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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride
Monongahela Incline
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride a historic 19th-century funicular for unparalleled panoramic views of Pittsburgh's iconic skyline from Mount Washington.
"The views from Mount Washington are absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunset!"
🎯 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Mount Washington Summit
Unbeatable vistas of Pittsburgh's skyline, rivers, and bridges. Perfect for photos!

Historic Funicular Ride
Lower Station to Upper Station
Experience a charming 19th-century ride up the steep hillside. A unique journey!

Mount Washington Overlook
Upper Station Area
Explore the vibrant neighborhood at the top, with restaurants and viewpoints.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on the Incline
Ride the Historic Funicular
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:🚶 Explore Mount Washington
After your ride, wander around the top for more viewpoints and local charm.
:walking:🎟️ Check Operating Hours
Hours can vary, so confirm before your visit to ensure a smooth experience.
:clock1: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!
:ticket:📸 Capture Stunning Views
The summit offers incredible photo opportunities of the Pittsburgh skyline. Don't forget your camera!
:camerawithflash:🚶 Explore Mount Washington
After your ride, wander around the top for more viewpoints and local charm.
:walking:🎟️ Check Operating Hours
Hours can vary, so confirm before your visit to ensure a smooth experience.
:clock1:What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
Absolutely! Several Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus routes stop near the lower station of the Monongahela Incline, making it a very accessible option for visitors.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
For breathtaking photos, aim for sunset or twilight when the city lights begin to twinkle. Sunrise also offers a beautiful, less crowded perspective.
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.
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.
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!
Yes, you can take photos inside the historic incline car. It offers a unique perspective of the interior and the passing scenery.
🎫 🏙️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
Restroom facilities are typically available at both the lower and upper stations of the Monongahela Incline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Pittsburgh's History
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.
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.
Capturing the Iconic Pittsburgh Skyline
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit