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PARK FACT:

Over half of Van Cortlandt Park is a protected nature preserve, which translates to many scenic trails for your hiking pleasure!

Explore Your Park > Van Cortlandt Park > Dog Runs

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Van Cortlandt Park

Dog Runs

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You and your dog are welcome in New York City parks, and there are numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors together. For the safety of both humans and canines, please review our Dog Rules and Regulations before entering the park.

Please Note: There are four designations for areas within parkland.

No Dogs Allowed: Dogs are not permitted in these areas at any time. These areas include playgrounds, zoos, swimming pools/facilities, bathing areas/beaches*, fountains, ballfields, or on basketball/handball/tennis courts.

Dogs Must Be Leashed at All Times: Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times when in these areas.

Dog Runs: Dog runs are large, fenced-in areas for dogs to exercise unleashed. Created with the expertise of a Parks Department landscape architect and volunteers, the runs encourage play while supplying good drainage, safe lighting, and healthy plantings.

Designated Off-Leash Areas: Certain park areas allow dogs to be off-leash from the time the park opens until 9 a.m. AND from 9 p.m. until the park closes. Dog owners/attendants with dogs off-leash in these designated areas must obey all general rules, including having their dog under control at all times, licensing the dog, and carrying proof of the dog's rabies vaccination.

NameAddressTypeAccessibleNotes
Van Cortlandt ParkBroadway and 252 StreetRun

Directions to Van Cortlandt Park

MTA Trip Planner: Get Subway and Bus Directions to this Park

Under Construction

There are currently 3 construction projects taking place in this park that are affecting access to its amenities.

The Shandler ballfields are closed. We are reconstructing the existing softball fields with new clay infields and grass outfields, along with new site fencing, bleachers, drinking fountains and ground hydrants.
Anticipated Completion: Fall 2009

Portions of the Allen Shandler Recreation area are closed. We are reconstructing the existing picnic area with new picnic tables, grills, plantings, pathways, and split rail fencing. ADA access will be provided for the existing comfort station, new drinking fountain and picnic tables.
Anticipated Completion: Winter 2010

Some of the Parade Ground athletic fields are closed in the northern section. We are reconstructing the Parade Ground fields and the Van Cortlandt Stadium field. A new synthetic turf field for soccer and football has been installed in the stadium. The parade grounds will have cricket fields, soccer fields, and baseball fields with in-ground irrigation. A portion of the cross country running track will be resurfaced and realigned. This project will be built in two phases to allow the public use of some fields during construction.
Anticipated Completion: Summer 2010