Boston Area's Best Dog Runs

There are countless dog parks in Boston, which is important because many downtown apartments are a bit small, so dogs need some space to really run around and burn some energy. Unfortunately, many of these parks require that dogs wear leashes, which prevents them from really having a sense of being free outside. So to make sure your pooch has a great time outside, take him to one of these leash-free dog runs in the Boston area.

Peter's Park Dog Run
1277 Washington St.
Boston, MA 02118
www.peterspark.org

Peter's Dog Run in Boston's south end is by far the most highly recommended leash-free dog park in the city. The park is conveniently located in a residential neighborhood, and is a much loved part of the community. Many Bostonians take their pups to Peter's Park on a regular basis, so the dogs (and their owners) end up getting to know each other and becoming friends. The park is very well maintained with some beautiful trees that provide some much needed shade in the summer months. The park even has its own non-profit board to ensure that it will continue to be a resource for dog lovers for years to come.

Charlesgate
Massachusetts Ave and Beacon St.
Boston, MA, 02215

Charlesgate will please people just as much as their pups. The dog run is situated along one of the most beautiful stretches of the Charles River, so while the dogs run around, there is a beautiful view to gaze at, and many benches to stop and enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner - which is especially pleasant and refreshing in nice weather. The Charlesgate park is a large, green grassy area that is clearly fenced off, so is safe for high energy, curious dogs.

Fresh Pond Reservation

250 Fresh Pond Parkway
Cambridge, MA 02138
(617) 349-4770
www.friendsoffreshpond.org

Fresh Pond Reservation in Cambridge is another of the Boston area's very best dog runs. In addition to having a beautiful leash-free areas for dogs, the Fresh Pond Reservation is also a large nature reserve that is a favorite of bird watchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. So if you end up liking the space as much as your dog, make sure to check the Fresh Pond Reservation event calendar website frequently to learn about upcoming events, such as classes in tree identification, nature walks, and a great lecture series.

Related: Best Dog Parks South Of Boston

Carleton Court
Carleton and Holyoke St.
SW Corridor Path
Boston, MA
www.doggoes.com

Carleton Court may be a small park, but is located in a super convenient space in the middle of the city. The court is near the Back Bay MBTA stop on the orange line and stretches behind the Prudential building. It is a favorite of many Back Bay and South End dogs that need some time to run around. The space is largely paved, so it may not seem as green and peaceful as the other parks in the city, but the location simply cannot be beat, and fido will certainly be grateful to get as much time outside as possible.

South Boston Dog Park
1280 Columbia Road
b/t Bent Ct & G St in South Boston
Boston, MA 02127
www.sbbarkpark.org

Though South Boston runs along the beach, which is a favorite spot for almost every dog, the South Boston beaches technically require dogs to be on leashes. So, if you want to let your Southie dog run free, take him or her to the South Boston Dog Park at the border of South Boston and Dorchester. The dog run, which is maintained by Dorchester Heights Association, is a large gravel park that dogs absolutely love. The park is open from 6 am to 8 p.m. every day!

Related: Best Public Beaches On The South Shore And Cape Cod