Park No. 551 Dog Friendly Area is the fenced off-leash space inside Fulton River Park at 353 N. DesPlaines Street in Chicago. The small dog area sits within a 1.19-acre neighborhood park with a terraced lawn, shade trees and a playground. It works best for a quick play session rather than a long trail walk.
Plan your visit
- Address: 353 N. DesPlaines Street, Chicago, IL 60661.
- Hours: Fulton River Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Off-leash area: Dogs may be off leash only inside the designated fenced Dog Friendly Area.
- Water: The Chicago Park District lists a dog drinking fountain at this location. Bring backup water in case it is shut off for weather or maintenance.
- Permit: Each dog needs a current Chicago Dog Friendly Area permit and tag.
Find the dog park entrance
The official coordinates place the Dog Friendly Area at 41.8883592, -87.6440114, south of Kinzie Street in the Fulton River District. DesPlaines Street and Kinzie Street are elevated beside parts of this terraced park, so the street address can feel less direct than the map pin. Use directions to the exact dog-area coordinates, then follow the Park District signs to the fenced entrance.
The official Dog Friendly Area page confirms the location, while the Fulton River Park page gives context for the full park.
What to expect
This is a compact urban dog run within a broader green space. The Park District describes the dog area as 0.07 acres and lists a dog drinking fountain. Its smaller footprint suits short exercise breaks and neighborhood visits. The surrounding park adds lawn, trees and a playground, but those shared areas are outside the off-leash boundary.
A traveler photo and review describe grass and an enclosed place where dogs can play together. Conditions can change with weather and maintenance, so check the surface and fountain when you arrive. No official separate small-dog enclosure is listed; handlers of timid or smaller dogs should assess the group already inside before entering.
Permit and rules
Chicago requires a current DFA permit and tag, available through participating veterinarians. The Park District currently lists the permit fee as $10 per dog. Keep the entrance gate closed except while entering or leaving, and leash your dog everywhere outside the fenced area.
Handlers may bring no more than three dogs at once and must remain with them. Puppies younger than four months and female dogs in heat are not allowed. Clean up waste, stop aggressive behavior, and keep food out of the dog area. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Read the complete Chicago Dog Friendly Area rules before your visit.
What parkgoers say
The available visitor feedback is limited but positive. One BringFido reviewer said their dog enjoyed the grass and the enclosed space for playing with other dogs. That is one dated experience rather than a promise about current crowds or surface conditions. You can read the visitor review and see the traveler photo before deciding whether this compact park fits your dog.
Official updates and nearby options
Check the official facility page and posted signs for closures, fountain shutoffs or temporary restrictions before leaving. For another option, browse our Chicago dog park directory and compare the size, access and amenities that matter for your dog.
