The Big Apple. The Concrete Jungle. The City of Dreams. New York City is a world-famous destination that goes by many names, but no matter what you decide to call it, your ideas of the big city are sure to include towering buildings, highly-renowned restaurants, and incredible shopping opportunities.
Despite the neverending list of attractions and places to experience, one thing that is commonly overlooked is the variety of fun things to do with dogs in NYC. When I first brought Lady to New York, I honestly wasn’t expecting to find many things for the both of us to enjoy together. However, the more Lady and I got out to explore the streets, the more pleasantly surprised I became by exactly how much there was to do.
If I had known beforehand, I definitely would have planned my trip a little differently. If you’re thinking about bringing your dog to the city, here are some of the best things to do with your dog in NYC that will help you plan the perfect getaway with your best friend!
Planning a trip with your four-legged friends? You won’t want to be without my handy dandy Doggie Packing Checklist! It’s the same one I use whenever I travel with Lady and has helped me remember important items that will keep her healthy and happy during our trip together.
The best part? You can get it for FREE right now! Be sure to get the Doggie Packing Checklist today and we wish you and your pet happy travels!
3 Things I Wish I Had Known Before We Visited NYC
1. You Can Find a Great New York Hotel That Allows Dogs
New York hotels tend to be on the more expensive side, so we opted for a pet-friendly Airbnb in Manhattan for our trip. However, if your budget allows for you and your pet to enjoy more classic New York lodging, you should definitely invest!
Some of New York’s most beautiful hotels accommodate dogs, and their central locations allow you to conveniently access your favorite attractions and things to do with your dog in NYC. Here are just a few that you may want to consider!
- Fifty NYC: With a fee of only $50 per pet, this boutique hotel lets you and your best friend enjoy everything that New York has to offer. After a full day of adventures, come back and relax in the hotel’s artistic and laid-back setting.
- The Roxy Hotel: This glamorous accommodation is located near Soho, Battery Park City, and Little Italy. There is no additional pet fee and dogs are welcomed with organic treats from Bocce’s Bakery, bedding, water bowls, and more.
- NYLO New York City: Both elegant and historic, the NYLO is a casual hotel located in Upper West Side. During your stay, be sure to check out the on-site dining and rooftop lounge. Pets under 50 pounds are allowed for an extra $40.
2. There are Plenty of Dog-Friendly Places to See and Explore
With New York’s vibrant urban setting, I initially figured the bustling streets of the city would be a little overwhelming for Lady and we would just stick to visiting the parks. I was very wrong! Aside from the obvious Central Park, there are several places to go in New York that warmly welcome both you and your furry friends! Here are just some of my personal favorites that you won’t want to leave off your itinerary.
- d.b.a Bar: Located in East Village, this dog bar in New York boasts an impressive beer, whiskey, and bourbon selection. Pooches both big and small are invited to join their owners inside the bar or on the lushly-decorated back patio. They also have a sweet resident cat named Maggie who is always happy to come around and interact with you while you drink.
- Luckydog: The Luckydog is another pet-friendly bar that you’ll find in Brooklyn. The brick-walled watering hole is popular among locals and features a large drink menu, live music performances, games to play, and a backyard for dogs.
- William Secord Gallery: If you’re a fan of beautiful art and dogs, then this gallery is a must! William Secord was the founding director of the Dog Museum of America and opened this Upper East side gallery to display 19th and 20th-century dog and animal paintings. Leashed dogs are allowed to come inside and admire the antique masterpieces alongside you.
- Seastreak Ferry: While Ellis Island does not allow dogs, there is still a way for both of you to enjoy incredible views of the Statue of Liberty! The Seastreak Ferry transports humans and dogs alike from E. 35th Street to Wall Street, Jersey City, and the Hoboken area. During the ride, you’ll enjoy great views of New York and Lady Liberty herself. The Staten Island Ferry also allows small dogs and provides even more great ways to see the city and its most famous landmark.
- Tawny Tours NYC: Many walking tours in New York City allow your pets to come along, but no tour gives you a dog-friendly experience quite like Art Zuckerman’s Tawny Tours. He and his golden retrievers organize tours through many of the concrete jungle’s most famous neighborhoods while making stops at dog-friendly restaurants in New York City and nearby dog parks. It’s the best way for you and your four-legged friend to get to know The Big Apple together. Tours start at $35 and require a reservation, so be sure to call ahead!
3. Dogs are Indeed Allowed on the Subway
One of the most important aspects of any trip to New York City is planning for transportation. Calling this place a huge city is an understatement, and traveling everywhere by foot is going to prove to be a hassle and exhausting.
Since I was initially under the impression that dogs were not allowed on the subway, Lady and I made the trek from Times Square all the way to Central Park by walking. While there was plenty for us to look at, my feet were aching before we even started exploring the park. Imagine my joy when I was chatting with a local and she informed me that I actually could bring Lady into the subway!
Formally, the New York subway’s pet policy is that dogs can board the train only if they can fit in a small bag or carrier. However, since New York is abundant with geniuses, local pet owners and visitors have accepted this challenge and gotten creative with this policy.
Technically, they are following the rules! XD
Since Lady is a small dog, I just held her in my arms during our rides on the subway. She didn’t mind the crowds or loud noises, and other riders were always more than happy to give her a few pats and tell her what a pretty girl she is (and they’re not wrong!).
If the subway isn’t for you, there are still options for you and your pup to get around the city. Taxis are allowed to pick up dogs, but it is up to the driver to decide if they want to transport you. Most taxi drivers don’t have a problem with it.
The same policy applies to transportation apps like Uber and Lyft. Just be sure to message your driver ahead of time to ensure they’re alright with your furry friend riding along. The Metro-North train also allows dogs as long as they are leashed and well-behaved.
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Our trip to New York City was a whirlwind learning experience. I was hesitant about bringing my dog to the big city at first, but now I’m so glad that I did. We had a wonderful time and saw so many places that only NYC can supply. Now that you’re more prepared and informed than I was, are you ready for a trip to New York City? Let me know how your vacation goes and if there are any other things to do with your dog in NYC that I missed!
Also, don’t forget to check out even more exciting dog-friendly destinations that Lady and I have given our paw-stamp of approval! You also won’t want to miss our best pet health and safety tips that you can use while on the road or at home.
