5. Little Bay Dog Run, Queens

In the Little Bay Park area on the North side of the Cross Island Parkway & Utopia Parkway are dog-friendly areas that include designated off-leash areas. The City remodeled the dog park in 2010 and it was at the top of the Daily News’s list of dog parks. Little Bay Park’s waterfront location has the size that Manhattan dog parks can’t afford. Its proximity to the water and view of Throgs Neck bridge offers a calming environment and the Daily News wrote that “the best part of the dog park is that it’s made of sand, which truly gives it a beach feel and keeps the ground from getting muddy when it rains.” There’s also a designated area for small dogs, water fountains, shade and plenty of seating.