No, those aren’t flurries… it’s February and love is in the air!
To celebrate, we’ve rounded up a list of our favorite spots to share your love of Pittsburgh with the people you love most. The following spots are (in our opinion!) some of the most romantic in the entire city.
And the best part? All but one are free!
If you head to any of these places, we want to see! Please tag @goodfoodpgh and #goodfoodpgh in your pictures.
Free and Romantic Date Spots in Pittsburgh:
Highland Park Reservoir
Pittsburgh has been enjoying the romance of the Highland Park Reservoir for over 100 years! The reservoir was built in 1879 to provide Pittsburgh with clean drinking water – but it immediately became a popular spot for picnics and leisurely strolls. Access the .8 mile loop trail around the water through the scenic Entry Garden. Other amenities in Highland Park include benches, gardens, fountains, swimming pool, volleyball courts, and the Pittsburgh Zoo. The park often hosts events, which can be found online.
Hall of Architecture at the Carnegie Museum of Art
The Hall of Architecture at the CMOA is absolutely crammed – in the best way possible! – with plaster casts of architectural masterpieces from around the world. The hall first opened in 1907 when the trade of plaster casts was very popular (this was pre-Google Images). The hall is very representative of the taste of the time (1907), as plaster casts are rarely made anymore. Sit in the center and appreciate the scale of the pieces, or cozy up in the hidden corners of the room.
Carnegie Museum of Art (4400 Forbes Ave)
Mount Washington Overlook
A list of romantic places in Pittsburgh wouldn’t be complete without Mount Washington. It’s a classic spot in Pittsburgh… and for a good reason! It’s impossible to beat this view. Head to the top of the hill to view the city from 367 feet in the air. There are several observation decks scattered along Grandview Avenue. The best part? The city looks gorgeous day or night!
Aspinwall Riverfront Park
One spot for a unique (but beautiful) view of the city is the Aspinwall Riverfront Park. Soak up the rolling hills of Allegheny County from the banks of the Allegheny River at this public park. While it’s great spot to soak up the sun in the summer, the space is charming in every season (we love the view after a dusting of snow!)
Allegheny Commons Park and Lake Elizabeth
As the oldest park in the city of Pittsburgh, Allegheny Commons has a long legacy of being a tranquil escape from the city. The park is famous for its canopy trees, wide promenades, lush foliage, and spectacular view of Lake Elizabeth. After your stroll around the lake, head to the other side of the park to throw a coin in the newly-renovated Northeast Fountain.
Allegheny Commons Park (810 Arch St)
Rotunda at Union Station
One of the most fantastic examples of Beaux Arts architecture in Pittsburgh is the rotunda in the former Union Train Station (or Penn Train Station, depending on who you ask). The gigantic dome was once the covered entrance for cabs and carriages pulling up to catch a train. Today, no vehicular traffic can pull under through the rotunda, so it’s a great spot to stand and appreciate the sights.
Union Station (1100 Liberty Ave)
Allegheny Observatory
One of Pittsburgh hidden gems is the Allegheny Observatory in Riverview Park. The observatory is now part of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Pittsburgh, but was originally built in 1859 by a private hobby group. Perched up on a hill, the park is a secluded spot for relaxing in the day, and stargazing at night. To access the inside of the building, you’ll need to arrange a tour.
Allegheny Observatory (159 Riverview Ave)
Herr’s Island Bridge
If you’re riding on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, pull off at the Herr’s Island Bridge to access Washington’s Landing – and one of the best (secret!) views of the city.
Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve
Just outside of the city (but totally worth the drive) is Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. A bird watcher’s paradise, the area boasts five miles of trails and 134 acres of sanctuary – including ponds, meadows, playgrounds, shelters, observation platforms, and more. A full map can be viewed online.
Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve (614 Dorseyville Rd)
Carnegie Library of Homestead
This gigantic castle-like building is one of the most imposing and intricate libraries in the city. Inside, guests will find an Athletic Club (open to the public), Music Hall (which frequently hosts live events), and a library (that was established in 1898). Find a cozy nook of the library to hang out, or stroll the impressive grounds to take in the view of the building.
Carnegie Library of Homestead (510 E 10th Ave)
*Bonus* Waterworks Cinemas
While it doesn’t exactly fit in with the other spots on this list, we love the nostalgic feel of the Waterworks Cinemas! The lobby may be totally old-school, but theater seats are the exactly opposite. See: plush, reclining leather chairs. A movie theater that’s actually more comfortable than your sofa at home? You bet!
Waterworks Cinemas (930 Freeport Rd)
Did we forget your favorite spot in Pittsburgh? Don’t fret! Please leave it in the comments below!
Happy Valentine’s Day from Good Food Pittsburgh 💞
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