Welcome to Mellon Square! Interested in learning more about the park? Explore the history and the present features of Mellon Square virtually.

In order to restore the historic space you’re standing in, the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy gave Mellon Square a complete makeover in 2014 with new curbs, signage, lighting, planters, benches, and trash receptacles. The $10 million project focused on the Square’s fountains and also restored the unique paving and pathways, along with expanding the space by adding a terrace overlooking Smithfield Street. The restoration project was one of ten projects in the nation to win the Docomo US Design of Excellence Award in 2016. 

The new design is full of features you may not have noticed. For example, did you know that the triangle shapes in the walkways are a series of “M’s” to pay homage to Mellon? The unique walkways are designed to capture the distinctive “Venetian terrazzo” paving of the original square, which was inspired by Sarah Mellon Scaife’s travels to Europe.

Can you name any of the trees or plants around you?

The garden features a mix of trees, shrubs, spring bulbs, and perennials. You might even be sitting beside a patch of perennials right now—their raised beds double as seating throughout the park. Take note of the trees planted in raised granite beds; these are unique Persian Ironwoods. In spring, their leaves emerge a striking reddish-purple, shifting to vibrant shades of red, orange, or yellow in the fall. You'll also find evergreen varieties nearby, including Mugo pines, yews, and boxwoods. And if you're visiting in summer, you may find a cool spot beneath the shade of the Linden trees.