Most non-natives arguably know Pittsburgh for its stunning skyline, fiercely loyal sports fans, and esteemed universities, such as Carnegie Mellon University. But beyond downtown Pittsburgh lie countless culturally diverse neighborhoods, each with a personality and a beauty all of its own. Here are the eight most beautiful neighborhoods in Pittsburgh:
1. Squirrel Hill
Tree lined streets define Squirrel Hill which is, as you'd expect, at the top of a hill just outside of the city. A culturally diverse neighborhood, Squirrel Hill provides the perfect way to wile away the day. Stroll through the locally-owned shops on Forbes Avenue and Murray Avenue. Dine at one of its quaint restaurants. Catch a movie at the Manor Theatre or head to Blue Slide Park with cardboard in tow, so you can slip down the slides.
2. Shadyside
Put your pooch on her leash and head over to Shadyside where dogs are as welcome as their human companions in many of the neighborhood's shops and restaurants, the latter of which means dining outdoors, of course. Be sure to visit Roslyn Street, the last wooden street in Pittsburgh which is made of approximately 26,000 wooden blocks.
3. Highland Park
Enjoy the proverbial life in the big city while simultaneously embracing a closeness of community in Highland Park, a sprawling neighborhood that is home to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. Nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers flock to Highland Park, a spectacular park with a water fountain, bike and walking trails, and gardens.
4. Regent Square
Popular with both university students and families, Regent Square offers easy accessibility to downtown Pittsburgh and plenty to do. With more than 640 acres, Frick Park, perhaps the centerpiece of Regent Square, features children's playgrounds, hiking trails, a baseball diamond, tennis courts, and the state's lone public lawn bowling green.
5. Oakmont
Oakmont may be best known by dessert lovers for The Oakmont Bakery, and golf fans will recognize the Oakmont Country Club, which hosts the U.S. Open in 2016. The brick streets, lined with intimate restaurants and quaint shops, combined with the small town friendliness and hospitality of Oakmonters promises a lovely way to spend an afternoon or an evening.
6. Mount Lebanon
Mount Lebanon – Lebo, to the natives – boasts some of the area's finest schools and plenty to do all year – skating at Mount Lebanon Ice Center, swimming at Mount Lebanon Swim Center, and golfing at the Mount Lebanon Golf Course. With its picturesque homes and rolling hills, Mount Lebo exudes old-fashioned charm.
7. Mount Washington
A financially diverse neighborhood that overlooks the sleek Pittsburgh skyline, Mount Washington features spectacular views from the Mount Washington Overlook and numerous restaurants, including Monterey Bay Fish Grotto and Altius. Emerald View Park, the city's newest park with plenty of lush greenery, surrounds Mount Washington and spans over 250 acres with 20 different walking trails, each leading to different Pittsburgh neighborhoods.
8. Bloomfield
Known as Pittsburgh's Little Italy, Bloomfield promises a delicious dining experience whether you're in the mood for Italian, Japanese, Thai, or old-fashioned American diner food. An affordable neighborhood with easy access to The University of Pittsburgh, Bloomfield hosts Little Italy Days each August where Pittsburghers and visitors can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, sports, and entertainment.
Okay, Pittsburghers, what do you think? What other communities should be on the list of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Pittsburgh and why?
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