things to do for your NYC pet sitter?

Stay right where you are, fellow pet parent. Whether you’ve secured a house sit in NYC or you’ve got a canine companion of your own at home, follow our ultimate guide to pet-friendly New York City.

Take a look below to find a pooch-approved list of the dog-friendly restaurants NYC has to offer, along with cafes, dog parks, and fun activities for dogs (and their humans) around the city.

Dog-friendly restaurants in NYC

Want to experience the Big Apple while you’re house sitting in NYC, or just want to treat your furry pal to an evening out in your home city? No worries - find a list of the dog-friendly restaurants NYC has to offer below. 

Dog-friendly restaurants in Manhattan

Whether you’re house sitting in Manhattan or you live in NYC’s most bustling borough, make a note of any dog-friendly restaurants that catch your eye below.

Rosemary's

If you’re after restaurants that allow dogs in NYC’s Manhattan that serve up rustic Italian classics, head to Rosemary’s where dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area.

Location: 18 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States

Tacombi 

In the mood for tacos, quesadillas and an authentic margarita? Head to Tacombi where pups are welcome outdoors.

Location: 267 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012, United States

The Smith

Feeling like upmarket American fare? Head to The Smith’s outdoor patio and choose from craft cocktails, burgers and a variety of seafood.

Location: 1150 Broadway, New York, NY 10001, United States

Bareburger

Known for grass-fed, high quality meats, Bareburger is perfect if you’re in the mood for - you guessed it - burgers, fries and milkshakes.

Location: 313 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019, United States

John's of Bleecker Street

It’s no trip to New York (or a week in the city as a New Yorker) without a pizza or two. Head along to John’s of Bleecker street that sells pizza by the pie.

Location: 278 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014, United States

The Barking Dog

For a spot that prides itself on dog-friendliness, The Barking Dog is the perfect place to dine with your pooch - choose from burgers, fish dishes and roasted chicken in a place where pups are completely welcome.

Location: 1678 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10128, United States

Dog-friendly restaurants in Brooklyn

Brooklyn Burgers & Beer

If you’re on the lookout for pet-friendly restaurants in New York that serve up gourmet burgers and craft beer, look no further than this spot if you’re anywhere near Brooklyn.

Location: 259 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, United States

LuAnne's Wild Ginger

Prefer to eat plant-based and in the mood for pan-Asian plates? Head to LuAnne’s Wild Ginger for noodles, stir fry and curries, and relax in the outdoor seating area with your furry friend.

Location: 112 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

Habana Outpost

This outdoor Brooklyn eatery is perfect if you want to dine with your furry friend - pop along and order Mexican-Cuban fare at the counter.

Location: 757 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, United States

Dog-friendly restaurants in The Bronx

City Island Lobster House

Mad about seafood and like to dine with a view? Pop along to this spot’s outdoor seating area to dine with your furry best pal.

Location: 691 Bridge St, Bronx, NY 10464, United States

Bronx Burger House

In the mood for hearty American grub? Head to Bronx Burger House where dogs are welcome on the sidewalk tables.

Location: 5816 Mosholu Ave, Bronx, NY 10471, United States

Key considerations when dining with your dog in NYC:

According to the New York State Department of Health, companion animals are not allowed inside restaurants in the city, but can accompany their humans in outdoor seating areas. Restaurants aren’t obliged to allow your pooch to come with you, so always double check the rules before arriving and book ahead.

Dog-friendly cafes in NYC

Want to grab a coffee with your canine companion after a morning stroll? Explore our list of the dog-friendly cafes NYC has to offer below. To make finding a nearby cafe easier for you, we’ve separated our list into NYC’s boroughs that have pet-friendly places to eat.

Dog-friendly cafes in Manhattan

The Bean

Pop along to The Bean for relaxed vibes, a diverse coffee menu and bakery items galore.

Location: 771 Broadway, New York, NY 10003, United States

Cafe Grumpy

You won’t be short of coffee choices in NYC, and Cafe Grumpy in Manhattan certainly won’t disappoint if you’re serious about your morning brews.

Location: 200 W 39th St, New York, NY 10018, United States

Gasoline Alley Coffee

After a dog-friendly coffee shop with a neighborhood vibe? Head to Gasoline Alley for well-reviewed coffee and pastries with your canine companion.

Location: 325 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Devoción

Lover of Colombian coffee? Pop in for a modern vibe in a plant-filled space that welcomes dogs while you’re house sitting in Manhattan.

