Experience your own bit of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” with a walking tour of Millionaires’ Row along Fifth Avenue in Shadyside!

Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh with tour host Jay Steele as we learn some of the history behind the expansive homes along Fifth Avenue, see how they have been maintained through the present, and enjoy the beautiful architecture along the Oakland/Shadyside border.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Jay Steele is a retired adjunct professor of Health and Physical Education at CCAC. He is a Pittsburgh native and born and raised in the Observatory Hill section of the North Side. He currently lives in Ross Township with his wife Carol and pug Charlie. He has taught lifelong learning development walking courses since the fall of 1998 for CCAC, Pitt and CMU Osher, and Doors Open Pittsburgh. He developed these walking tours/classes throughout the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County which combines his love of exercise, Pittsburgh and Allegheny County history and architectural design.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Rodef Shalom Synagogue, 4904 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

History, notoriety, and happenstance merge to form a quilt pattern as American as apple pie on this walking tour of Sewickley Secrets!

You can't get There from Here, but you can imagine. Every block has its secrets and the streets of Sewickley are no exception. Join Meghan Snatchko, a woman who has walked every street in Pittsburgh, Coraopolis, AND Sewickley on a 1 mile loop of unraveling secrets. History, notoriety, and happenstance merge to form a quilt pattern as American as Apple Pie; which you can get a slice of at the Ultimate Pastry Shop in the heart of this adorable village.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Meghan Snatchko is a former librarian and amateur historian. She enjoys exploring obscure places and has walked every street in Pittsburgh, Sewickley, and Coraopolis. She knows a little about a lot and loves to learn new things.

TOUR STARTS: 200 Broad Street Sewickley, PA 15143

TOUR ENDS: Chestnut Street boat ramp

• This is a walking tour: less than 1.5 mile of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• There are parts of this tour that are not wheelchair-accessible.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

• Tour content is not suitable for children under 18.

Additional events you may be interested in:

What makes Pittsburgh, well, Pittsburgh?  Explore our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine.  Walk through the streets of Downtown and discover some of the history, events, and people that shaped Pittsburgh.

Explore the roots of our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine. Learn about the Great Fire of 1845, Mr. Frick's Revenge, the Wall Street of Pittsburgh, and our first great victory over Cleveland! Alan reveals the answers to ongoing mysteries like who is buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Bowler and why the Allegheny Courthouse lions lounge so high up in the air. Explore magnificent buildings, uncover quirky public art, discuss the best places to eat, and find answers to some of Pittsburgh's intrigues.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Alan Irvine is an acclaimed storyteller and tour guide. He has been telling stories of Pittsburgh history for over 30 years. 

Lonely Planet guidebooks gave Alan's tours their Top Choice ranking in 2012. He has also recorded two CDs of stories regarding area history and has many award-winning CDs of other types of stories. 

When not telling stories about Pittsburgh, he teaches courses in Pittsburgh history for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at University of Pittsburgh. He also teaches Sociology at Robert Morris University.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Market Square Clock, 431 Market Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Take a walk through the scenic and historic Squirrel Hill Neighborhood while learning about some of the iconic stops along the way. From the Squirrel Hill Merchant District to visiting a Sukkah at Beth Shalom Synagogue, there is something for just about everyone to appreciate in one of Pittsburgh's bustling neighborhoods.  

In honor of Sukkot, this tour will also include architecture, history and culture of one of Squirrel Hill's oldest, largest synagogues located along the walking route.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Maria Cohen is a resident of Squirrel Hill and the Executive Director of the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition (SHUC). SHUC gives voice to the hopes and concerns of its residents, institutions, businesses and visitors and works to preserve, improve, and celebrate the quality of life in the vibrant urban Squirrel Hill neighborhood.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Parking lot at Forbes and Shady Avenues (behind the Dunkin Donuts)

• This is a walking tour: up to 2 miles of walking; a portion of this tour is uphill along Beacon Street with an approximate half-mile incline.

