Here’s where you can explore Historic Landmarks and support local biz

Join us for OpenStreetsPGH on Saturday, June 29th, 2024 from 10am – 2pm as we celebrate the Historic Hill District, Downtown, and the Northside with 3.5 miles of car-free fun. Hosted by BikePGH and presented by UPMC Health Plan, OpenStreetsPGH is Pittsburgh’s fastest-growing free event series that opens miles of streets for people of all ages and abilities to explore our neighborhoods while biking, walking, and rolling. Come out and walk, roll, shop, eat, and connect with friends and neighbors.

This month’s event tackles the first HILL in OpenStreetsPGH history and these neighborhood gems are absolutely worth making the climb. Check out out list of places you won’t want to miss in the Historic Hill District (+ message us if you have more to share!)

Food & Beverage

• Grandma B’s – 2537 Wylie Ave
  • Transport yourself to grandma’s house at this loving diner meets community hub. The heartbeat of the Hill District, Grandma B’s is a spot to gather, eat greasy spoon classics, and enjoy being in the presence of friends and family. 
• Jerry’s Pizzeria  – 2443 Wylie Ave
  • This local delight has everything from pizza to calzones to sandwiches, served with a side of spot-on customer service.
• Al’s Fish & Chicken – 1860 Centre Ave
  •  Al’s has incredible prices on fish, chicken, and hoagies. When you stop in to dine, don’t forget to ask about their great catering options for your next party.
• Abby’s Jamaican & American Fusion Cuisine  – 2408 Reed St
  • This fusion eatery offers a blend of Jamaican favorites like jerk chicken and oxtails, alongside classic American fare like chicken tenders and cheeseburgers.
• Digital History Spotlight: Black Beauty Lounge – 2037 Centre Ave
  • Serving up a vibrant atmosphere, food, and drinks, The Black Beauty Lounge has been a cornerstone of the Hill District for over half a century. Established in 1972 by Roberta Brassell, this iconic lounge boasts 52 years of continuous operation, making it the longest-running bar in the Hill. You may also recognize the building as a notable landmark with its vibrant August Wilson mural.

Digital History Spotlights are sites of major cultural significance in the Historic Hill District. This and many more will be part of a self-guided walking tour on OpenStreetsPGH event day – look for tour signs across the route to learn about the rich history and cultural cornerstones that have kept the community strong through many decades of change.

HillHistory.Org

to view all stories & map sites

Art & Culture

• MOKA Art Gallery & House of Culture  – 2297 Centre Ave
  • MOKA (“Mecca of Kulture and Art”) is home to both a contemporary art gallery and music studio, and is operated by Errol “Mobutu” Reynolds and Charlotte Ka. With a focus on the neighborhood’s rich cultural history, MOKA is a hub of creative endeavors in the Hill.
• Nafasi on Centre – 2145 Centre Ave
  • Operating out of the historic Lutz’s Meat Market building, Nafasi is an important cultural space amplifying local artists’ voices, and is a collaboration between the Hill CDC and #ArtsInHD, an initiative of the Hill District Consensus Group. With a focus on social justice and community engagement, Nafasi hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events that foster artistic expression. They also offer a 2-year Artist Residency Program to support creatives in further exploring and developing their craft. 
• Hill Dance Academy Theatre (HDAT) – 2900 Bedford Ave
  • The Hill Dance Academy Theatre celebrates Black dance and tradition, promoting artistic excellence and community empowerment. Through high-quality education and performances, HDAT encourages creativity and the expression of Black cultural heritage. In this group you’ll find the next generation of dancers and artists dedicated to preserving and advancing an important Black dance legacy.

• Digital History Spotlight: Crawford Grill – 2141 Wylie Ave
  • Crawford Grill stands as a legendary cultural landmark with an abundantly rich history. Once a renowned jazz club and landmark of Black entrepreneurship, it hosted iconic performances by music legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, and John Coltrane. Even though the club is now closed, the Crawford Grill remains an enduring reminder of the Hill District’s role in America’s jazz scene and Pittsburgh’s cultural history. 
• Digital History Spotlight: August Wilson House – 1727 Bedford Ave
  • Get a glimpse into the life and times of one of America’s greatest playwrights. Learn about the legacy of August Wilson at his childhood home in the heart of the Hill District. This historic landmark, where the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright found inspiration for many of his iconic works, stands as a testament to Wilson’s lasting impact on American literature. Today, the August Wilson House preserves his memory while promoting arts and education within the community.

Shop & Explore

• Big Tom’s Barber Shop – 2042 Centre Ave
  • A local gem and go-to destination in the community, known for its expert haircuts, grooming services, and homemade beard care products.
• Molly’s World Boutique  – 2101 Centre Ave
  • Home of the iconic Ikewear brand; if you’re looking for fashionable shirts, hats, tracksuits, and sweatsuits, come check out this local boutique.
• Ujamaa Collective  – 1901 Centre Ave
  • Shop for unique gifts, support local talent, and make meaningful connections to the Hill’s creative community. Through their marketplace and workshops, Ujamaa supports local artisans and entrepreneurs, offering handmade products celebrating Black culture and heritage.

I live along the route. What do I need to know?

Streets will begin closing to cars on Saturday, June 29th at 9 a.m. and will start reopening around 2 p.m. ⚠️ Cars parked along the route must be moved before 3 a.m. on Saturday morning or they will be towed. ⚠️ “No Parking” signs will be placed along the route on Thursday.