Feel inspired when you stand high atop the scenic overlooks in Pittsburgh for stunning views of the landscape surrounding you. Here are seven of the best scenic overlooks in Pittsburgh and beyond. Each promises unparalleled views, although if you want to add a touch of romance or excitement, visit at sunset or during the height of the fall foliage.
- Grandview Overlook – Grandview Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15211
Flickr/Can Pac Swire
Flickr/Viv Lynch Pittsburghers can probably agree that the best scenic overlooks in the city perch atop Mount Washington. Head to the top of the mountain to Grandview Overlook for spectacular panoramic views of Pittsburgh both day and night.
- The Cathedral of Learning – 4200 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260
Flickr/Beyond DC
Flickr/Tim Engelman Drink in absolutely stunning views of Oakland - and beyond - from inside the Cathedral of Learning on the Pitt campus. What floor will provide you the most sweeping views really depends on to whom you talk. If you ascend to the 34th floor, however, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views.
- West End Overlook – Marlow Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15205
Flickr/Shawn Munson
Flickr/Matthew Paulson Set in Elliot Overlook Park, which boasts landscaped gardens and manicured grass, the West End Overlook in Mount Washington promises awe-inspiring views of downtown Pittsburgh and of the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny Rivers that come together to create the Ohio River.
- Ridenour Overlook – Huntingdon, PA 16652
Facebook/Ridenour Overlook, Raystown Lake
Facebook/Ridenour Overlook, Raystown Lake Journey just about two and a half hours from downtown Pittsburgh to Ridenour Overlook in Raystown Lake for unspoiled views of the Juanita River. Raystown Lake also offers plenty of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Conemaugh Gap Scenic Overlook – Haws Pike, Johnstown, PA 15906
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM Johnstown boasts the Conemaugh Gap, the deepest gorge - at 1,350 feet - east of the Mississippi River. The Conemaugh Gap Overlook provides sweeping views of the gorge and beyond.
- Baughman Rock Overlook – Ohiopyle State Park, Sr26116, Mill Run, PA 15464
Flickr/David Fulmer
Flickr/Jon Dawson Chances are, if you’re a Pittsburgher, you’ve either been to or plan to go to Ohiopyle State Park. While you’re there, make it a point to visit Baughman Rock Overlook that looks out over the Youghiogheny River Gorge.
- Hawn Overlook – Henderson Hollow Road, Huntingdon, PA 16652
Facebook/Hawn Overlook, Raystown Lake
Facebook/Hawn Overlook, Raystown Lake Stroll only 300 feet from the parking lot to Hawn Overlook near Raystown Lake, for an unforgettable bird’s eye view of Raystown Lake and the mountains.
These seven scenic overlooks in Pittsburgh – and beyond – will leave you breathless. And, if you prefer to watch the sun set, here are eight spectacular spots to do just that.
Flickr/Can Pac Swire
Flickr/Viv Lynch
Pittsburghers can probably agree that the best scenic overlooks in the city perch atop Mount Washington. Head to the top of the mountain to Grandview Overlook for spectacular panoramic views of Pittsburgh both day and night.
Flickr/Beyond DC
Flickr/Tim Engelman
Drink in absolutely stunning views of Oakland - and beyond - from inside the Cathedral of Learning on the Pitt campus. What floor will provide you the most sweeping views really depends on to whom you talk. If you ascend to the 34th floor, however, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views.
Flickr/Shawn Munson
Flickr/Matthew Paulson
Set in Elliot Overlook Park, which boasts landscaped gardens and manicured grass, the West End Overlook in Mount Washington promises awe-inspiring views of downtown Pittsburgh and of the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny Rivers that come together to create the Ohio River.
Facebook/Ridenour Overlook, Raystown Lake
Journey just about two and a half hours from downtown Pittsburgh to Ridenour Overlook in Raystown Lake for unspoiled views of the Juanita River. Raystown Lake also offers plenty of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Johnstown boasts the Conemaugh Gap, the deepest gorge - at 1,350 feet - east of the Mississippi River. The Conemaugh Gap Overlook provides sweeping views of the gorge and beyond.
Flickr/David Fulmer
Flickr/Jon Dawson
Chances are, if you’re a Pittsburgher, you’ve either been to or plan to go to Ohiopyle State Park. While you’re there, make it a point to visit Baughman Rock Overlook that looks out over the Youghiogheny River Gorge.
Facebook/Hawn Overlook, Raystown Lake
Stroll only 300 feet from the parking lot to Hawn Overlook near Raystown Lake, for an unforgettable bird’s eye view of Raystown Lake and the mountains.
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