• There are parts of this tour that are not wheelchair-accessible.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

With a focus on art, nature, and the urban landscape, this tour will take Doors Open Pittsburgh visitors to key riverfront parks and projects along the Allegheny River in and around downtown Pittsburgh. Riverlife staff will guide attendees along and over the river and discuss art-filled sites, including one of the first major projects by famed landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh in collaboration with artist Ann Hamilton, the nation’s first riverfront sculpture park, the Andy Warhol bridge (and its sister bridges), new art installations celebrating local nature and Black Pittsburghers, and the iconic Point State Park. 

Along the walk, Riverlife will share historic information about the riverfronts and their transformations and outline future projects poised to reshape the Allegheny River for the new millennium, infusing it with restored natural habitats, new places for gathering, and enthralling art for all. The tour takes its name from a new Riverlife initiative, in partnership with Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and the Allegheny County Regional Asset District, called ArtWalk on the Allegheny.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Riverlife creates, activates, and celebrates Pittsburgh’s riverfronts, connecting people through exceptional places and experiences. Since 1999, Riverlife has led a $132 million investment that has transformed decaying and abandoned spaces along Pittsburgh riverfronts into 15 miles and 1,055 acres of award-winning, nationally recognized parks, trails, and green space. Through hundreds of public meetings and feedback from thousands of residents and visitors, Riverlife introduced the Completing the Loop plan for a community-driven and transformative vision that centered on a continuous riverfront park system.

Over the years, plans and projects have invited people to the rivers, honoring the varied range of hopes, expectations, and uses in the original vision. Today, the riverfronts are much closer to achieving the original vision of a network of parks and open spaces, but much work remains to fill gaps in the system and ensure their benefits are enjoyed by everyone.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: 39 Isabella Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. Meet in the upper plaza of Allegheny Landing, on Isabella Street, between Federal Street and Sandusky Street (the Andy Warhol and Roberto Clemente Bridges)

• This is a walking tour: up to 1.5 miles of walking.

• Photography is allowed.

• A restroom is available.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Have you ever wondered about the rich history and hidden architectural gems in Pittsburgh’s historic Wilkinsburg neighborhood? Then join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for a walk through the federally designated Hamnett Historic District and a reviving downtown Wilkinsburg. Your guides on this new walking tour are Pat DiRienzo and James Weddell.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Pat DiRienzo has a long involvement in the Regent Square community. Her contributions were recognized in as part of the series, "90 Neighborhoods, 90

Good Stories" produced by WESA90.5 in 2017.  She has led and developed architectural & historical tours for multiple organizations.

James Weddell was a docent on Wilkinsburg's Vacant Home Tours. He was involved in efforts to restore the Wilkinsburg train station. He has led and developed architectural & historical tours for multiple organizations.

TOUR STARTS: 708 Whitney Street, Pittsburgh, 15221. Please note this is adjacent to the Hamnett Station stop on the MLK Busway where parking is available at the Park N' Ride lot. The start point is at the Wilkinsburg entrance to the Whitney St. tunnel under the busway.

TOUR ENDS: Corner of Hay St. & Ross Avenue (between Wilkinsburg Train Station & the Borough Building).

• This is a walking tour; less than 1.5 miles of walking; some sidewalks in this area are in poor condition and care is needed.

• Photography is allowed. 

• There are parts of this tour that are not wheelchair-accessible.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for an exciting tour of Carnegie, the town named for Andrew! Some highlights of this tour include the Honus Wagner Museum, Indian Community Center, The Carnegie Library/Civil War Room, and much more!

TOUR HOST BIO:

Jay Steele is a retired adjunct professor of Health and Physical Education at CCAC. He is a Pittsburgh native and born and raised in the Observatory Hill section of the North Side. He currently lives in Ross Township with his wife Carol and pug Charlie. He has taught lifelong learning development walking courses since the fall of 1998 for CCAC, Pitt and CMU Osher, and Doors Open Pittsburgh. He developed these walking tours/classes throughout the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County which combines his love of exercise, Pittsburgh and Allegheny County history and architectural design.

TOUR STARTS: Carnegie Library at 300 Beechwood Avenue

TOUR ENDS: Historical Society / Honus Wagner Museum at One West Main Street

• This walking tour is less than 1.5 miles of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

History, notoriety, and happenstance merge to form a quilt pattern as American as apple pie on this walking tour of Sewickley Secrets!

