Updated March 1, 2021
Governor Tom Wolf recently announced new guidelines to help combat the spread of COVID-19 in our region.
The latest guidelines related to parks and outdoor spaces are as follows:
Outdoor Gatherings and Events
- The mitigation restrictions announced Monday include a revised maximum occupancy limit of 20% for outdoor events, regardless of venue size.
- The CDC states that medium-sized outdoor gatherings carry a higher risk of COVID-19 spread, even with social distancing. CDC notes that the more people an individual interacts with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the potential risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 and COVID-19 spreading, and that the higher the level of community transmission in the area that the gathering is being held, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spreading during a gathering.
All Parks Conservancy offices remain closed at this time. Public bathrooms at Schenley Plaza and on the grounds of the Frick Environmental Center are currently open. Capital improvement projects have resumed, including the rehabilitation of the North Promenade in Allegheny Commons Park and Chicken Hill Green Infrastructure Project in McKinley Park.
It's vital that park users continue to follow all safety guidelines, such as physical distancing and masking when visiting public spaces. Aggressive mitigation activity will remain while the virus is active in our communities.
Click here to learn about playground safety from Department of Conservation & Natural Resources.
City restrooms, water fountains, spray parks, swimming pools, recreation centers and senior centers are closed. Those using city parks are urged to bring their own water for hydration as fountains remain turned off. Learn more here: https://pittsburghpa.gov/citiparks/
Activities that comply safely with physical distancing guidelines are allowed. They include:
- Tennis courts (singles matches encouraged)
- Pickle ball courts (singles matches encouraged)
- Skate parks
- Fields (but not for organized group sports)
- Frisbee Golf
- Lawn Bowling
- Bocci courts
Learn more here: https://pittsburghpa.gov/citiparks/
The Conservancy is limiting programs and special events until further notice. Check our Event Calendar here: https://pittsburghparks.org/events/
Remember, it takes all of us to slow the spread of the virus. Click here for resources on how to best disinfect your home from COVID-19, the flu and other illnesses.
View our list of Frequently Asked Questions.
Parks are essential.
These are stressful times. Parks are a healthy way to deal with the uncertainty that may be arising due to the coronavirus. Here are four ways to safely enjoy outdoor activities in the parks:
- Walk Your Furry Friend
- Hike Your Favorite Trail
- Explore the Urban Forest While Enjoying a Run
- Get In Your Daily Steps
Regional Park Entry Points
Pittsburgh's parks offer many different points of entry! Select a map below and begin planning your next trip to your neighborhood park.
Park systems in other US cities and around the world are closing because people are not following proper physical distancing. If we stick together by staying apart, we can help ensure that our park system stays open and safe for all at a time when we need it more than ever.
