7+ Dog Friendly Things to do in the Hudson Valley
That your pet will love!
If you’re wondering if there are dog friendly things to do in the Hudson Valley, then this article is for you! This list showcases not only parks (which is an obvious place to take your dog) but some other locations that you may not have thought of.
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What Makes the Hudson Valley Such a Great Place for Dogs?
The Hudson Valley is one of the best places to explore, as a person, so imagine for dog lovers. At one point dog owners thought they were only limited to dog runs and dog parks, so imagine if I told you that you can take your fur baby practically anywhere nowadays.
Because its a beautiful region of New York State, full of nature and unique places, many city dwellers choose to take their animal companion on dog friendly adventures throughout the Hudson Valley.
All dog friendly things to do in the Hudson Valley are too many to list all here, so make sure to read the additional articles listed in this post to get more information, such as essentials to take on a road trip with your dog.
There are plenty of places that allow service animals, but if you’re looking for actual dog friendly things to do in the Hudson Valley, then continue reading this article.
Best Dog Friendly Things to do in the Hudson Valley
– Places to Explore and Hike with your Dog in the Hudson Valley
Beaches –
Visiting a beach is one of the best dog friendly things to do in the Hudson Valley. Many of these beaches can be accessed during the off-season and allows for a great place to let all that dog energy out.
- Playland Beach in Rye is a dog friendly beach located off the Playland boardwalk. This is a great fall and spring outing, unless you don’t mind being at the beach in the winter. Limited to 3 dogs per owner, the beach is accessible from October 1st through the end of April and your furry family member can run off-leash (but supervised) during this time.
- Little Stony Point Point Park in Cold Spring is a great place to bring your leashed dog. They actually encourage you to bring your pet to enjoy the amenities and to visit during event days. With amazing views of the Hudson River, this will soon become one of your favorite places to visit.
- Larchmont Dog Beach has a small section of the beach that accommodates dogs. The space fluctuates in size due to the tide coming in.
- Nyack Beach State Park is the perfect place to take your dog for an afternoon out. Located in Valley Cottage, the beach is open year-round, but during the off-season, the hours are shortened. Pets are also not allowed in the Upper Plateau area.
- Charlie’s Cove in Greenwood Lake – Located at 99 Shore Road, dogs love splashing in the water here.
- Black Rock Forest in Cornwall has an area where your dog can swim.
- Wallkill River Streamside Park in Montgomery can be fun for your dog to frolic in some water.
- Crawford Walking Trail has a small area you can access near the entrance. This walking trail is approximately two miles long with a steep hill to make your walk a little more challenging.
- Plum Point Park in New Windsor has a great beach and hiking trails.
Dog Parks –
Dog parks are one of the best dog friendly things to do in the Hudson Valley because they are open year-round, not only in the warmer months. It’s actually the best place to take your dog out for exercise during colder months. These outdoor spaces can be found in small towns, as well as, larger Hudson Valley cities.
- Bark Dog Park in White Plains is a great place to take your pet for some exercise and socialization. In addition to a water fountain and garbage can for cleaning up after your dog, this park features an area exclusively for small and young dogs.
- Barton Orchards in Poughquag has a Bark Park that is open daily. This one acre area has a separate area for small dogs, with exercise equipment for your dog.
- Beacon Dog Park is open everyday from dawn to dusk. Located at Memorial Park in Beacon, this dog park requires a membership/annual fee and the membership tag should be displayed on your dog’s collar.
- Cornwall Bark Park is a one acre size section of the Angola Road Park is divided into two sections, one for small dogs and one for large dogs. The dog park is next to a picnic tables under a pavilion and nature trails. It’s a great way to spend the day.
- Friendly Paws Park located in Fishkill is located in Doug Phillips Park on Route 52. The park is open everyday, except Thursday and a park permit is needed.
- Kakiat Park in Suffern is a public park and has an enclosed dog run where the dogs can run and play off-leash. Located near the parking lot, this is a convenient place to let your dog have some exercise.
- Kingston Point Dog Park is located adjacent to and behind the softball field. While this dog park is enjoyed by residents of Kingston, it can also be enjoyed by others too.