You can't get There from Here, but you can imagine. Every block has its secrets and the streets of Sewickley are no exception. Join Meghan Snatchko, a woman who has walked every street in Pittsburgh, Coraopolis, AND Sewickley on a 1 mile loop of unraveling secrets. History, notoriety, and happenstance merge to form a quilt pattern as American as Apple Pie; which you can get a slice of at the Ultimate Pastry Shop in the heart of this adorable village.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Meghan Snatchko is a former librarian and amateur historian. She enjoys exploring obscure places and has walked every street in Pittsburgh, Sewickley, and Coraopolis. She knows a little about a lot and loves to learn new things.

TOUR STARTS: 200 Broad Street Sewickley, PA 15143

TOUR ENDS: Chestnut Street boat ramp

• This is a walking tour: less than 1.5 mile of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• There are parts of this tour that are not wheelchair-accessible.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

• Tour content is not suitable for children under 18.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Join the award-winning Greater Hazelwood Historical Society of Pittsburgh on an enlightening exploration of Hazelwood's rich history -- from the 18th century John Woods House built in 1792, to wealthy suburban estates from the Industrial Revolution and a futuristic robotics facility at Mill 19. 

TOUR HOST BIO:

Award-winning historian and USMC Veteran, JaQuay Edward Carter, has a long history of community service, military service, and human services advocacy. JaQuay began his post-secondary education at the Community College of Allegheny County, earning an associate degree in Ethnic and Diversity Studies. Soon after, JaQuay enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh, where he received a bachelor’s degree in History Education and Africana Studies. 

In 2018, JaQuay was directed back to his hometown of Hazelwood through a passion for history and neighborhood pride. He founded the Greater Hazelwood Historical Society of Pittsburgh and Cultural Center to “preserve the pillars of our community’s past.” The following year, he formed the Black History Society of Western Pennsylvania, which is dedicated to the research and serves as a repository for our region's African American experience.

JaQuay began working with Rivers of Steel Heritage Corporation in 2020 as a consultant on African American Industrial Heritage and Diversity Initiatives, and in June of 2021, he became the first person of color to guide industrial tours at the Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark. JaQuay is currently pursuing dual degrees in Master of Divinity (M.Div.) at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and a Master of Science in Public Policy and Management (MSPPM) at Carnegie Mellon University.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Mill 19, 4501 Lytle Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15207

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• There are parts of this tour that are not wheelchair-accessible.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

What makes Pittsburgh, well, Pittsburgh?  Explore our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine.  Walk through the streets of Downtown and discover some of the history, events, and people that shaped Pittsburgh.

Explore the roots of our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine. Learn about the Great Fire of 1845, Mr. Frick's Revenge, the Wall Street of Pittsburgh, and our first great victory over Cleveland! Alan reveals the answers to ongoing mysteries like who is buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Bowler and why the Allegheny Courthouse lions lounge so high up in the air. Explore magnificent buildings, uncover quirky public art, discuss the best places to eat, and find answers to some of Pittsburgh's intrigues.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Alan Irvine is an acclaimed storyteller and tour guide. He has been telling stories of Pittsburgh history for over 30 years. 

Lonely Planet guidebooks gave Alan's tours their Top Choice ranking in 2012. He has also recorded two CDs of stories regarding area history and has many award-winning CDs of other types of stories. 

When not telling stories about Pittsburgh, he teaches courses in Pittsburgh history for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at University of Pittsburgh. He also teaches Sociology at Robert Morris University.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Market Square Clock, 431 Market Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Andrew Carnegie's gift of a technical school in Schenley Park has grown into a university that is recognized internationally in technology and the arts. On this tour, we will visit the early 20th century buildings designed by Henry Hornbostel, alongside buildings of the postwar modern period as well as today's newer sustainable buildings and other green campus features.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Paul Tellers is an architect and planner. He was the University Architect at Carnegie Mellon University, the Director of Planning at WTW Architects, the Facilities Planning Director for a CUNY college in New York, and a Project Manager for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Paul serves as a guide for historical Pittsburgh tours for the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation, Rivers of Steel, Bike the Burgh, and DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh. He is also currently a docent at the Carnegie Museum of Art and a member of the Bach Choir of Pittsburgh.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Carnegie Mellon University College of Fine Arts Terrace, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. The terrace is in front of the main entrance on the west side of the College of Fine Arts building. Parking is available on Frew Street or in the East Campus Parking Garage on Forbes Avenue.

