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City Cast Pittsburgh

Kevin Gavin

Test your knowledge of PA-made candy 🍭🍫🍬

Hershey Co. is a leading chocolate manufacturer in the U.S. (

Mia Natoli at Walnut Capital

One of the best things about living in Pittsburgh is that every neighborhood has its own personality. Whether you're looking for a walkable community near major employers, easy access to dining and entertainment, or a quieter neighborhood with plenty of local charm, there's a Pittsburgh neighborhood that fits your lifestyle.

, Pittsburgh offers a variety of places to call home—all with unique amenities, local businesses, and attractions that make everyday living convenient and enjoyable.

Here's a closer look at some of Pittsburgh's most popular neighborhoods and nearby Walnut Capital communities.

If convenience is at the top of your list, Bakery Square is hard to beat.

Located in Pittsburgh's East End, Bakery Square has become one of the city's most dynamic mixed-use destinations. The neighborhood combines office space, shopping, dining, fitness studios, entertainment, and residential living into one highly walkable community.

Major employers such as Google Pittsburgh, Duolingo, and nearby UPMC offices have helped transform Bakery Square into a center for innovation and business. But what truly makes the neighborhood stand out is how easy it is to enjoy daily life.

Grab coffee before work, meet friends for dinner after hours, stop by a fitness class, or run errands without needing to travel far from home. The neighborhood's walkability and convenience make it easy to fit more into your day.

 places residents steps from shopping, dining, entertainment, and fitness options.

Residents enjoy easy access to neighborhood amenities while living in a modern apartment community designed for convenience and connectivity. Whether you're heading to work, grabbing coffee, or enjoying a night out, everything you need is right outside your front door.

East Liberty: Walkable and Full of Energy

 offers a vibrant mix of historic character and modern development.

Over the last decade, East Liberty has evolved into one of Pittsburgh's most active neighborhoods, filled with local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, grocery stores, and entertainment options. The neighborhood's central location also provides easy access to nearby destinations including Shadyside, Oakland, Lawrenceville, and Bakery Square.

East Liberty's walkability makes it easy to enjoy everything the neighborhood has to offer. Residents can spend the day shopping locally, meeting friends for brunch, or exploring the area's growing dining scene.

 provides convenient access to everything East Liberty has to offer.

Located near neighborhood restaurants, shopping destinations, grocery stores, and public transportation, the community makes everyday errands and activities easily accessible. Residents enjoy a comfortable residential setting while remaining connected to some of Pittsburgh's most popular destinations.

Downtown Pittsburgh: The Center of It All

For those who enjoy being in the middle of Pittsburgh's action, Downtown offers unmatched convenience.

Home to major employers, restaurants, cultural attractions, sports venues, and entertainment destinations, Downtown Pittsburgh provides a truly walkable urban lifestyle.

Living Downtown means having easy access to Market Square, the Cultural District, public transportation, and some of Pittsburgh's most iconic destinations. Whether you're attending a concert, catching a Pirates game, meeting friends for dinner, or simply enjoying the city skyline, there's always something happening nearby.

The neighborhood's accessibility also makes commuting simple, with multiple public transit options and easy connections to surrounding neighborhoods.

 offers convenient access to Downtown Pittsburgh's restaurants, employers, entertainment venues, and public transit options.

Residents enjoy living within walking distance of many of the city's most popular destinations while experiencing the character and charm of a historic building.

 combines historic architecture with modern apartment living.

Located in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh, residents enjoy easy access to Market Square, local dining, sporting events, entertainment venues, and business districts. The building's preserved architectural details create a unique living experience while maintaining all the conveniences of city living.

South Side: Riverfront Living, Local Favorites, and City Convenience

 is one of Pittsburgh's most recognizable neighborhoods, known for its mix of historic character, riverfront views, local businesses, and vibrant energy.

Stretching along the Monongahela River, the neighborhood offers a unique blend of old and new. Historic architecture sits alongside modern developments, while local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, fitness studios, and entertainment venues create a lively atmosphere throughout the year.

Located near the South Side Works district, 

 offers convenient access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreation.

