Published by Jeremy. Last Updated on July 12, 2021.
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The Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens is a nature reserve in Oakdale, PA- located right next door to Settlers Cabin Park. The park opened in early 2015 on a 460 acre plot of land once used for mining and logging, and currently has about 60 acres that was transformed back into pristine nature and open for visitors to enjoy.
This one does require a payment for entry, and those who visit will enjoy a serene hike in nature through several themed zones and unique art pieces.
Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens is a Modest Spot
While the grounds of the 460-acre Pittsburgh Botanic Garden are quite large, the fact that roughly only 60 acres are open for visitors makes this one feel cozy.
Perhaps it is that the trails span just a couple miles when put together. Or perhaps it is that the various themed areas change at a fairly rapid pace such that you are always experiencing something new wherever you go. In fact, most outdoor botanic gardens and nature reserves we've visited have focused on making their regions feel like wide open spaces. The Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens does the opposite.
It is because of this that the Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens is able to offer several distinct regions including the Woodland Gardens, Japanese Garden, and Dogwood Meadow to name a few. One minute you'll be walking past the lotus pond, and next you're deep in the woods next to artwork such as the Bookworm Glen or Hermit Hut, before heading out into an open field next to the bee hives and wild flowers, and ending at the Garden of the Five Senses which is insightful for visitors of all ages.
All in all, a visit to the Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens could be brief as the park is not that large. But if you really stop to appreciate everything this one has to offer you can have a great day out all the same!
The Gardens Have Grown in Recent Years
When we first visited the Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens, we got the feeling that contentment was not on their radar. They had a grand plan for growth that was going to be enacted in the following months and years, and we're happy to report that many of these came to life by our return visit in 2021!
Not only does the garden feel more complete now, but they also have even more exhibits, wonderfully insightful signage (learning about the history of the trees and other historical events that took place the same year they were planted is wonderful), and even a gorgeous visitor center and cafe to enjoy on-site as well!
It is because of this that you can rest easy knowing that the cost of admission is being put to good use at this local non-profit. We look forward to what the future holds in store for this one!
The Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is located at 799 Pinkerton Run Road in Oakdale, Pa. Dogs are allowed on leash on the trails. Food and beverages are not permitted and any waste must be taken off-site as there are no trash bins inside the gardens. Photos are ours and hosted with permission by the Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens.
For more parks in and around Pittsburgh, check out Schenley Park, Frick Park, Fall Run Park, or North Park!
What is the entry fee?
I believe it is $9 right now for adults.
I was just there a few weeks ago and it was around that with a groupon but when I asked at the desk they said $14
Good to know. The website definitely says $9 per person but perhaps they’ve not updated with new pricing. I know the last Groupon special I saw was two for $10.