8 best dog parks in Chicago

Chicago's dog parks are the perfect spots for your pup to burn off some energy.

Most of the official "designated dog-friendly areas" are on the North Side, with three official parks on the South Side, including two in the South Loop and one in Calumet Park.

To visit these parks, your dog needs a $10 annual permit from participating veterinary offices in the Chicago area.

And if you're local, consider joining advisory boards or volunteer committees. The city approves the parks, but it's up to local dog-loving organizations to maintain them!

Helpful hints: Before you go, make sure to brush up on your dog park etiquette, read the park's official rules, and, of course, make sure your dog's up to date on vaccines for health protection.

Let's get into it!

Calumet Bark

Address: 9801 S. Avenue G

Social: Facebook

Overview

Calumet Bark isn't anything fancy, really. Just a simple off-leash fully-fenced dog zone with some benches and drinking fountains. But before it opened in 2019, there wasn't an official dog-friendly area south of 18th street, so it's a welcome addition!

Location and accessibility

Calumet Bark is conveniently located in Calumet Park, with ample parking options nearby.

For public transit, you can use the #30 or #100 CTA bus routes to reach the park easily.

Features and amenities

• Drinking fountains

• Benches for owners

Unique aspects

The park's proximity to the lake and Calumet Fisheries makes it a perfect spot for a full day of fun with your pup, combining exercise, beautiful scenery, and delicious food.

Fred Anderson Park Dog Park

Address: 1629 S. Wabash Ave.

Social: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Yelp

Overview

Fred Anderson Park Dog Park is a welcome addition to the South Loop, with slanted concrete blocks and ledges for a unique take on an agility course.

It's popular, especially after work hours, so be ready for crowds. In the summer, waterworks are on–dogs love cooling off in the fountains and pools.

Location and accessibility

This park is easily accessible, with plenty of nearby parking options, including street parking and several garages within walking distance.

For public transit, take the Green or Orange lines to the Roosevelt station or use the #29 and #62 bus routes.

Features and amenities

• 0.44-acre park with separate play areas for small and large dogs

• Mix of concrete and artificial turf

• Excellent nighttime lighting

• Modern agility course

• Self-closing gate latch

• Separate play areas for large and small dogs

Unique aspects

The whole park design is unique, frankly! Enjoy the architecture while your dog enjoys the agility challenges.

Grant Bark Park

Address: 1000 S. Columbus

Social: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Overview

There might not be any grass, but Grant Bark Park is a great and well-loved spot for locals. As one reviewer puts it, "This little hidden gem is a lovely surprise."

Just steps away from South Loop high-rises, it's an off-leash oasis perfect for antsy city dogs who need space to roam free. "My favorite dog park," says another reviewer. "It's always clean and the people are friendly."

Location and accessibility

Grant Bark Park is located behind the Chicago Park District facility on Columbus Drive, north of the 11th Street Pedestrian Bridge.

Parking options include metered street parking and nearby garages like the Millennium Garages.

For public transit, take the Red, Green, or Orange lines to the Roosevelt station, or the #3, #4, and #146 bus routes .

Features and amenities

• Double gated entrance for safety

• Dog drinking fountains

• Mix of asphalt and pea gravel surfaces

• Shade from several mature trees

Unique aspects

Grant Bark Park’s unique appeal lies in its prime downtown location, offering city-dwelling dogs a well-designed area to unwind. Oh, and it's next door to a tennis court, which means there are pretty much always bonus tennis balls for pups to enjoy.

Jackson Bark Dog Park

Address: 6000 S. Lake Shore Drive

Social: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Yelp

Overview

Jackson Bark was built by volunteers using salvaged construction materials. It’s a quirky spot filled with handmade agility equipment and kiddie pools for splashing around.

One note before you go: This isn't technically an "official dog-friendly" area. The DIY nature of this park, its equipment, and its reliance on volunteers mean the park is subject to deterioration and some overgrowth. Use your best judgment to keep your pup safe while playing. (And maybe consider helping out with maintenance!)

Location and accessibility

Jackson Bark is situated along Lake Shore Drive, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan. Free parking is available in the adjacent parking lots within Jackson Park.

Taking public transit? The #6, #15, and #28 bus routes provide easy access to the park.

Features and amenities

• Well-lit for nighttime visits

• Assortment of handmade agility equipment

• Kiddie pools for splashing

• Plenty of space for dogs to run

Unique aspects

Jackson Bark’s charm lies in its community-driven, volunteer-built ethos. The creative use of salvaged materials and the unique, handmade agility equipment make it a one-of-a-kind playground for dogs, reflecting the passion and dedication of local dog owners.

