EAST VILLAGE NEW YORK CITY DOG WALKING GUIDE: ROUTES, PARKS & PET FRIENDLY CAFES

East Village street in autumn with colorful fall foliage canopy, outdoor cafe dining, and people walking along tree-lined sidewalk in New York City

 

📍 East Village Dog Walking Quick Guide

Best Routes: Daily Loop (2.1 mi), Weekend Brunch & Coffee Loop (3+ mi, ~10,000 steps)
Top Dog Park: Tompkins Square Park Dog Run (NYC's first!)
Dog-Friendly Cafes: Tompkins Square Bagels, Café Mogador, Café Abraço, 9th Street Espresso
Hidden Gems: 11th Street Community Garden, El Jardín del Paraíso
Safety Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (avoid crowded areas during peak times)
Best Seasons: Spring & Fall (avoid Jan-March, July-Aug)
Parking: Use subway/Uber - street parking very limited
Recommended Dog Sizes: Small to medium breeds (apartment living)
You Might be looking for: Looking for more NYC dog walking routes? Check out our Lower East Side Dog Walking Guide - just a few blocks south with wider streets and Sara D. Roosevelt Park


From Sydney to the East Village: Where Our Journey Began

When my wife Ana and I landed in New York City from Sydney, Australia, the East Village became our first American home. The contrast hit us immediately - Sydney's peaceful, organized streets versus the East Village's sensory explosion. The pace went from 0 to 100. The sounds, the smells, the constant energy. It was nothing like home, and yet it immediately felt like one.

My uncle had lived here years before, so I'd visited as a kid. Those familiar smells - the bagel shops, the coffee carts, the steam rising from subway grates - brought an instant comfort despite the chaos.

For our French Bulldog, SUSU (who we named the company after, she passed away a few years back), the East Village was the perfect urban playground. Small enough for our tiny apartment, walkable to everything, and full of other dog parents navigating the same tiny-apartment, big-city life we were.

In a metropolis of skyscrapers that shadow you like giants, the East Village lets you see the skyline. You're in the city, but you can still breathe. That's why we're starting this blog series here - it's where our urban pet parent journey began.


Best Dog Walking Routes in East Village

Route 1: The Daily Neighborhood Loop (2.1 miles)

Perfect For: Morning routine, daily exercise, all dog sizes
Start: 7th Street & Avenue A
Duration: 35-40 minutes
Terrain: Flat sidewalks, mostly residential

The Route:

  1. Start at 7th Street & Avenue A (where we used to live!)
  2. Walk east to Avenue B
  3. Head north on Avenue B to 10th Street
  4. Turn west on 10th Street back to Avenue A
  5. Stop at Tompkins Square Bagels (Avenue A between 10th-11th St) for a quick coffee and bagel

Why We Love It: This was our daily routine for years. The side streets between 7th and 10th are quieter than the main drags, perfect for letting your dog sniff at a relaxed pace. Early mornings (before 8am) you'll have the sidewalks mostly to yourself - just you, your pup, and the occasional dog walker.

Pro Tips:

  • Avoid Avenue A after 5pm and on weekends (gets very crowded)
  • 9th Street between Avenue A and 2nd Avenue is especially quiet and pleasant
  • Weekday mornings at Tompkins Square Bagels are much less busy than weekends


Route 2: The Weekend Brunch & Coffee Loop (3+ miles, ~10,000 steps)

Perfect For: Leisurely weekend mornings, social dogs, brunch lovers who want to      walk it off
Start: 7th Street & Avenue A (Tompkins Square Park)
Duration: 60-75 minutes (including brunch and coffee stops)
Terrain: Flat sidewalks, very walkable

The Route:

