Hidden (And Not So Hidden) Downtown Green Spaces
Written by Tori Sako
Downtown Pittsburgh isn’t just a concrete jungle. Green spaces exist in almost every sector of The Golden Triangle, whether it’s a smaller square with a couple benches or a busy park that overlooks the conjoining of rivers, there’s a place for everyone to splay out on the green and soak in the sun. Below will overview some of the best secret (or not so secret) green spaces that you can visit next time you’re downtown!
Image Courtesy of Tori Sako
Known to Pittsburghers as “The Point”, the picturesque green space can be found right at the tip of downtown. Home to an expansive lawn, tree-shaded trails, and the historic Fort Pitt Museum, there’s unlimited ways to spend your day at Point State Park. The point offers shady areas to relax, an open lawn space to be active, and even has a food stall for a quick greasy bite or a refreshing drink.
Image Courtesy of Tori Sako
Right across the street from The Point is Gateway Center Park Plaza, which feels like an oasis hidden between the tall city buildings. Canopies of vines, large water features, and blooming hydrangeas fill the secret space, making you want to sit and relax there all day. Whether it’s stopping by on your lunch break or grabbing a book and reading under the shadows of the trees, heading over to Gateway Center Park Plaza is the perfect place to spend your afternoon.
Image Courtesy of Elisabeth Kay
If you’re far away from the point, don’t worry – Frankie Pace Park has you covered! With guided tour signs that explain the history of the park using characters, this is the perfect place to bring kids looking for a new adventure and some outside time. Also one of the best spots to catch some rays in the city, Frankie Pace has unlimited areas to sit and soak up some Vitamin D.
Image Courtesy of Tori Sako
Closer to Point Park University? Head over to Firstside Park and enjoy the shady breeze as you walk their spiral-like trails and relax on the benches surrounded by plants bursting from their boxes. Hidden along the twisty trails are an array of steel sculptures, made to look like whimsical animals like frogs and monkeys or abstract sculptures that take shape to a whole new meaning. Take in the art and the sun at Firstside Park, located in a perfect area for students to stop by in-between classes or for downtown residents to relax and enjoy the greenery.
Image Courtesy of Elisabeth Kay
One of the oldest surviving parks to be built atop a parking garage, Mellon Square, is known as a shady oasis to downtown Pittsburghers. With many events being hosted in the square throughout the seasons, like Paint n’ Sip Nights and Salsa Dancing Lessons, Mellon Square is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or an entertaining evening. Just a block away from the square is Mellon Park, home to a smaller, cozier green space. With a fountain in the center surrounded by benches, the small park is the perfect place to sit and unwind after a long day.
Image Courtesy of Tori Sako
Wanna grab a cup of coffee while you sit and enjoy the greenery? Head over to Commonwealth Place Park/ Gateway Towers Plaza where you’ll find a Yinz Coffee, a local coffee chain with outdoor seating that borders the plaza’s grand fountain and blossoming plants. With many benches scattered around the plaza, there’s room to sit in the sunlight or under the shade, allowing you to gaze at the dazzling fountain or at the surplus of shrubs, trees, and plants.