- Sprout Brook Dog Park in Cortlandt is fully fenced in small dog park and has a section for small dogs.
- Thomas Bull Memorial Dog Park in Montgomery is a 1.5 acre area featuring water fountains, benches and shade. With an area for small dogs and one for all dogs, the area is a great area for your dog to run and play.
- Ulster County Dog Park in New Paltz is located across from the Ulster County Fairgrounds. It is located at the rear of the property. Open everyday from dawn to dusk, this is a great place to have fun with your pet.
- Woodstock Dog Park is located off of Route 212 behind and to the left of the ball field. Open everyday from dawn to dusk, this dog park consists of two beautiful, fully fenced in areas for your dog to run and play.
Explore Town/City –
Is there are place that you haven’t visited yet, but would love to? Or do you have a favorite Hudson Valley Town/City that you want to take your furry best friend to?
Why not make a day of it, pack up your car as if your going on a road trip and go explore! This may be one of the best dog friendly things to do in the Hudson Valley.
Some favorite spots to explore and wander with your dog include:
- Beacon
- Cold Spring
- Hudson
- New Rochelle
- Nyack
- Peekskill
- Rhinebeck
- White Plains
- Yonkers
Farms and Orchards –
- Barton Orchards in Poughquag has a dog park (see above) but they also allow leashed, well-behaved dogs on the farm. They are not allowed in buildings, in the Pick-Your-Own Vegetables or the Corn Maze. But the one great thing they can do is have a “pup cup” at the ice cream stand!
- Wrights Farm in Gardiner is a great place to explore with your dog. From walking the orchards with you to listening to live music at the brewery, this is a whole day of fun for both of you.
- Stuart’s Fruit Farm in Granite Springs is the place to go for a great time with your dog. Because it’s about an hour drive from New York City, it is a popular farm.
Farm Market or Farmers’ Markets –
Farmers Markets and Farm Markets are not only for local farmers to showcase their produce and products, but its also an ideal location for your dog to visit in order to socialize with other people and other dogs.
National Historic Sites –
In addition to seeing historic buildings, the grounds of historic sites are wonderful to explore with your furry friend.
- Home of Franklin D Roosevelt National Historic Site in Hyde park is a great place for the whole family and is also a popular destination for pet owners.
- Olana State Historic Site in Hudson has miles of wide carriage roads perfect for dog walking.
- Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site in Hyde Park consists of plenty of space for your leashed dog to explore. With lawns, gardens and hiking trails, this is a great venue to explore with your dog. I have personally seen people walking the grounds with larger dogs and enjoying the spectacular views of the Hudson River.
- Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site offers amazing views of Mount Beacon and the Hudson River and is a nice small place for an afternoon stroll.
Hudson Valley Historic Homes –
- Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown allows leashed dogs to enjoy the grounds. A daily grounds pass is required for entry.
- Locust Grove in Poughkeepsie allows leashed dogs to walk with their owners along the miles of carriage roads located on the property.
Parks –
Many Hudson Valley Parks are not only dog-friendly, but also provide an additional layer of exploration for you and your dog. Hiking in the Hudson Valley is a popular pastime for people and for their dogs.
Below is just a small sampling of popular park areas where you can explore with your dog.
- Bronx River Parkway Reservation is Westchester’s oldest park. This paved linear park extends over 13 miles from Bronxville to Kensico Dam in Valhalla.
- Drayton Grant Park at Burger Hill in Rhinebeck has a half-mile walk to the top, but the reward is worth it. The panoramic views of the Berkshires and the Catskills make this a popular place.
- Ferncliff Forest is also located in Rhinebeck and houses a popular fire tower. Although not safe for your dog, the area surrounding the fire tower is a great place to hike.
- Gedney Park in Chappaqua has an off-leash dog area and dogs can explore the hiking trails off-leash during early morning hours. They just ask that you keep your dog leashed in the afternoons.
- Hudson Valley Rail Trail stretches over the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park (elevated pedestrian bridge) through the town of Highland into New Paltz.
- Kaaterskill Falls in Hunter is a very popular spot for hiking. So have a back up plan in case the parking lot is full.
State Parks-
Hudson Valley State Parks are one of the gems of the area. These state parks can be enjoyed year-round.
