Oakland Square, Central Oakland: 23 Oakland Square
Oakland is known for many things: hospitals, universities, restaurants and bars, cultural centers, traffic and construction, and lots of people. Outside of Downtown Pittsburgh, Oakland is the most urban neighborhood in the city. Which is why it’s a pleasant surprise to amble through Oakland Square. Technically, this block-long strip of green is considered a “beautification site” rather than a park, but the overall effect is the same.
With many shade trees and tall ornamental grasses, this surprisingly tranquil space offers a sidewalk and designated paths, likely made for and by dogs and their humans. The Victorian-era homes, in various styles and levels of refurbishment, were built when the well-known Oakland landmarks were new and newsworthy. At the very end of Oakland Square Street, look out and down for the view over Junction Hollow and into Schenley Park. Oakland has experienced significant development over the past 150 years, but the stark elevation changes from this viewpoint have largely remained the same.
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.