The 6 Secret Parks Of Pittsburgh You’ve Never Heard Of But Need To Visit

Spending time outdoors, especially in and around Pittsburgh, is pretty easy. Just look at the network of city, county, and state parks. But, with all the parks in and near Pittsburgh, it’s pretty easy to overlook some of the hidden gems. Here are the best secret parks of Pittsburgh and beyond.

Shaler Township, PA

Fall Run Park boasts Pittsburgh’s highest waterfall. The 94-acre park in Glenshaw offers plenty to do – soccer fields, basketball courts, and playgrounds. The masterpiece of the park, however, is the waterfall that you can access at the end of an easy one-mile hike.

Flickr/Patrick

Just an hour from Pittsburgh, Buhl Farm Park promises so much to do and to see that it’s a must visit. The sprawling park features a slew of amenities, including a free nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, disc golf, a pool, and ice skating in the winter. Kids can explore the Children’s Butterfly Garden while dogs are welcome at the Paws Place Dog Park.

Flickr/Steve Tiesdell Legacy Collection

Find tranquility in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. Nestled atop a parking garage, Mellon Square spans 1.37 acres of lush green with water fountains and a majestic cascading water fountain. The park promises the perfect opportunity to find peace and quiet among the hustle and bustle of downtown Pittsburgh.

Wikipedia/Public Domain

Drink in spectacular views of the 500-acres of Harrison Hill Parks from a charming overlook. The park in Natrona Heights features a nature center, soccer fields, and playgrounds. Nature lovers will discover several ponds along the network of picturesque hiking and walking trails.

Facebook/Angora Gardens

Spend an enchanting day at White Oak Park. The more than 800-acre park offers a plethora of activities. Bring your pooch to play in numerous off-leash spots. Go hiking along the trails or play bocce, volleyball, or horseshoes. The enchanting Angora Gardens (pictured above) is near the park.

Wikipedia/Clint

Allegheny Islands State Park is for adventurers only. That’s because you can’t just drive to a parking lot and explore. The park sits on two islands in the middle of the Allegheny River. Climb aboard a boat, a canoe, or a kayak to get to the state park. Once there, explore via the unmarked trails.

What other secret parks of Pittsburgh do you know about? Share below! Click here to read more about this fairy tale park in the Burgh.