Dog Walkers in Meatpacking District

The Meatpacking District is located on the west side of Manhattan, along the Hudson River, south of Chelsea and north of the West Village. This busy 24-hour neighborhood provides residents with services and activity around the clock. This area used to be the predominant home of the meatpacking industry in Manhattan, but in more recent years art galleries and architectural firms, restaurants, nightclubs, hotels, upscale apartments and lofts, museums, fashion houses and other commercial enterprises have moved in alongside the remaining meatpacking plants, creating a very different and exciting neighborhood. 

For pet owners, several local eateries allow dogs on outdoor seating venues in the neighborhood; inquire with your local restauranteur to see if you can bring Fido to their establishment. There is also an organic doggie bakery and a unique independent pet store in the area. Services such as groomers and veterinarians are easily accessible nearby and there are lots of services and destinations you can enjoy walking with your dog in the Meatpacking District. 

Be aware that the weather in New York can be inclement when weather systems move up the Atlantic coast. Rain and overcast days, as well as storms, are not uncommon in this coastal city. Summers are usually quite hot and winters can be cool, so dress for the weather.

The Meatpacking District used to be the main commercial area where the meatpacking plants of Manhattan were housed. Although some of these remain, the area has diversified, and many residential buildings, restaurants, hotels, shops and other businesses have taken up roots here.  Many old commercial buildings have been converted into apartments and loft residences or shops in this trendy neighborhood. This unique area features a variety of architecture, from historic commercial buildings to new builds. Many streets in the area are cobblestone or Belgian block stone, so be careful wearing high heels for walking in this district! A more ankle friendly choice may be more appropriate. The neighborhood is bordered by the Hudson River on the west, and a portion of the High Line, a park built atop an old railway line that provides an elevated greenway. This area is great for walking trips and there are many unique sights and sounds in this well developed, busy commercial and residential neighborhood at all hours. Development of the Pier 57 and 54 areas will add more character and interest to the neighborhood in the future.

You would not think that a historic, commercial district would feature many greenways, but the Meatpacking District would be an exception. The Hudson River Greenway runs along the west side of the community, along the Hudson River and features views of Jersey City. The greenway extends north and south to access recreation facilities and parks in adjacent neighborhoods. Also, the High Line starts here in the Meatpacking district. This elevated “park in the sky” provides a greenway above the street surface along an old railway freight line. This park extends to the north and is a unique greenway opportunity for visitors and residents to get a bird's eye view of the neighborhood and surrounding areas. The West Village D.O.G. Run located nearby features an off-leash dog run area and the opportunity for your dog to get some exercise and play with other neighborhood pups. This is a private facility, and membership is required for residents to access this area with their pets. The park has benches, a water supply, night lighting, swimming pools, toys and supplies for cleaning up after your dog.