This Charming Town Just Outside Of Pittsburgh Is A Must Visit
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
Just outside of Pittsburgh lies a hidden gem. A charming town that any Pittsburgher or visitor to Pittsburgh must visit. Oakmont has gained a worldwide reputation as the host of the U.S. Open Golf Tournament while most locals know it for its famous bakery. But, spend a few hours exploring Oakmont and you’ll quickly discover all that this charming town, and its townspeople, have to offer.
A half an hour outside of Pittsburgh sits a welcoming town that immediately conjures images of an America of long ago. The above photo shows a bird's eye view of Oakmont, including the now-demolished Hulton Bridge, a famous century-old bridge. The old Hulton Bridge gave way to the new Hulton Bridge. The New Hulton Bridge brings Oakmont into the 21st century – moving from two lanes with the old bridge to four lanes and pedestrian access on the new bridge.
Stroll along the brick-lined main street where you'll be greeted with smiles from friendly shop keepers and nods and grins greeting you from the townspeople. Shops, restaurants, and apartments dot the main street (Allegheny River Boulevard) landscape.
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Family is important in Oakmont and so is pride in community and country. Oakmont pays homage to its veterans and those who sacrificed their lives for the United States in each war since World War I.
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The American flag flies proudly throughout Oakmont, including on the Oakmont Branch of the United States Post Office.
And on the charming homes that line Oakmont's side streets.
Community is also important in Oakmont and the townspeople certainly know how to celebrate – whether it's hosting a Memorial Day parade to honor veterans and those who sacrificed their lives for our country, or getting the kids (and adults, too) ready for the Christmas season with a Christmas parade, a street fair, and a visit from Santa himself.
The Oakmont Branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh promises plenty of activities for everyone while its building adds unique beauty to the picture perfect landscape.
The Oakmont Country Club calls Oakmont home. All in the golfing world turn their eyes to Oakmont when it hosts the U.S. Open. This year, 2016, marked the most recent hosting of the golf tournament.
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Stroll down the quaint sidewalks of the main street in Oakmont where you'll pass eclectic shops, many locally owned and operated.
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Mystery fans flock to the Mystery Lovers Bookshop on Allegheny River Boulevard. The bookstore, an Oakmont staple since 1990, has earned distinction as one of the largest mystery book shops in the United States.
As you roam down the main street, take a closer look at the stunning architecture of many of the buildings.
The cozy Oaks Theater offers a quaint alternative to today's multiplex cinemas. The Oaks features films as well as concerts and other shows.
Casual and fine dining restaurants abound in Oakmont. You'll probably find several you'd like to visit during your stroll.
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Once you've experienced all of the Oakmont section of Allegheny River Boulevard, head to the stairs in the middle of town. Descend those stairs for a few delicious surprises.
A former train station greets you at the bottom of the stairs. With its lush green and bright flowers, the beautiful spot provides a spectacular backdrop for photos or selfies.
Just across the street you'll discover a world of delectable treats. But, fair warning, once you go in, there's no going back. You will be hooked on The Oakmont Bakery and all of its delicious cakes, cupcakes, cookies, pies, fresh breads, and other goodies. And, you will return again – and again.
Nothing goes better with or after a bakery dessert than ice cream. Brr-Kee's Ice Cream is a must-stop for all visitors to Oakmont. Even better than their delicious ice cream? Brr-Kee's is open all year round, which means you can indulge in your ice cream craving just as easily in the dead of winter as in the middle of summer.
Before leaving this quaint town with friendly townspeople and a welcoming glow, take a look back at Oakmont for it is certainly full of old-time charm that will beckon you to return again and again.
Welcome to Oakmont! Even if you’ve been there, isn’t it worth a second, third, or even fourth visit? But, don’t just stop with a visit to Oakmont. There are plenty of other beautiful and charming towns just outside of Pittsburgh. Click here to read more about eight of them.
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