Residents are steps from riverfront trails, local restaurants, fitness studios, and neighborhood attractions while remaining connected to major employment centers throughout Pittsburgh. The location makes it easy to enjoy both everyday conveniences and weekend activities without traveling far from home.

 combines modern apartment living with a location rooted in Pittsburgh history.

Named after the historic Jones & Laughlin Steel Company, the property pays tribute to the neighborhood's industrial heritage while offering contemporary conveniences. Residents enjoy easy access to South Side restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, entertainment venues, and riverfront trails.

With its central location and connection to one of Pittsburgh's most iconic neighborhoods, Jones Tower offers convenient access to everything that makes the South Side a popular place to live.

Squirrel Hill: Neighborhood Charm and Everyday Convenience

 offers a different pace while still providing easy access to the city.

Weekends in Squirrel Hill often involve visits to local cafés, exploring neighborhood shops, or spending time outdoors at nearby parks and recreation areas.

The neighborhood's balance of local amenities and green spaces makes it a popular destination for those seeking both convenience and neighborhood character.

Known for its tree-lined streets, local businesses, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, Squirrel Hill remains one of Pittsburgh's most beloved neighborhoods. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, walkable commercial districts, and convenient access to nearby universities, hospitals, and East End employment centers.

 offer a convenient home base within one of Pittsburgh's most established neighborhoods.

Residents enjoy easy access to parks, coffee shops, restaurants, universities, hospitals, and everyday essentials. The location provides a balance of neighborhood charm and city accessibility, making daily routines simple and convenient.

 offers a convenient location near both Squirrel Hill and Shadyside, providing easy access to shopping, dining, fitness studios, and entertainment.

With nearby public transportation options and walkable access to neighborhood amenities, residents can easily enjoy everything the surrounding area has to offer. The location places some of Pittsburgh's most popular destinations within easy reach while maintaining a comfortable residential atmosphere.

 offers a unique opportunity to live near one of Pittsburgh's most iconic green spaces.

Residents enjoy easy access to walking trails, outdoor recreation, local restaurants, coffee shops, and nearby business districts. The property's location combines urban convenience with direct access to park amenities, creating a lifestyle that makes it easy to enjoy both city living and the outdoors.

Shadyside: Shopping, Dining, and Walkability

 continues to be one of Pittsburgh's most sought-after neighborhoods thanks to its walkability, dining options, shopping destinations, and central location.

The neighborhood features a mix of historic charm and modern convenience, with bustling commercial districts lined with boutiques, cafés, fitness studios, and restaurants.

Shadyside's location provides easy access to Oakland, East Liberty, Bakery Square, and Downtown Pittsburgh, making it a convenient place to live while staying connected to the rest of the city.

Whether you're grabbing coffee on Walnut Street, shopping locally, or enjoying dinner with friends, Shadyside offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy city living close to home.

Pittsburgh Neighborhood Guide: Finding the Right Fit for Your Lifestyle

Tips and tricks for living your best Pittsburgh life, by locals, for locals.

Pittsburgh Life Hacks

Francesca Dabecco

Laura Tsutsui

⏪ Looking for a previous Pittsburgh crossword? Find it here:

A crossword puzzle all about Pittsburgh news and fun facts. 

Can You Fill Out This Pittsburgh Crossword Puzzle?

Try This Pittsburgh Crossword Puzzle

What Pittsburghers have been wondering. We break down why things in Pittsburgh are the way they are and how they work.

Pittsburgh, Explained

If you’re hoping to reach new heights (pun intended), then Pittsburgh is a great place to rock climb. Here’s a look at where you can climb year-round in the Steel City.

 Most gyms aren’t just for climbing! Some offer yoga and fitness classes and have traditional gym equipment like squat racks, treadmills, and stationary bikes to keep you moving.

On your first visit, you’ll sign a waiver and get a tour from a staff member who will point out basic gym do’s and don’ts and where to find equipment and classes. From there, staff will review how to fall safely (there is a 

If you’re ready to hop on the walls, then bouldering – a climbing style that doesn’t use ropes or harnesses – is a great place to start. Just grab your shoes and go!

If you want to top rope (aka, climb with ropes), you can use auto-belays that let you clip in and climb, or climb with a friend who’s passed the gym’s belay test.