• This is a walking tour; 1 mile of walking.

• Tour is accessible.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Take an evening walk through Downtown Pittsburgh to see the city's glowing collection of light-based public artwork. Participants will experience six artworks such as "The Puddler," a neon light piece from the 1930s; "Cell Phone Disco," an interactive work in Tito Way by the artist collective Informationlab; and "For Pittsburgh," an LED artwork on the roof of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center by artist Jenny Holzer.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Rachel Klipa is a Pittsburgh-based arts administrator, curator, and writer.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Agnes R. Katz Plaza, 667 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

• This is a walking tour: less than 1 mile of walking

Additional events you may be interested in:

Take an evening walk through Downtown Pittsburgh to see the city's glowing collection of light-based public artwork. Participants will experience six artworks such as "The Puddler," a neon light piece from the 1930s; "Cell Phone Disco," an interactive work in Tito Way by the artist collective Informationlab; and "For Pittsburgh," an LED artwork on the roof of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center by artist Jenny Holzer.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Rachel Klipa is a Pittsburgh-based arts administrator, curator, and writer.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Agnes R. Katz Plaza, 667 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

• This is a walking tour: less than 1 mile of walking

Additional events you may be interested in:

Homewood Cemetery has a history all its own. Experience the Cemetery on foot with tour guide Jay Steele and hear the captivating stories it holds. 

This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Pittsburgh-famous location that was once the site of Judge Wilkins' mansion. Now the final resting place of some of Pittsburgh's movers and shakers like Mesta, Frick, Mellon, Heinz, Benedum, Clark, Pitcairn, Bigelow, Pie Traynor, and Errol Garner, this tour offers a deeper look at the Cemetery’s connections to the City of Pittsburgh. Learn about the history and stories that once made the Cemetery's residents successful.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Jay Steele is a retired adjunct professor of Health and Physical Education at CCAC. He is a Pittsburgh native and born and raised in the Observatory Hill section of the North Side. He currently lives in Ross Township with his wife Carol and pug Charlie. He has taught lifelong learning development walking courses since the fall of 1998 for CCAC, Pitt and CMU Osher, and Doors Open Pittsburgh. He developed these walking tours/classes throughout the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County which combines his love of exercise, Pittsburgh and Allegheny County history and architectural design.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Entrance Gates at South Dallas and Aylesboro, Homewood Cemetery, 1599 S Dallas Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15217

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking.

• Photography is allowed for personal use only.

Additional events you may be interested in:

What wonders does the Cultural District contain? Discover the galleries, theaters, and quirky art filling the blocks between Penn and Liberty!

This section of Downtown was not always so desirable; before the theaters and galleries, this was Pittsburgh’s Red Light district! Join tour host, Alan Irvine, and learn about the decades-long strategy that transformed this corner of Downtown into the thriving arts hub we enjoy today.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Alan Irvine is an acclaimed storyteller and tour guide. He has been telling stories of Pittsburgh history for over 30 years. 

Lonely Planet guidebooks gave Alan's tours their Top Choice ranking in 2012. He has also recorded two CDs of stories regarding area history, and has many award-winning CDs of other types of stories. 

When not telling stories about Pittsburgh, he teaches courses in Pittsburgh history for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at University of Pittsburgh. He also teaches Sociology at Robert Morris University.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Corner of 6th and Liberty at the Heinz Hall outdoor garden gate

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Join the award-winning Greater Hazelwood Historical Society of Pittsburgh on an enlightening exploration of Hazelwood's rich history -- from the 18th century John Woods House built in 1792, to wealthy suburban estates from the Industrial Revolution and a futuristic robotics facility at Mill 19. 

