Schenley Plaza | Pittsburgh

Schenley Plaza is a prominent and vibrant public park located in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It serves as the grand gateway to Schenley Park, one of the city's largest and most cherished urban green spaces. The plaza spans about 3.5 acres and blends natural beauty with cultural landmarks, recreational amenities, and community-focused spaces.

Historical Background

Originally, the site of Schenley Plaza was a deep natural gully known as St. Pierre Hollow. In the early 20th century, the city filled in this hollow to create a formal entryway to Schenley Park. The plaza was officially developed in 1921 to serve as a welcoming green space adjacent to the University of Pittsburgh campus. For many decades, however, the area gradually deteriorated and was converted into a parking lot, which limited its potential as a community hub.

In 2004, a major revitalization project began with the goal of transforming the parking lot back into an inviting public space. Completed in 2006 at a cost of approximately $12 million, the renovation was inspired by successful urban parks like New York City's Bryant Park. This effort restored Schenley Plaza’s role as a green oasis, designed to accommodate events, leisure, and cultural activities.

Features and Attractions

Emerald Lawn:
At the heart of the plaza lies the Emerald Lawn, a one-acre stretch of grass featuring native plants and wildflowers. It offers a naturalistic setting perfect for relaxation, picnics, or informal gatherings. The design emphasizes ecological restoration and invites visitors to connect with nature within an urban environment.

PNC Carousel:
One of the plaza’s most beloved attractions is the PNC Carousel, a beautifully restored Victorian-style merry-go-round. It features hand-carved wooden animals and is accompanied by traditional band organ music. This carousel is a popular family destination, offering rides and nostalgia for visitors of all ages.

Dining Options:
Schenley Plaza hosts a variety of food kiosks that reflect the cultural diversity of Pittsburgh’s food scene. These include Asia Tea House (offering Asian fusion cuisine), K STATION (known for quick, fresh meals), and Omar's Halal Grill (serving Middle Eastern flavors). Additionally, The Porch at Schenley provides full-service dining with a rooftop garden, adding an upscale yet casual eating experience overlooking the plaza.

Mary Schenley Memorial Fountain:
A striking artistic feature of the plaza is the Mary Schenley Memorial Fountain, created in 1918 by sculptor Victor David Brenner. This bronze and granite fountain honors Mary Schenley, the philanthropist who donated land to form Schenley Park. The fountain depicts a reclining Pan, the Greek god of nature, and a female lyre player, symbolizing harmony between humanity and nature. It remains a central visual and historical element within the plaza.

Community Use and Events

Schenley Plaza has become a lively hub for public programming and community events. The space is equipped with free Wi-Fi, movable seating, shaded areas, and open lawns to encourage people to linger, socialize, or work outdoors. Regular activities include:

Free fitness classes such as yoga and tai chi

Family-friendly programs and arts activities

Cultural performances and music events

Seasonal festivals and holiday celebrations

These events foster a strong sense of community while making the plaza an engaging destination year-round.

Location and Accessibility

The plaza is ideally situated between the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning—a gothic landmark—and the Frick Fine Arts Building, placing it at the intersection of academic, cultural, and recreational life in Oakland. It is easily accessible by public transportation, walking, and biking, making it a convenient spot for students, residents, and tourists alike.

Overall Significance

Schenley Plaza represents a successful urban renewal effort that transformed a neglected parking lot into a dynamic and multifunctional public space. It serves as a model for balancing historical preservation, ecological sensitivity, cultural engagement, and social interaction in a city park setting. Whether visitors are seeking a quiet retreat, family entertainment, or a vibrant place to connect with the community, Schenley Plaza offers an inviting environment reflecting the spirit of Pittsburgh.