Oakland’s appeal goes far beyond its universities, with a mix of cultural institutions, green spaces, and architectural treasures that attract visitors throughout the year. In case you’re in the neighborhood and you’re wondering what to do, Oakland offers a chance to explore Pittsburgh’s history, creativity, and natural beauty.
Where to Visit and What to Do in Pittsburgh’s Oakland Neighborhood
Cathedral of Learning and Nationality Rooms
4200 Fifth Ave. | 412.624.4141
The Cathedral of Learning — “Cathy” to a younger era of Pitt students — is the crown jewel of Oakland and the University of Pittsburgh. You can spot the 535-foot Gothic Revival skyscraper from neighborhoods all over town, but the real allure is inside: You won’t find anything like the university’s 31 Nationality Rooms, gifts from the communities who helped to build Pittsburgh, at any other college campus in the country. The idea of the Nationality Rooms originated in 1926 when workers broke ground for the Cathedral of Learning. The first 19 rooms were completed between 1938 and 1957; the other 12 rooms have been added since 1987. The newest addition is the Finnish Room, styled after an 18th Century Savutupa (Smoke House) underneath the Northern Lights.
Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Library Main Branch
4400 Forbes Ave. | 412.622.3131
This stately building is a three-for-one special for children, lovers, wanderers and people who like to look at things.
Latin American Cultural Center
4338 Bigelow Blvd. | 412.383.8078
Celebrate Latin American culture in the Steel City at this combination gallery and event space.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
One Schenley Park | 412.622.6914
Both green thumbs and young visitors will enjoy the variety of foliage, fauna and flora found here.
Schenley Park
Pittsburgh, PA 15213 | 412.682.7275
Find 456 acres of trails, woods and things to do outdoors.
Westinghouse Memorial
West Circuit Road, Schenley Park | 412.682.7275
This underrated memorial and pond honors the contributions of engineer, industrialist and inventor George Westinghouse.
Plus, take time to check out where to shop, eat, and discover Oakland’s best landmarks.
Story by Amanda Reed
Polaroid by Evan Okun