With over 600 parks in Chicago, you're sure to find the perfect one for you and your pup!
Sure, dogs love a good walk. But sometimes a dog just wants to run! Living in the city can make it a little more challenging to find open areas to let your pups play, but that doesn't mean they don't exist. Chicago has some fantastic dog-friendly parks, beaches, and dog parks (not to mention some amazing dog-friendly restaurants). From fully fenced parks to dog-friendly green spaces, no matter what part of town you live in, there is a park for you and your pup. Here are 10 of the Best Dog Parks in Chicago.
10 of the Best Dog Parks and Dog-Friendly Areas in Chicago, IL
- Wiggly Field Dog Park
- Montrose Dog Beach
- Ohio Place Dog Park
- Belmont Harbor Dog Area
- Wicker Park and Wicker Dog-Friendly Area
- Pottawattomie Dog Park
- Puptown Dog Park
- Hamlin Dog Park
- Lake Shore East Dog Park
- Pooch Park
Wiggly Field Dog Park — 2645 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL, 60614
Wiggly Field Dog Park is a favorite among pet parents in Chicago. Given its nickname because of the park's proximity to Wrigley Field, Wiggly Field was actually the city's first official dog park. Enjoy a bit of dog park history on Chicago's North Side while your pup gets in touch with their wild side! With a large fenced in area and designated space for small dogs, Wiggly Field is the perfect place to play ball — or at least a game of fetch.
Montrose Dog Beach — 610 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
You know, sometimes a good dog deserves something a little special. And what's more special than spending a day at the beach? An absolute favorite among Chicago pet parents, Montrose Dog Beach is pretty much the pinnacle of dog fun! Let your four-legged pals feel the breeze in the hair and the sand between their toes as they roam safely and freely through nearly four acres of fenced-in beachfront. Whether they decide to take a swim or build a sand dog house, you can rest easy knowing they are living their best life — and that they will likely be super tired when you get home. As a bonus, Montrose Dog Beach now has a self-service dog washing station, so you can leave the sand at the beach and not in your car.
Ohio Place Dog Park — 350 W Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60654
This long and narrow dog park is the perfect place to get in a quick run. With plenty of space for big dogs to stretch their legs, Ohio Place Dog Park will leave the tails wagging! Make sure to bring your own water and check out the "The Dunes."
Belmont Harbor Dog Area — Belmont & Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
Belmont Harbor Dog Beach is a popular spot for dogs and their owners to enjoy the sun and sand. Located right off Lake Michigan, inside Lincoln (Abraham) Park, this beach offers a safe, enclosed area for dogs to run and swim freely. The beach is well-maintained, ensuring a clean environment for all visitors. It's a great place for socializing, as many dog owners frequent the area. There are also plenty of nearby amenities, including restrooms and parking. The beach's proximity to the city makes it a convenient escape for a quick outing.
Wicker Park and Wicker Dog-Friendly Area — 1425 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Sure, Wicker Park is famous and beautiful, and all that, but is it fun for dogs? The answer: it sure is! Not only will you enjoy walking through the historic park with your pup, but when your little buddy needs to burn some extra energy, you can head to the Wicker Park Dog-Friendly Area. In the southeast corner of the park, there is a fully fenced dog run. With lots of seating for humans and drinking fountains for pups, this dog park is the perfect way to cap off an already great day in Wicker Park.
Pottawattomie Dog Park — 7340 N Rogers Ave, Chicago, IL 60626
A small but mighty dog park in the Rogers Park neighborhood. This park features a fully fenced-in, nearly quarter-acre of running room and a separate area for small dogs. With benches and lots of shade, Pottawattomie Dog Park is a pleasant experience for humans and pups.
Puptown Dog Park — N Marine Dr, Chicago, IL 60640
This popular dog park is sure to be a hit with your pup! There will pretty much always be a new friend for your dog to play with when you visit this fully-fenced park. Uptown Dog Park also has plenty of trees to provide some shade while the dogs run wild!
Hamlin Dog Park — 3035 N Hoyne Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Another favorite for Chicago pet parents, Hamlin Dog Park offers a fully-fenced area for your pups to run around in the southwest corner of Hamlin Park. As a bonus, the dog park is directly adjacent to the park's tennis courts, so there is always a surplus of fuzzy tennis balls to play with!
Lake Shore East Dog Park — 450 E Benton Pl, Chicago, IL 60601
Just north of Millennium Park, this little dog park is the perfect place for your pup to take a quick run! With a little bit of shade and a doggy drinking fountain, Lake Shore East Dog Park is simple but utilitarian. Your dog will be happy to stretch their legs and take a run on the artificial grass.
Pooch Park — 3220 Oakton St, Skokie, IL 60076
On the North edge of town, this park is guaranteed to make your dog jump for joy! With a 2.7 acre off-leash area, Pooch Park has some serious room to run. There is also an agility area where you can see if your pup has what it takes to compete on ESPN. Pooch Park has three separate areas for large dogs, small dogs, and those previously mentioned athletes in training. The park does require you to become a member and pay an application fee, so make sure to take a look at the Pooch Park Website before you head out.
Time To Get Outside!
Hopefully, this list provided you with some inspiration for your next doggy outing. Your pups will definitely appreciate the exercise. So grab the leash, the water bowl, and get outside; your dog will thank you!