Ann Arbor is known for its beautiful outdoor spaces, vibrant parks, and iconic tree canopy. And let’s not forget—many of us live with dogs who are feeling the full effects of spring fever. You get the idea. As the weather warms up and outdoor adventures become more appealing, it’s the perfect time to explore one of the dog parks in and around town.
Make sure you follow all requirements for local pet licensing beforehand and get a dog park permit from the Ann Arbor City Clerk’s Office. Using the online option, it just takes a couple weeks to get a tag and you’re ready to go. Current license fees are $6 for a one-year license and $15 for a three-year license if your dog is spayed or neutered. Licensing fees for unaltered animals are $12 or $30 for a 1 or 3-year license. Service dogs are free. You can also stop by the office during weekly business hours and take care of things quickly in person: Second floor, 301 E. Huron Street, Ann Arbor.
Swift Run Dog Park
Located at the corner of Platt and Ellsworth, this former landfill is now capped and remediated with fresh soil, though you will still need to watch for mud pits and dogs who love them. With a flat view of the whole park from anywhere, it’s a great place to go if you have a dog who loves to run and make friends. In summer, try to bring water with you to replenish shared dishes. There’s also an area for small/shy dogs that now includes those weighing up to 30 pounds.
Olson Park Dog Park
On Dhu Varren Road on the north side of Ann Arbor, this is the smallest of A2’s dog parks, but still has great vibes. Like at Swift Run, you’ll want to bring water on hot days. It’s sloped, too, so you can throw a ball and let it roll back to you if your dog refuses to fetch, like my Betty, pictured.
This park is along the Huron River north of downtown Ann Arbor and has areas for both large and small dogs. Broadway Park connects to Argo Park and Nature Area and Riverside Park, so you can also make it into a longer dog walk/personal fitness experience/child-exhaustion quest. Everyone wins!
