7 Of The Greatest Destinations Most Pittsburghers Overlook
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
Have you ever stopped to really look around Pittsburgh and appreciate all there is to see and to do? Sometimes we get complacent, especially when we live in a city for a long time. We take for granted all that Pittsburgh has and promise ourselves we’ll get there – someday. Sound familiar? Start looking at the city through the eyes of a newcomer by visit these pretty awesome destinations in Pittsburgh most Pittsburghers overlook.
Most of us have been to Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. But, what about Pittsburgh Botanic Garden? Spend time in the garden dotted with foot bridges, ponds, trails, and a fairy garden. It typically takes two hours to see the entire garden. Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Housed within Saint Anthony Chapel is a sight to see. Well, 5,000, to be more specific. Saint Anthony Chapel houses 5,000 Christian relics - the largest public collection in the world after the Vatican. Among the relics at the chapel are a piece of the cross on which Jesus was crucified and Saint Demetrius' bones. Tour the historic chapel Saturday through Thursday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
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Spend an evening learning about astronomy and stargazing at Allegheny Observatory. The observatory, tucked away in Riverview Park, is a research facility of the University of Pittsburgh. Join a free tour between April and late October. Tours run either Thursday or Friday evening, depending on the time of the year. Reservations for the two hour tour are required. Call 412-321-2400, beginning in April.
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Everyone talks about the Duquesne Incline. But, what about the Monongahela Incline? When's the last time you've hopped on Pittsburgh's other incline? America's oldest funicular promises spectacular views of the downtown skyline. Drink in the views from one of the observational decks at the top of Mount Washington. Or, take a stroll atop the mountain. The Monongahela Incline is open Monday through Saturday from 5:30 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. Operating hours on Sundays and holidays run from 7 a.m. to 12:45 a.m.
It's never too early to start planning spring and summer day trips. Add Crooked Creek Lake to your to do list. Just an hour from Pittsburgh, the lake features a sandy beach, kayaking, and fishing. Have a picnic at one of the tables. Or, watch the kids play at the playground. Camping is also permitted.
Pittsburgh's within a reasonable driving distance from countless charming small towns. Like Foxburg. Less than 90 miles from downtown, the tiny town lies along the Allegheny River. Spend the day exploring the town by bike or on foot. Tour Foxburg Wine Cellars. Then, stop at Allegheny Grille for a delicious lunch or dinner.
When's the last time you sat outside on a summer evening and watched a movie? Threw the ball around? Ate popcorn and chugged pop from an old-fashioned pop machine? Drive-ins are certainly becoming a rarity in the U.S. Relive the magic of going to the drive-in at Riverside Drive-In. Opening in April for a new season, the drive-in offers two feature films and a generous snack bar.
So…how many of these overlooked destinations in Pittsburgh are now on your to do list? Here are a few secret parks to add to that list while you’re at it.
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Featured Addresses
1704 Harpster Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
1114 Lees Lake Lane, Vandergrift, PA 15690
799 Pinkerton Run Road, Oakdale, PA 15071
114 Main Park Road, Ford City, PA 16226
159 Riverview Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15214