Fred Anderson Dog Friendly Area has two fenced off-leash enclosures inside Fred Anderson Park at 1611 South Wabash Avenue in Chicago’s South Loop. Separate small- and large-dog sections include artificial turf, water-play features, shade structures, tunnels, benches and dog drinking fountains.
Plan your visit
- Address: 1611 S. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60616.
- Hours: The parent park currently lists 6 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. A separate dog-area page has previously shown a later closing time, so follow the more restrictive schedule unless the entrance sign clearly says otherwise.
- Dog areas: Two fenced enclosures, one for small dogs and one for large dogs.
- Surface: Artificial turf with concrete paths and play structures.
- Water: Dog drinking fountains and water-play fountains are installed. Bring backup water because seasonal shutdowns or maintenance can affect service.
- Parking: No dedicated dog-park lot was confirmed. Read South Loop street and garage rates before leaving your car.
Find the dog park entrance
Use the official Fred Anderson Park address on South Wabash Avenue, between 16th and 18th streets. The dog areas occupy a major portion of the compact 1.2-acre park. Follow the enclosure signs to the section that matches your dog rather than entering through the adjacent performance or lawn spaces.
Open directions to Fred Anderson Dog Friendly Area. Keep your dog leashed until both of you are safely inside the correct safety gate.
Separate areas, turf and water play
The Park District confirms separate small- and large-dog enclosures with artificial turf, Omega-style safety fencing, benches, picnic tables, shade structures, tunnels, drinking fountains and water-play fountains.
The existing exact-park photo shows artificial turf, concrete paths, shade trees and a large play structure. Inspect the turf for heat and the water-play area for slipperiness before active play. A towel can be useful when the fountains or sprinklers are operating.
What park goers say
Park goers praise the separate size areas, clean artificial turf, shade and active group of regular dogs. Many visitors value having water play and drinking fountains during hot South Loop summers.
Recent visitors also report that the sprinklers can soak dogs, owners and walkways, making the park less comfortable for long-haired dogs or anyone expecting a dry visit. Water operation changes with weather and maintenance. These are visitor experiences rather than a check of today’s conditions.
Rules before you enter
Chicago Park District rules require owners to remain with and watch their dogs, keep gates closed, clean up waste and leash dogs before entering and after leaving. Food for people or dogs is prohibited inside Dog Friendly Areas.
Each person may bring no more than three dogs. Puppies under four months, female dogs in heat and dogs with known dangerous behavior are prohibited. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Every dog needs the required Dog Friendly Area permit and current registration tag.
Before you go
Check the official Fred Anderson Park page, amenities and hours, the dog-area facility page, and the Chicago Dog Friendly Areas permit and rules page.
Last researched September 1, 2026. Posted hours, water operation, parking and surface conditions can change.
