The borough of Sharpsburg — a little river town about five miles northeast of Downtown — has a rich industrial history, but prior to colonialism, the land belonged to the Seneca people. One in particular, Guyasuta, was a hunter guide for George Washington and is honored with a statue in the plaza.
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Sharpsburg was also the original home of Henry John Heinz. In 1852, at the age of 8, H.J. started selling vegetables grown in his family garden to neighbors. By 12, he was farming more than three acres and specializing in horseradish, and by his 60s, when the U.S. was entering World War I, Heinz was heading a multimillion-dollar, international company.
Eat & Drink
Sugar Spell Scoops is the only all-vegan ice cream shop in town. Their small-batch, cashew-based treats come in seasonal flavors like pumpkin cinnamon roll, freckled coffee crisp, and strawberry cheesecake.
Mindy’s Take & Bake is for the folks who want a home-cooked meal to-go. Once you place your order from Mindy’s weekly menu, you can pick it up at the shop or have it delivered to your door on Saturday (within a 20-mile radius).
The barista counter at Redhawk Coffee. (Francesca Dabecco / City Cast Pittsburgh)
Shop
Tal & Bert is for plant lovers and DIYers interested in workshops. The store is led by Sharpsburg residents Ray and Val Talbert, who combined their love of the outdoors, mining, and art to create unique geode planters and candles.
Second Harvest Thrift Store is a great stop for secondhand shoppers. The nonprofit reinvests profits into community efforts — like the community fridge outside of its building.
Go, See, Do!
Ketchup City Creative makes art accessible to the community through shows, classes, workshops, and lectures. This weekend, there’s an immersive showdesigned to evoke emotion through color. Keep a lookout on their Instagram for more events and calls for artists. And check out Zynka Gallery down the street for contemporary art shows and events.
And while the weather is still good, rent a kayak from Kayak Pittsburgh to enter the Allegheny River at James Sharp Landing. Follow their calendar for special events.
Save the Date
Sharpsburg is hosting a Spooktacular weekend October 14-16 with art shows, vendor markets, live music, and a Vampire Ball for the 21+ crowd at Atithi Studios.