TOUR HOST BIO:

Award-winning historian and USMC Veteran, JaQuay Edward Carter, has a long history of community service, military service, and human services advocacy. JaQuay began his post-secondary education at the Community College of Allegheny County, earning an associate degree in Ethnic and Diversity Studies. Soon after, JaQuay enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh, where he received a bachelor’s degree in History Education and Africana Studies. 

In 2018, JaQuay was directed back to his hometown of Hazelwood through a passion for history and neighborhood pride. He founded the Greater Hazelwood Historical Society of Pittsburgh and Cultural Center to “preserve the pillars of our community’s past.” The following year, he formed the Black History Society of Western Pennsylvania, which is dedicated to the research and serves as a repository for our region's African American experience.

JaQuay began working with Rivers of Steel Heritage Corporation in 2020 as a consultant on African American Industrial Heritage and Diversity Initiatives, and in June of 2021, he became the first person of color to guide industrial tours at the Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark. JaQuay is currently pursuing dual degrees in Master of Divinity (M.Div.) at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and a Master of Science in Public Policy and Management (MSPPM) at Carnegie Mellon University.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Mill 19, 4501 Lytle Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15207

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• There are parts of this tour that are not wheelchair-accessible.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

What makes Pittsburgh, well, Pittsburgh?  Explore our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine.  Walk through the streets of Downtown and discover some of the history, events, and people that shaped Pittsburgh.

Explore the roots of our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine. Learn about the Great Fire of 1845, Mr. Frick's Revenge, the Wall Street of Pittsburgh, and our first great victory over Cleveland! Alan reveals the answers to ongoing mysteries like who is buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Bowler and why the Allegheny Courthouse lions lounge so high up in the air. Explore magnificent buildings, uncover quirky public art, discuss the best places to eat, and find answers to some of Pittsburgh's intrigues.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Alan Irvine is an acclaimed storyteller and tour guide. He has been telling stories of Pittsburgh history for over 30 years. 

Lonely Planet guidebooks gave Alan's tours their Top Choice ranking in 2012. He has also recorded two CDs of stories regarding area history and has many award-winning CDs of other types of stories. 

When not telling stories about Pittsburgh, he teaches courses in Pittsburgh history for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at University of Pittsburgh. He also teaches Sociology at Robert Morris University.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Market Square Clock, 431 Market Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

See the past, present, and future of one of Pittsburgh's picturesque suburbs. An Allegheny River community, Oakmont is the quintessential definition of charm.

From the area's steeped history, to its architecture and hidden gems, Oakmont has so much to offer. Join tour host, Jay Steele, as he takes you through this suburb community. Discover the story of Michael Bright and his 234-acre tract of land. Learn about the origins of Oakmont - including how it got its historic name.  Follow the community's development, including the addition of such staples as a multi-purpose entertainment venue, an independent bookstore, a successful bakery, and one of the premier golf courses in the country!

TOUR HOST BIO:

Jay Steele is a retired adjunct professor of Health and Physical Education at CCAC. He is a Pittsburgh native and born and raised in the Observatory Hill section of the North Side. He currently lives in Ross Township with his wife Carol and pug Charlie. He has taught lifelong learning development walking courses since the fall of 1998 for CCAC, Pitt and CMU Osher, and Doors Open Pittsburgh. He developed these walking tours/classes throughout the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County which combines his love of exercise, Pittsburgh and Allegheny County history and architectural design.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Corner of Allegheny River Boulevard and Pennsylvania, Oakmont Public Library, 700 Allegheny River Boulevard, Oakmont, PA 15139

• This is a walking tour: up to 2 miles of walking; parts of the tour route will be uphill.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for a guided walking tour of Mt. Washington and Chatham Village for spectacular views and one of the best kept secrets in Pittsburgh. Cameras are a must!

Did you know that Mt. Washington was known as Coal Hill until 1851?  Or that The Thomas Bigham house in Chatham Village was a site for the Underground Railroad?  Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for an in-depth guided walking tour of Mt. Washington (amazing views included) and Chatham Village (a well-kept secret in Pittsburgh).  Cameras are a must!

