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.