DogMapOpen dog park · Central Park · Central Park, New York, NY 10024
Central Park Off-Leash Areas
During off-leash hours, dogs roam leash-free across most of Central Park's lawns and meadows — 23 designated dog-friendly areas including the East Meadow, Cedar Hill, the Great Hill and the edges of Sheep Meadow. From 9 AM to 9 PM every dog must be leashed.
Off-leash · set hoursThe facts
- Off-leashOff-leash · set hours
- FencedNo — open
- WaterNone
- Size843 acres (multiple off-leash zones)
- HoursOff-leash 6–9 AM and 9 PM–1 AM (park open 6 AM–1 AM)
- SurfaceGrass / dirt
Parking & access
No park lots — use nearby garages or street parking; most arrive on foot or subway.
Good to know
- Off-leash ONLY 6–9 AM and 9 PM–1 AM; from 9 AM to 9 PM dogs must be on a leash of 6 ft or shorter.
- Dogs must stay leashed at all times in the Ramble, on park drives, and anywhere signage requires it — even during off-leash hours.
- Carry proof of a current dog license and rabies vaccination; favorite off-leash lawns are the East Meadow, Cedar Hill and the Great Hill.
Verified off-leash rules
Rules verified · source: NYC Parks — Central Park Dog-Friendly Areas
Central Park Off-Leash Areas: FAQ
- Can my dog be off-leash at Central Park Off-Leash Areas?
- Off-leash is allowed only during posted hours: Off-leash 6–9 AM and 9 PM–1 AM (park open 6 AM–1 AM).
- Is Central Park Off-Leash Areas fenced?
- No — Central Park Off-Leash Areas is open/unfenced, so reliable recall is recommended.
- Is Central Park Off-Leash Areas free?
- Yes — Central Park Off-Leash Areas is free to access. No park lots — use nearby garages or street parking; most arrive on foot or subway.