Pelham Bay Park - Bronx, NY
Pelham Bay Park – A Pet-Friendly Bronx Gem
Nestled in the Bronx, Pelham Bay Park stands as the largest park in New York City, offering expansive green spaces, peaceful walking trails, and beautiful picnic spots. This dog-friendly park is a top destination for families, outdoor lovers, and anyone seeking pet-friendly trails and wide-open areas to enjoy with their furry companions. Its accessibility via the 6 train, plentiful parking, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors searching for a dog park in Bronx, New York.
Unique amenities include easy access to water views, spacious fields, numerous paths for dog-friendly hiking, shaded seating areas, and convenient entry points near popular locations like the Orchard Beach parking lot and Bartow-Pell Mansion. While dogs must remain leashed as there is no dedicated fenced dog run, the park’s vast landscape provides plenty of space for leashed exploration and relaxation with your pet. With playgrounds, sports facilities, and barbecue areas, Pelham Bay Park offers something for every member of the family—two-legged and four-legged alike.
Pelham Bay Park Dog Park FAQ
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Pelham Bay Park features scenic walking and hiking trails that are great for dog-friendly adventures.
- Where is the best place to park? There is ample parking available, with the Orchard Beach parking lot being a convenient starting point for trails and exploring the park.
- Is public transportation available to the park? Yes, the park is easily accessible via the 6 train.
- Are there playgrounds or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park features a large playground and numerous activities for children and families.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, there are picnic spots and barbecue areas throughout the park for visitors to enjoy.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, Pelham Bay Park is open year-round, making it a great destination in any season.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, the park is well-maintained with frequent patrols and a safe environment.
Reviews
If you thought Central Park was big, you need to come to this park immediately. With a large track and field area that puts Soundview Park’s to shame, easy accessibility from the 6 train, free parking, a bunch of pathways to walk along and enjoy the sights (especially now that it’s Autumn), a few nice statues to look at, a big playground, a number of different sports courts, and a bunch of areas to sit down and have a barbecue with your family and friends. Great views of the water and city skyline as well, especially a bit closer to nighttime. You can’t even see all of the park in one day unless you wanna challenge yourself. Not only that, I felt very safe during my walk through the park, and others that I’ve encountered have been quite friendly. 10/10 park and highly recommend it.
A huge park, probably the biggest in the city. Everything from two golf courses, driving range,beach, hiking trails, horseback riding, and across a small bridge to the seafood restaurants of City Island.
The best destination for seafood and fun in the sun without boardwalks and vendors and rides and noise. Lots of parking, police everywhere. No swim zones are constantly patrolled by the authorities. Perfect for summer fun!!!
Orchard Beach parking lot is a good starting point for Hunter Island and Two Trees Island trails (they were actual islands before Robert Moses’ transformation have created Orchard Beach). These are most picturesque and well-maintained ones, especially good to stroll in fall season. Another good trailhead is at Bartow-Pell mansion with nice views of the lagoon. I’ve also hiked marked trail from Orchard beach to City Island bridge and then crossing the Meadow back to the beach, this one is somewhat overgrown. Good place to spend few hours of weekend hiking.
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A Perfect Family Day at Pelham Bay Park!
We had such a beautiful day at Pelham Bay Park with the whole family! It’s truly a hidden gem in New York City — peaceful, spacious, and full of natural beauty. From wide open green spaces to scenic walking trails and picnic spots, the park offered something for everyone.
The kids had a blast running around, and we enjoyed a relaxing stroll while soaking in the fresh air and calm atmosphere. It was the perfect place to unwind and spend quality time together.
Whether you’re planning a quiet afternoon, a family picnic, or just want to escape the city noise for a while, Pelham Bay Park is a fantastic choice. Can’t wait to come back!