A family-friendly night market: bringing kids and dogs
Imperial Night Market is an all-ages evening market, and leashed dogs are welcome.
Kids
Families come often. It is an all-ages evening market with food to share, and sweets like fresh churros and aguas frescas.
Entry is free, so there is no ticket to buy for children. Plates are made for sharing, which makes it easy to let everyone pick something different and pass it around.
The market is an open-air alley with old rails and uneven asphalt. It is not step-free, so strollers and wheelchairs may find it difficult. Flat, closed-toe shoes help.
Dogs
Dogs are welcome on a short, non-retractable leash. Please keep them clear of the food stalls and cooking areas, and out of crowded footpaths.
The ground is outdoor asphalt with railroad tracks set into it, and it gets busy in the evening. A short leash keeps your dog close and out of the way of people carrying food.
On site
Portable restrooms and handwashing stations are on site. The market is open air, and heavy rain or wind may pause it.
Live updates are posted on Instagram and TikTok at @imperial_night_market.
Food for different ages
Plates are small and made for sharing, so younger eaters can try a bite without ordering a full meal. Savory choices include tacos and quesatacos, and sweets include churros, fresas con crema and aguas frescas. What is on offer depends on which vendors are serving that night.
Many stalls are cash only, and some take cards or Zelle, so bring cash for the whole group. Keep a little extra for a second round of sweets.
Best time to bring the family
Earlier in the evening is calmer, and the lineup is complete about an hour after opening. It gets busiest later at night.
Getting there with kids or a dog
Park on East 15th Street or South Santa Fe Avenue and walk in, or use the rideshare pin in the parking and rideshare guide.