Location: 25 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

The Roasting Plant

Dogs are welcome in this spot’s outdoor seating area, and remember to pick up a dog treat from indoors while you’re paying!

Location: 81 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, United States

Dog-friendly cafes in Brooklyn

Sey Coffee

Love a minimalist coffee shop? Well if you’re house sitting in Brooklyn and you’re ticking off the dog-friendly cafes NYC has to offer, stop by for the hip vibe and well-reviewed brews.

Location: 18 Grattan St, Brooklyn, NY 11206, United States

Roots Cafe

Head to Roots Cafe in Park Slope and choose from coffee favorites, plus burritos and toasted sandwiches perfect for both meat lovers and customers on a plant-based diet.

Location: 639 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, United States

Art Collective Cafe

If you’re an art, coffee and dog lover, head to Art Collective in Park Slope to marvel at fine art from the neighborhood and beyond, and choose from artisan cakes.

Location: 97 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215, United States

Guevara's

After a fun, dog-friendly cafe in NYC that specializes in vegan food? Stop by for an upbeat atmosphere and enjoy your coffee in the outdoor seating area with your pooch.

Location: 319 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States

Dog-friendly cafes in Queens

Château le Woof

Whether you’re in the mood for brunch, coffee or you need to top up on essentials or treats for your furry pal, Château le Woof in Queens has got you covered.

Location: 3101 Vernon Blvd, Astoria, NY 11106, United States

Annie's Social

Pop along to Annie’s Social for well-reviewed coffee, pastries or craft beer and socialize with like-minded local animal lovers.

Location: 34-01 Francis Lewis Blvd, Flushing, NY 11358, United States

New York City Bagel & Coffee House

A weekend in NYC isn’t complete without a bagel and a coffee! Head to this spot’s dog-friendly patio and choose from pastries, toasts and of course, bagels.

Location: 29-10 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106, United States

Dog-friendly cafes in The Bronx

Mottley Kitchen

Stop by Mottley Kitchen for a modern vibe and a wholesome breakfast menu.

Location: 402 E 140th St, Bronx, NY 10454, United States

Savor Coffee and More

Whether you’re in the mood for coffee, a smoothie or even a beer, stop by Savor Coffee and More in The Bronx with your furry friend.

Location: 3725 Riverdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10463, United States

For more dog-friendly cafes in the city, head to our blog on cafes that allow dogs in NYC.

Pet shops NYC

Need to top up on essentials for your furry best pal? Well our guide to the city wouldn’t be complete without a list of the pet shops NYC has to offer - make a note of those close by below.

Dog parks in NYC

Up with the best places for dogs in NYC has to be your local dog park! Often fully fenced and separated for large and small dogs, they’re a great place to let your canine companion explore off-leash and socialize with other pups. 

For a list of places your dog can run free, follow our list of the dog parks NYC has to offer below, and always double check the signage before letting your dog off the leash.

Washington Square Park Dog Run

In the heart of NYC’s Greenwich Village, this dog park is ideal for dogs large or small, with fenced-off areas to keep them separate.

Location: 52 Washington Square S, New York, NY 10012, United States

Tompkins Square Dog Run

Head to Tompkins Square Dog Run to chat with likeminded pet parents, and let your pooch enjoy the sandy area with their canine pals.

Location: 99 1/2 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009, United States

Chelsea Waterside Park Dog Run

Part of the larger park, this area is perfect for letting your pooch run off energy before you head to a dog-friendly cafe.

Location: 11th Ave & W23rd Street, New York, NY 10011, United States

Prospect Park Dog Beach

If you live in Brooklyn with a furry pal, you might have heard of Prospect Park dog beach - the ideal spot to let your pup cool down and play a game of aqua fetch!

Location: 95 Prospect Park W, Brooklyn, NY 11215, United States

McCarren Park Dog Run

If you have a particularly small or large pooch in Brooklyn, head to this NYC dog park to help socialize your dog amongst pups of a similar size by making use of the separated areas.

Location: North 12th Street & Driggs Avenue &, Union Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States

Aside from a designated dog park, you might want to explore other green spaces NYC has to offer that are perfect for an on-leash walk. Take a look through our suggestions below, where you’ll find some of the dog-friendly parks NYC has to offer for the ultimate day of exploring with your furry friend.

Central Park

Central Park has to be one of New York’s most iconic locations, and did you know that it’s got its own designated off leash areas? These Central Park dog runs are the perfect way to experience this must-see city centre walk with your canine pal - just be sure to check the signage before letting your pooch off the leash.

