Stay & Play with  Your Dog

by Michelle O’Dea

Lincoln dog owners have a plethora of options when it comes to providing their furry friends with play opportunities. From spacious outdoor dog parks to formal centers, Lincoln is a city that truly caters to the needs of its canine residents.

Outdoor play is essential for dogs as it allows them to exercise, socialize, and explore their environment. Lincoln offers several excellent outdoor dog parks that cater to dogs of all sizes and breeds.

Mahoney Park Dog Run, located north of 84th and Adams streets, is a popular choice among local dog owners. This park offers a large, fenced-in area where dogs can run and play off-leash. The park is divided into two sections: a four-acre space for large dogs and a one-acre space for small dogs, ensuring that your pet can play safely with other dogs of a similar size. Restrooms, ample parking, and a water fountain for both dogs and humans are available. 

Rickman’s Run Dog Park is located on the east side of South 70th Street in Holmes Lake Park. Rickman’s Run offers a unique outdoor experience with its natural, wooded environment. Dogs can explore the trails over a 22.25-acre space for large dogs and a 1.45-acre space for small dogs. This park is a favorite among local dog owners for its natural beauty and the freedom it offers dogs to explore. Restrooms are available.

Roper East Dog Park is a smaller park, located on North 7th and Adams streets, and offers plenty of space for dogs to run and play. This park is also divided into sections and includes four acres for large dogs and two acres for small dogs. A seasonal water fountain for dogs and humans, improved walking trails, and restrooms are available. 

Stransky Dog Run in Peterson Park at 4419 Southwood Drive offers over two and a half acres of grassy area for large dogs, and one acre for small dogs to play. Restrooms, a seasonal water fountain, and improved walking trails are available.

Bowling Lake Park Dog Run at Northwest 44th & West Cumming Streets offers one acre of space for small dogs with wide open flat spaces where dogs can run and stay in sight. Each area is fenced for safe play. All Lincoln dog parks include ample parking with ADA accessibility.

A new dog park is slated for the south Haymarket development in 2025. 

Being a dog-friendly city, Lincoln has several restaurants that allow dogs on their outdoor patios. Some even offer water bowls and treats for your furry friend. New to the canine scene in Lincoln are dog bars. Yes, you can now have a cocktail while your dog socializes. 

Located in the Telegraph District at 1975 M Street, Off Leash Dog Bar is Lincoln’s first dog bar. The facility includes a 1,500-square-foot fenced playground, full bar, and coffee spot, all in one location. It’s a great place to hang out with your best two-legged, and four-legged friends. [https://offleashlnk.com/]

Another fun dog bar experience can be found at Urban Hound Dog Park, located at 4848 Van Dorn Street. Urban Hound offers 4,500 square feet of outdoor, fenced-in turf, a full bar, and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. [https://www.urbanhoundne.com/]

Whether you’re looking for a spacious outdoor park for your dog to run and play, a natural, wooded environment for them to explore or a play center where you and your dog can socialize, Lincoln has you covered. Grab your leash and your furry friend and explore all that our dog-friendly city has to offer!