Market Square was designated as the original town square in Pittsburgh's 1784 city plan.
The square once housed the city's first jail, courthouse, and a public pillory for punishment.
It underwent a significant revitalization in 2010 to convert the space into a permanent pedestrian-only zone.
The current square layout features a fountain and public art installations integrated into the hardscaping.
It is a central site for the annual Pittsburgh Holiday Market, which features European-style wooden chalets.
Underground transit lines run directly beneath the surrounding street grid of the square.
Market Square is a historic public plaza in downtown Pittsburgh serving as the city's oldest open-space area. It functions as a central pedestrian hub surrounded by diverse restaurants, cafes, and seasonal retail kiosks. The space features a prominent glass-enclosed pavilion, architectural elements from various eras, and a central seating area. It hosts consistent programming throughout the year, including seasonal farmers' markets and holiday-themed events. The square maintains a dense urban footprint bordered by Forbes Avenue, Market Street, and Graeme Street. It provides direct access to the PPG Place complex and is integrated into the city’s central business district street grid.
From the center of the square looking toward the glass facade of the PPG Place towers.
Visit during the weekday lunch hour to observe the local business crowd.
Check the official website for event calendars before visiting, as the space frequently hosts festivals.
Combine a trip here with a walk through the adjacent PPG Place for unique architectural photography.
Avoid rushing through; the area is designed for sitting and people-watching rather than just passing through.
Farmers' markets operate seasonally during warmer months; the Holiday Market is active throughout December.
