Grandview Park, Emerald View Regional Park, Allentown: 499 Bailey Avenue.
Playground parking lot available at McClain Street.
At 1,255 feet above sea level, Grandview Park is perched on one of the City’s highest points. The land for the park was purchased in 1897, and gradually, a picnic shelter (charmingly referred to as a “refectory” on old maps), a music pavilion, and an enclosed merry-go-round were constructed. Walking paths and hiking trails were created. The overlook, which is still used for concerts and outdoor movies, arrived in 1958 and, to this day, offers a picture-perfect spot for enjoying views of Downtown.
Grandview’s design offers activities for all ages and interest levels: playgrounds, benches, a wide paved path to walk, jog, or ride, narrow dirt hiking trails (one of which leads to the neighboring Bigbee Field), city steps, gorgeous scenery, plus lots of official and improvisational public art. Trees are substantial and shady, and while the original refectory is long-gone, you can sit down and enjoy a meal at the sturdy picnic tables.
Love Pittsburgh’s City Steps? Get a Copy of the NEW Book!
City Steps of Pittsburgh: A History & Guide explores the history of the steps and the neighborhoods in which they were built. It also includes 13 guided walks and 20+ locations worth visiting—all with detailed descriptions, directions, and resources for creating your own urban hiking adventure. All areas of Pittsburgh are represented: north, south, east, and west. The book is available through all online shops (including our publisher) and local and independent bookstores.