  1. Start at 7th Street & Avenue A (Tompkins Square Park)
  2. Walk to St. Marks Place (8th Street)
  3. Stop 1: Café Mogador (St. Marks between Ave A & 1st Ave) for legendary brunch  https://maps.app.goo.gl/m1zYqi5M48hMG3CSA
  4. After brunch, head to 7th Street between 1st & 2nd Avenue
  5. Stop 2: Café Abraço - grab an exceptional espresso to-go and start burning off those brunch calories! - https://maps.app.goo.gl/FwQmTtYgmzk2me4o8
  6. Continue down 10th Street to Avenue B
  7. Walk south on Avenue B all the way down to 1st Street
  8. Turn west on 2nd Street to Avenue A
  9. Walk north on Avenue A back to 7th Street
  10. Finish: Return to Tompkins Square Park for a sit-down and rest after those    10,000 steps!

Why We Love It: This is the perfect Saturday morning ritual - brunch at an East Village institution, then coffee from what used to be our neighborhood favorite (Abraço was literally on our block!), followed by a full neighborhood loop to walk it all off. You'll see the full character of the East Village, from the bustling St. Marks to the quieter residential blocks, and end right back at the park where your pup can rest.

Pro Tips:

  • Café Mogador gets busy on weekends - go early or embrace the wait, it's worth it
  • Café Abraço serves some of the best espresso in NYC - perfect fuel for the walk
  • The southern part of Avenue B (below 7th St) is quieter and more residential
  • Bring extra water - this is a longer walk and your pup will need hydration
  • Perfect for burning off brunch calories while your dog explores the neighborhood


Dog Parks & Green Spaces

         Tompkins Square Park Dog Run - NYC's first dog park, still bringing the community together

Tompkins Square Park Dog Run ⭐ NYC's First!

Address: 500 E 9th St (between Ave A & Ave B)
Hours: 6am - Midnight daily
Off-Leash Hours: 6am-9am AND 9pm-midnight
Cost: Free

What Makes It Special: This is where NYC's dog run movement started in 1990! It was the city's first official dog park, and it's still one of the best. The community here fought hard to create this space, and that neighborhood spirit is alive today.

Features:

  • Separate small dog area (dogs under 25 lbs)
  • Water bowls and hoses available
  • Dog pool in summer months (your pup will love it!)
  • Crushed stone surface
  • Benches for owners
  • Active, friendly dog parent community

Rules to Know:

  • All dogs must be licensed & vaccinated (bring proof)
  • Dogs over 6 months must be spayed/neutered
  • Pick up after your dog immediately
  • No food allowed in the run
  • Close gates quickly - dogs escape fast!

Best Times: Early morning (7-8am) and late evening (9-10pm) are less crowded. After-work hours and weekend afternoons can get packed, which is great for social dogs but overwhelming for nervous ones.

Local Insider Tip: The annual Halloween Dog Parade used to be held here for 32 years (unfortunately canceled in 2023 due to logistics), but the spirit of the community remains. You'll see regulars who've been coming here for decades alongside new dog parents just discovering the neighborhood.


11th Street Community Garden ⭐ Hidden Gem

Address: E 11th St (between Ave A & Ave B)
Hours: Varies seasonally
Cost: Free

Why We Love It: This is one of the rare East Village community gardens that explicitly welcomes dogs! While most gardens have no-dog policies, this one embraces the whole neighborhood - including furry residents.

The Vibe: Quiet, neighborly, with picnic tables and plenty of shade. It's a peaceful escape from the busy streets without leaving the neighborhood. Perfect for a mid-walk break where your dog can chill on the grass while you catch your breath.

Etiquette: Keep dogs leashed and calm. This is a shared community space, so be respectful of gardeners and other visitors. Clean up immediately if your dog does their business (though most dogs prefer the sidewalk).

Fun Fact: The East Village has 39 community gardens - the most of any neighborhood in the entire country! This movement started in the 1970s with activist Liz Christy and the Green Guerillas, who literally turned abandoned lots into green spaces with the motto "Turn a lot into a spot!" These gardens helped revitalize the neighborhood and earn it the livable status it has today.


