Amherst Village Green - Amherst, NH
Amherst Village Green Dog Park & Recreation Area
Located at the heart of Amherst, New Hampshire, the Amherst Village Green is a popular destination for locals seeking dog-friendly spaces, scenic walking routes, and community events. This park is best known for its classic New England charm, beautiful green fields, and pet-friendly atmosphere. While it is not a traditional fully-fenced dog park, it’s a favorite spot for dog owners looking to enjoy some time outdoors with their pets—thanks to wide open spaces, river walks, and relaxed, natural surroundings.
The park is renowned for its welcoming vibe, clean grounds (though users are reminded to bring their own waste bags), and active community of dog lovers. Enjoy a variety of activities including walking, casual play, and picnicking—plus, enjoy the nearby disc golf course and children’s playgrounds. Note that while some reviews mention muddy or uneven areas after rain and busy event days, regular visitors love the laid-back, friendly environment. Amherst Village Green is an excellent choice for those looking for a pet-friendly park in southern New Hampshire that’s perfect for dogs, families, and anyone who loves the outdoors.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs are not allowed off-leash as there is no designated fenced dog park area.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced dog run or dedicated off-leash enclosure at Amherst Village Green.
- Are poop bags or waste stations provided? Waste bags are sometimes available, but they are often out of stock. It’s best to bring your own bags and be sure to clean up after your pet.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? There is some seating and picnic tables, but conditions may vary due to uneven terrain.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, there are children’s playgrounds and sports fields, as well as picnic areas, disc golf, and more.
- Is there parking available? Yes, parking is available at or near the park, but it can be crowded during special events or festivals.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are trails and open green spaces for dog-friendly walks, although the riverside trail is relatively short.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? No, there is no dedicated swimming area for dogs. The nearby lake has restricted access with fees and is only open to town residents on weekends.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some areas can be muddy or have uneven terrain after rain, especially near walkways and event setups.
- Is the park cleaned and maintained? The park is usually clean, depending on visitor usage and some community members actively clean up after their pets, but trash and waste can sometimes be an issue.
Reviews
Awesome place to walk, with or without a dog(s).
We were there for the Christmas market. It was not a real Christmas market, rather it was more of a “standard-issue craft fair during the Christmas season”. They were very few actual Christmas things for sale from what I did see. The parking was chaotic, walkways were muddy (little to no rain recently), and they seemed unprepared for the amount of visitors that came. It was disappointing to say the least. Next year we’ll go back to Quebec City instead.
When I first learned of the German Market event several months ago I thought it would be a great experience. As another commenter mentioned… this was great in concept.
However, while the vendors were plenty, so were the crowds. Could not get to booths, and if I did I was pushed along by other shoppers making their way to see the products.
Did not bother to wait in line for food as the wait was at least 45 minutes for the authentic food vendors. Food trucks were a bit shorter of a wait.
3 portable toilets! For what felt like 1000 people. Long line again! Ugh.
I won’t go back again unless they hold it over 2 or 3 days… which would possibly lessen the rush of everyone trying to get there for only one day.
12/09/23
Nice German festival.. Maybe some more German music and less mud next time,😄lots of market tents around. The biergarten was very festive!!
Just returned from the Amherst German Christmas Market on Dec. 9, 2023. We parked at the high school and were bussed in. It’s a wonderful concept and venue in this typical New England village green. The problem and our major disappointment were the vast amount of people there, making it difficult to gain access to the venders wares or even to have a chat with them. Lines, lines and more lines. We brought cash but we overheard someone say she tried purchasing some things, only to be informed there was no internet to process the credit card and she had no cash. The food trucks seemed accessible and my Bratwurst w/ sauerkraut was good. In frustration, we left and waited for the return bus ride. On that return ride, we heard the driver in communication with her dispatcher, say they only had 2 busses and they had no idea it would be so busy. Unfortunately, we will never return. Shucks😞