We, Pittsburghers, know the city pretty well. We know the best places to eat, the best places to spend a leisurely afternoon, and the best times to avoid the parkway. And, we're usually willing to share all the attractions we know and love with visitors. But, some of those attractions remain, well, hidden. Here are eight hidden attractions that, for whatever reason, Pittsburghers seem to keep to themselves.
1. Arsenal Bowl – 212 44th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Escape reality for a few glorious hours at Arsenal Bowl. The popular bowling alley offers far more than bowling. Join in karaoke or eat such delicious food as pizza, burgers, fries, hot dogs, and more. Arsenal Bowling welcomes guests Monday through Thursday from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m., Friday from 12 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
2. Pittsburgh Botanic Garden – 799 Pinkerton Run Rd, Oakdale, PA 15071
The fairy tale Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, complete with fairy houses, promises a delightful adventure no matter what time of the year you visit. The 60 acre garden boasts three miles of walking trails. Stroll along the trails, where you'll pass woodlands, go over stepping stones, and have the opportunity to sit in a giant bird's nest. Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
3. Laurel Hill State Park
Nestled in Somerset, Laurel Hill State Park offers plenty to do all year around. Go for a picturesque winter hike or snowmobiling when the snow falls. Lounge on the beach, go boating or kayaking, or star gaze during the warmer months. Laurel Hill State Park is open from sunrise to sunset all year around.
4. Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve – 614 Dorseyville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Explore some of the 134 acres of pure natural beauty at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. The Fox Chapel attraction features nine hiking trails totaling five miles. Keep an eye out for the residents - deer, raccoons, and red fox - as you stroll along the trails. Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
5. Fall Run Waterfall – 187 Fall Run Road, Glenshaw, PA 15116
Hidden in Glenshaw, Fall Run Park features plenty to do, including hiking, a playground, and a picnic pavilion. The masterpiece of the park, however, is undoubtedly the spectacular Fall Run waterfall. Stroll down a peaceful path that leads to the spellbinding Fall Run.
6. The Hollywood Theater – 1449 Potomac Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15216
Step back to the 1920s when you take in a movie at the Hollywood Theater in Dormont. The one-screen theater shows the latest films as well as the classics. Sundays at the Hollywood Theater mean breakfast and a movie. The next breakfast and a movie will feature White Christmas on December 17.
7. Arcade Comedy Theater – 943 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Laugh until your sides hurt at Arcade Comedy Theater. The theater promises plenty to do for the whole family. Adults can watch a comedy show or bring the kids to the kid-centric Penny Arcade, interactive comedy shows on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. Or, learn how to make others laugh by signing up for one of the theater's classes or workshops.
8. The Allegheny Observatory – 159 Riverview Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15214
Get an inside look at the University of Pittsburgh's research center, the Allegheny Observatory, during the spring and summer months. Guests watch an introductory video before embarking on a free tour of the research facility. Then, when the weather permits, the tour culminates with a bit of stargazing with one of the observatory's telescopes.
Pittsburgh has plenty of hidden attractions we yinzers keep to ourselves. What others would you add to the list? Here are 10 roadside attractions around the Burgh that just might make you do a double take.
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