El Jardín del Paraíso ⭐ Secret Wild Garden

Address: E 5th St (between Ave C & Ave D)
Hours: Varies seasonally (check gate hours)
Cost: Free

Why We Love It: This feels like stumbling into a secret wild park between tenements. It's more overgrown and natural than manicured, with winding paths and an open lawn area. Much less crowded than Tompkins Square Park.

Best For: Dogs who get overwhelmed by the busy dog run energy. This is a quieter, more exploratory experience. Let your dog sniff around the paths and enjoy a less structured green space.

Getting There: It's a bit further east (into Alphabet City proper), but worth the walk if you want to escape the crowds and feel like you've discovered something special.


Dog-Friendly Cafes & Restaurants


East Village cafes welcome dogs at outdoor seating. Perfect for post-walk refreshments

Tompkins Square Bagels ⭐ Sam's Morning Pick

Address: Avenue A (between 10th & 11th St)
Dog Policy: Outdoor seating, water bowls available
Why We Love It: This was our daily stop on the morning loop. Fresh bagels, quick service, perfect fuel for the walk home.

Order: Everything bagel with cream cheese, coffee to-go
Pro Tip: Weekday mornings (7-9am) are much quieter than weekend brunch rushes. You can actually grab a seat at one of their outdoor tables.

Map: [Tompkins Square Bagels link]


Café Mogador ⭐ Weekend Brunch Spot

Address: 101 St. Marks Place (between Ave A & 1st Avenue)
Dog Policy: Outdoor seating, dog-friendly
Famous For: Moroccan & Mediterranean brunch since the '80s

Why We Love It: A true East Village staple serving Moroccan and Mediterranean classics with timeless charm. Their brunch is legendary - think couscous, tagine, shakshuka, and the best mimosas on St. Marks. The protected outdoor seating gives you a comfortable spot to enjoy your meal with your pup by your side.

Pro Tips:

  • Weekends get busy but the vibe is worth it
  • Try the shakshuka or Moroccan breakfast
  • One of those effortlessly cool St. Marks institutions that never goes out of style

Map: [Café Mogador link]


Café Abraço ⭐ Sam's Old Neighborhood Favorite

Address: 86 E 7th Street (between 1st Ave & Ave A)
Website: https://www.abraconyc.com
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FwQmTtYgmzk2me4o8
Dog Policy: Outdoor seating available

Why We Love It: This was literally on our block when we lived at 7th & Ave A! Abraço serves some of the best espresso in New York City - serious coffee done right. What started as a tiny hole-in-the-wall espresso bar has evolved into a full-service cafe, but they've kept that neighborhood soul and coffee-obsessed quality that made them special.

The Evolution: When we first moved to the East Village, Abraço was just a small counter serving exceptional espresso. Now it's grown into a full cafe with more seating and an expanded menu, but the commitment to great coffee hasn't changed. It's a perfect example of how the neighborhood evolves while holding onto what matters.

The Vibe: Intimate, local, coffee-obsessed. Still feels like a neighborhood spot even with the expansion. Perfect for the post-brunch coffee stop on the weekend loop - grab your espresso and head out for your walk.

Pro Tip: Get the espresso. That's what they built their reputation on. Grab it to-go and continue your walk - you'll have fuel to burn off those Café Mogador calories.

Map: [Café Abraço]


9th Street Espresso ⭐ Coffee Done Right

Website: https://ninthstreetespresso.com
Dog Policy: Outdoor seating, dog-friendly atmosphere
Why We Love It: Serious coffee in a neighborhood cafe setting. The baristas know their craft, and the outdoor seating is perfect for people and pup watching.

Vibe: Relaxed, local, not touristy. This is where neighborhood regulars get their caffeine fix.

Pro Tip: Great afternoon pick-me-up spot on longer walks. Pairs well with a detour through one of the community gardens.

