Buhl Community Park

A Green Breath in Pittsburgh's North Side

Situated in Pittsburgh's North Side neighborhood, Buhl Community Park has been breathing life and greenery into the urban landscape since opening in June 2012. Sitting right across from the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, this public space offers more than just green space - it's a popular gathering spot for the neighborhood.

A Thoughtful Space

The heart of the park is a welcoming central plaza dotted with tables and chairs where you can sit back, sip your coffee, or simply watch the world go by. Beyond the plaza, a meadow area showcases native grasses that sway with the breeze, adding a touch of wild nature to the city setting.

Natural bluestone walls curve throughout the space, offering impromptu seating for those moments when you just need to pause. And if you're looking to enjoy lunch outdoors, several picnic tables stand ready for your sandwiches and snacks.

Green by Design

This park doesn't just look good - it does good. Environmental sustainability is woven into its very fabric, with clever rain gardens that help manage stormwater runoff, showing how urban spaces can work with nature rather than against it.

The renovation transformed what was once mostly concrete into a living, breathing ecosystem. Where 89% of the area was once covered in concrete, now it's down to just 37%, making room for over 100 trees, 200 shrubs, and an impressive 5,000 perennials that have taken root in the heart of the city.

Art You Can Feel

The star of the show here is undoubtedly Cloud Arbor, an installation by artist Ned Kahn that blends science, art, and pure fun. Imagine 64 stainless steel poles that periodically release a cloud-like mist, creating an ever-changing sculpture of vapor that you can walk through and interact with.

On warm summer days, this cooling mist becomes particularly magical. Kids absolutely love running through the misty forest of poles - their laughter mixing with the soft sound of falling water droplets.

Where Community Happens

Buhl isn't just a pretty space - it's alive with community energy. During summer months, the Solar Concert Series brings lunchtime music that turns ordinary work breaks into mini-adventures.

On any given day, you might find neighbors walking their dogs, families gathering after a museum visit, or community events bringing people together. The space provides a relatively quiet pocket where you can step away from city noise for a moment.

The Practical Stuff

The park keeps things simple but functional with a portable restroom on-site. Dog owners appreciate the pet-friendly environment that welcomes their four-legged friends.

Its location right across from the Children's Museum makes it perfectly positioned for families looking to extend their day of exploration or just burn off some extra energy before heading home.