PGH Connections
Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill has a wonderfully laid-back feel
This vibrant neighborhood is one of Pittsburgh’s most popular areas. Much like Shadyside, Squirrel Hill is a perfect place to purchase necessities including groceries, videos and books; and also offers a variety of ethnic restaurants, bakeries, boutiques, and movie theaters. Squirrel Hill is a fun and accessible place to hang out anytime of the day. The main thoroughfares of Squirrel Hill are Murray Avenue and Forbes Avenue, where they intersect east of campus. It is an easy walk from campus and an even easier bus ride.
The area is home to many Carnegie Mellon students favorite spots, including Pamela’s, and Pi, known for its unique gourmet pizzas (take a friend and expect to share – if you can agree on one!). Pittsburgh’s own Gullifty’s offers the best desserts in town, and stays open later at night than a lot of other places (try the Oreo cheesecake – it’s to die for!). Eat n’ Park or the 61C Café are more casual joints with a diner-feel. Go to Eyetique boutique if you are looking for trendy eyeglasses – it is arguably the best in town. There are two movie theatres in Squirrel Hill and together they show most mainstream films as well as some independent flicks. Keep your eyes peeled for interesting cinematic attractions: these theaters often show, blink-and-you-miss-them films. One of the gems of Squirrel Hill is Jerry’s Records on Murray Avenue: Jerry’s is a huge store with an excellent variety of LPs at extremely low prices.
Squirrel Hill has a wonderfully laid-back feel to it which seems to invite you to amble around the streets and soak up the environment. Don’t get so caught up in the exciting retail and dining options that you fail to take the time to wander into the residential areas and enjoy the grand streetscapes and beautiful houses.
Getting There:
By Car/On Foot:
Just follow Forbes Avenue east until you hit Murray Avenue– it’s that simple!
By Bus:
Take either the eastbound 61A, 61B, 61C, or 59U. Depart at Murray Avenue & Forbes Avenue