A Weekend in NYC with my dog: Rebecca and Brodie

Rebecca, an Upper East Sider, and New York native was so gracious to share with us her perfect weekend in NYC with her dog. Take it away Rebecca.

For some, the idea of owning a dog in the city is intimidating- you don’t have the luxury of a backyard, space can be tight in an apartment, and how do you transport a dog around without a car? However, as an owner of an adorable Shepsky I can tell you…it’s possible! Here are some recommendations for the best places to take your dog around the city.

Upper East Side:

My husband, myself and our dog Brodie live on the border of East Harlem and the Upper East Side.  This is a GREAT location for dog friendly spots:

Carl Schurz Dog Park:

Obvious, I know, but dog parks are a great place to take your dog when you live in the city.  Carl Schurz especially is great because the park has two dog parks- one for smaller dogs, and one for larger.  For those like myself who have an extroverted dog that needs to meet everyone, taking your dog to Carl Schurz once a week can help them let out a lot of energy and meet new playmates.

Barking Dog:

I would say the Barking Dog is one of the most dog friendly restaurants in NYC.  Located on 94th street and 3^rd avenue, the Barking Dog offers spacious outdoor dining, doggy watering fountains and a great array of food and drinks for yourself.

Randall’s Island:

I’d say one of the best kept secrets in New York are the small islands off Manhattan, including Randall’s Island.  Large and spacious and mostly car free, this is a great space to take your dog on long walks.  In the summer, there are multiple picnic tables and grills available and the island is easily accessible via a footbridge between 104^th and 105^th street on the FDR.

The Bronx:

Bronx Brewery: Remember that Randall’s Island I told you about?  Head north up the island and take a beautiful scenic walk with your dog until you get to Triborough Bridge- cut across into the South Bronx and head over to the Bronx Brewery on 136^th and Walnut.  A hidden gem, the Bronx Brewery has a wide array of beers and for food they have “Empanology”, an empanada spot with unique menu items such as Chopped Cheese empanadas and Vodka Pasta empanadas.  This is a great spot to hang with your dog on a weekend in the summer.

Astoria:

Château le Woof:

Take the ferry across the East River and head to the dog friendly Château le Woof.  In addition to great coffee and delicious food (for you AND your dog), they have an off-leash play area.  All that’s required is that you register your dog with them to ensure all their vaccines are up to date.

Socrates Sculpture Park:

Right across from Château le Woof, take a stroll along the East River and take in the beautiful art at Socrates Sculpture Park.  You get a beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline, and your dog gets some exercise- I call that a win-win!

In closing, my biggest recommendation to NYC dog owners is- go out and explore the city with your dog!  Jump on public transportation, whether it’s the ferry or the subway, and find a place where both of you can have fun- whether that’s a park, a bar, a restaurant, whatever it is!  It’s a great way for you and your dog to meet new people and other playmates.