Pittsburgh's Market Square

Introduction to Market Square

Market Square is an open public space surrounded by restaurants and shops, located at the intersection of Forbes Avenue and Market Street. The area has long been a meeting spot for Pittsburgh residents and it's where the city's first courthouse and first jail were built. Nowadays, the pedestrian-only square is the grounds for many community-building events and festivals.

Popular Summer Events

Community Activities

Some of Market Square's typical summer events include farmers markets, fashion truck pop-ups, outdoor yoga classes, outdoor dance classes, and KidsPlay – an active, educational program series for children hosted in the square twice a week. Residents and visitors appreciate that there is always something happening in the square, and they say it's one of the few places in the city conducive to outdoor strolling, shopping, and people-watching.

Winter Festivities

Peoples Gas Holiday Christmas Market

If you're visiting Pittsburgh between mid-November and Christmas, plan to explore the Peoples Gas Holiday Christmas Market. Inspired by the German tradition, this holiday pop-up event features live music performances, a house where you can take photos with Santa, and many wooden stalls selling unique gifts and winter snacks.

Ice Skating at PPG Place

If you're looking for more winter activity, you can also head about a block south to skate at the ice rink at PPG Place.

Special Events and Demonstrations

Because of its position in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, Market Square has also been the backdrop for many larger events, from Steelers rallies to political demonstrations. To see what events are happening in Market Square during your visit, check out the online schedule.

Dining Options

Variety of Restaurants

You'll also find a variety of restaurants around the square. Visitors can enjoy upscale Italian at Sienna on the Square, Creole cuisine at NOLA on the Square, and oysters and other seafood from The Original Oyster House – the oldest bar and restaurant in the city. However, some travelers say the square is smaller than they expected and more compact than central squares you might encounter in other cities.

Accessibility and Convenience

Parking and Public Transportation

There are limited on-street parking options near Market Square, but plenty of garages in the area. The square is also easy to reach via public transportation: It's a short walk from the Wood Street, Gateway, and Steel Plaza metro stations and many buses stop nearby as well. It's free to stroll around the area, and many public events held in the square are free to enjoy, too.

Hours of Operation

You'll find people in the area throughout the day and into the night, but hours of operation vary by individual shop or restaurant.