Map: [9th Street Espresso]


Coffee Project NY

Website: https://coffeeprojectny.com
Dog Policy: Outdoor seating
Why We Love It: Great coffee and a welcoming atmosphere. Another solid local option that treats dogs like valued customers.

Map: [Coffee Project NY] 


Boris & Horton ⭐ Unique Dog Cafe Experience

Address: 144 2nd Avenue
Dog Policy: Indoor dog section with OFF-LEASH area! ($5 daily fee or membership)
What Makes It Special: This is NYC's famous dog cafe. Separate sections for humans (coffee/food) and a dog-friendly area where pups can hang off-leash while you enjoy coffee, pastries, beer, or wine.

Features:

  • Dog treats and merchandise
  • Yappy Hours and trivia nights
  • Adoption events
  • Community bulletin board

Why It Works: It's literally steps from Tompkins Square Park, so you can tire your dog out in the run, then relax together at Boris & Horton. Perfect combo.

Note: Very popular on weekends - can get crowded. Week day afternoons are mellower.

Map: [Boris & Horton link]


Veselka ⭐ East Village Institution


Veselka - serving the East Village since the '80s

Address: 144 2nd Avenue (corner location with lots of outdoor seating)
Dog Policy: Outdoor seating, great for people & pup watching
Famous For: Ukrainian classics since the 1980s - pierogis, borscht, all-day brunch

Why We Love It: This is East Village history. Veselka has been serving the neighborhood since the '80s, and it still captures that classic East Village energy. The outdoor corner seating is perfect for watching the neighborhood flow by while your dog chills at your feet.

Vibe: Bustling, authentic, timeless. This is what the East Village used to be before all the chains moved in.

Map: [Veselka link]


Pet Stores Worth Visiting

Whiskers Holistic Petcare

Address: 235 E 9th St
Since: 1988 (East Village institution!)
Specializes In: Natural, organic, holistic pet products
Unique Offerings: "Whiskers Own" product line, supplements, alternative diets

Why We Love It: If you're health-conscious about your dog's food and products, this is your spot. They've been serving the neighborhood for over 35 years and offer delivery throughout NYC.

Staff: Incredibly knowledgeable about holistic pet care. They'll spend time explaining options and helping you find the right fit for your dog's needs.

Map: [Whiskers


Petopia

Location: E 14th St area
Why We Love It: Full-service neighborhood pet shop with everything you need
Staff: Known for friendly, helpful service
Delivery: Available throughout NYC

Map: [Petopia]


Essential East Village Dog Walking Tips

🐕 Right Size Dog for East Village Living

Recommended: Small to medium breeds
Why: Most apartments are small (studios to 1-bedrooms)
Our Experience: Our French Bulldog SUSU was the perfect size
Breeds That Thrive: French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Pugs, Corgis, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, small mixed breeds

Reality Check: If you're living in a 400-square-foot apartment (common in East Village), a Great Dane is going to struggle. Small-to-medium dogs adapt better to apartment living, are easier to carry when needed (slush! crowds!), and fit better on crowded sidewalks and in cafes.


⚠️ Areas to Avoid (Too Crowded/Heavy Traffic)

  • Avenue A: After 5pm & all weekend (very crowded with bar-goers)
  • 14th Street: All times (major crosstown traffic, loud, stressful)
  • Houston Street: All times (major artery, trucks, noise)
  • St. Marks Place: Between Ave A and 1st Avenue on weekends (tourist central)

Why This Matters: Your dog doesn't need the stress of dodging drunk bar-hoppers or navigating truck traffic. There are plenty of quieter streets that are just as scenic and way more pleasant.


✅ Preferred Quiet Streets

  • 9th Street between Avenue A & 2nd Avenue
  • 4th Street between Avenue A & Avenue B
  • 7th Street (our old block!)
  • Avenue C (more residential, less crowded)
  • Side streets between 7th-10th Streets (tree-lined, residential)

Why These Work: Residential vibe, less foot traffic, tree-lined (good shade in summer), and your dog can actually walk at a normal pace without constant stopping for crowds.


