Squirrel Hill
Pittsburgh’s Vibrant Urban Village
Welcome to Squirrel Hill, the neighborhood so legendary it inspired Mr. Rogers himself. As one of the most culturally diverse and welcoming corners of Pittsburgh, this is a place where "relaxed luxury meets modern elegance". Whether you're a foodie, an outdoor adventurer, or a history buff, Squirrel Hill offers a unique blend of international flavor and historic charm that makes every visitor feel like a local.
Historically, the neighborhood is a treasure trove of Pittsburgh stories. It's home to the Neill Log House, the oldest restored log house in the area. It's also the stomping grounds of modern icons like Mac Miller and Wiz Khalifa. From the bustling business districts to the quiet, tree-lined residential streets, Squirrel Hill is a walker’s paradise designed for exploration.
5 Must-Do Ways to Explore the Neighborhood
1. Take the "Great Pizza Debate" Challenge
In Squirrel Hill, your pizza choice is a local tradition. Two legends, Mineo’s Pizza House (2128 Murray Ave) and Aiello’s Pizza (2112 Murray Ave), have sat just a block apart for decades. Mineo’s is famous for its mountain of hand-grated cheese, while Aiello’s is the go-to for a classic, crispy crust.
Pro Tip: Grab a slice from both and decide for yourself which reigns supreme!
2. Walk in the Footsteps of Legends
Pay homage to the neighborhood’s most famous neighbors. Visit Blue Slide Park (part of Frick Park), which served as the namesake for Mac Miller’s debut album, or walk past Taylor Allderdice High School, the alma mater of both Miller and Wiz Khalifa. Of course, no visit is complete without a nod to Mister Rogers himself, Fred Rogers; Squirrel Hill was his longtime home, and the community still embodies his "won't you be my neighbor" spirit.
3. Get Active in Pittsburgh’s "Green Heart"
Squirrel Hill is bordered by three of the city’s most spectacular parks: Schenley, Frick, and Mellon. You can hike the wooded trails of Frick Park, visit the Frick Environmental Center for a sensory garden experience, or tee off at the Bob O’Connor Golf Course (5370 Schenley Dr) the only golf course located within Pittsburgh city limits.
4. Explore International Cuisine and Local Favorites
Savor the city’s largest concentrated selection of global cuisine along Forbes and Murray Avenues. Experience the James Beard-nominated heat of Chengdu Gourmet and the hand-pulled ribbons at Amazing Dumplings, or dive into the neighborhood's deep Jewish roots with a fresh-boiled bagel from Pigeon Bagels and a "Honey Bunny Latte" at Bunny Bakes. Afterward, cool down with a specialty brew in the Bubble Tea District, where you'll find authentic matcha and Taiwanese tea spots tucked between historic kosher markets.
5. Walk the Timeline of History
Discover a piece of the 1700s tucked away during a stroll through Schenley Park. The Neill Log House (E Circuit Rd) is the oldest restored log house in the area and stands as a quiet reminder of the neighborhood's frontier past. Then, fast forward to the 20th century at one of the oldest and most storied cinemas in Pittsburgh. Since opening its doors in 1922, The Manor has evolved from a silent film house into a sophisticated destination for indie and foreign films.
Plan Your Trip
Special thanks to the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition (SHUC) for their invaluable collaboration on this guide.
For over 50 years, SHUC has served as the vital voice for the 14th Ward, and their dedication to preserving the neighborhood's unique urban character and green spaces makes this profile possible.
