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Enhanced community space features refreshed interiors, expanded amenities, and new seasonal programming

PITTSBURGH – APRIL 14, 2025 – The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy is proud to announce the completion of a nearly $100,000 upgrade to the historic Schenley Park Visitor Center, enhancing the beloved community space with refreshed interiors, improved amenities, and expanded programming. Located at 101 Panther Hollow Road, the Visitor Center has officially reopened to the public.

"For more than 20 years, the Schenley Park Visitor Center has been a treasured gathering place where people can relax, connect, and enjoy one of Pittsburgh's most visited parks," said Catherine Qureshi, President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. "With these latest upgrades, we're not just refreshing the Center—we're continuing the vision of the Parks Conservancy's founders, ensuring this historic space grows with the community while staying true to its roots."

The renovations created a brighter and more inviting atmosphere, with new flooring throughout the first floor, contemporary lounge furniture, and redesigned counter space. A new refrigerated display case has been added, offering visitors a selection of fresh food and beverages. The single-person ground-floor restrooms have been converted into gender-neutral facilities to improve accessibility and accommodate visitors on busy park days.

The updated Visitor Center also features a dedicated gift corner, offering custom-designed postcards, magnets, puzzles, and other souvenirs showcasing historic and modern Schenley Park images and other notable green spaces. Visitors will also find unique books and gifts tailored for park lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Complementing the physical upgrades, the Parks Conservancy is expanding its seasonal programming at the Visitor Center. Coming soon, Tabletop Tuesday Gaming Happy Hour invites gamers aged 16 and older to bring their favorite board games, card games, or RPGs—or borrow one from the Visitor Center's growing game library—while enjoying $2 snacks and bottled soft drinks in a relaxed social setting.

Originally constructed in 1911 as a park shelter, the Visitor Center was revitalized in 2002 as the Parks Conservancy's second major restoration project. This latest renovation builds upon that legacy, ensuring the space continues to serve as a vibrant and welcoming hub for the community for years to come.

The project was made possible through the generous support of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Commonwealth Financing Authority's Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund (GEDTF) program, along with contributions from private funders.

The Visitor Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during spring and summer hours. For more information about the Schenley Park Visitor Center and upcoming programs, visit pittsburghparks.org.

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Alana Wenk                                                                
Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy                                
412.527.0020                                                             
awenk@pittsburghparks.org