👀 East Village Etiquette

The Vibe: Eclectic, artistic, lively energy. This neighborhood attracts creatives, students, longtime residents, families, and everyone in between. The diversity is the charm.

People Watching: Observe, don't stare. You'll see interesting characters, street performers, and unique fashion. That's part of the experience.

Dress Code: Comfort over fashion. This is a chill neighborhood. Your dog-walking sweats are perfectly acceptable.

Dog Etiquette:

  • Clean up immediately (seriously - $250 fine if you don't)
  • Keep dog close in crowded areas
  • Ask before letting dogs greet each other
  • Be aware of your surroundings

Local Culture: Respectful coexistence is the norm. Artists, families, students, and longtime residents all share this space. Be cool, be kind, and you'll fit right in.


🌡️ Seasonal Considerations

BEST SEASONS: Spring (April-May) & Fall (Sept-Oct) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why They're Perfect:

  • Ideal temps (60-75°F)
  • Parks are gorgeous (see those fall photos!)
  • Outdoor cafe season in full swing
  • Less crowded than summer
  • Comfortable for dogs AND humans

Fall in East Village: The community gardens and Tompkins Square Park explode with color. Those red and orange leaves against the old tenement buildings? Pure NYC magic.


WINTER (Jan-March) - Challenging but Doable ❄️

The Reality: Sydney didn't prepare us for NYC winters. The first time SUSU encountered slush, she refused to walk in it. Enter: the SUSU Sling Carrier.

Challenges:

  • Ice and slush on sidewalks
  • Salt can irritate paws
  • Freezing temps (can drop to teens or single digits)
  • Short days (dark by 5pm)

Solutions:

  • SUSU Sling: Perfect for carrying small dogs over slushy sidewalks
  • Paw protection: Wipe paws after walks to remove salt
  • Dog jackets: French Bulldogs and other short-haired breeds NEED them
  • Short, frequent walks: Better than one long miserable walk
  • Early morning caution: Ice patches can be slippery

Pro Tip: The first snow is magical. But after a week of grey slush, you'll understand why we created a carrier bag.


SUMMER (July-Aug) - Hot & Humid 🌞

The Reality: NYC summer humidity is no joke. Pavement gets dangerously hot.

Challenges:

  • Hot pavement (can burn paw pads)
  • Humidity makes it feel even hotter
  • Dehydration risk
  • Dog heat exhaustion is real

Essential Tips:

  • Walk ONLY in shade when possible
  • Test pavement temperature: If you can't hold your hand on it for 5 seconds, it's too hot for paws
  • Carry water & bowl: Offer water every 15-20 minutes
  • Early morning or late evening: Before 8am or after 8pm only
  • Watch for signs of overheating: Excessive panting, slowed pace, seeking shade
  • Consider paw protection: Booties can help on hot pavement

Our Schedule: Summer mornings we'd walk SUSU at 6:30am before the heat hit. Evening walks were after 8:30pm when the pavement cooled down.


🚗 Transportation & Parking

Bottom Line: Don't drive.

Why:

  • Street parking is nearly impossible to find
  • Parking garages are expensive ($40+ per day)
  • Traffic is stressful
  • You don't need a car in East Village

Better Options:

  • Subway: Dogs allowed in carriers, or on-leash (technically carriers required for large dogs, but enforcement varies)
  • Yellow Cabs: Most accept small dogs
  • Uber/Lyft: Select pet-friendly option
  • Walk: East Village is very walkable to other neighborhoods

Pro Tip: If you MUST drive and park, try early morning (before 8am) for better street parking luck. But seriously, just take the subway.


💧 Water Access

Tompkins Square Park: Water fountains and bowls in the dog run (most reliable source)

Dog-Friendly Cafes: Most will provide a water bowl if you ask politely

Our Advice: ALWAYS carry your own collapsible bowl. You can't rely on public fountains (sometimes turned off) or cafes being open.

