Riverview Park is perhaps our favorite city park in Pittsburgh.
With miles and miles of densely wooded trails, Allegheny Observatory, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and an off-leash dog park, this lesser-known Pittsburgh gem is a true urban oasis.
Nature
Highland Park – Exploring the Gardens and Reservoir Path
Highland Park, located in the Pittsburgh neighborhood of the same name, is a bit different than the rest of the city's urban parks.
Although you probably won't achieve that “lost in nature” feeling like you will in the other city parks, this one has some unique features that are well worth a visit.
The beautifully landscaped entry garden, the walking track around one of the city's water reservoirs, playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool, and volleyball courts are just some of the highlights of this urban park.
Frick Park – An Enduring Legacy in Pittsburgh’s East End
Frick Park is the youngest and largest of Pittsburgh's four city parks, opened in 1927 and coming in at 644 acres.
Miles upon miles of hilly, wooded trails snake through the park, making it a perfect escape from the city time and time again. There are also basketball and tennis courts, playgrounds, and even an off-leash dog area.
Schenley Park – A Green Oasis in the Center of Pittsburgh
It's almost hard to believe that right in the heart of the city is a beautiful 456-acre wooded area with trails and an abundance of activities and facilities. And yet, Schenley Park sits here, tucked in the midst of the bustling university community of Oakland.
From hiking, to ice skating, to watching movies on Flagstaff Hill, there's something for everyone and for every season.
Harrison Hills Park – Easy River View Hike Near Pittsburgh
Harrison Hills Park is a 500 acre park on the edge of the Allegheny River in Natrona Heights. Thanks to its relatively close proximity to the city it is the perfect spot for those looking for a half-day out to explore nature.
On our recent visit we hiked the out-and-back Rachel Carson trail (one of approximately eight trails within the park) which is known for having stunning overlooks of the river and surrounding region.
The Montour Trail – Where You Can Explore for Miles
Most hiking trails we visit around the city of Pittsburgh are often out-and-back loops that can be completed in just a few hours. For those who want to see all of the Montour Trail, you may need to pack your bags and plan for an extended journey, as this 40-mile trail connects to the roughly 300-mile Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Trails which connects Pittsburgh to Washington DC!
Although we are planning on biking this trail in the future to see it all, in this one we wanted to discuss the sections of the Montour Trail from Coraopolis to Bethel Park (a roughly 30 mile stretch).
Mellon Park – A Hidden Memorial, Live Summer Music, and More
Mellon Park stands on what was the estate of industrialist and banker Richard Mellon. Although Mellon's mansion is now gone, the park and the beautiful walled garden, previously attached to the home, remain.
Today the park is used as a beautiful public space with live music at the Bach, Beethoven, and Brunch series in the summer months, and is also home to a hidden memorial in the Walled Garden that only comes out at night!
6 Awesome Pittsburgh Dog Parks to Take Your Furry Friend
On our last international trip, we came home with a new addition to our family: our dog Tamale!
As we don't have a backyard, we are extremely grateful for the many green spaces, parks, hiking trails, and dog parks in and close to the city. As a part of our newest series, Dogsburgh, featuring all of the dog friendly places in Pittsburgh, we turn our attention to a popular spot for dog lovers and their four-legged friends: dog parks.
Our quest to find the best dog parks in the city is currently underway, and a selection of our favorites are featured below. As we explore more of the city and find unique parks to add, you can be certain this list will be updated!
North Park Pittsburgh – A Little Something for Everyone
The aptly named North Park in northern Allegheny County is a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a day out for hiking in the woods, walking along the paved lake path, or taking in one of the many other activities available.
No matter why you visit this one, there is enough to keep returning time and time again!
McConnells Mill State Park is One of the Best Parks in PA
One of the things we love about Pittsburgh is its proximity to nature. We may be a large city, but it is incredibly easy to get out and hike through the beauty of Pennsylvania when the weather is nice.
One of our excursions north of the city took us to McConnells Mill State Park, located roughly 30 miles outside of Pittsburgh via I-79, to check out a mill that is over one hundred years old, a covered bridge, and gorgeous fall foliage.