Monongahela Incline - Captured this LEGO-like Pittsburgh skyline from Mount Washington.
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Monongahela Incline

4.6
·491k reviews·Pittsburgh, United States

Ride a historic 19th-century funicular for unparalleled panoramic views of Pittsburgh's iconic skyline from Mount Washington.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful ride

CrowdLow
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Monongahela Incline - Captured this LEGO-like Pittsburgh skyline from Mount Washington.

Monongahela Incline

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful ride

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride a historic 19th-century funicular for unparalleled panoramic views of Pittsburgh's iconic skyline from Mount Washington.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The views from Mount Washington are absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunset!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Ride During Off-Peak Hours

Avoid long lines by visiting on weekdays or evenings. You might even get a car to yourself! :ticket:

📸 Capture Stunning Views

The summit offers incredible photo opportunities of the Pittsburgh skyline. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Mount Washington Summit

Unbeatable vistas of Pittsburgh's skyline, rivers, and bridges. Perfect for photos!

Historic Funicular Ride

Historic Funicular Ride

Lower Station to Upper Station

Experience a charming 19th-century ride up the steep hillside. A unique journey!

Mount Washington Overlook

Mount Washington Overlook

Upper Station Area

Explore the vibrant neighborhood at the top, with restaurants and viewpoints.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds on the Incline

To truly savor the iconic views and historic charm of the Monongahela Incline, aim for off-peak hours. Weekday mornings or late evenings offer a more serene experience, often with fewer people and a chance to enjoy the ride without long waits. Reddit

Ride the Historic Funicular

The Monongahela Incline is a living piece of history, operating since 1870. It's one of the oldest passenger funicular railways in the U.S. Instagram Embrace the vintage charm and enjoy the unique journey up Mount Washington for breathtaking city panoramas. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride
Crowd
Low
When
Late Evenings
Why
Sparkling city lights
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The manitou incline is a must do in the Colorado Springs area! Love this hike and the views, just doesn’t get old 😍🏔️ Tips for hiking the incline: - where to park - reservation needed - 4 miles total, 2000 ft elevation gain - be prepared - no pets #coloradosprings #thingstodoincolorado #manitouincline #manitouchallenge #manitousprings
@coloradomountaintowns
19.1K likes • 414K views

🎯 Ride During Off-Peak Hours

Avoid long lines by visiting on weekdays or evenings. You might even get a car to yourself! Reddit :ticket:

📸 Capture Stunning Views

The summit offers incredible photo opportunities of the Pittsburgh skyline. Don't forget your camera! Instagram :camerawithflash:

We showed you how to ride the Duquesne Incline, but did you know Pittsburgh is home to a second incline? 🚠✨ The Monongahela Incline is one of Pittsburgh’s oldest and most iconic landmarks. Built in 1870, the Mon Incline was the first passenger funicular railway built in the United States and has been in continuous use ever since! 👀 Once you make your way to the top, be sure to enjoy the stunning...
visitpittsburgh
1.1K likes • 34K views
The Monongahela Incline #pittsburgh #monongahelaincline #412 #pittsburghpa #pgh #yinzer #incline #pittsburghpirates #pittsburghphotographer #pittsburghblogger #urbanexplorer
saxboybilly18
782 likes • 27.2K views

🚶 Explore Mount Washington

After your ride, wander around the top for more viewpoints and local charm. Instagram :walking:

🎟️ Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, so confirm before your visit to ensure a smooth experience. Instagram :clock1:

Riding the Monongahela Incline in Pittsburgh is a must. The view from Mount Washington is lovely. Stay tuned for the Duquesne Incline too! #inclinator #funicular #monongahelaincline #pittsburgh #pennsylvania #railway #publictransport
tiffaniphotography
12 likes • 320 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Ride During Off-Peak Hours

Avoid long lines by visiting on weekdays or evenings. You might even get a car to yourself! Reddit :ticket:

📸 Capture Stunning Views

The summit offers incredible photo opportunities of the Pittsburgh skyline. Don't forget your camera! Instagram :camerawithflash:

🚶 Explore Mount Washington

After your ride, wander around the top for more viewpoints and local charm. Instagram :walking:

🎟️ Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, so confirm before your visit to ensure a smooth experience. Instagram :clock1:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Monongahela Incline for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Pittsburgh skyline and its historic charm. The unique funicular ride is a highlight, offering a nostalgic journey. Some find the wait times can be long during peak periods, and the surrounding area at the top can be quite touristy.

What People Like

Spectacular city views
Historic incline ride
Iconic Pittsburgh landmark

What People Dislike

Long wait times
Crowded during peak hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Monongahela Incline is easily accessible by car, public transport, or even a scenic walk from downtown Pittsburgh. The lower station is located at 110 West Carson Street. Many visitors use ride-sharing services or local buses to reach the base. Instagram

Limited street parking is available near the lower station, but it can fill up quickly. Several paid parking garages are also located in the vicinity. Consider public transport or ride-sharing to avoid parking hassles. Instagram

Yes, if you're staying downtown or in nearby neighborhoods, it's a pleasant walk across the bridges to reach the incline's lower station. Enjoy the city's riverfront views on your way. Instagram

Many travelers find ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to be convenient for reaching the Monongahela Incline, especially if coming from further out in the city. Instagram

