Planning a trip to NYC but aren’t sure if your playful pet would enjoy tagging along? Don’t call the doggie hotel quite yet! There are numerous activities you and your pup could do together on your trip that are low cost (or free!), and your pup is sure to love!

Ride the Ferry

Believe it or not, most dogs actually enjoy being on boats because of the fresh air and constant breeze. To them, it’s a lot like being in a car but with the windows always down! Ferries are easy to remain socially distanced on, but depending on the ferry, you may be required to muzzle your dog so keep that in mind! Either way your pet is sure to love it!

Visit the William Secord Art Gallery

Unlike the vast majority of museums in NYC, the William Secord Art Gallery allows leashed dogs inside the building at no extra fee! With the summer months coming around, popping inside this gallery is a great way to cool off and see some pieces of art you otherwise would have never seen!

Go for a Hike

Surprisingly, there is one forest left within Manhattan! Inwood Hill Park is a beautiful, 3 – trail park that looks like something out of a painting! The trails feature unique views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, so bring your camera! You are required to keep your dog leashed, but otherwise are good to go for a morning stroll!

Visit Dog Beach

If you’re up for a trip to Brooklyn, check out Dog Beach! This doggie haven is located at Long Meadow in Prospect Park and is home to a newly renovated swimming hole and acres of land for your canine companions! Dogs are allowed to run freely during off-leash hours, giving them the opportunity to get some exercise, go for a swim, and meet some new play mates!

See a Movie

NYC hosts dozens of drive in (or outdoor) movie theaters, especially in the summer months. This is a great option for anybody looking to remain socially distanced! Bring a couple of blankets, some snacks for you and your pet, and enjoy an evening under the stars in the park, or from the comfort of your own car!

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Have some steps you want to sneak in? Take a stroll across Brooklyn Bridge! The 1.5-mile walk is a great way to kill some time and tire out your playmate! Your pup will love getting to say hello to the strangers passing by and you’ll enjoy the gorgeous city views!

Whether you’re coming in for a trip or you’re a local who is simply looking for something to do on a long weekend, there are plenty of options you could check out! Personally, I recommend the Brooklyn Bridge and Dog Beach, but you do whatever you think your pup would enjoy the most! You can even take your pet with you when you go out to eat, many restaurants in NYC allow leashed dogs, even some bars! Just go and enjoy the adventure!