Robert Moses Dog Run is a small fenced dog area on the East 42nd Street side of Robert Moses Playground, east of First Avenue. It offers an off-leash stop near the United Nations, but visitors describe a compact space rather than a large exercise field. Bring water and check the enclosure before entering.
Plan your visit
- Approach: East 42nd Street between First Avenue and FDR Drive, New York, NY 10017.
- Dog area: The city’s dog-run inventory lists Robert Moses Playground Dog Run as active. This does not rule out temporary gate closures.
- Hours: Follow the current signs at the entrance; an official dog-run schedule was not confirmed.
- Water: Bring a filled bottle and bowl. Working drinking water inside the run was not confirmed.
- Space: Plan for a short neighborhood stop. Separate small- and large-dog enclosures were not confirmed.
- Parking: No dedicated dog-run parking lot was confirmed. Arrange parking separately and check local street restrictions.
Find the dog park entrance
Use the East 42nd Street side of the playground. The dog area lies beside the large tunnel ventilation building, on its north side; the playground’s sports areas are separate. Get directions to Robert Moses Dog Run and look for the dog-run gate before unleashing.
Keep your dog leashed on the approach, and check the gate latch and posted notices. Current step-free access and gate width have not been checked on site.
A compact space for a short stop
Visitors describe a small enclosure with benches and little or no grass. Older reports differ on the ground material, mentioning hard paving, dirt, gravel and stone. Check the current surface before active play rather than expecting a grassy lawn.
If several dogs are already inside, take a moment to judge whether there is enough space for your dog to feel comfortable. Bring drinking water and waste bags. The nearby East River does not make this a dog-swimming destination.
Rules before you enter
NYC311’s dog-run guidance permits up to three dogs per person. Dogs using off-leash areas must be licensed, and handlers must carry proof of rabies vaccination. Use a leash no longer than six feet outside designated off-leash areas.
Close gates behind you, remain with your dog and pick up waste. Follow the signs at the run, and give other dogs space if play becomes uncomfortable.
What parkgoers say
Older visitor accounts suggest this run works best as a convenient local stop. An August 2024 visitor enjoyed the chance for dogs to meet and play. An April 2023 visitor said it gave their dog some off-leash time, but felt the small space did not justify a mile-long walk each way.
Small size and cleanliness are recurring criticisms in older reviews, including a November 2024 report. A September 2022 visitor appreciated the quiet setting and benches. These accounts are dated and do not establish today’s maintenance or crowding. Check current visitor reviews before making a special trip.
More options and updates
Compare other choices in our New York City dog park directory or browse dog parks across New York. Check each alternative’s access rules before changing your destination.
Last researched August 31, 2026; no site visit was made. Follow current gate notices for opening times and temporary restrictions. Send DogPark Near Me a correction if access or facilities have changed.
