If you’re in need of a public natural space where you can swim, hike, and walk your dog, then Riverview Park is the natural oasis you’re searching for.
🗝️ 1 Thing To Know
The North Side was once called Allegheny City, and before it was annexed by Pittsburgh, its residents purchased a stretch of land called Watson Farm and transformed it into a public natural space: Riverview Park.
While you’re in the neighborhood, say hello to Pittsburgh’s smallest “roundabout,” Lil Swervy. (Megan Harris / City Cast Pittsburgh)
🌌 Go, See, Do!
Riverview Park is a 251-acre urban escape into nature for the sport-seekers, dog-walkers, bird-watchers, and family-picnic enjoyers. The modern park has kept up with the needs of its residents with rentable soccer fields, horse trails, tennis courts, dog parks, and a swimming pool.
Visitors can use the park map to find their way back from Snyder’s Point or Watson’s Cabin, and to locate parking closest to various activities. For tranquil natural environments, stretch out on a blanket or lawn chair for the summer jazz series and movies under the stars on Observation Hill.
To connect with the history that makes Riverview Park a nominee for the National Register of Historic Places, schedule a tour at the Allegheny Observatory, which was once the Allegheny Telescope association founded in the mid-1800s!
🧃 Food & Drink
Riverview Park has a bunch of picnic shelters for a delicious home-made spread, like the Chapel Center, a restored Presbyterian Church. Or, make a pitstop in nearby Brighton Heights, soon to be reconnected to the park via a new Davis Avenue Bridge.
Grab a smoothie at California Coffee Bar for hiking fuel, bring your post-swim group to Pittsburgh Fish & Chicken, or get cozy at Bocadillos Bar with a craft cocktail after a long day of park exploration. On the other side of the park in Observatory Hill, check out Ida’s Sandwich Shop for an indulgent snack.