Montrose Dog Beach

Address: 601 W. Montrose Ave.

Social: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Yelp

Overview

As Chicago’s only legal dog beach, it offers vast space for dogs to swim, run, and play off-leash. Of course, the downside of being Chicago's only dog-friendly beach? It can get pretty crowded during the summer months. (Make sure your dog's solid on recall, or keep them on leash.)

Is it worth it? A plethora of reviewers say yes. "Our dog is on cloud nine every time we are here," raves one owner.

Location and accessibility

Montrose Dog Beach is located along Lake Michigan with ample parking available at pay-and-display lots and free street parking on Montrose Avenue and Montrose Harbor Drive.

For public transit, take the #78 Montrose, #81 Lawrence, or #151 Sheridan bus routes, or use the Red Line to the Wilson or Lawrence stations for a short walk to the beach.

Features and amenities

• Expansive area for dogs to explore

• Clear city views

• Mix of sand and water play areas

• Free waste bags

• Dog-wash area (fee to use)

Unique aspects

Montrose Dog Beach’s magic lies in its combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. With the stunning Chicago skyline as a backdrop and the open waters of Lake Michigan, it provides a unique, scenic experience that’s a hit with both dogs and their owners.

Norwood Dog-Friendly Area

Address: 5899 N. Avondale Ave.

Social: Facebook, Instagram, Yelp

Overview

Norwood Park Dog-Friendly Area is a fairly large North Side park. Generally, it's well-maintained, and there are benches and shady areas to take a breather between frisbee sessions.

Location and accessibility

Norwood Park Dog Friendly Area is located in Norwood Park, with ample off-street parking available. For public transit, take the Blue Line to the Harlem station, or the #68 bus to Northwest Highway and Avondale Avenue for easy access to the park.

Features and amenities

• Double gate

• Dog fountain

• Waste bags

• Benches

• Plenty of shaded areas

Unique aspects

Norwood Dog Park is known for its well-maintained facilities and the strong sense of community among regular visitors.

Pup Town

Address: 4900 N. Marine Dr.

Social: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Yelp

Overview

Pup Town in Margate Park is a convenient, lake-adjacent haven for dogs and their owners. This dog-friendly area features a mix of asphalt and gravel surfaces, making it perfect for all types of play. It's not huge, but to many pup parents, that's an asset. As one reviewer puts it, "[Pup Town's] big enough that my dog can run around but small enough I can always keep an eye on him."

Location and accessibility

Pup Town is located in Margate Park, with ample street parking available nearby. For public transit, use the Red Line to the Argyle station, or the #151 bus to Sheridan Road and Margate Terrace.

Features and amenities

• Mix of asphalt and gravel surfaces

• Fun community events (like the annual Howl-O-Ween costume contest)

• Regular park cleanups

Unique aspects

Pup Town’s vibrant community and annual events create a lively atmosphere. The park’s mix of surfaces caters to all types of play, and the regular cleanups and events foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among local dog owners.

Wiggly Field

Address: 2645 N. Sheffield Ave.

Social: Instagram, Yelp

Overview

Welcome to Wiggly Field, Chicago’s first dog park! Established in 1997, this iconic spot in Lincoln Park is a favorite for its friendly atmosphere and rich history.

The community here is especially known for being considerate (bringing tennis balls for all dogs to share, for instance) and very involved. Just a heads up: a train runs right next door, so if your pup is sensitive to loud noises, have your leash ready.

Location and accessibility

Wiggly Field is located within Grace Park, with convenient parking available along the nearby streets and in adjacent parking lots. For public transit, take the Brown Line to the Diversey station, or the #76 bus to Diversey Parkway and Sheffield Avenue.

Features and amenities

• Fully enclosed with a double-gated entryway

• Canine-sized fountain

• Ample space for dogs to run and play

Unique aspects

There’s a “time out zone” for when your dog needs a breather (or gets overstimulated).

Exploring Chicago with your dog is a fantastic way to experience the city’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. From the community-built charm of Jackson Bark to the unique beachfront at Montrose Dog Beach, there’s something for every dog and their owner to enjoy.

So grab your leash and head out to make some unforgettable memories with your furry friend at these top dog parks in Chicago! And if you're looking for more places to explore, check out our full guide dog-friendly Chicago.