What’s the difference between top roping and bouldering? I like to think of top rope climbing like running a 5K: It requires endurance, stamina, and a comfort with heights. Bouldering is more like sprinting: you need power and technique to stay on the (much shorter) walls.

 Gyms usually have shoes and harnesses for rent. You can also buy your own in most gyms’ pro shops, or find a good deal on a secondhand pair online or at an outdoor store like 

Ascend ushered in the city’s latest climbing wave in 2017. Both its facilities have walls for bouldering and top roping, though the walls in Point Breeze are higher (up to 42 feet for top roping) and offer lead climbing for more advanced folks. Ascend regularly hosts free climb time for affinity groups, like women and femmes and LGBTQ+ climbers, and organizes interest clubs such as “Sustainability Club” and “Peak Parents” where climbers can take turns belaying kids. Check the 

Look for bouldering and yoga classes, plus private coaching if you’re interested in one-on-one support. ICB hosts great events including monthly “

” where day passes are discounted to $15 and the gym invites food and drink vendors, musicians, and more for a block-party vibe. ICB also offers 

 for PPS students and the occasional “Student Rush” discount night for college students.

My former spot! It’s bouldering only, and sadly it’s closing at the end of the month. Until then, you can still take climbing and yoga classes per usual. FA also hosts weekly discounted sessions like Wednesday night College Climb and Sunday Family Climb Time. And look out for their “Send Off” party and community competition Saturday, Aug. 29. When you visit, make sure to park in the garage by the Sheraton Hotel and bring your ticket in for staff to validate – parking is free for four hours with validation.

This 33-year-old gym north of Pittsburgh offers bouldering and auto-belays to get climbers on the walls. Climb North also offers youth options if you’re also bringing kids into the gym, including a home-schooling meetup every Monday and weeklong summer camps.

Outdoor climbing typically means traversing real rocks, but you can get the indoor bouldering experience with colored-coded holds and varying grades at Boyce Park’s new outdoor climbing walls. The park is also home to many playgrounds, trails, an off-leash dog park, and bicycle pump track; you could spend the whole day there trying something new!

Pittsburgh's Best Climbing Gyms

Where To Climb in Pittsburgh 

Find the best of everything that Pittsburgh has to offer.

Pittsburgh’s Best

Pittsburgh's Best

Close out the summer with food festivals, free outdoor fun, and mini-golf courses galore.

Pittsburgh-area golf courses may be some of the 

, but not all of us are looking to walk miles over 9 holes – at least, not me. For my kindred spirits, you have an array of options for miniature golf.

 to munch on during your session including “The Fluffernutter” and “Cereal and Berries.” Forsythe also hosts 

 of the summer is on Aug. 12. It’s free to play and open to all! And the Westmoreland Museum of American Art has art-themed holes to play 

If you loved Picklesburgh, the food portmanteaus continue: 

to Southside Works on Aug. 30. In addition to more than 15 food trucks and vendors, I’m most excited for another mechanical bull 

 and the promise of an Oscar Mayer Wienermobile sighting.

Perhaps you prefer pizza, pasta, and cannoli in your diet. If so, check out 

. It returns to Bloomfield Aug. 13-16 and includes local vendors, “celebrity” bocce, a neighborhood pizza contest and Vito from The Sopranos (seriously).

If ice cream is your love language (mine too) then you’re due for a visit to the 

 in Latrobe, the dessert’s birthplace, Aug. 22 and 23.

We’re not yet done with outdoor music! 

Allegheny County’s Summer Concert Series

 continues at South Park on Friday nights and Hartwood Aces on Sunday evenings. You can also check out 

 in Mount Washington on Saturdays and enjoy 

Some tips for maximum comfort: Bring a folding chair or blanket to claim your space. While there are local food and drink vendors, you can also bring your own spread: I love to prepare a mocktail in a cold thermos and pack Penn Mac meat and cheeses in a lunch box.

 at Phipps Conservatory on Aug. 20. You can shop every era amid Phipps’ whimsical Alice in Wonderland show! Vendors will be selling clothing, furniture, jewelry, and housewares. As someone building a personal Pyrex collection, I’ll be on the hunt for new-to-me 

Other maker-markets to shop this month are 

Take your four-legged child to Raccoon Creek State Park for a 

 where they can become a certified “B.A.R.K. Ranger.”

