Olympia Park, Mount Washington: 967 Virginia Avenue, parking on Hallock Street
Just like us, dogs greatly benefit from playing and exploring outside. While all city parks allow canine friends to visit as long as they are leashed, there are eight specialized “off-leash exercise areas” (OLEAs) where running free is allowed. Olympia Park in Mount Washington is one of them and provides a fenced, grassy space with seating for humans, shady spots, and a basket of complimentary toys (in memory of Lucy, RIP). The OLEA wasn’t active when I visited, but online photos show it can be a popular spot for socialization and exercise.
In addition to the dog park, Olympia offers a playground, several athletic fields, and a newly restored community center that can be rented for all sorts of occasions (wedding receptions! graduation parties! official-looking business meetings!). But best of all, Olympia is nestled between historic Chatham Village and an entrance to the Emerald View Park hiking trail, making it a very attractive option for anyone wanting to see more of this section of Mount Washington.
And while dog parks are wonderful places, they’re even better when you bring a furry pal! Fortunately, the good folks at Humane Animal Rescue can help anyone looking to adopt or foster. They can help match you with a sweet doggie who would love nothing better than to play catch on open green grass and accompany you on your Pittsburgh adventures.
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.