Duquesne Incline

The Basics

The incline is one of the world’s oldest continuously operating funiculars. You can board at either the upper or lower station, though most passengers choose to ride up to Mount Washington from the lower station. At the top you’ll find a museum with exhibits about inclines around the world and Pittsburgh history. Visit the machine room for a glimpse into the funicular’s inner workings. Some Pittsburgh sightseeing tours include a guided ride on the incline.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The incline only accepts cash (exact change) or Port Authority passes and tickets. A change machine is available.

• Senior passengers aged 65 and older ride for free.

• The only available restroom is a portable one outside the lower station.

• The upper station and observation deck are wheelchair accessible, but the lower station is not. Call ahead to confirm wheelchair accessibility, as the station is sometimes closed for construction.

• Wheelchairs up to 25 inches wide can fit on the cable cars.

How to Get There

The Duquesne Incline has two stations, though most passengers boarding at the lower station at 1197 West Carson Street, where paid parking is available. Wheelchair users board at the upper station, located at 1220 Grandview Ave.

When to Get There

The Duquesne Incline is open every day, all year round, from very early in the morning until late at night, with slightly shortened hours on Sundays and holidays. Weekend afternoons are the busiest time, so ride on a weekday if you want to avoid waiting in line.

Downtown Pittsburgh Attractions

The Duquesne Incline is just a few minutes drive from downtown Pittsburgh. After you’re ride, roll through the city streets on a Segway tour to see ’Burgh landmarks like Heinz Field, PNC Park, and Market Square. The Carnegie Science Center and Children’s Museum are a hit with families, while the Heinz History Center and Fort Pitt Museum give you another opportunity to learn about the city’s history.

Ways to explore

Book a Pittsburgh sightseeing tour that includes a guided ascent on the Duquesne Incline, or ride on your own after taking in the city’s highlights. You can board at either the upper or lower station, though most passengers choose to ride up to Mt. Washington from the lower station located at West Carson Street. Once you reach the top, visit the museum and engine room, snap photos of the views from the overlook, and pick up souvenirs at the gift shop before exploring the charming hilltop neighborhood, bursting with shops, restaurants, and parks.

Accessibility

The Duquesne Incline’s upper station and overlook are accessible to some wheelchairs, though there are steps at the lower station.

Age limits

Kids love to ride this historic cable car up to the top of Mt. Washington, where family-friendly parks await.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, cash (the fare cannot be paid by credit card)

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, layers

Not allowed

Tickets cannot be reserved in advance or online, and must be purchased in cash at the station entrance.

Amenities

Museum, scenic overlook, gift shop, change machines

Address 

The Duquesne Incline has two stations, though most passengers board at the lower station, which is easier to reach by car and public transportation.

Driving

Take I-376 west from downtown Pittsburgh over the river to West Carson Street. Turn onto West Station Square Drive, where there’s a large public parking area.

Public transportation

Take PRT bus route G2 from downtown Pittsburgh, which crosses the river and stops directly in front of the Duquesne Incline lower station.

Best times to visit

Midday crowds mean you may have to wait around 10 minutes to board, so plan to ride in the morning or late afternoon to avoid a long line.

Best days to visit

Ride from Monday to Friday to bypass the weekend rush and get a better view as you ascend the slope to Mt. Washington.

Best months to visit

The views are especially pretty in late spring and early fall, when the skies are clear and the city flora is in full bloom.

Special events

This panoramic public transportation option is especially scenic during the July 4th and November Light Up The Night fireworks displays.