North Duquesne Heights - Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods have seen an appreciation of property values due to the rise of jobs in the medical, tourism and financial industries, which support a mix of families, young professionals and inter-generational residents.

History buffs visit the Duquesne Incline, an old coal line preserved by the city that now functions as a historic monument and small museum. Relive Pittsburgh’s tumultuous times battling natural disasters and economic downturns while viewing antique hoisting equipment from the 1870s.

North Duquesne Heights doesn't have much of an art scene, but you can visit the 12,000-square-foot James Gallery on the West End for high-class paintings, sculptures and a large urban garden.

Fine American dining characterizes the North Duquesne Heights restaurant experience. Enjoy fresh fish flown in from all over the world at Monterey Bay Fish Grotto, a luxurious lounge overlooking downtown. