Things to do at Point State Park

Point State Park is an iconic symbol of Pittsburgh — the point where the three rivers connect, visible from Mount Washington, North Shore, and other neighborhoods in Pittsburgh.

But what exactly is there to do at Point State Park? Does it have any attractions?

Here are a few ways to enjoy Point State Park, beyond just admiring it from afar.

1. Enjoy the fountain

Point State Park, which spans 36 acres, opened in 1974 upon completion of the fountain. The fountain, which sources its water from the underground Wisconsin Glacial Flow, spouts about 6,000 gallons of water per minute 150 feet high.

The attraction features an ADA-accessible plaza, seating options, an overflow waterfall and reflecting pool, LED lighting, and restrooms. It is a great location for families, as children can play in the fountain as parents enjoy the mist.

2. Relax on the Great Lawn

The Great Lawn is the green space of Point State Park leading up to the fountain. It features a concrete trace of Fort Duquesne, which was built by the French in 1754 and subsequently destroyed in 1758 so it would not fall into British hands during the French and Indian War.

The Great Lawn is a great place to sit and enjoy the summer weather. On a typical day, you can find people walking their dogs, playing sports, and having picnics on the Great Lawn.

3. Learn some history at the Fort Pitt Museum

The Fort Pitt Museum and the Fort Pitt Block House both offer opportunities to learn about the history of Pittsburgh.

The Fort Pitt Museum focuses on the role of Fort Pitt during the French and Indian War, in addition to the American Revolution, the Whiskey Rebellion, and the founding of Pittsburgh. It is a recreation of the original fort. Operated by the Heinz History Center, it charges admission for entry and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for major holidays.

The Fort Pitt Block House was constructed in 1764 as supplemental defenses for Fort Pitt, and is not only the oldest architectural landmark in Pittsburgh but also the only authenticated pre-Revolutionary War structure in Western Pennsylvania.

4. Bike or walk around the featured trails

If you’re looking for something more active, you may enjoy biking or walking around one of the trails at Point State Park.

The Three Rivers Heritage Trail is 33 miles long, and winds through the Pittsburgh area. It has sections on the banks of all three rivers — the Ohio, the Allegheny, and the Monongahela — and has access to various Pittsburgh neighborhoods. It is open to cyclists and pedestrians, and is open year-round.

The Great Allegheny Passage, otherwise known as the GAP, is a whopping 150 miles long, and stretches all the way to Cumberland, Maryland. Point State Park is the western terminus for the trail, which passes through various trail towns and attractions such as Ohiopyle State Park. It receives around a million visits per year.

Whether you enjoy biking, lounging, or learning some history, there’s sure to be something for you at Point State Park.

Juliana Morello is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and one of 10 Pittsburgh Media Partnership summer interns. Juliana is interning with Pittsburgh Latino Magazine.

 

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