TOUR HOST BIO:

Jay Steele is a retired adjunct professor of Health and Physical Education at CCAC. He is a Pittsburgh native and born and raised in the Observatory Hill section of the North Side. He currently lives in Ross Township with his wife Carol and pug Charlie. He has taught lifelong learning development walking courses since the fall of 1998 for CCAC, Pitt and CMU Osher, and Doors Open Pittsburgh. He developed these walking tours/classes throughout the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County which combines his love of exercise, Pittsburgh and Allegheny County history and architectural design.

TOUR STARTS: 8 Grandview Avenue (The Mon Incline)

TOUR ENDS: Intersection of Virginia and Bigham (Chatham Village)

• This is a walking tour: up to 2 miles of walking; parts of the tour route will be uphill.

• Photography is allowed. 

• A restroom is available. 

Additional events you may be interested in:

Join professional counselor, James Ellermeyer, MA, NCC, LPC, for a mindfulness tour of Highland Park.  Take a stroll in the afternoon and learn about some of the fascinating history and features while exploring deeper parts of yourself with Jim's mindfulness-based cognitive approach.  Rediscover Highland Park through observation, description, and participation - from the entry gate, to the garden fountain, and a walk along the reservoir with some mindful stops along the way.  Don't just walk through this tour - live in the moment, and truly experience Highland Park in a way you never have before.

TOUR HOST BIO:

James Ellermeyer, MA, NCC, LPC is a professional counselor.  He uses a mindfulness-based cognitive approach to help people deal with self-concept, self-esteem, identity formation and develop the ability to make conscious choices. He treats a variety of conditions and has been successful with his own full impact mindfulness technique.

Mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy is a way to "step back and become the observer behind the thinker."  He does not teach thought blocking or suppression, however challenges individuals to challenge thought, feelings and their "dysregulated thinker."

Jim, himself, is in long-term recovery from drug and alcohol addiction and is actively engaged in 12-step recovery and has had his own "time of troubles" which gives him a unique perspective. He treats "people, not diagnoses" and uses a holistic mind, body and spirit approach to wellness.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Highland Park Entrance, 1467 N Highland Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15206

• This is a walking tour; less than 1.5 miles of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• Photography is allowed. 

• A restroom is available. 

Additional events you may be interested in:

Take an evening walk through Downtown Pittsburgh to see the city's glowing collection of light-based public artwork. Participants will experience six artworks such as "The Puddler," a neon light piece from the 1930s; "Cell Phone Disco," an interactive work in Tito Way by the artist collective Informationlab; and "For Pittsburgh," an LED artwork on the roof of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center by artist Jenny Holzer.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Rachel Klipa is a Pittsburgh-based arts administrator, curator, and writer.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Agnes R. Katz Plaza, 667 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

• This is a walking tour: less than 1 mile of walking

Additional events you may be interested in:

Join the award-winning Greater Hazelwood Historical Society of Pittsburgh on an enlightening exploration of Hazelwood's rich history -- from the 18th century John Woods House built in 1792, to wealthy suburban estates from the Industrial Revolution and a futuristic robotics facility at Mill 19. 

TOUR HOST BIO:

Award-winning historian and USMC Veteran, JaQuay Edward Carter, has a long history of community service, military service, and human services advocacy. JaQuay began his post-secondary education at the Community College of Allegheny County, earning an associate degree in Ethnic and Diversity Studies. Soon after, JaQuay enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh, where he received a bachelor’s degree in History Education and Africana Studies. 

In 2018, JaQuay was directed back to his hometown of Hazelwood through a passion for history and neighborhood pride. He founded the Greater Hazelwood Historical Society of Pittsburgh and Cultural Center to “preserve the pillars of our community’s past.” The following year, he formed the Black History Society of Western Pennsylvania, which is dedicated to the research and serves as a repository for our region's African American experience.

