Now that Pennsylvania is in the Green Zone, we’re watching more and more people escape to the sidewalks to enjoy a little sunshine and fresh air. We can’t blame them. After a few months inside the house with the kids, we’re ready to get everyone outside to run around and play!
One major benefit of Pittsburgh around this time of year is the view it offers from certain vantage points. For all of the gray skies over the winter, Pittsburgh dresses up over the summer with blue skies and great views of the city.
If you’re looking for a spot to take in the city during one of your excursions out of the house, we have you covered.
Find the Best Views of Pittsburgh
Here’s where to go to really take in the city:
1. Mount Washington. Yes, we all know about Mount Washington, but it’s still one of the best places in Pittsburgh to take in the city (in fact, it’s often ranked among the best vistas in the United States!). The real advantage to Mount Washington is how much you can do once you’re up there. Head to Shiloh Street (the southeast end of Grandview Avenue) for ice cream or a cold drink, or take the Monongahela incline down to Station Square. If you’re looking for an unforgettable evening with dining as the centerpiece, head northwest on Grandview Avenue to one of Mount Washington’s upscale restaurants with a view. Call ahead to check who’s open!
2. Greenfield. Greenfield is known for being a quiet suburb tucked away from the city, but its hills offer a few great views of the city. Our favorite spot is the intersection of Bigelow Street and Waldeck Street. From there, you can get a great picture of the skyline’s most iconic buildings: the UPMC building, PGC Place, the Gulf Tower, and BNY Mellon Center.
3. Three Rivers Heritage Trail. Stretching from Millvale to south of Brighton Heights, the Three Rivers Heritage Trail offers an unobscured, close-up view of the Strip District, the Cultural District, Point State Park, the rivers, and Downtown’s iconic buildings. Even better, though, is the trail’s easy access to PNC Park, Heinz Field, and the Carnegie Science Center. There’s always something to take in during your walk on the trail!
4. Fineview. Tucked away on Pittsburgh’s Northside, Fineview offers a unique perspective of the city. If you sit above Fineview Fields, you can watch the Pittsburgh skyline with the Allegheny General Hospital in the foreground.
5. West End Overlook. This is one of the very best places to take in the city! From the West End Park, you can take in all three rivers, Point State Park, many of Pittsburgh’s iconic bridges, and a refreshing perspective of Pittsburgh.
6. Grandview Park. Grandview Park is tucked along Bailey Avenue north of Allentown. Often quieter than Mount Washington’s Grandview Avenue, Grandview Park offers a breath-taking vista and a few more attractions for the family. Head down toward the woods, and you’ll find a winding trail through the woods. If the weather’s nice, you might even catch a movie or a concert on the stage at the top of the hill.
Pittsburgh has plenty of great vistas to enjoy. We hope that you’ll get the chance to take in a few with your friends and family this summer.
Cheers,
Julie & Ted