The Commuter: 10 Ways to Travel NYC With Your Dog

1. NYC Ferry

📍 Citywide (East River routes)

For the price of a subway swipe, you get a waterfront commute with wind in your fur. Dogs must be in a carrier or muzzled. The top deck offers the best views—civilized travel between DUMBO and Williamsburg with an onboard snack bar.

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2. The "Subway Bag" Ride

📍 Underground (Citywide)

MTA rules require dogs be "enclosed in a container"—leading to the viral phenomenon of 50lb dogs in IKEA bags. Successfully navigating the system with a large dog in a backpack is a badge of honor. Fellow riders will smile and take photos.

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3. Roosevelt Island Tram

📍 Upper East Side / Roosevelt Island

An aerial tramway soaring parallel to the Queensboro Bridge, giving bird's-eye views of the East River. Dogs in bags follow subway rules. Lands on the quiet, park-filled Roosevelt Island—a perfect mini-getaway. Avoid rush hour.

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4. Staten Island Ferry

📍 Battery Park, Manhattan

It's free and passes the Statue of Liberty—one of NYC's best-kept secrets. Dogs must be caged or muzzled. A 25-minute voyage each way with unmatched views of Lady Liberty and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Re-board at St. George for the return trip.

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5. Uber Pet

📍 App-Based (Citywide)

The luxury of not begging a driver to accept your dog. Uber Pet ensures the driver is willing before you match. There's a surcharge, but the peace of mind is worth every penny. Available citywide through the Uber app.

6. Pet Cab NYC

📍 Citywide

A specialized pet transport service offering accompanied or unaccompanied trips. The "chauffeur" experience—white-glove service for Great Dane owners without cars getting to the vet or airport. Book in advance for special trips.

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7. LIRR to Long Beach

📍 Penn Station → Long Island

The gateway to the ocean and the classic "Summer Friday" commute. Dogs allowed if properly confined/leashed. Transition from Penn Station grit to the salty Long Beach boardwalk in 50 minutes. Pure summer escapism.

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8. Metro-North to Cold Spring

📍 Grand Central Terminal → Hudson Valley

Metro-North is generally relaxed about pets. The train hugs the Hudson River with scenic views the entire way. Unlocks hiking Breakneck Ridge or exploring the charming village of Cold Spring—a world away from the city.

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9. Hertz Rental "Road Trip"

📍 Various Agencies

Pet-friendly rental policies let you escape upstate. The moment the car crosses the George Washington Bridge, city tension releases. Freedom from concrete—the ultimate reset for you and your pup. Weekend getaways to the Catskills await.

10. Manhattan Bridge Walk

📍 Chinatown / DUMBO

The gritty, loud, locals-only alternative to the Brooklyn Bridge. Subway trains rush past, creating noise and vibration. But the view of the Brooklyn Bridge and skyline is superior, and the chain-link fence allows unobstructed photography. For seasoned city dogs.

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