Dog Walkers in Skid Row (Central City East)

Skid Row is located in the Central Downtown Los Angeles area, just east of the Toy District and west of the Arts District. The region has approximately 18,000 residents with several missions and support organizations located centrally to aid the homeless population. Because this neighborhood is so centrally located, residents can easily reach other interesting neighborhoods which are full of many attractions including theatres, museums, galleries, and trendy eateries. 

The weather in Central Los Angeles is very hot and dry in summer and warm and dry in the winter. Rain is infrequent in this area and you do not need to be concerned when walking in Skid Row and the surrounding communities about bringing rain gear or warm outerwear. Heat, however, can be an issue at times. Be sure to pack water and plan cool rest areas on long excursions on foot, especially if you are bringing your four-legged companion with you.

Skid Row is defined as east of Main Street, west of Alameda Street, north of 7th Street, and south of 3rd Street. This neighborhood has some high rises, although most of the high rises are located to the west in the Downtown Core. There are lots of multi-story residential, commercial, and office buildings in this region of Central City East, as well as parking lots and busy thoroughfares. The area is relatively flat with mostly straight roads, although some roads curve. There are a lot of parking structures, streets, and alleys in the neighborhood with not a lot of natural landscaping, trees, or greenery nearby to break up the concrete jungle. With the pavement and lack of trees in and around Skid Row, pavement can become very hot. If you are planning on walking your dog in this district, you should consider purchasing doggy boots to protect your pup’s paws from the hot pavement.

San Julian Park is located right in Skid Row. This small but beautiful park is gated, closed at night, and offers some greenery in what can otherwise seem like a very urban landscape.  There are trees, lawns, and a structure to provide a shaded seating area.

Located in nearby neighborhoods are Spring Street Park to the west and the Arts District Park to the east which features a fenced dog park where your dog can enjoy a run with local canine friends. Spring Street Park offers more local green space with walking paths, lawns, trees and rest areas that are appreciated on hot days. 

Take a drive west to the coast and you can enjoy dog-friendly beaches or take a trip north to the wilderness areas in the foothills and mountains north of Los Angeles to explore miles of trails with steep climbs, natural terrain, and incredible views of the ocean.