The park is situated on the exact footprint where home plate of the old Forbes Field stadium was located.
The plaza was designed to cover a two-level underground parking garage that supports the area's dense academic and cultural infrastructure.
The park contains a marked 'home plate' monument embedded in the ground to commemorate the historic stadium.
The PNC Carousel was relocated to the plaza in 2006 as part of a major revitalization effort for the historic green space.
The gardens are maintained using sustainable horticultural practices and focus on regional native plant species.
Schenley Plaza is a five-acre urban park located in the heart of Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, serving as the primary gateway to the University of Pittsburgh campus. The space features a central great lawn surrounded by formal gardens, paved pedestrian pathways, and a variety of food kiosks. The park is anchored by the PNC Carousel, a permanent attraction that operates seasonally. It occupies the site of the former Forbes Field, the historic home of the Pittsburgh Pirates until 1970. The plaza functions as a central hub for students, faculty, and city residents, frequently hosting community events and outdoor performances. Designed with a focus on green space, the plaza serves as an active transition point between the Cathedral of Learning and the surrounding museums.
The elevated view of the Cathedral of Learning from the center of the great lawn.
Visit the food kiosks during lunch hours to access a rotating selection of local Pittsburgh food vendors.
Check the University of Pittsburgh event calendar before visiting, as the plaza is frequently reserved for campus-wide festivals.
Utilize the movable seating on the great lawn to find a personalized vantage point for people-watching.
Assuming all food kiosks are open during winter months or extreme weather, as operations are seasonal.
The PNC Carousel and food kiosks operate seasonally; the plaza park space remains accessible year-round.