Absolutely! Several Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus routes stop near the lower station of the Monongahela Incline, making it a very accessible option for visitors. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are very reasonable. A round-trip fare typically costs a few dollars, with discounts often available for seniors and children. You can purchase tickets at the station. Instagram

Advance ticket purchase is generally not required for the Monongahela Incline. You can buy tickets directly at the station. However, visiting during peak times might mean longer queues. Reddit

The incline typically operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official website or call ahead to confirm the current operating schedule before your visit. Instagram

Pittsburgh Regional Transit passes are often accepted on the Monongahela Incline, which can be a cost-effective option if you're using public transportation extensively. Instagram

No, the primary way to access the Mount Washington viewpoint is by riding the Monongahela Incline. The fare covers your round-trip journey and access to the stunning views. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

For breathtaking photos, aim for sunset or twilight when the city lights begin to twinkle. Sunrise also offers a beautiful, less crowded perspective. Instagram

You'll get iconic shots of the Pittsburgh skyline, including the confluence of the three rivers, PNC Park, and Heinz Field. The incline itself also makes for great photos. Instagram+1

Tripods are generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors, especially during busy periods. Check with station staff if you have specific concerns. Instagram

From the bottom, you can capture the steep ascent. From the top, you can frame shots looking down the tracks or out at the city. Experiment with different perspectives! Instagram

Yes, you can take photos inside the historic incline car. It offers a unique perspective of the interior and the passing scenery. Instagram

🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience

At the summit, you can enjoy the famous Mount Washington viewpoints, explore local shops and restaurants, and take a stroll along Grandview Avenue for more scenic vistas. Instagram+1

The ride itself is quite short, typically only a few minutes. However, factor in time for waiting in line, enjoying the views at the top, and exploring the surrounding area. Reddit

It can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, holidays, and during special events. Visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays is recommended to avoid the largest crowds. Reddit

Built in 1870, it's the oldest operating funicular in the United States, originally constructed to transport workers up the steep hill. It's a significant piece of Pittsburgh's industrial heritage. Instagram

Restroom facilities are typically available at both the lower and upper stations of the Monongahela Incline. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Riding the Monongahela Incline is a fantastic and memorable experience for families. Kids are often fascinated by the unique funicular system and the steep climb. The journey itself is an adventure, and the panoramic views from Mount Washington provide a great 'wow' factor. Instagram

Once at the top, there are plenty of open spaces for children to move around, and the viewpoints offer a chance to point out landmarks. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options at the very top can be limited or pricey. Visiting during off-peak hours will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone, reducing wait times and allowing kids to fully appreciate the ride and the views. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Monongahela Incline and its summit viewpoint are a paradise for photographers. The iconic Pittsburgh skyline, especially when illuminated at night, offers unparalleled opportunities for stunning cityscape shots. Instagram Aim for sunset or twilight to capture the city lights in their full glory. Instagram

Experiment with different angles from the Mount Washington Overlook and Grandview Avenue. Capture the historic incline cars themselves, the confluence of the three rivers, and the intricate network of bridges. Early mornings can provide a quieter experience with softer light, perfect for capturing a more serene city scene. Instagram+1

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

A ride on the Monongahela Incline followed by sunset views from Mount Washington is a classic romantic Pittsburgh experience. The breathtaking cityscape, especially when lit up at night, creates a magical ambiance perfect for couples. Instagram

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Grandview Avenue, perhaps stopping for a drink or a meal at one of the restaurants with a view. The shared experience of the historic incline ride and the stunning vistas makes for a memorable and intimate outing. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Pittsburgh's History

The Monongahela Incline is more than just a mode of transport; it's a vital link to Pittsburgh's industrial past. Opened in 1870, it was the first passenger funicular railway in the United States, built to ferry workers from the South Side neighborhoods up to their jobs on the bluff. Its continuous operation for over 150 years is a testament to its enduring importance and engineering marvel. Instagram

Riding the incline offers a tangible connection to the city's heritage. As you ascend, imagine the thousands of workers who made this same journey daily. The vintage cars and the steep, consistent grade evoke a bygone era, providing a unique perspective on how Pittsburgh's geography shaped its development and the lives of its residents. Instagram

Today, the Monongahela Incline continues to serve both locals and tourists, offering a charming and efficient way to access the breathtaking views from Mount Washington. It stands as a beloved landmark, a symbol of Pittsburgh's resilience and its ability to blend history with modern urban life. Instagram

Capturing the Iconic Pittsburgh Skyline

The Mount Washington Overlook, accessible via the Monongahela Incline, is arguably the most famous viewpoint in Pittsburgh. From this vantage point, you're treated to a sweeping panorama of the city's downtown core, the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, and its iconic bridges. It's a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram

For the best photographic results, consider visiting during twilight. As the sun dips below the horizon, the city lights begin to illuminate, creating a magical glow that reflects off the rivers. This is when the skyline truly comes alive, offering dramatic and memorable shots. Early mornings are also excellent for capturing a serene, less crowded view. Instagram

Beyond the main viewpoint, take time to explore Grandview Avenue. This street offers various angles and perspectives of the city, and you can often find unique compositions that include the incline tracks themselves. Don't forget to capture the historic incline cars as they ascend and descend – they add a dynamic element to your photos. Instagram+1

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