- Clarence Fahnestock State Park in Carmel is a nature lovers paradise. With acres upon acres of land and a campground, your dog will love this outing.
- Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Kerhonkson is a popular location for outdoor enthusiasts. Although being one of the most pet friendly places in the Hudson Valley, there several restrictions. Dogs are not allowed in the camping, picnic and bathing areas, including the beaches.
- Rockefeller State Park Preserve in Pleasantville is an amazing place to take your dog. With a quiet natural backdrop, strolling along with your dog is an ideal activity here.
- Storm King State Park in Cornwall sits next to the Hudson River and is home to Storm King Mountain. This is a popular park due to its views of the Catskill and the Hudson Valley.
Here are some items you should always have during your Hudson Valley Outings:
- Because ‘you never know’ when an accident will happen, you need a small, portable Pet First Aid Kit from Amazon, like this product in your life.
- If you’re going to be out all day exploring, having a collapsible small dog bowl is an essential item. This is a great buy on Amazon for under $10.
- Water bowls are the most essential product that you need to have, whether its a short walk or a whole day out.
- If it’s more convenient to carry a water bottle with a bowl, then this item is for you. See the size choices here.
- When out and about, you always need poop bags. These not only have extra strong bags, but also include a dispenser.
- Looking great during your Hudson Valley outings is essential and this Hudson Valley Merchandise is perfect for any outing!
– Where to Eat & Drink with your Dog in the Hudson Valley
From restaurants to wineries, the Hudson Valley
- Adam’s Cafe within Adam’s Fairacre Farms in Poughkeepsie is a great place to have lunch with your furry friend. Enjoy nice weather at the outdoor seating area.
- Black Snake Brewing Company in Staatsburg is located on a very large farm that is dog friendly and offers a great selection of beer in their tasting room.
- Broken Bow Brewery in Tuckahoe welcomes dogs in their beer garden and the warehouse area of the tasting room. Bring your dogs water bowl and they will get pampered. Food trucks offer great food to visitors.
- Mahoney’s Irish Pub in Poughkeepsie has two outside patios that are dog friendly.
- Obercreek Brewing Company in Wappingers Falls is one of the great dog friendly things to do in the Hudson Valley. Check their ‘now pouring’ page to see what they have for your visit.
- Plan Bee Farm Brewery in Poughkeepsie is located on a 25 acre farm with plenty of space for your furry friend and you to enjoy the outdoors.
- Robibero Winery in New Paltz allows leashed, well-behaved and friendly dogs in the tasting room and on the grounds.
- Twin Star Orchards in New Paltz is a great place to have some craft cider, wood-fired pizza or burger and enjoy the day with your dog.
- Two Way Brewing Company in Beacon allows companion dogs on their outdoor patio. This makes it the perfect place to stop for a drink and bite right after you get off the train at the Beacon Train Station.
Looking for more things to do in Beacon, NY?
Reference this article all about places to visit and things to do while visiting.
– Places to Stay with your Dog in the Hudson Valley
Pet friendly accommodations are a plus in this area.
- Buttermilk Falls Inn and Spa in Milton is set on a 75 acre farm and welcomes your dog for a getaway with you. Your dog can enjoy the grounds and complimentary breakfast with you.
- Emerson Resort in Mount Tremper is a great place to stay with your dog. There are pet friendly room options both at the Inn and at the Lodge.
- Eastwind Hotel and Bar in Windham is all about a cabin/cottage/glamping getaway. While they offer some cute A-frame and small cabins, they also offer additional guest rooms at the lodge. With great views of the mountains, this is the ideal location to get away with your pup.
- Mountain Brook Hotel in Tannersville is one of the best pet friendly luxury hotels in the area. They have pet friendly rooms in the East Lodge rooms only. While you’re there, enjoy the grounds and their incredible views, as well as, sitting by their stone terrace and fire pits.
What if something happens during my outing?
Accidents happen and if you’re out and about and something happens to your dog, the following articles will be sure to help you:
Find Veterinarians in Dutchess County Here
Now that you have this starter list of dog friendly things to do in the Hudson Valley, go out and have fun!
Until the Next Adventure…
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