Summer Rule: If you're walking more than 20 minutes, bring water. Period.


💩 Poop Bags & Cleanup

NYC Law: $250 fine for not cleaning up after your dog. Enforcement is real.

Tompkins Square Park: Has public poop bag dispensers, but they're often empty.

Disposal: Use the blue wire trash baskets on street corners. They're everywhere in the East Village.


What to Pack for Your East Village Dog Walk

The SUSU Carrier Sling For Toy Dogs (3-8 lb) Solution

Our 2-in-1, hands-free for Small Dogs 3-8 lb who get tired after a ling walk, or when weather conditions are just too harsh for our darling pups:

  • Treat Large Zipper Pockets (Keeping all those essentials safe and accessible)
  • Water Resistant Fabric (For any weather condition)
  • Large Wide Shoulder strap (Better weigh distribution)

Because juggling a leash, phone, poop bags, treats, and coffee is not a vibe.


Essential Packing List

Poop bags (always bring extras - 2-3 more than you think you'll need)
Collapsible water bowl
Water bottle (especially summer)
Training treats (busy NYC streets = training opportunities)
Dog license & vaccination tags (required by NYC law)
Your phone (maps, photos, emergency contacts)
Small first-aid supplies (paw wipes, antiseptic wipes)

Seasonal Additions

Winter:

  • Paw balm (prevents cracking from salt)
  • Dog jacket (for short-haired breeds)
  • Your own gloves (you'll need them)

Summer:

  • Extra water (double what you normally bring)
  • Cooling bandana
  • Sunscreen for light-colored dogs (ears especially)

Why East Village Was Perfect for Us

When we moved from Sydney to NYC, we could have landed anywhere. But the East Village gave us something special - it gave us community.

The Dog Parent Network

Within weeks of moving in, we knew the regulars at Tompkins Square dog run. There was the woman with three rescue mutts who organized weekend group walks. The guy with the ancient Basset Hound who'd been coming to the park since 1995. The young couple with the overly-friendly Golden Retriever puppy who SUSU tolerated (barely).

These weren't just casual acquaintances. They were our people. When we had questions about vets, dog walkers, or where to find the best pet supplies, they had answers. When SUSU got sick, they checked in. That's the East Village dog parent community.

The Green Space Victory

The fact that this neighborhood fought for and won NYC's first dog run matters. The community gardens that activists literally built from abandoned lots matter. These aren't corporate amenities - they're neighborhood victories.

Every time you walk through 11th Street Community Garden or watch dogs play in Tompkins Square, you're benefiting from decades of neighbors who refused to accept concrete as the only option.

How It's Changed (And What Remains)

The East Village today is cleaner and shinier than when we lived there 10 years ago. New condos have replaced old walk-ups. That Starbucks on Avenue A and St. Marks used to be a local coffee shop that had been there forever. National chains have moved into spaces that used to house scrappy local businesses.

But walk through on a Saturday morning and you'll still see:

  • Dog parents gathering at the run at 7am
  • Community gardens bursting with life
  • The same pierogi shops and Ukrainian restaurants
  • Street musicians and artists
  • Café Abraço (on our old block!) serving exceptional espresso again
  • The same fundamental energy that made us fall in love with it

The soul is still there. You just have to know where to look.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the best time of day to walk my dog in East Village?

A: Early mornings (6-8am) are quiet and pleasant. Evenings work well for the off-leash hours at Tompkins Square (9pm-midnight). Avoid afternoon rush hours (4-7pm) when streets and sidewalks get very crowded.


Q: Is East Village safe for night walks with my dog?

A: Generally yes. The neighborhood is well-lit and active even late at night. Stick to main streets (Ave A, Ave B) and avoid very quiet side streets after midnight. Always stay aware of your surroundings. The dog run is open until midnight if you want company.


Q: Can I bring my dog on the subway to East Village?

