Well worth the drive, Pooch Park is by far the greenest area dog park, scrupulously maintained in a joint effort by the Skokie and Evanston Park districts. A massive 2.7 acres, there are three fenced sections: the main space, an agility training course and a small dog/puppy area exclusively for beasties under 35 pounds, making it the only small dog park in the entire metro area.

Pooch Park plays host to several ridiculous and fun annual events, including a Halloween party and Woofstock, a loosely hippie-theme event packed with contests, agility training, communication seminars and a DJ spinning '60s tunes. Permit cards are issued annually with payment of a household fee: Evanston and Skokie residents pay $35 for up to three dogs; others pays $70 and may bring up to two dogs. There is free parking in abundance at both entrances.

Centerstage Reviewer: Roni Shapira