Cross These 10 Bridges In Pittsburgh Just Because They’re So Awesome
Pittsburgh holds some pretty impressive titles, like being named the Most Livable City more than once, but one achievement certainly stands above the rest. Pittsburgh has more bridges, with 446, than any other city in the world, even surpassing Venice, Italy. In an ode to our beautiful bridges, here are 10 bridges in Pittsburgh you simply have to cross.
1. Smithfield Street Bridge
Connecting downtown Pittsburgh to the South Side, the Smithfield Street Bridge dates back to 1883 and earned National Historic Landmark status in 1976. Stroll across the Smithfield Street Bridge for the best views of the bridge designed by Gustav Lindenthal.
2. Roberto Clemente Bridge
The Sixth Street Bridge became a permanent part of the Pittsburgh skyline in in 1928. Also referred to as Roberto Clemente Bridge, named for late Pirate and philanthropist, the bridge crosses the Allegheny River, connecting downtown Pittsburgh to the North Shore. Scores of Pirates and Steelers fans walk across the bridge, open only to pedestrians during games, to get to PNC Park and Heinz Field.
3. Andy Warhol Bridge
The Seventh Street Bridge, commonly called the Andy Warhol Bridge, also crosses over the Allegheny River from downtown to the North Side. Opened in 1926, the Andy Warhol Bridge holds the distinction of being the lone bridge in the country named after a "visual artist."
4. Rachel Carson Bridge
The Ninth Street Bridge, or the Rachel Carson Bridge, also opened in 1926. It, the Andy Warhol Bridge, and the Roberto Clemente Bridge are collectively known as the Three Sisters Bridges. The Three Sisters Bridge also earn national recognition as the only three almost identical bridges in the country.
5. Fort Pitt Bridge
Anyone who's ever driven through the Fort Pitt Tunnels and onto the Fort Pitt Bridge can attest to the jaw dropping scene of the Pittsburgh skyline that emerges. Dating back to 1959, the Fort Pitt Bridge boasts two levels and crosses over the Monongahela River.
6. Hot Metal Bridge
Pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers all cross over the Monongahela River via the Hot Metal Bridge. Originally built in 1887, the Hot Metal Bridge connects Pittsburghers from a business complex to the South Side Works. The historic bridge underwent a major overhaul in the early 2000s to add pedestrian and bike paths.
7. Homestead Grays Bridge
The Homestead Grays Bridge, an ode to Pittsburgh's professional Negro League baseball team, originally opened in 1937 as the Homestead High Level Bridge. The truss bridge passes over the Monongahela River, connecting Homestead to Squirrel Hill.
8. West End Bridge
The West End Bridge made its debut in late 1932 and crosses over the Ohio River, connecting the West End to the North Side. The historic arch bridge spans 780 feet and cost more than $3.6 million to build.
9. Panther Hollow Bridge
Enjoy spectacular views of Panther Hollow Bridge from Schenley Park in Oakland. Originally opened in 1897, Panther Hollow bridge takes drivers and pedestrians over Wilmont Road. The bridge spans 620 feet.
10. 16th Street Bridge
The regal 16th Street Bridge crosses over the Allegheny River. Also known as the David McCullough Bridge, the bridge made its debut in 1922 and, in 1979, earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge, connecting the North Side to the Strip District, stretches 1,900 feet.
The beautiful bridges of Pittsburgh add character to the skyline. What’s your favorite bridge in the Burgh? If you like nostalgia, visit these 10 charming covered bridges near Pittsburgh.
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