Paws In The City

New York City has a reputation for being demanding, expensive, and occasionally indifferent to outsiders. But here’s a secret the city’s millions of dog owners already know: New York is one of the most pet-welcoming metropolises in the world. Dog runs dot nearly every neighborhood, off-leash hours fill Central Park with gleeful chaos each morning, and an increasing number of the city’s finest hotels have decided that a guest’s four-legged companion deserves the same attentive hospitality as their human counterpart. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or settling in for a longer stay, here’s where to book when you refuse to leave your pet behind.

LOEWS REGENCY NEW YORK HOTEL
No conversation about pet-friendly hotels in New York can begin anywhere but the Loews Regency. Perched on Park Avenue on the Upper East Side, just steps from Central Park, the Regency holds a singular distinction: it was the first national hotel chain to launch a dedicated pet program when it introduced “Loews Loves Pets” back in 2000. More than two decades later, that program remains one of the most comprehensive in the business.

Dogs and cats of any size are welcome to an array of special bedding, leashes, collars, water bowls, treats, and doggie pick-up bags. The real showstopper, however, is the gourmet in-room pet room service menu, prepared by the hotel’s own culinary team. Think beef with brown rice, peas, and carrots, or locally sourced fish with ground flaxseed, rolled oats, and carrots — restaurant-quality meals for your pup, delivered to your door. Pet-walking and pet-sitting services can also be arranged for those long days of meetings or sightseeing. Pet fees apply.
Info: www.loewshotels.com/regency-hotel

THE PLAZA HOTEL
If the Loews Regency is the pioneer, The Plaza is the icon. This 1907 landmark — beloved by everyone from literary character Eloise to the Beatles — sits at the southern corner of Central Park and recently earned a spot on USA TODAY’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards list of Best Pet-Friendly Hotels.

What makes The Plaza remarkable is not just its gilded chandeliers and crystal-adorned Palm Court, but its unexpectedly generous pet policy: two dogs of any size are welcome per room, and the hotel charges no extra pet fee — a genuinely unusual grace in a city where every amenity typically carries a price.

The Plaza’s Canine Companions Package includes food and water bowls and a plush dog bed, and the concierge can source forgotten leashes or treats at a moment’s notice. With Central Park’s morning off-leash zones immediately outside, your dog will feel as well-catered as you.
Info: www.theplazany.com/pet-program

THE PIERRE, A TAJ HOTEL
At The Pierre, distinguished guests come in all shapes and sizes.

Perched at the corner of Fifth Avenue and East 61st Street, The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, has long set the standard for New York luxury — and that extends to its canine guests. Dogs up to 15 lbs. are warmly welcomed with a pet fee upon reservation.

Arrivals are met with specialty dog beds, homemade treats, and custom food and water bowls, all provided at the front desk. In-room dining extends to pets too, with a personalized canine room-service menu — because of course it does. Guests are encouraged to call ahead so the team can arrange any additional needs before arrival.

Location may be the greatest amenity of all. Central Park sits at the hotel’s doorstep — ideal for morning strolls — and a dedicated pet relief area is within easy walking distance. Verified service animals are always exempt from fees. Dogs should not be left unattended in rooms.

KIMPTON HOTEL EVENTI
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants has long been celebrated for redefining what pet-friendly travel means in practice, and its Midtown property, Hotel Eventi, takes that philosophy to its logical extreme. The hotel charges no pet fees, imposes no weight limits, and places no restrictions on the number of pets per room — a policy as rare as it is refreshing. In-room water bowls and walking bags are standard; plush pet beds are available on request. The on-site concierge maintains a curated list of nearby dog-friendly spots, groomers, and parks, making it easy for you and your four-legged friend.
Info: www.hoteleventi.com/new-york-boutique-hotels/pet-friendly

ARTHOUSE HOTEL
For travelers who prefer a more intimate, neighborhood feel, the charming ArtHouse Hotel on the Upper West Side offers a thoughtfully designed pet experience through its exclusive “Arthouse Pooch Package.” Pets are pampered with dog beds and gourmet treats from Posh Pup Treats, and the hotel’s location gives easy access to both Riverside Park and Central Park — two of the best urban green spaces in the country for dogs.
Info: arthousenyc.com