8 Historical Landmarks You Absolutely Must Visit In Pittsburgh
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on December 31, 2022(Originally published December 25, 2022)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
This year marks a pretty special milestone for the city: Pittsburgh officially turned 200 years old back in March. While the city is hosting special events to commemorate the milestone throughout the year, you can also embrace the past by simply strolling around the city where you’re likely to bump into historical landmarks in Pittsburgh just about everywhere you turn. It really does feature an incredible amount of historical sites and places to visit. If you are a history lover, Pittsburgh is an amazing spot for you to visit or live. When you’re in this city, you’ll never run out of things to do and intriguing historical facts to learn. Here are just eight of the many historical landmarks that adorn the city of Pittsburgh (and a bit beyond):
Pittsburgh has such a rich history you can likely turn around and discover something new. These eight historical landmarks in Pittsburgh are certainly a great start to exploring the city’s rich history. You might also want to add these unique places to your list of must-visit places in the Burgh.
1. Old Allegheny County Jail
Allegheny County Jail, 950 Second Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
First on the list of our favorite historic sites in Pittsburgh is the Old Allegheny County Jail. It's probably safe to say that none of us were around when this jail in Pennsylvania first appeared on the Pittsburgh landscape in 1886. Designed by Henry Hobson Richardson, the stunning Romanesque-style building housed prisoners – including the ghost of one who committed suicide, per the local lore – until 1995 when the new Allegheny County Jail opened. Today, visitors can tour what remains of the old jail. The rest of the jail has been devoted to the family division of the Allegheny County Courthouse. It may have a dark history, but it certainly is interesting.
2. Forbes Field Outfield Wall
Forbes Field Outfield Wall, Roberto Clemente Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
Sports play a large part of Pittsburgh's history and nothing reflects that history better than the Forbes Field Outfield Wall. It's one of the most interesting historical landmarks in Pittsburgh. All that remains of the site of Bill Mazeroski's famous World Series home run in 1960 is the outfield wall, still partially covered with ivy (not pictured). Find directions to Forbes Field Outfield
here.
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3. The Cathedral of Learning
Cathedral of Learning, 4200 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
Ninety-seven thousand schoolchildren donated the few pennies, sometimes a nickel or a dime, they could spare to help with the construction of the Cathedral of Learning, designed to inspire kids of all generations to embrace learning. The cathedral opened in 1937, becoming a towering landmark in the Oakland skyline. It just goes to show that teamwork can make the dream work!
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4. Chatham Village
Mount Washington, Mt Washington, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Perched atop Mount Washington sits Chatham Village, a historic community dating back to 1936. Originally designed for poorer Pittsburghers, Chatham Village was meant to illustrate that people of all economic backgrounds could live in both beautiful and affordable living. With time, however, more affluent Pittsburghers moved into the community. Today, Chatham Village welcomes visitors to its cooperative community. When it comes to historic villages near Pittsburgh, Chatham Village is a must-visit destination
Fort Pitt Blockhouse, Pittsburgh's oldest structure that dates back to 1764, has a vibrant history. From being used as a fort to protect soldiers from the Native Americans and serving as a trading post, to becoming a one-family home until it was transformed into the museum it remains today. It is truly amazing that the oldest structure in Pittsburgh is still available to be visited.
6. Hot Metal Street Bridge
Hot Metal Street, Hot Metal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15203, USA
Countless Pittsburghers cross the Hot Metal Street Bridge – by car, by bike, and on foot – each day, going from Oakland to the South Side, or vice-versa, over the Monongahela River. The bridge, which dates back to 1900, earned its moniker from its original role as the connector that trains used to transport hot metal from one side of the city to the other. It's always considered one of the best bridges in Pittsburgh.
Step back in time when you visit the Neill Log House in Schenley Park. The Neill family originally called the log house, built in 1790, home and it would eventually end up belonging to the Schenley family. The Neill Log House now sits on land in Schenley Park and welcomes visitors by appointment. It's a fascinating abandoned place in Pittsburgh.
8. USS Requin Submarine
USS Requin, Three Rivers Heritage Trail, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA
Finishing up the list of historical places in Pittsburgh is the USS Requin Submarine. Get a firsthand look at the tight quarters in which Navy Sailors lived and worked – often in charge of classified missions – at the end of World War II. The submarine, docked outside of the Carnegie Science Center, promises a unique experience for visitors aboard the United States' Navy's very first Radar Picket submarine. It's one of the most unforgettable attractions in Pittsburgh.
Whether you’re visiting Pittsburgh for the first time or you have lived here all your life, you will certainly find plenty of places to go and learn about our city’s fascinating history. These attractions will keep you entertained throughout the entire year. Do you have a favorite of these attractions? Please let us know in the comments section!
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