Dog Walkers in East Village, New York

The East Village, which contains the area referred to as Alphabet City, is located along the East River on the southeastern section of the New York City borough of Manhattan. Alphabet City, which comprises about two-thirds of the East Village, gets its name from Avenues A, B, C, and D, that run through the area. This area has traditionally been a culturally and ethnically diverse, Bohemian area with a thriving arts and theatre scene. The neighborhood features many trendy eateries, pubs, restaurants, and bars. There are several dog-friendly local eateries that allow dogs on their patios in the summer; ask at your favorite local cafe if they will allow your four-legged friend to join you in their outdoor space.

Residents are as diverse as the neighborhood, with students, artists, and young families as well as older established residents populating the area. Residents enjoy the centrally located Tomkins Park and dog run with their pets, where residents from all different backgrounds can meet and enjoy time with their pets. The weather in New York varies -- it can be cool in winter, hot in summer, and weather systems from the Atlantic Ocean can cause severe weather. Beware of conditions before venturing out on foot with your dog.

The East Village has been a culturally diverse residential neighborhood with a long history and more recently has developed a thriving arts and theatre scene. As a result of the varied residents and activities in the area, buildings and architecture are unique and diverse. This area features plenty of multi-story residential apartment buildings, most of which are historic, but vary greatly in architecture, depending on the influences in the neighborhood over the time periods in which they were built. One of New York's oldest cemeteries, the New York City Marble Cemetery, is located in the neighborhood, as well as many established parks and lots of mature trees and landscaping. Even some small gardens in certain residential complexes help provide plenty of greenery and shade in this highly urban, developed Manhattan area. The East River runs along the eastern edge of this community, providing views of neighboring Brooklyn.

The John V Lindsay East River Park is a 57-acre park running along the East River, which provides spectacular views of the surrounding communities, including Brooklyn, and the bridges running across the river. This park has pedestrian and bicycle paths, lots of seating, and amphitheaters, a playground and children's water park, and sports facilities and fields. The East River Promenade is a greenway running along the river adjacent to this beautiful park and is a great place to enjoy a riverside walk with your pup.

There are many small parks dotted throughout the East Village and Alphabet City. Residents of this diverse, established, historic neighborhood have taken steps to preserve green spaces and greenways over the neighborhood's long history, and many initiatives are currently underway.  

The Tompkins Square Park is a popular 10.5-acre park centrally located in Alphabet City, which features both treed and open spaces and plenty of winding walking trails to enjoy the park. It is famous for its prominent elm trees. Playground equipment includes rock climbing features, water fountains for overheated park goers to enjoy some spray on hot humid days, and a jungle gym. Also located in this park is the Tompkins Square Dog Run, also known as First Run Dog Park. This off-leash dog park was the first of its kind in New York City and has recently been upgraded. It is surfaced with crushed stone and has swimming pools for water-loving pups in summer months.