Braddock Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Braddock, Pennsylvania.
1. The Brew Gentlemen
CRAFT BREWERY EXPERIENCE
The Brew Gentlemen is a standout craft brewery known for its innovative beers and welcoming taproom atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of small-batch brews, often accompanied by popular food trucks parked outside. Its relaxed setting and quality offerings make it a social hub in Braddock.
2. Braddock's Battlefield History Center
REVOLUTIONARY WAR LANDMARK
Braddock's Battlefield History Center immerses guests in the rich history of the 1755 Battle of the Monongahela, a pivotal moment in the French and Indian War. The center features engaging exhibits, artifacts, and tour opportunities detailing General Braddock's defeat and George Washington's role. It serves as an educational resource for history enthusiasts and local students.
3. George Washington Monument
HISTORIC STATUE LANDMARK
The George Washington Monument in Braddock commemorates Washington's leadership during the Battle of Braddock's Field. This statue is a significant landmark reflecting the community's connection to America's early history. It stands as a tribute to both Washington and the region's strategic importance.
4. Braddock Carnegie Library
FIRST CARNEGIE LIBRARY
The Braddock Carnegie Library holds the distinction of being the very first Carnegie Library in the United States, opening its doors in 1889. Its historic architecture and vibrant programming, including a pottery studio and community classes, make it a cultural cornerstone. The library continues to serve residents while preserving its legacy as a National Historic Landmark.
5. UnSmoke Systems Artspace
CREATIVE COMMUNITY HUB
UnSmoke Systems Artspace is a dynamic gallery and studio complex housed in a repurposed Catholic school building. It offers artists affordable workspaces and hosts exhibitions, performances, and community gatherings. The venue has become an incubator for creativity and cultural revitalization in Braddock.
6. New Guild Studio
ARTISAN WORKSHOP & GALLERY
New Guild Studio is renowned for its fine arts craftsmanship, specializing in stained glass, mosaics, and sculpture. The studio welcomes visitors for tours and special events, showcasing both traditional and modern techniques. Its work has been featured in regional churches and public spaces, reflecting Braddock's artistic spirit.
7. Superior Motors
AWARD-WINNING DINING
Superior Motors, located in a former car dealership, is an acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its inventive farm-to-table cuisine. The menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and supports community development initiatives. Its unique setting and bold flavors have attracted national attention.
8. Bar Marco
INVENTIVE WINE BAR
Bar Marco offers a vibrant mix of creative cocktails, natural wines, and small plates in a stylish historic building. Known for its innovative approach to hospitality and employee-ownership model, it's become a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The menu is seasonal and ever-changing, continually delighting guests.
9. Recycle Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE
Recycle Park transforms a formerly vacant lot into a welcoming neighborhood park and garden. It features public art installations, walking paths, and native plantings, offering a tranquil retreat in the urban landscape. The park also supports local environmental education efforts.
10. McKeesport GAP Trail Bridge
HISTORIC RAIL-TRAIL BRIDGE
The McKeesport GAP Trail Bridge spans the Monongahela River along the renowned Great Allegheny Passage bike trail. Cyclists and walkers enjoy scenic views of the rivers and the region's storied industrial past. It's a regional highlight for outdoor recreation and urban exploration.
11. Homestead Pump House
LABOR HISTORY LANDMARK
The Homestead Pump House is a preserved remnant of the once-massive Homestead Steel Works, now serving as a museum and event venue. It interprets the legacy of the Homestead Strike and the steel industry's impact on the region. The Pump House is a vital destination for those interested in American labor history.
12. Hot Metal Bridge
ICONIC RIVER CROSSING
The Hot Metal Bridge is a celebrated multi-use bridge that once transported molten iron between Pittsburgh's steel mills. Today, it's a popular path for pedestrians and cyclists connecting the South Side and Oakland neighborhoods. The bridge offers striking skyline views and a glimpse into the city's industrial heritage.
13. Panther Hollow Bridge
SCENIC PARK OVERLOOK
Panther Hollow Bridge is an architectural feature of Schenley Park, offering panoramic views of the wooded hollow below. The bridge is a favorite photo spot, especially in fall, and hosts public art and lighting displays. Nearby trails and a picturesque lake enhance its appeal for nature lovers.
14. Waterfront Shopping District
RETAIL & DINING HUB
The Waterfront Shopping District is a sprawling retail and entertainment complex along the Monongahela River. It features a wide array of shops, restaurants, and a cinema, making it a convenient one-stop destination. Its riverside trails and public spaces also draw visitors for recreation.
15. Rivers of Steel: Carrie Blast Furnaces
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SITE
The Carrie Blast Furnaces, operated by Rivers of Steel, offer immersive guided tours through one of Pittsburgh's last remaining blast furnace complexes. Visitors learn about the steel-making process and the region's economic transformation. Public art installations and cultural events enliven the historic site.