Located east of downtown Pittsburgh, Oakland has over 40 museums, prestigious universities, and a world within a neighborhood. The diversity and energy pour into the streets among the many theatres, restaurants, specialty shops, and more. This is probably why Oakland has earned its reputation as ‘Pittsburgh’s Second Downtown.’
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is one of the four Carnegie museums and is a renowned museum featuring impressive exhibits of dinosaurs, ancient fossils, and various natural sciences. It’s perfect for both families and individuals interested in nature and history.
Address: 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Map It
Hours: Friday-Wednesday – 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
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Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
This stunning conservatory is Schenley Park’s horticulture hub that features beautiful botanical gardens, a steel-and-glass Victorian greenhouse, and a wide variety of plant species. It’s an excellent spot to relax and appreciate nature, especially during special seasonal exhibits.
Address: 1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Map It
Hours: Monday – Thursday – 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Friday – 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday – 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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Oakland’s Eateries + Restaurant Row
Restaurant Row features various dining options, from classic diners to upscale restaurants. You’ll find several eateries along Fifth, Forbes, and Oakland Avenues. Or venture through other parts of the neighborhood where you’ll find tempting dishes for all tastes. Don’t miss trying out local favorites like The Porch at Schenley, a laid-back gathering place for seasonal menus crafted using ingredients from local producers.
Address: 221 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Map It
Hours: Monday-Thursday – 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., Friday 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., Saturday – 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m., Sunday – 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
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The University of Pittsburgh + Carnegie Mellon University
Stroll through the beautiful campuses. See the iconic Cathedral of Learning at U of P, which houses various academic departments and features unique international classroom spaces. Wander through the grounds at Carnegie and view our unique landmarks, including The Fence (once the world’s most-painted object) and alumnus Jonathan Borofsky’s “Walking to the Sky” sculpture.
Getting To Oakland
There are multiple ways to get to Oakland including multiple Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus routes.
Updated: December 2024
