Every Wednesday in the newsletter, I bring you along to a different neighborhood. Today, I’m taking you to where Oakland, Greenfield, and Squirrel Hill meet: Schenley Park.
The 456 acres of trails, woods, and attractions was first created in 1889 with land donated by philanthropist Mary Schenley. Mary inherited large tracts of land from her grandfather, local businessman James O’Hara. In 1909, Forbes Field was built nearby — home to the Pirates and Steelers until 1970.
The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy has a handy map to spot trails for biking and hiking, shelters, sports courts, the Bob O’Connor Golf Course, Schenley swimming pool, and views atop Flagstaff Hill.
No stop at Schenley Park is complete without a visit to the bright and verdant displays at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden. The current exhibit is inspired by fashions from Pittsburgh native Billy Porter.
Some bad news: the nearby Oakland institution Fuel and Fuddle’s very last call is on May 26. If you’re looking for a bite after a day of fun at the park, check out The Porch, K-Station BBQ, Tres Amigos, or Asian Tea House in Schenley Plaza.
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