JaQuay began working with Rivers of Steel Heritage Corporation in 2020 as a consultant on African American Industrial Heritage and Diversity Initiatives, and in June of 2021, he became the first person of color to guide industrial tours at the Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark. JaQuay is currently pursuing dual degrees in Master of Divinity (M.Div.) at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and a Master of Science in Public Policy and Management (MSPPM) at Carnegie Mellon University.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Mill 19, 4501 Lytle Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15207

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• There are parts of this tour that are not wheelchair-accessible.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for an exciting walking tour at the Point led by Alan Irvine to learn about the historic Four Forts of Pittsburgh’s revolutionary history.

Come and explore the earliest origins of Pittsburgh. During the 1750s, England and France battled over the vast interior of North America, and the key to these ambitions lay in seizing control of the Forks of the Ohio, what today we call the Point, marked. Each side rushed men and supplies into the wilderness and built ever more massive forts to claim and hold this crucial triangle of land. Join Alan Irvine and roam Point State Park to walk the actual sites of these forts. At each site, Alan will tell of the fate of the forts, re-creating the events and experiences of the French and Indian War. In the end, you will see the Point through the eyes of the people of the day, and discover how the very hills and rivers of Pittsburgh helped determine the fate of North America.

We will also look at the history of the Point from those early days up to the creation of the modern park.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Alan Irvine is a local storyteller, historian, and sociologist. He first came to Pittsburgh in 1984 and fell in love with the city and region. He tells folk tales, ghost stories, and, of course, Pittsburgh history. He started researching the French and Indian Wars and the history of the forts for a series of programs to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the war almost 20 years ago and takes great delight in bringing the history to life once more.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: 301 Liberty Avenue, downtown 15222

• This is a walking tour; 1.5 miles of walking; appropriate footwear is advised for walking on grass, or mud if rainy.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for an exciting tour of Schenley Farms in Oakland! Our full list of stops encompasses more than two dozen highlights including the houses of Lytton, Tennyson, and Bigelow, plus historical educational buildings and much more!

TOUR HOST BIO:

Jay Steele is a retired adjunct professor of Health and Physical Education at CCAC. He is a Pittsburgh native and born and raised in the Observatory Hill section of the North Side. He currently lives in Ross Township with his wife Carol and pug Charlie. He has taught lifelong learning development walking courses since the fall of 1998 for CCAC, Pitt and CMU Osher, and Doors Open Pittsburgh. He developed these walking tours/classes throughout the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County which combines his love of exercise, Pittsburgh and Allegheny County history and architectural design.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Soldiers and Sailors 4141 Fifth Avenue Front door entrance

• This is a walking tour; 1-2 miles of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

What makes Pittsburgh, well, Pittsburgh?  Explore our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine.  Walk through the streets of Downtown and discover some of the history, events, and people that shaped Pittsburgh.

Explore the roots of our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine. Learn about the Great Fire of 1845, Mr. Frick's Revenge, the Wall Street of Pittsburgh, and our first great victory over Cleveland! Alan reveals the answers to ongoing mysteries like who is buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Bowler and why the Allegheny Courthouse lions lounge so high up in the air. Explore magnificent buildings, uncover quirky public art, discuss the best places to eat, and find answers to some of Pittsburgh's intrigues.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Alan Irvine is an acclaimed storyteller and tour guide. He has been telling stories of Pittsburgh history for over 30 years. 

Lonely Planet guidebooks gave Alan's tours their Top Choice ranking in 2012. He has also recorded two CDs of stories regarding area history and has many award-winning CDs of other types of stories. 

When not telling stories about Pittsburgh, he teaches courses in Pittsburgh history for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at University of Pittsburgh. He also teaches Sociology at Robert Morris University.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Market Square Clock, 431 Market Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Pittsburgh’s South Side is the ultimate melting pot of Pittsburgh. Join us for an insightful guided walking tour of the South Side Flats. We will explore the national historic Main Street of East Carson, including many ethnic churches, the famous Market House, the Former Duquesne Brewery, The Henry Oliver Bath House and so much more. Learn how the South Side had seventy-six glasswork factories at one point.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Jay Steele is a retired adjunct professor of Health and Physical Education at CCAC. He is a Pittsburgh native and born and raised in the Observatory Hill section of the North Side. He currently lives in Ross Township with his wife Carol and pug Charlie. He has taught lifelong learning development walking courses since the fall of 1998 for CCAC, Pitt and CMU Osher, and Doors Open Pittsburgh. He developed these walking tours/classes throughout the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County which combines his love of exercise, Pittsburgh and Allegheny County history and architectural design.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: 10th and East Carson (South High Residences-Old South High)

• This is a walking tour: up to 2 miles of walking.

