Best Dog Parks In Chicago
While Chicago might be known as a metropolitan city filled with skyscrapers and busy highways, the locals know that there are some great parks and green areas throughout the city. For dog owners, it's crucial to know just which parks are friendly towards their four-legged friends. The standard jungle gym park might be alright for a quick stroll, but true dog-friendly parks cater towards dogs and their owners. The previous article, "Best Off Leash Dog Areas In Chicago" offered some great options, but not all dog owners require an off-leash dog area for their park. Whether you're looking for a place for your dog to roam freely or just a place to socialize them with other dogs, there are a number of different park options to choose from.
Winnemac Park
5100 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(312) 742-5101
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
Located in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago, Winnemac Park is ultra convenient with a sizable parking lot onsite. Acres of open fields allow your dog to get plenty of exercise while on a leash. Doggy level drinking fountains ensure your pooch stays hydrated during their runs, and the wide open layout keeps your dog from feeling cramped into a small designated dog area. Perfect for dog owners that are looking for more exercise than socialization, Winnemac Park gives your dog plenty of space while the owners get private bonding time during their outing.
Mary Bartelme Park
115 S. Sangamon St.
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 746-5494
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
Located in the West Loop area of Chicago, Mary Bartelme Park is a 1.4-acre park featuring three separate zones. The Bartelme Dog Friendly Area is .10 acres in a sunken area in the park. Located north of Adams, west of Peoria, the dog area is super convenient for those with children looking to utilize the adjacent play area. A doggie drinking fountain is in the dog area, and the misting gates at the fountain plaza offer an additional reprieve from the Chicago summer heat.
Lake Shore East Park
450 E. Benton Pl.
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 742-7648
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
Surrounded by high rise buildings, Lake Shore East Park is like an oasis from the city. It encompasses 4.6 acres, with a multitude of different areas to choose from. The walking path and open area allows your dog to get in their much needed exercise, while the designated dog area lets them socialize. There is an interactive water feature that runs throughout to allow for fresh water whenever needed, and the artificial grass is a favorite among pet owners since their pooch won't track out any messy grass blades after their visit.
Related: Chicago's Best Dog Parks
River Park
5100 N. Francisco Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
(312) 742-7516
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
River Park offers a picturesque atmosphere for both dog and owner. The nearby water brings in fishing enthusiasts, while the open park area is great for dogs looking for exercise. The designated dog area is completely fenced in, and allows owners to let their dogs off their leashes. Benches are scattered throughout to allow for great socialization opportunities for owners, and, of course, a doggie water fountain flows to keep dogs hydrated while they play.
Churchill Field Playlot Park
1825 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 742-7554
www.churchilldogs.com
Located in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago, Churchill Field Playlot Park is known for its dog-friendly features. Seating is scattered throughout the dog area to allow owners to take a break while their dogs play, and there is a free-flowing dog drinking fountain to ensure everyone stays hydrated. During the summertime, small kiddie pools are set up with hoses to give dogs a little splash time in the sweltering Chicago heat. Toys and balls can always be found laying about, and there are even decoration hydrants set up in the gravel area to let dogs feel like there is a designated bathroom area in the park.
Related: Best Places To Take Family Photos In Chicago
Sara Lugardo is a professional writer out of Chicago, Illinois. She has a Bachelor's in Communication and is currently working on her Master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
