South Shore Riverfront Park and Trail
Scenic riverfront park and trail offering stunning city views, art installations, and recreational activities for all.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Therapeutic strolls & city views
South Shore Riverfront Park and Trail
Best Time
Therapeutic strolls & city views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic riverfront park and trail offering stunning city views, art installations, and recreational activities for all.
"A therapeutic escape with amazing city and river views, perfect for walks, bikes, and dogs!"
🎯 Free Parking Hacks
Look for free parking under bridges near the trails to avoid fees, especially for longer visits.
🐶 Doggy Paradise
This park is a hit with dog owners; the dog park is a favorite for off-leash fun.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Along the trail
Breathtaking vistas of the Pittsburgh skyline and the Monongahela River, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

Supportive Trails Arts Initiative
Throughout the park
Discover unique and inspiring art installations integrated into the park, adding a cultural layer to your outdoor experience.

Dog-Friendly Haven
Designated dog park areas
A favorite spot for dog owners to let their pets run free, offering a safe and enjoyable space for furry friends.

Connected Trail Network
Park entrances
Seamlessly connects to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, offering miles of paved paths for biking and extended exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Riverfront Vibe
Parking & Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Parking Hacks
Look for free parking under bridges near the trails to avoid fees, especially for longer visits.
🐶 Doggy Paradise
This park is a hit with dog owners; the dog park is a favorite for off-leash fun.
🚴♀️ Bike the Trails
Connects to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail for extensive biking adventures.
🖼️ Artful Exploration
Keep an eye out for the supportive trails arts initiative, adding a unique visual element to your walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Parking Hacks
Look for free parking under bridges near the trails to avoid fees, especially for longer visits.
🐶 Doggy Paradise
This park is a hit with dog owners; the dog park is a favorite for off-leash fun.
🚴♀️ Bike the Trails
Connects to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail for extensive biking adventures.
🖼️ Artful Exploration
Keep an eye out for the supportive trails arts initiative, adding a unique visual element to your walk.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun
A great spot for kids and pets, with plenty of space to roam and enjoy the waterfront.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the South Shore Riverfront Park and Trail for its picturesque riverfront setting, offering stunning city views and a therapeutic escape. It's a highly-rated spot for walking, biking, and dog-walking, with appreciated art installations and a family-friendly atmosphere. Some visitors note that while parking is available, free options can be found under nearby bridges.
"Picturesque serene trail used by many for walking, biking, and doggies alike. Lots of amazing views of the city and river. This was my first time enjoying on a beautiful sunny day. Very therapeutic. Also got to see art from the supportive trails arts initiative through the park which was very cool. Parking was available."
Tonya Johnson-Jenkins
"Great space to take children and pets for a walk. Unfortunately, the day we chose to visit it was freezing and we couldn’t stay longer. If you have a bicycle, the park connects with the trails surrounding the North Shore. The place has an intimate amphitheater for summer events."
Arthur Alexander
"Awesome place to sit by the water or go on a walk/bike/run. This area also had a trail nearby that led you to other areas of the park and other trails. Felt relaxing taking a stroll here"
Gail Suwarna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by car, with parking available. For those looking to save on parking fees, Redditors suggest exploring free parking options under nearby bridges. It's also a great destination for cyclists, as it connects to the extensive Three Rivers Heritage Trail system.
While specific routes can vary, Pittsburgh's public transit system often serves areas near riverfront parks. Check local transit schedules for bus routes that may stop near the South Side area.
Absolutely! The park is a key part of the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, making it easily accessible for cyclists coming from various directions.
Paid parking is available within the park. However, if you're looking for free options, Redditors recommend searching for spots under the nearby bridges.
The paved trails are generally well-maintained and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, offering a smooth experience for all visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, South Shore Riverfront Park and Trail is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. Enjoy the amenities and trails for free!
As a public park, it is generally open from dawn until dusk. However, specific amenities like restrooms or event spaces might have limited hours. It's always a good idea to check local park advisories if you plan to visit very early or late.
For general park access and trail use, no booking is required. If you are interested in using the amphitheater for an event, you would need to inquire about rental policies.
The park features an intimate amphitheater that hosts summer events. Keep an eye on local event listings or the park's official channels for schedules.
The basketball court at South Shore Riverfront Park is typically available for public use on a first-come, first-served basis, with no additional fee.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, jogging, biking, and dog-walking on the scenic trails. The park also features a dog park, a basketball court, and an amphitheater for events.
Yes, restrooms are available within the park for visitor convenience.
It's a great space for children, offering open areas to play and explore, along with the scenic riverfront.
Yes, dogs are welcome at South Shore Riverfront Park and Trail. There's a dedicated dog park area, and dogs are allowed on the trails if kept on a leash.
The park showcases art from the Supportive Trails Arts Initiative, adding a unique cultural dimension to the natural beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park itself does not have dedicated dining facilities. However, its location on the South Side means you're close to numerous restaurants and cafes in the vibrant neighborhood.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. You can bring your own food and enjoy it at designated areas or simply find a scenic spot along the river.
The South Side neighborhood, adjacent to the park, offers a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. SouthSide Works is also nearby and has various food establishments.
Yes, water fountains are typically available within the park, which is convenient for refilling water bottles, especially during warmer months.
Park regulations regarding alcohol can vary. It's advisable to check the official park rules or local ordinances before consuming alcohol in the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront offers stunning views of the Pittsburgh skyline and the Monongahela River, especially during sunrise and sunset. The iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge backdrop is also a popular photo opportunity.
Absolutely. The park provides unobstructed views of downtown Pittsburgh, making it an excellent location for capturing cityscapes.
Don't miss the art installations from the Supportive Trails Arts Initiative, which offer unique and artistic backdrops for your photos.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. However, the city views are impressive at any time of day.
Drone usage in city parks is often restricted due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check with the Pittsburgh Parks Department for current drone policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Runners
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
Travelers often highlight the therapeutic nature of these walks, enjoying the sights and sounds of the river. The trails are also noted for being dog-friendly, with a dedicated dog park area making it a favorite for pet owners. The accessibility and variety of experiences make the South Shore Riverfront Park and Trail a go-to destination for both locals and visitors seeking outdoor recreation.
Beyond the recreational aspect, the trails are also a canvas for public art. The Supportive Trails Arts Initiative has integrated various art installations throughout the park, adding a unique cultural dimension to the natural landscape. These artistic elements provide interesting visual points of interest and contribute to the overall charm of the park.
Riverfront Views and Urban Charm
During different times of the day, the views transform. Sunrise and sunset cast a warm, golden glow over the city, creating particularly magical moments for visitors. Even on a regular day, the dynamic interplay of the river, the bridges, and the city's architecture provides a captivating scene. The park's transformation over the years has enhanced its appeal, making it a more attractive and accessible waterfront destination.
This blend of natural riverfront beauty and vibrant city life creates a unique atmosphere. It's a place where you can feel connected to both the tranquility of nature and the energy of the city, offering a well-rounded experience for all who visit.
Community and Recreation Hub
For families, the park is a great place for children to play and explore, with ample open space and the engaging riverfront environment. Similarly, it's a haven for dog owners, with a popular dog park allowing pets to socialize and exercise off-leash. The presence of amenities like restrooms further enhances the visitor experience, making it comfortable for longer stays.
The park also boasts an intimate amphitheater, which hosts various summer events, adding a cultural and entertainment dimension to the space. This multifaceted approach to recreation and community engagement solidifies the South Shore Riverfront Park and Trail's status as a cherished local amenity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit