Top 10 Dog Parks in Vancouver
Unleash the Fun: Top 10 Dog Parks in Vancouver for Happy Paws!
Vancouver, our beautiful city nestled between the mountains and the sea, isn't just a paradise for us humans – it's a haven for our furry best friends too! With an abundance of green spaces, finding the perfect spot for your canine companion to stretch their legs, socialize, and sniff to their heart's content is a breeze.
As Vancouverites, we know how much our dogs mean to us, and a good dog park is like a second home for them (and often for us!). So, grab your leash, some poop bags (from us!), and get ready to explore our expanded list of the top 10 dog parks in Vancouver that are sure to get tails wagging. We’ve included some parking tips and where you might find a spot to grab a bite afterwards. Dog friendly patios please make sure to call in advance as policies do change, sometimes with the seasons.
1. Spanish Banks Off-Leash Area: Where Beach Meets Bark!
For a truly unique dog park experience, Spanish Banks is hard to beat. This expansive off-leash area isn't just a grassy field; it extends right onto the sandy shores during low tide! Imagine your pup romping in the waves, chasing seagulls, and making sandy paw prints to their heart's content.
Size of Off-Leash Area: Very Large
Amount of Parking: Ample parking available, but can fill up on busy days. Recently changed to PAID parking
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
Wildlight Kitchen & Bar : Offers a modern Canadian menu with a dog-friendly patio.
Jericho Beach Concession (on-site during warmer months): Grab a burger on the beach with your pup!
2. Queen Elizabeth Park Off-Leash Dog Area : Views and Vigorous Play!
Perched atop Little Mountain, Queen Elizabeth Park offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and the North Shore mountains. But it's not just about the scenery – the dedicated off-leash dog area is a popular spot for dogs of all sizes and energy levels.
Size of Off-Leash Area: Medium
Amount of Parking: Paid parking is available throughout the park.
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
Seasons in the Park: Features a patio where dogs may be welcome (confirm with the restaurant).
The Fish Counter: Has sidewalk bench seating where dogs are often permitted. Make sure to try the Salmonito and get some cured Artic Char to go!
3. Stanley Park Off-Leash Areas: An Urban Oasis for Pups!
Vancouver's crown jewel, Stanley Park, boasts several off-leash areas scattered throughout its sprawling greenery. These provide a welcome escape for downtown dogs and their owners. Popular spots include the area near Lost Lagoon and the large field by Second Beach.
Size of Off-Leash Area: Varies by location within the park (Medium to Large).
Amount of Parking: Paid parking is available throughout Stanley Park.
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
Stanley Park Brewing Restaurant & Brewpub: Offers a dog-friendly patio.
4. Riley Park Off-Leash Area: A Community Hub for Canine Fun!
Located in the vibrant Riley Park neighbourhood, this well-maintained off-leash area is a favourite among local dog owners. It offers a good-sized fenced space for dogs to socialize and burn off some energy.
Size of Off-Leash Area: Medium
Amount of Parking: Street parking is available and can be challenging at peak times.
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
East is East Chai Lounge - Main Street (nearby): Often has dog-friendly seating outside.
Chaise on Main: May have limited outdoor seating where dogs are welcome.
5. Trout Lake Park Off-Leash Area: Lakeside Romps and Social Howls!
Trout Lake Park is a beloved community park in East Vancouver, and its off-leash dog area is a major draw. With a mix of open grassy space and some treed areas, it offers a pleasant environment for dogs to explore. Plus, the proximity to the lake adds an extra element of fun (though dogs aren't allowed to swim in the lake itself).
Size of Off-Leash Area: Medium
Amount of Parking: Free parking is available in the park's lots, but can get busy. Street parking is also an option.
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
St Augustines: A HUGE selection of beers is a plus, if that’s your thing. Sidewalk tables where dogs are permitted.
Apollo’s (nearby): Has a dog friendly patio
6. Pacific Spirit Regional Park (UBC Endowment Lands): Forest Adventures for Furry Friends!
THIS IS THE BIG ONE! Pacific Spirit Regional Park offers a network of trails where dogs are welcome off-leash under control. While not a traditional fenced dog park, the vast forested area provides ample space for exploration and sniffing adventures.
Size of Off-Leash Area: Very Large (network of trails)
Amount of Parking: Parking lots are available at various entrances, but can fill up, especially on weekends.
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
Burgoo: Delicious comfort food for rainy days. Small patio outdoor seating where dogs are welcome.
7. CRAB Park Off-Leash Area (DT): Industrial Views and Canine Socializing!
Located along the waterfront in the Downtown Eastside, CRAB Park offers a unique off-leash experience with views of the port and North Shore mountains. It's a popular spot for DT dog owners.
Size of Off-Leash Area: Medium
Amount of Parking: Limited street parking is available in the area.
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
The Old Spaghetti Factory : Often has a dog-friendly patio.
8. Kitsilano Beach Park Off-Leash Area: Beach Vibes and Barking Buddies!
Similar to Spanish Banks, Kitsilano Beach Park features an off-leash area that extends onto the sand during lower tides. It's a popular spot for Kitsilano residents and their furry companions to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.
Size of Off-Leash Area: Medium to Large (varies with tide)
Amount of Parking: Paid parking is available in the park's lots. Street parking can be challenging, especially in summer.
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
The Boathouse on Kits Beach: Offers a patio where dogs are often welcome.
Local Public Eatery : Has a dog-friendly patio.
9. Jericho Beach Park Off-Leash Area: Room to Roam by the Water!
Jericho Beach Park offers a large, grassy off-leash area with plenty of space for dogs to run and play. Its proximity to the beach provides opportunities for scenic walks before or after playtime.
Size of Off-Leash Area: Large
Amount of Parking: Paid parking is available in the park's lots.
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
The Galley Patio & Grill : Features a dog-friendly patio.
10. New Brighton Park Off-Leash Area (East Van): Waterfront Fun with Industrial Views!
Located in East Vancouver, New Brighton Park offers a spacious off-leash area with unique waterfront views that blend nature with the industrial landscape of the port. It's a popular spot for dogs to socialize and enjoy the open space.
Size of Off-Leash Area: Large
Amount of Parking: Free parking is available in the park's lots.
Places to Eat Nearby with Patios that are Dog Friendly:
Remember to be a responsible pet owner! Always clean up after your dog, keep them under voice control (especially in unfenced areas like Pacific Spirit), and be mindful of other dogs and people in the park.
Vancouver's dog parks are fantastic resources for keeping our furry companions happy and healthy. So, get out there, explore these top 10 spots, and let your dog enjoy the freedom and fun our city has to offer!
What are your favourite dog parks in Vancouver? Share your go-to spots and any tips for fellow dog owners in the comments below!
Please note: Dog-friendly patio policies can sometimes change. It's always a good idea to call ahead to confirm with the restaurant or cafe before bringing your furry friend.