• Photography is allowed.

• A restroom is available.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for an exciting tour of the North Side’s Millionaire Row and beautiful Allegheny West. Our full list of highlights include more than two dozen houses and mansions to drool over along Ridge Avenue!

TOUR HOST BIO:

Jay Steele is a retired adjunct professor of Health and Physical Education at CCAC. He is a Pittsburgh native and born and raised in the Observatory Hill section of the North Side. He currently lives in Ross Township with his wife Carol and pug Charlie. He has taught lifelong learning development walking courses since the fall of 1998 for CCAC, Pitt and CMU Osher, and Doors Open Pittsburgh. He developed these walking tours/classes throughout the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County which combines his love of exercise, Pittsburgh and Allegheny County history and architectural design.

TOUR STARTS: CCAC Jones Hall, 808 Ridge Avenue

TOUR ENDS: 957 West North Avenue Emmanuel Episcopal Church

• This is a walking tour; less than 1.5 miles of walking.

• Restrooms are available.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Did you know that Jeff Goldblum went to CMU? Lots of names that you know have Oakland connections. Let's explore the neighborhood and identify our well-known neighbors. While we walk in the footsteps of famous people, we will share their stories on this tour of Oakland.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Sue Flaherty is a Pitt alumna and an outdoor enthusiast who collects random factoids. She has been a volunteer for DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh at the Downtown event and for special events such as the “Ride With the King” and “Freedom Seekers: Underground Railroad” bus tours.

Before becoming a tour host with DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh, Sue volunteered with Visit Pittsburgh. As a Trip Leader for Venture Outdoors, she led and assisted on kayak trips and trail walks.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Phipps Conservatory, 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• There are parts of this tour that are not wheelchair-accessible.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

What makes Pittsburgh, well, Pittsburgh?  Explore our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine.  Walk through the streets of Downtown and discover some of the history, events, and people that shaped Pittsburgh.

Explore the roots of our city up close and personal with tour guide, Alan Irvine. Learn about the Great Fire of 1845, Mr. Frick's Revenge, the Wall Street of Pittsburgh, and our first great victory over Cleveland! Alan reveals the answers to ongoing mysteries like who is buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Bowler and why the Allegheny Courthouse lions lounge so high up in the air. Explore magnificent buildings, uncover quirky public art, discuss the best places to eat, and find answers to some of Pittsburgh's intrigues.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Alan Irvine is an acclaimed storyteller and tour guide. He has been telling stories of Pittsburgh history for over 30 years. 

Lonely Planet guidebooks gave Alan's tours their Top Choice ranking in 2012. He has also recorded two CDs of stories regarding area history and has many award-winning CDs of other types of stories. 

When not telling stories about Pittsburgh, he teaches courses in Pittsburgh history for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at University of Pittsburgh. He also teaches Sociology at Robert Morris University.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Market Square Clock, 431 Market Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in:

Did you know that Jeff Goldblum went to CMU? Lots of names that you know have Oakland connections. Let's explore the neighborhood and identify our well-known neighbors. While we walk in the footsteps of famous people, we will share their stories on this tour of Oakland.

TOUR HOST BIO:

Sue Flaherty is a Pitt alumna and an outdoor enthusiast who collects random factoids. She has been a volunteer for DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh at the Downtown event and for special events such as the “Ride With the King” and “Freedom Seekers: Underground Railroad” bus tours.

Before becoming a tour host with DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh, Sue volunteered with Visit Pittsburgh. As a Trip Leader for Venture Outdoors, she led and assisted on kayak trips and trail walks.

TOUR STARTS/ENDS: Phipps Conservatory, 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

• This is a walking tour: 1-2 miles of walking; there are hills/some degree of incline along the route.

• There are parts of this tour that are not wheelchair-accessible.

• Photography is allowed.

Additional events you may be interested in: