Content & Photos by Zachary Shapiro
Mount Washington, Pittsburgh PA
Mt. Washington - Far up the hill lies the gem of Pittsburgh, Mt. Washington. Noted as the San Francisco of Pittsburgh, it hosts simply the best view of the city one could possibly imagine. In 2003, USA Weekend’s Annual Trip Report named it the second most beautiful place in America. The hilltop contains some of the most sought after property as well as some of the most amazing restaurants in the city. Simply put, Mt. Washington has come a very long way from its origins.
Obviously the next question is; what was the start of Mt. Washington? Coal. Lots and lots of coal! Throughout the late 1800's it was not known as Mt. Washington but rather Coal Hill. The Pittsburgh Coal Seam located underneath the surface was roughly estimated to have produced 13 million tons of coal annually. Note that this is before any modern mining equipment was manufactured. Dynamite and pick-axes were used and it was still extremely prosperous. The hill was crucial to the success and growth of Pittsburgh and its industry’s at the time. However, after years of mining, the hill was decrepit and destroyed. The explosions and mining did quite a number and thus property values of surrounding Pittsburgh areas decreased. Coal Hill was in dire need of a makeover.
Obviously the next question is; what was the start of Mt. Washington? Coal. Lots and lots of coal! Throughout the late 1800's it was not known as Mt. Washington but rather Coal Hill. The Pittsburgh Coal Seam located underneath the surface was roughly estimated to have produced 13 million tons of coal annually. Note that this is before any modern mining equipment was manufactured. Dynamite and pick-axes were used and it was still extremely prosperous. The hill was crucial to the success and growth of Pittsburgh and its industry’s at the time. However, after years of mining, the hill was decrepit and destroyed. The explosions and mining did quite a number and thus property values of surrounding Pittsburgh areas decreased. Coal Hill was in dire need of a makeover.
So during the beginning of the 20th century, the City Department of Parks and Recreation and the City Planning Commission decided it was time for a change. The two groups began working to restore Coal hill. They planted trees and grass with the general hope of bringing back the beauty that once resided there. They installed a winding footpath known as the Indian Trail Steps. This was the only method of traversing Coal Hill until some local German engineers and mechanics decided to install an incline system. They used their knowledge of steel and trains to create two inclines, Duquesne and Station Square. To this day, both will still take you up the 600ft. hillside at a 30.5-degree incline at 6MPH. Very fun! Back to history! As the renovation plans unfolded, talk of renaming the hill also began. After some deliberation, the hill was renamed Mt. Washington, after the famous explorer and President George Washington, in hopes to inspire those to voyage up the hill. And boy, they had no idea how inspirational they were.
Mt. Washington is now divided into two neighborhoods, Mt. Washington and Duquesne Heights. Many of the individuals residing on top of Mt. Washington are young business professionals and graduate students. The homes are mostly well restored single or multi family homes with a 1900 to 1950 style. As stated at the beginning, it has a San Francisco vibe due to the immense hills and small beautiful homes packed on top of the hill. However, unlike San Francisco, the use of Red brick is found on many marvelous homes located in Mt. Washington. Additionally, numerous dog walkers and individuals with a love for daily fitness can be found traversing the hills of Mt. Washington. Its quite a workout... always remember you have to get yourself home if you wind up exercising there. A famous street located in Mt. Washington is Grandview Avenue. Easily guessed by its name, it is the street right on the edge of Mt. Washington and boasts the best skyline view of Pittsburgh. Grandview Ave is noted as the spot for wedding proposals, prom pictures, and a new Facebook Cover photo. Its spectacular! The houses located on Grandview are quite expensive and are homes to some of Pittsburgh wealthier residents.
Mt. Washington is now divided into two neighborhoods, Mt. Washington and Duquesne Heights. Many of the individuals residing on top of Mt. Washington are young business professionals and graduate students. The homes are mostly well restored single or multi family homes with a 1900 to 1950 style. As stated at the beginning, it has a San Francisco vibe due to the immense hills and small beautiful homes packed on top of the hill. However, unlike San Francisco, the use of Red brick is found on many marvelous homes located in Mt. Washington. Additionally, numerous dog walkers and individuals with a love for daily fitness can be found traversing the hills of Mt. Washington. Its quite a workout... always remember you have to get yourself home if you wind up exercising there. A famous street located in Mt. Washington is Grandview Avenue. Easily guessed by its name, it is the street right on the edge of Mt. Washington and boasts the best skyline view of Pittsburgh. Grandview Ave is noted as the spot for wedding proposals, prom pictures, and a new Facebook Cover photo. Its spectacular! The houses located on Grandview are quite expensive and are homes to some of Pittsburgh wealthier residents.
As usual for exploring an unfamiliar neighborhood, following cuisine is a great discovery map. However, there is good news and bad news. The good news is the food you will find at Mt. Washington is nothing but exceptional! The bad news, it can come at a cost. Regardless, don’t let that stop you from enjoying all the fine restaurants Mt. Washington hosts. Harris Grill, located on Shiloh Street, is famous for its Mac 'n Cheese and a hilarious menu. When visiting, take the time to read each synopsis of the menu items. They will for sure put a smile on your face. As well, you will not break the bank at Harris Grill and will be well worth a second visit. Up the street by the Duquesne incline resides LeMont, La Bella Vista, and Altius. LeMont has exceptional French food with frequent live music and lounge. La Bella Vista Ristorante Italiano is (you get one guess)… Italian, and really good. Finally, Altius, as well as most of the other restaurants listed, has the most breath taking view of the city. And with two floors, there’s no way you wont be in awe of the view, as well your meal. If you haven’t picked up on it yet, Mt. Washington is the best date location…ever!
So what else could Mt. Washington possibly offer to increase its already tremendous appeal as a neighborhood? How about a fantastic park! Emerald Park is the closest to true nature you will get in the city. It has over 10 miles of trails and paths for one to explore, and it connects Mt. Washington, Duquesne Heights, and Allentown. Again, if you love fitness, or even just simply enjoy beautiful views for walking and pleasure, I high recommend taking a day to Mt. Washington.
Mt. Washington is spectacular. Meeting anyone who has spent time atop what used to be Coal Hill will tell you how he or she loves Mt. Washington. It is considered the pride and joy of the city and the passion can clearly be seen.
Mt. Washington was once simply a lump of coal... now pressed into a diamond.
Related Links:
The Duquesne Incline to Mount Washington
ExploreHistory.com Mount Washington Pittsburgh
The Summit, Mount Washington's Premier Cocktail Bar
Mt. Washington is spectacular. Meeting anyone who has spent time atop what used to be Coal Hill will tell you how he or she loves Mt. Washington. It is considered the pride and joy of the city and the passion can clearly be seen.
Mt. Washington was once simply a lump of coal... now pressed into a diamond.
Related Links:
The Duquesne Incline to Mount Washington
ExploreHistory.com Mount Washington Pittsburgh
The Summit, Mount Washington's Premier Cocktail Bar