Location: Central Park, New York, NY, United States

Riverside Park 

If you’re looking for the dog-friendly parks New York has to offer with views of the Hudson River, this is your spot for morning walkies.

Location: R25M+R3, New York, NY 10025, United States

Washington Square Park

Enjoy city centre views for ample people watching, and keep your dog on a leash in the main park.

Location: Washington Square, New York, NY 10012, United States

Brooklyn Bridge Park

For impressive waterfront views, why not enjoy an evening stroll with your leashed pup at Brooklyn Bridge Park?

Location: Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

Prospect Park 

Take a step back in time at Prospect Park and Garden, and make use of the designated off leash hours of 6am-9am and 9pm-1am at the Long Meadow (except the ballfields).

Location: Brooklyn, NY, United States

Gantry Plaza State Park

Explore this state park if you’re near Queens for stunning views of Manhattan - just be sure to keep your dog on a leash.

Location: 4-44 47th Rd, Long Island City, NY 11101, United States

Dog-friendly bars in NYC

Looking for a spot to relax with your canine companion, or want to stop for a drink with other dog owners? Well luckily for you and your doggo, there are a fair few dog-friendly bars in NYC that’ll welcome your pup in their outdoor seating area. So, why not start with our list below?

Manhattan:

Brooklyn:

Queens:

The Bronx:

Key considerations when heading to a bar in NYC with your dog:

One thing to note before heading to a dog-friendly bar in NYC is that while breweries and taprooms tend to be more dog-friendly than restaurants and eateries, it’s always worth double checking before turning up with your pooch. Dogs are mostly allowed in outdoor seating areas, if at all, and are generally turned away from indoor bars.

Dog-friendly beaches NYC

New York is surrounded by miles of beaches and vibrant neighborhoods just behind. And if you’re house sitting in NYC, they can be a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. If you’re planning a trip to an NYC beach and you’d like to bring your pup along, always double check local rules as they can change depending on the time of year.

According to the NYC government portal, leashed dogs are allowed on the boardwalks and promenades of a few restricted beaches. 

Dog friendly beaches in NYC include:

  • Orchard Beach
  • Coney Island
  • Brighton Beach
  • Midland Beach
  • South Beach
  • Manhattan Beach

There are also a few important restrictions for pet parents and NYC pet sitters to be aware of. According to the NYC government portal, these are as follows:

  • Dogs are not allowed on any public NYC beaches during beach season (with the exception of service dogs).
  • Dogs are not permitted on the sand at any public beach in New York City.
  • Dogs are not allowed to enter any New York City beaches between May 1 and October 1.

Key considerations for dog-friendly beaches in New York:

  • Always check local rules before visiting, as regulations can change at any time.
  • Always clean up after your dog.
  • Keep your dog on a short leash to be considerate of other beachgoers.
  • Consider planning your trip to NYC’s coast off-season, as dogs have more access to the beaches in the winter months.

Coney Island

Dog-friendly activities NYC

Want to be a tourist for the day in your home city, or excited to experience all that the Big Apple has to offer while you house sit in NYC? Find a list of dog-friendly activities New York has to offer, along with attractions and local things to do.

Museum of Illusions

Looking for dog-friendly indoor activities in NYC, when the rain is pouring but you still want some quality time with your canine companion? Head to the Museum of Illusions in bustling Manhattan with your dog on a leash, and have your mind blown by the exhibit’s spectacles, popular with both tourists and locals.

Location: 77 8th Ave, New York, NY 10014, United States

Head to a dedicated dog park

Looking for a dog playground in NYC? Head to Chelsea Waterside Dog Park which is fully fenced and complete with climbing structures for canine companions to get some exercise and socialize with other pups. If you’re house sitting in NYC, we can’t recommend this activity enough - sit on the dog park’s benches and get to know local pet owners.

Location: 11th Ave & W23rd Street, New York, NY 10011, United States

Stroll the Hudson River Greenway

Want a full-proof walking route in the centre of the city? Head out with your dog on a leash and walk the Hudson River Greenway, a paved path that runs all the way from Battery Park to the George Washington Bridge. 

Location:  75 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10280, United States

Walk Brooklyn Bridge

Tourist or not, nothing quite beats a walk across Brooklyn Bridge with a furry friend right by your side (on a leash, of course). Walk the bridge for iconic views of the city, including the Manhattan skyline, New York Harbor, and the Statue of Liberty.

Location:  New York, NY 10038, United States

Explore Battery Park City

Want a little break from the hustle and bustle of central Manhattan? Head to Battery Park City for esplanade walkies and some dog-friendly green space. Head to Sirius dog run to safely let your pooch off the leash - naturally one of the most full-proof things to do with dogs in NYC.

