Point State Park
601 Commonwealth Pl, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222
Sitting at the confluence of three rivers, Point State Park is one of Pittsburgh’s most beloved landmarks. With a fabulous public fountain, excellent trails, boating, fishing, and kayaking opportunities, and even ruins of 18th-century forts—never mind the great views in nearly all directions—this is one Pittsburgh spot where there’s plenty to see and do.
The basics
Point State Park sits where the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers converge to form the Ohio River. Given its strategic location, the park is also a National Historic Landmark—four different forts were built here in the mid-1700s, one of which (Fort Pitt) has been turned into a museum. This spot is meticulously maintained, equal parts historic and gorgeous—a favorite on plenty of city sightseeing tours, including hop-on, hop-off tours.
Things to know before you go
- Point State Park is free to visit, though you may run into fees for some things, like parking and museum access.
- Look for granite outlines on the ground—those mark the spot of 18th-century forts.
- The park is entirely accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, with drop-off parking available.
How to get there
If you can handle a 20-minute walk, public transportation is a good way to avoid the Pittsburgh traffic—the nearest light-rail stop is Gateway Center (it’s free to ride the light rail in the city’s “Golden Triangle”). Otherwise, the park does have a designated, fee-based parking lot along Commonwealth Place. Metered street parking and various city parking garages are options, too.
When to get there
Point State Park is typically open from sunrise to sunset. If you’re interested in visiting the on-site Fort Pitt Museum, it’s open daily (except for some holidays), but for shorter hours. Beyond that, the park’s great to visit anytime, though the earlier in the morning the better, if you’d like to avoid the crowds.
A view from on high
While Point State Park is an absolute must-visit in Pittsburgh, some of the park’s best views come from the air. Ride the historic Duquesne Incline, a funicular railway with bright yellow cars, up the side of Mount Washington. You’ll get to see the park from above, the city’s bridges, and the confluence of all that water.
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