Chicago is a fantastic place to have a furry friend. There are miles of beach-front trails to walk through (including a doggy beach) and ample, secluded spaces for your pet to roam. Especially on the city’s Northside, dog parks are scattered throughout the verdant neighborhoods. Here are some of our favorite parks in Chicago tailored to man’s best friend.
Chicago’s first designated dog park, this furry-friendly area, is the go-to spot for dog owners in Lincoln Park. Located at the intersection of Wrightwood and Sheffield, this half-acre park is an excellent spot for rowdy dogs to get their exercise.
Though it’s affectionately known as Wiggly Field, the official city name is Noethling Park, there’s both an asphalt-paved and grassy area of the dog park, perfect for all types of play. Its been a beloved neighborhood staple since the early 90s, with gorgeous trees that create needed shade in the summertime.
For more about the park’s location and hours, check out the site here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/noethling-grace-park
If you live up in Chicago’s farthest-north neighborhood, then you know about Pottawattomie Dog Park. This spot is a Roger’s Park favorite, with a .2-acre play area for dogs of all sizes.
This dog park has a variety of asphalt and pea gravel for dogs to play on. Amenities include doggy water fountains, benches for the owners, and many shaded areas. It might not be the largest park on the list, but the foliage and residential vibe give this spot a relaxed, homey feel.
More about Pottawattamie Dog Park is available here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/pottawattomie-park
If you live in Albany Park, you are probably familiar with River Park and its long bike path that follows Chicago’s eponymous river. Attached to the walkway is a smaller, quieter dog park that’s great for nervous pups.
Known colloquially as Paws Park, this dog-friendly area is located west of the Fransisco and Carmen Ave intersection. If you continue on the path towards the river, you’ll run into the designated dog park. It’s about a tenth of an acre wide but is generally quiet and devoid of overcrowding. After you’re done, you can take your dog through the scenic river walkway for some great exercise.
Find out the exact location and other park amenities here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/river-dog-friendly-area
Located in the glorious Margate Park, Puptown Dog Park gets its name from the neighborhood it resides in.
This park is entirely operated by dog owners in the Uptown area, consistently posting updates about missing items, open hours, and more. It’s about one-third of an acre and completely paved in asphalt and gravel. It’s a popular spot in the neighborhood, so expect ample socializing for you and your pup.
Check out more about Puptown Dog Park here: https://www.facebook.com/Puptown/
Off of Milwaukee and Irving Park road lies Portage Park, known as the original spot of the Six Corners; this residential area is the quintessential northside neighborhood.
Portage Park is the neighborhood’s name, but it’s also the title of the glorious park that resides in the area’s center. The new doggy play area lives in the north part of the park, adjacent to the tennis courts. The dog park is almost an acre in size, which is one of the biggest in the city. The park is operated by the Portage Park Dog Committee, which manages the park’s cleanliness and organizes dog meet-ups.
To find out more details about Portage Park and its doggy-friendly play area, check out this site: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/portage-dog-friendly-area
Wicker Park is a highly populated neighborhood on Chicago’s Northside. Its central location and bustling Milwaukee Ave draw tourists and residents alike.
The Wicker Park Dog-Friendly Area is inside the actual Wicker Park, right off Damen and Evergreen Ave. The dog area is a relatively tiny portion of the park, which generally suits smaller dogs best. Regardless, it’s a vibrant spot for dog owners and their trusted pups, perfect for socializing and sufficient exercise.
For more about this park, you can look here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/wicker-dog-friendly-area
If you’ve been struggling to find the right dog park in your neighborhood, there are more than enough to choose from. Here are some of the best northside parks for you and your canine to enjoy the summer. For even more dog pagerks to take your furry friends check out our new Northside Chicago Pet Guide.
