The Allegheny Overlook is the Beer Garden Downtown Pittsburgh Needs

Published by Jeremy. Last Updated on July 27, 2022.

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The Allegheny Overlook is closed and does not look like it will be returning for 2022 or beyond.

We've often lamented the underutilization the rivers in Pittsburgh, and we always jump on the chance to get on or near the water whenever we can.

One thing we always hoped for was a recurring food truck rally on one of the sister bridges, which unfortunately is still a bit of a dream. But in 2021, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership launched the next best thing by converting a section of Fort Duquesne Blvd (just next to the Roberto Clemente Bridge on the Allegheny River) into an outdoor beer garden and event space aptly named The Allegheny Overlook.

When it comes to eating and drinking near the rivers, we have to admit, this one checks all the right boxes for us all the same.

The best part? This one is sticking around through the end of summer!

The Allegheny Overlook is a Stellar Summer Popup

Beer at the Allegheny Overlook
Blue Sparrow Food Truck

We first got to visit the area now known as The Allegheny Overlook for the annual Three Rivers Arts Festival in June. A large section of Fort Duquesne Blvd was shut down, painted, and had ample room for artists, vendors (and some awful carnival food), and even a stage for live music. 

It wasn't until a few days later that we heard the overlook was staying throughout the summer and was getting a big upgrade to put it more in line with what we would've hoped. Namely, the following:

  • The carnival vendors were getting replaced with Blue Sparrow (one of our favorite Pittsburgh food trucks) and an Allegheny Overlook-themed food truck.
  • Alcohol is being provided via a mobile cart teamed by Brew Gentlemen- an incredible Pittsburgh brewery.
  • The stage remains and acts are scheduled throughout the week at various hours (with some prime days even having multiple shows).
    • Note that some shows require a wristband purchase if you would like to enjoy beer. Consider it a cover charge for the music.
  • More seating was being added with a mix of tables, rocking chairs, kid's chairs, and even some semi-private picnic tables that can be rented for meetings during the workweek.
  • Many games for kids and adults of all ages including Giant Jenga, Giant Connect Four, and even a full-size basketball court closer to 7th!

Naturally, we had to get down to this one right away after it opened.

Brew Gentlmen at the Allegheny Overlook

To put it bluntly, The Allegheny Overlook hits just about everything we ever wanted from drinking and dining on the river.

Live music that is free for most shows? Yes. Amazing food and beer? Double yes. And some of the best views of the river? I think that is a trifecta.

It really feels like one of those spots that you may visit for one specific aspect on its own (pick what sounds best to you), but having all of these great features together makes it a place where we could spend many long summer evenings basking in the sun with a cool beverage in our hands all the same (this beer will perpetually be Garden Party- Brew Gentleman's refreshing cucumber wheat).

Beer with a View at the Allegheny Overlook in Downtown Pittsburgh

So whether you are looking to get out to hear music, enjoy Brew Gentlemen or Brew Sparrow (or both), or simply are like us and crave even more places to get out and enjoy our waterways, well, The Allegheny Overlook is the place to be in summer 2021.

Odds are good we'll be seeing you there!

The Allegheny Overlook is located at the intersection of 6th and Fort Duquesne and will run through September. The park is open daily from 10 am but closes at various hours depending on the day of the week. Note that beer and food service may have variable hours that are different than the park hours at large. Show descriptions and times can be found on the overlook website at the previous link.

Looking for more places to get out and enjoy our rivers? Check out the Roundabout Popup near Bicycle Heaven, Farmer x Baker in Aspinwall, or perhaps a tour on the Gateway Clipper to name a few!

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