Fresh cut grass, endless sunshine, and no leashes for as far as the eye can see. No, we’re not talking about doggy heaven. We’re talking about the next best thing: dog parks. Phoenix is a doggy paradise thanks to its dog-friendly culture and plentiful parks. Here are the greatest local dog parks where you can treat man’s best friend to some fun in the sun.

Friends of Hance Dog Park

323 W Culver St

Phoenix, AZ 85003

Downtown Phoenix might not be the first place you think of when you consider taking your dog to the park. Thanks to Friends of Hance Dog Park, however, your dog can run free in the heart of a busy metropolis. Friends of Hance Dog Park is a community-run, off-leash dog park located in the Roosevelt Historic District. It’s run by the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department, who maintain a clean and safe environment for your pups. You’ll find plenty of open grass, shade, and doggie bags at this pristine park.

PetSmart Dog Park at Washington Park

6655 North 23rd Avenue

Phoenix, AZ 85015

Are you team PetSmart? You can show your support by making a trip to PetSmart Dog Park at Washington Park. PetSmart and the City of Phoenix combined forces to create this doggie oasis in downtown Phoenix. The 2.5 acre park includes tons of room for your pup to run and play. You’ll also find plenty of benches, watering stations, trash cans, and tennis balls to go around. They also have separate play areas for larger and smaller dogs.

#FrayLife Tip: Running late? PetSmart Dog Park has you covered. They have plenty of lights and stay open until 10 pm.

Chaparral Park

SE corner of Hayden Road & McDonald Drive

Scottsdale, AZ 85250

Scottsdale is known as “America’s most liveable city”, but we’re not sure whether that is for humans or dogs. Dogs have their pick of the litter when it comes to play areas in Scottsdale. It’s home to plenty of outdoor running trails and three dog parks. The most popular, however, is Chaparral Park. This always-busy park includes 3-acres of grass, water fountains and benches. They also have two off-leash areas, including areas for more passive and active dogs. It’s also open late until 10 pm seven days a week.

#FrayLife Tip: Chaparral Park is closed for maintenance every Tuesday and Friday from 8:00 am-12:00 pm.

Quail Run Dog Park

4030 N Norwalk, Mesa, AZ 85215

There are plenty of reasons to visit Quail Run Park. This 40-acre park is chock-full of fun activities. It includes soccer, baseball, and softball fields to go with picnic tables and benches. Dog lovers can take their pup off-leash in fenced off areas for both passive and active dogs. You’ll find shade, water stations, and bathroom galore at this East Valley park. You can visit this family-friendly spot from sunrise to 10:00 pm six days a week.

#FrayLife Tip: Quail Run Dog Park is closed for maintenance every Thursday and daily from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm.

Paradise Valley Dog Park

17642 N. 40th St.

You don’t have to be a local to visit Paradise Valley Dog Park. This stellar dog park regularly attracts crowds from all around the Valley thanks to its immaculate conditions. True to its name, the Paradise Valley Dog Park is a picture-perfect spot for any dog lover. They have 2.4 acres of grass for play to go with tables and benches for relaxation. The double-gated off leash area has sections for both large and small dogs, and plenty of chilled drinking fountains for cooling off. It also stays open late until 10 pm nightly.

#FrayLife Tip: Trouble finding the dog park? It’s located inthe west end of Paradise Valley park just north of the softball fields.

Feeling inspired to take your pupper to one of these suburb parks? Let us know in the comments or by tagging us on social using #FrayLife and #PHXFray.

View More Articles By John Kuells

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