With so many sporting events and concerts at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium, you might decide to stay awhile in nearby Lyndhurst, New Jersey. It's a short jaunt across the river from New York City, but feels worlds away. Add to the fun you're bound to have there by bringing your dog along. This way you won't feel bad about leaving him at home, and he'll get to have a little vacation too. Once you've selected the perfect hotel for your family, it's time to explore.

Traveling With Your Dog? 

Enjoy These Pet-Friendly Spots in Lyndhurst 

Time for a Run

When your dog needs a fun run or a bit of doggy play, check out the Joseph Carucci area of the Riverside County Park in Lyndhurst. Locals come here to let their dogs explore two different fenced in areas (one for small dogs, one for large.) The dog runs have water and bowls, as well as toys to share. Once your dog is done playing, you can enjoy some time in the shade or grab some ice cream from trucks that frequent the park. Your dog might even enjoy watching you play some tennis or bocce.

Picture-Perfect Pups

You've always wanted to have a professional portrait photograph of your dog, but never could find the time. Now that you're in Lyndhurst, make an appointment with Dizzy Bird Imaging. The husband-and-wife team behind Dizzy Bird knows just how to capture the perfect image of your furry family member to create a keepsake you'll treasure. Your photographer will work at getting just the right shot of your pup playing, striking a serious pose, or offering you that perfect “I love you” look.

Local Outdoor Eats

Your dog deserves a night out just as much as you do. Luckily, Lyndhurst's City Lounge Restaurant has an outdoor area with three tables set aside for people who have brought their dogs along for dinner. In fact, City Lounge is one of the only restaurants in the area with an outdoor patio, so you know it's aiming to be dog-friendly. This popular spot offers traditional bar fare – hamburgers and wings – as well as nightly specials. While you're out there enjoying the evening with your dog, the two of you can watch sporting events on the outdoor televisions.

Image via Flickr by MSVG

The Diner Goes to the Dogs

If you and your dog prefer to have an indoor meal together, the Colonial Diner also has three dog-friendly tables for its patrons. Like many diners along the east coast, the Colonial has a retro feel along with hardy food. The menu is chock-full of temptations, including soups, sandwiches, larger entrees, and all-day breakfast fare. Best of all, the Colonial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So you and your dog can have a meal or just enjoy dessert whenever hunger strikes.

If it's time for you and your family – including your dog – to take a little vacation, Lyndhurst might just be the place for all of you. There are sights to see in nearby New York City and MetLife Stadium events all year long. Happily, you'll find plenty for your pup to do too.