Five Budget-Friendly Ways To Stay Cool And Beat The Heat
With unseasonably warm weather upon us many Pittsburghers are flocking to fountains, pools and splash parks.
Pittsburgh is home to three rivers — the Ohio, Monongahela and Allegheny — but you will rarely find anyone swimming in them. With a heat wave upon us, and swimming in the rivers being out of the question for many Pittsburghers, we found some other ways to cool off.
Here’s a comprehensive look at ways to beat the heat without breaking the bank.
PHOTO BY DAVE DICELLO
Point State Park Fountain
Speaking of rivers, Point State Park is the confluence of the Allegheny River and Monongahela River which forms the Ohio River. The original design for the park was to use the land for a civic center, but that plan was rejected and it is now home to the iconic Point State Park Fountain.
The fountain, with reflecting pool and overflow waterfall, is off limits for swimming but if you get close enough you can feel the mist. It’s a perfect way to escape the heat, and the views are also unbeatable.
Pittsburgh Water Steps
If the fountain’s mist isn’t cutting it for you, take a short walk over the Fort Duquesne Bridge and dip your toes in the Pittsburgh Water Steps. Located on Pittsburgh’s North Shore, the water feature boasts hundreds of sandstone steps with water flowing down it.
On hot days (like the ones this week) families flock to the steps to wade in the water making it a popular summertime spot. Pittsburgh Water Steps is located at 247 North Shore Dr.
CITIPARKS Spray Parks
For families and children looking to cool off, CITIPARKS Spray Parks are a good (and free) option. The City of Pittsburgh boasts nine of these parks with various locations, although the Arlington Spray Park currently is closed due to renovations.
Most of the parks are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily (weather permitting). More information can be found on the City of Pittsburgh website.
CITIPARKS Pools
For those looking to take a full plunge this week, CITIPARK pools are the best option. There are numerous pools in various neighborhoods across the city with both adult lap swim and open swim.
If you are looking to spend a lot of time in the pool this summer, a pool tag might be the right option. For city residents under the age of 15 tags are free; for adults (16 and older) a tag will cost you $30. Prices vary for seniors, families, veterans, non-residents and those who receive government assistance. Tickets can also be purchased for the day for $3 for non-resident children (under the age of 15) and $5 for adults.There is free admission for children who reside in the city.
For more information, visit here.
Allegheny County Wave Pools
Surf’s up! Allegheny County boasts three different wave pools in Boyce, Settlers Cabin and South Park. All pools are open from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily (weather permitting) and are the perfect option for those looking for a little more action than your typical pool.
Prices range from $2 to $13 depending on age and resident status. For more information, visit here.