A: Yes! NYC subway allows dogs. Small dogs must be in carriers. Larger dogs are officially required to be in carriers too (many people use bags or carry them). Avoid rush hours (7-9am, 5-7pm) when trains are packed.


Q: Where can I find water for my dog?

A: Tompkins Square Park dog run has reliable water fountains. Most dog-friendly cafes will provide a water bowl if you ask. Pro tip: Always carry your own collapsible bowl and water - don't rely on public access alone.


Q: Are there breed restrictions in East Village parks?

A: No specific breed restrictions in public parks. Dogs must be well-behaved and under control at all times. In the dog run, aggressive behavior (regardless of breed) will result in being asked to leave. All dogs over 6 months must be spayed/neutered.


Q: What size dog is best for East Village apartment living?

A: Small to medium breeds (under 40 lbs) work best. Most apartments are small (studios to 1-bedrooms). French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Beagles, Corgis, Pugs, and small mixed breeds thrive here. Large breeds can struggle with space constraints and tiny elevators.


Q: Do I need to bring my own poop bags?

A: YES. While Tompkins Square Park has dispensers, they're often empty. Always carry your own. NYC fines for not cleaning up are $250. Bring 2-3 more bags than you think you'll need.


Q: When is East Village most crowded?

A: Weekend afternoons (especially Saturday), after 5pm on weekdays, and during special events. St. Marks Place is tourist-heavy on weekends. Plan your routes around these times if your dog gets overwhelmed by crowds.


Q: Can I walk my dog to cafes and restaurants?

A: Yes! Most cafes with outdoor seating welcome dogs. NYC law prohibits dogs inside food establishments (with rare exceptions like Boris & Horton's designated dog area), but outdoor seating is fair game. Most spots are dog-friendly - just ask for a water bowl.


Q: What's the best season to visit East Village with my dog?

A: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) are perfect. Mild temps (60-75°F), beautiful parks, outdoor cafe season, and less crowded than summer. Avoid harsh winter (January-March) and humid summer (July-August) if you have the choice.


Q: Is parking possible if I drive to East Village?

A: Technically yes, realistically no. Street parking is extremely difficult to find. Parking garages are expensive ($40+ per day). We strongly recommend subway, Uber, or yellow cab instead. The neighborhood is very walkable once you're there.


Q: What if my dog gets hurt or needs a vet in East Village?

A: Several good vet clinics are nearby. Ask at the dog run for recommendations - the regulars always have opinions! Keep your vet's phone number and nearest emergency vet info in your phone. We recommend NYC VEG Veterinary Specialists (24/7 emergency) is about 20 minutes away in Chelsea.

Map: [VEG ER For Pets]


Your East Village Adventure Starts Here

The East Village gave us our first taste of what it means to be urban dog parents. It taught us that green space is something you fight for and protect. That community matters. That the best walks aren't always the longest - sometimes they're just the ones where you discover a new garden or meet a dog parent who becomes a friend.

Ten years later, the neighborhood has changed. But its soul remains. The dog parents still gather at dawn in Tompkins Square. The community gardens still bloom every spring. The cafes still welcome dogs. And new arrivals from places like Sydney still discover what we did - that the East Village isn't just a neighborhood. It's a community.

This is where SUSU Pet Co began. And this is where your urban dog walking adventure can begin too.


Ready to explore more NYC neighborhoods?

Coming soon:

  • Lower East Side: Historic charm, Sara D. Roosevelt Park & vibrant food scene
  • Tribeca: Hudson River views, spacious sidewalks & upscale neighborhood vibes
  • West Village: Tree-lined streets, Washington Square Park & classic brownstone charm

Have questions or tips to share? We'd love to hear about your East Village dog walking experiences. Tag us on Instagram @susupetco with #SharedAdventures


Written by Sam, SUSU Pet Co Founder | Former East Village Resident (7th St & Ave A) | French Bulldog Parent


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