If you’d rather stay close to home, try an activity with 

, there are tons of great options. Plus, the city’s rangers also host kid-friendly programs and 

 on Aug. 15 to find even more outdoor-specific resources. The event at Allegheny Commons will host family-friendly activities, environmental education, games, music, food, and more. If you participated in any three events from 

, don't forget to bring your passport to get free Millie's ice cream.

More Free Outdoor Adventures

August in Pittsburgh: Mini golf, outdoor hikes and activities, BaconBurgh, Little Italy Days, the Great American Banana Split Celebration, outdoor concerts, and more. 

The Best Pittsburgh Events in August 2026

5 Things To Do in Pittsburgh in August 2026

Crafts aren’t just for kids – they can be wonderful 

. Whether you’re an established crocheter or knitter or just starting to get hooked, look no further than your local yarn shop. Now’s the perfect time to plan a visit because we're at the start of the 

Shops are hosting special pop-ups and giving away prizes throughout the crawl! Get started by picking up a Yarn Crawl Passport (which you can find at any of these shops), and collecting stamps from every spot you visit.

Keep in mind: Most of the store hours vary day to day, so check online before you make the trip. Some have 

This fiber craft store offers supplies and classes that get into specific techniques and skills, like Tunisian crochet, tapestry weaving, and how to use a drum carder. The Craft Room also hosts events, including a crafting happy hour every Wednesday.

On Oakmont’s main drag just east of Pittsburgh, you’ll run into this cozy space that hosts Open Stitch Group every Tuesday and Thursday. 

 they carry, including a few local PA ones!

This shop sells yarns of all colors and weights, along with tools for crocheting and knitting. It's run by a mother daughter-duo and hosts classes and meet ups every week.

Find yarn, knitting needles, and other tools at this shop that feels more like a cozy 

 than a store. In addition to beginner walk-in classes, it’s also hosting a 

 where knitters can gather on a regular basis to work on the same project (and troubleshoot if things get tricky).

This space north of Pittsburgh has yarns and, as its name suggests, bits and bobs like crochet hooks, knitting needles, stitch counters, buttons and more. The shop hosts open craft-time on Fridays and Sundays, and runs a 

 series to connect makers with fellow artists, designers, and industry professionals. It just celebrated five years in business!

If you’re handier with a needle and thread, then a visit to 

 is in order. The Morningside shop sells notions (needles and other tools and accessories) and a variety of fabrics. (I’m eyeing some colorful options to make baby blankets for the new parents in my life. How 

 which hosts sewing and quilting classes for adults and children.

 in Point Breeze which accepts donated materials of all kinds: yarn, paper, fabric, and more. You may have to make the craft fit the medium, but the challenge can be part of the fun!

The best yarn shops in Pittsburgh

Feeling Crafty? Check Out These Pittsburgh Yarn Shops

Morningside’s quaint, residential streets are sandwiched between Highland Park and Stanton Heights and stretch along the Allegheny River. When I stopped by the local coffee shop, there was a bevy of older men smoking cigars and sipping their morning brew. I asked if they’re regulars and one responded: “We come here every day and talk about things that happened 50 years ago.”

 is a sweet little shop on Chislett Street that serves coffee, tea, and smoothies alongside breakfast and lunch bites like quiche, crumpets, and salads. Don’t pass on their desserts like the honey corn cake.

Want a fun spot to watch a World Cup game? Head to 

 on Morningside Avenue, named after the legendary 

 of the 1950s-1970s. This unpretentious bar is great for craft beers, “sammitches,” wings … and feeding your soccer obsession. Televisions line the wall so everyone has a great view, and the energy is unmatched as you’re standing shoulder to shoulder with fellow fans.

Whether you’re looking for patterns, supplies, or textiles, 

 offers a variety of materials to meet your sewing needs. Follow their 

 to stay up to date on offers like scissor sharpening and other services. Want to sew but don’t know how? Take a class with 

And while you can’t buy chocolates on site, 

 is based in Morningside, and their classic-meets-adventurous flavors make the perfect gift for any occasion. Head to their 

Grab coffee at Kafair, take a sewing class, watch a soccer game, and more in Pittsburgh's Morningside.

