Allegheny Commons: Pittsburgh’s Oldest Park
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I love all the gorgeous parks surrounding the city of Pittsburgh. Allegheny Common is a tranquil park on the north side dating back to 1867, making it the oldest park in the city. There is plenty of green space here which makes it a great escape from the urban congestion.
It’s also pretty quiet despite its’ beauty and easy accessibility and I’ve never seen too many people all at once. It is located in close proximity to the historic Mexican War Streets and Allegheny Center neighborhood, making it the perfect leafy destination for locals to enjoy a morning, walk, bike ride, or run.
I typically enjoy a pastry and cup of joe at a local coffeehouse called Commonplace and then take a stroll around the lake. It’s the perfect relaxed weekend activity when I am not up for a lengthy hike or bike ride. I especially enjoy taking a stroll around the grounds during the pretty fall season when all the trees turn bright hues of orange and red.
As for tourists, this park is located nearby several popular attractions including The National Aviary, Randyland (a creative outdoor art exhibit), and Bicycle Heaven, the world’s largest bicycle shop and museum. I recommend checking out all 3 of these attractions if you have time. Randyland is free and The Aviary can be visited for free if you check out a pass at the library via the RAD program.
The park’s rich history
The park was established as a common pasture in 1787. Of the original 84 acres, 100 remain. In 1867, Allegheny City officially designated the space as a park. The highlight of the park is Lake Elizabeth, named after Elizabeth Kirschler, daughter of the last mayor of Allegheny City. The beautiful pedestrian bridge over the water creates a pretty Central Park-like appeal.
You will see several historical monuments as you stroll around. Highlights include: a Civil War Soldier’s monument, a Thomas Armstrong statue (advocate for worker’s rights), a WWI and II memorial, and a George Washington Statue dating back to 1891.
A peaceful summer walking destination
I would say the spring and summer is the best time to take a stroll around the park. The temps will be attractive and the leaves green, wildlife out and about, and the lake full. Take a few looks at this historic gem during the prime season. As you can see from my photos, it is a quiet and clean space.
Leaf peeping season offers the best scenery
This park is one of my favorite leaf peeping destinations in the metro area, although really anywhere there are a lot of trees you will see beautiful color this time of year. The mature trees at this park are alive with colorful red, orange, and yellow hues of the season each October. I just love the way the trees frame the lake and line the trails.
There are so many beautiful deciduous trees within the park, creating a picture-perfect fall setting. The historic houses surrounding the park also add a nice timeless touch. This park is especially quiet and it’s easy to find free street parking, so really there is no better place to take a relaxing autumn stroll.
Fall is in the air. So beautiful!
Location/parking
The park is located at: 810 Arch St. Plenty of free street parking is available.
Where to fuel up before your walk
Before your walk, enjoy a delicious cup of locally roasted coffee at Commonplace, one of the my favorite independent coffeehouses in the metro. The shop is located in the middle of the historic Mexican War Streets neighborhood, so the setting is so much more authentic than your typical strip mall coffeeshop.
Commonplace features huge windows so you can gaze out at the lovely architecture. Or take a seat on their shady patio during the warmer months. Treat yourself to a coffee drink of your choice and a delicious pastry (the coffee cake, muffins, and croissants are all worthy of a splurge).
Monterey Pub is another gem in the Mexican War Streets neighborhood. I first visited this historic pub after the St. Patrick’s Day parade, but I recommend stopping here any time of the year for a pint of Guinness and Fish and Chips! The setting is so dark and cozy and the food excellent!
Nearby attractions worth looking into
Randyland – This free outdoor art exhibit is quite strange, yet colorful and unusual. It will not take up much of your time and may be worth considering if you appreciate eclectic art. Not my style, but to each his own.
National Aviary – The country’s largest aviary is home to over 500 birds including 150 species. It’s so lush and green year-round and a great place for birdwatchers to add to their bucket list!
Bicycle Heaven – Take a walk through this funky museum which features an impressive collection of vintage and movie bikes. Bicycle Heaven claims the title of “world’s largest bicycle museum and shop.” Note that it used to be free but they recently started charging $15 per person following a damaging flood.
