Looking for the perfect summer escape that doesn’t require leaving the city? Visiting Governors Island with your pup makes for an unforgettable doggy day trip! Just a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan or Brooklyn, this car-free oasis is the ideal place to unwind, explore, and let your dog sniff their heart out.
Getting There
Ferries to Governors Island run daily during the warmer months and welcome leashed dogs on select routes. Be sure to check the Trust for Governors Island website for up-to-date pet policies and ferry times. Small dogs in carriers are allowed on all ferries, while leashed dogs are permitted on weekend morning ferries before 12 p.m.
What to Bring
Before visiting Governors Island with your pup, pack a few essentials:
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Leash (6 feet or shorter—required)
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Waste bags (and always clean up!)
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Water bottle and collapsible bowl
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Doggy sunscreen for light-colored or short-haired breeds
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A towel or blanket for lounging on the grass
What to Do
Once you arrive, the fun begins! Governors Island offers wide open spaces, shaded paths, and incredible views. Here are a few dog-friendly activities:
1. Picnic on the Lawn
Relax under a shady tree at Nolan Park or the Parade Ground while your dog lounges beside you. Many visitors bring a blanket and lunch—just don’t forget some pup-friendly snacks.
2. Walk the Island Loop
The 2.2-mile loop around the island’s perimeter is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Your dog will love the new smells, sea breeze, and other four-legged friends you may meet along the way.
3. Snap Some Skyline Photos
Don’t miss the view from Outlook Hill! Capture some paws-itively adorable shots of your pup with the Manhattan skyline or Statue of Liberty in the background.
4. Visit Dog-Friendly Installations
Governors Island regularly hosts rotating art exhibits and outdoor sculptures. While not all are dog-accessible, many can be enjoyed from the paths. Just be sure to respect signage and art boundaries.
Things to Know
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Dogs are not allowed inside buildings or restaurants.
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Bring your own snacks or plan to eat at one of the many outdoor food vendors while your pup rests nearby.
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Avoid peak midday heat by visiting in the morning or late afternoon.
A doggy day trip doesn’t get better than visiting Governors Island with your pup. With its laid-back vibe, open space, and breezy waterfront views, it’s one of NYC’s most unique escapes—for both humans and hounds.
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