Get To Know Morningside Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Get To Know Morningside

Everything to know about Pittsburgh neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

Pittsburgh Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

City Cast Pittsburgh Staff

Have you done any self care lately? We’ve got tips on our favorite Pittsburgh spa treatments below ⬇️

This is a small practice with just one massage therapist — Charlotte — and I have nothing but glowing reviews for them! Their space is so cozy, and Charlotte checked in with me throughout the session to make sure everything felt great. Take your pick from therapeutic, hot stones, or a pregnancy massage, or try a seasonal herbal bodywork treatment. Plus, Interwoven Wellness has a sliding scale for therapeutic massages, so if the $100 base price is too high for you, consider the $60-$90 option.

 with food from brothmonger. What could be better than unwinding with one of my favorite restaurants in Pittsburgh?

The head spa and blow dry bar offers scalp treatments, hair growth programs, and luxury blowouts. I went for 

, which comes with a scalp analysis, aromatherapy, light massages, and a classic dry and style. There's a small fee for thick or long hair like mine, and it's worth being honest so the stylist can treat you right. They'll also help you capture your experience (like before and after photos) if you're into that — the vibes are extremely social media friendly, and the halo hair washing situation feels as fun as it looks. They also offer bevvies before your service and while you get your style.

halotherapy room at Victory Float Lounge’s

 Sewickley location, aka “the salt room.” I imagine it’s like embracing your inner lizard in the best way.

With hot tubs, cold plunges, and several types of saunas, this wellness studio lets you choose your own 

. The sisters who run the space offer guidance to help you get the most out of your experience, but you're free to rotate through at whatever pace and in whatever order feels best to you. I especially loved the steam sauna, which instantly relieved the tension and soreness in my muscles. Drop in for an individual session, become a member, or check out 

. Getting wrapped in a cocoon of warm mud or exfoliated with a "frothy minty-lime lathering sugar scrub"? Sign me up!

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop to try all kinds of treatments, head to 

, located right along the Ohio River. I’m a regular here (but honestly, not as regular as I’d like to be!). Relax with a customized massage, alleviate muscle tension with cupping, improve circulation with acupuncture, find natural remedies with an herbal consult, and more. 

 to find a practitioner that best fits you, and be on the lookout for some exciting new offerings. On my last visit, staff said they’ll soon be adding float tanks!

. (Yes, it’s the same place, but I can’t hype them up enough.) If you’re nervous about needles or not sure about the cost, this is a more accessible and affordable option. Multiple patients are treated at the same time in a comfortable setting for a lower cost.

— Senior newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco

More Spa Ideas Here!

Relax with a full body massage, get a head spa treatment, or sink into a hot tub at these Pittsburgh self-care spots.

The Best Spa Treatments and and Self Care Experiences in Pittsburgh

Our Favorite Spa Treatments in Pittsburgh

, with an extra day and expanded footprint stretching from two sister bridges to the new Arts Landing, Market Square, and PPG Plaza. Enjoy pickled food, participate in Dill-cathlon Games, and shop from local vendors, July 16-19. New this year: Play a game of pickleball on freshly-painted courts at Arts Landing.

From emerging local talent to regional headliners, the 

 brings together community and good tunes at a free, three-day celebration, July 10-12. Check out music, food, artists, and more in Pittsburgh’s historic East Allegheny neighborhood. Psst! Here are more 

Honor Pittsburgh’s Legacy for America 250

, so it’s no surprise that Pittsburgh will go big for America 250 celebrations on the Fourth of July. Here’s 

 — like a Ferris Wheel ride, free live music, an art exhibit, and more.

Shop Local at The Great Pittsburgh Book Crawl

 — nine straight days of book shopping, July 18-26. Grab your passport at any participating store, and get stamps to win raffle prizes. It’s the perfect excuse to explore some of Pittsburgh’s 

July in Pittsburgh: Northside Music Festival, Picklesburgh, Great Pittsburgh Book Crawl, Goat Fest, and more.

The Best Events in Pittsburgh in July 2026

7 Things To Do in Pittsburgh in July 2026

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