Location: Battery Park City, NY, New York City

Hit the water

If you’ve got a smaller dog at home, why not take to the water? Pet dogs on the NYC ferry must be in a pet carrier - hence why this activity is really only dog-friendly if you’ve got a smaller dog. 

If your furry friend is comfortable in a pet carrier, book a place on the NYC ferry for sweeping views of the New York skyline and iconic landmarks. There are multiple piers to board the ferry around the city, including Atlantic Avenue, Midtown West and Astoria.

Dog events in NYC

NYC is a pooch-loving city, so why not check out one of the dog events New York has to offer? If you’re house sitting in NYC, always check with pet parents before taking your canine companion to a new event.

Bark in the Park

Lover of baseball? Bring your pup along to catch a game at Maimonides Park - tickets are $20 for one human and two dogs.

Location: 1904 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224, United States

AKC Museum of the Dog

Want to geek out about your favorite animal, without leaving - well, your favorite animal at home? Head to AKC Museum of the Dog on a Furry Friday event, where leashed dogs are welcome with their humans.

Location: 101 Park Ave, New York, NY 10178, United States

Catch a dog-friendly comedy show

Must Love Dogs and Comedy is a dog-friendly comedy show events company that organizes comedy shows where dogs are welcome, and the proceeds help to raise money for animal rescue. Find out if a show is happening near you soon for a wonderful cause and a dog-friendly evening with your furry pal.

Key considerations when attending a dog-friendly event:

  • Always check with pet parents before booking an event if you’re house sitting.
  • Always check the event’s dog policies before turning up
  • Only bring your dog if they’re comfortable being indoors with unfamiliar pets.
  • Always bring spare waste bags and keep your pooch on a leash (unless it’s specifically a leash-free event).

Tips on dog-friendly things to do in NYC from dog owners and pet sitters

Thinking about house sitting in NYC, or just want to make sure you’re a clued-up pet parent? Find more tips on exploring the city with a dog below, all from local residents and pet sitters in NYC.

  • “Try looking at sits north of the city along the Hudson River” - @Katie
  • “You can also look North into Westchester county which has very beautiful towns and you can take the train into the city for day trips” - @Amparo
  • “Long Island, NY (where I’m from) gives you access to New York City by train and its beautiful east end by car. The Hamptons and ocean beaches are on the South Fork, and dozens of wineries and farm stands dot the North Fork” - @Edith
  • “Manhattan which is where most (but not all) of the major museums and attractions are - it is mostly a grid and there are enough tall buildings and rivers so that you can easily keep track of north, south, east and west” - @Marion

Tips for pet parents

So your day out in pet-friendly New York City is almost planned - follow our tips below to keep your pooch happy while you’re both in and outside of the city.

  • Expect rules to change. While there are many long-standing businesses in NYC, it’s always worth erring on the side of caution and checking the restaurant, cafe or bar you’d like to visit is still dog-friendly. Most pet-friendly places in New York will only let dogs in outdoor seating areas, so be prepared to be turned away if you don’t book in advance.
  • Wrap up warm. As we’ve mentioned, dog-friendly restaurants in NYC will only allow you and your pooch to dine outdoors, so opt for a restaurant with outdoor heaters, or stick to dining with your dog in the warmer months.
  • Plan ahead for your vacation. So you’re clued-up on where you can take your canine pal in the city, but what happens when it’s time for a vacation? Well as vets agree pets are happiest at home, it’s worth considering an in-home, verified pet sitter to look after your canine pal. Click below to find out more.

How to connect with pet sitters in NYC

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Want to see what local life is like in NYC, for real? Explore the city through house sitting in NYC, and you’ll soon be strolling through Central Park with a coffee in one hand, and a furry travel guide in the other!

  • Stick to pet parent recommendations. If you’re not familiar with the city, it’s worth sticking with pet parent advice when it comes to where you can and can’t take Fido - many cafes and restaurants aren’t dog-friendly in NYC, so be wise and follow local recommendations.
  • Head to a local dog run. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the Big Apple’s local culture is to chat to nearby residents. Head to a dog park near you to let your furry pal enjoy a leash-free run (pet parents and local rules permitting), and get to know likeminded pet lovers.
  • Experience NYC through house sitting.  So, fancy discovering the city that never sleeps with a canine companion by your side? Click below to find out more about how to secure a sit in the Big Apple.

How to find house sits in NYC

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