Tompkins Square Dog Run

Dubbed First Run, this East Village off-leash dog area was a pioneer when it opened in 1990. Since undergoing a renovation in 2008, the pet spot features a sandlike surface, a wading pool, picnic tables, tennis balls and lots of room for dogs to ramble, with two separate enclosed spaces for large and small canines. The community-run Friends of the First Run organizes a number of dog-and-owner-friendly events, including a Halloween Dog Parade that goes down in October (with prizes awarded for the top costumed pooches). Tompkins Square Park also offers plenty of attractions for your two-legged children, including playgrounds, basketball and handball courts and a mini-pool open during the summer.