Golden Triangle

Pittsburgh’s vibrant downtown area got its name from the triangle of land formed by the convergence of three rivers: the Allegheny, the Ohio, and the Monangahela. Technically, where the Allegheny and Monangahela meet is referred to as “The Point.” Where a fountain now sits was once the location of French Fort Duquesne (1754) and later the British Fort Pitt (established 1758). The city grew naturally out of the fort and by the Civil War years, it was the industrial backbone of the northern U.S.

The term “golden” is believed to originate from the fact that this area is the city’s financial hub, boasting more than 100 office buildings housing a variety of corporations and smaller businesses.

The area dubbed the “Golden Triangle” is compact enough that visitors can walk from place to place with ease. Some of the city’s most magnificent buildings are found here, including the post-Modernist castle-like PPG Place owned by Pennsylvania Power and Gas (PPG) and the gigantic rust-colored monolithic USX Tower erected by U.S. Steel for their headquarters.

Within the triangle, you’ll also find Pittsburgh’s concert hall, home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. In addition, there’s an opera house and a number of theaters that offer top-notch productions.

Most of the large shopping areas have been relegated to the suburbs, but guests visiting this fine western Pennsylvania city will find a number of stores, art galleries, and other retail establishments at which to browse.

While you’re roaming around the Golden Triangle, be sure to travel over the Smithfield Street Bridge to catch the Monangahela Incline, which will take you up to the top of Mount Washington, where you can enjoy the best views in the city.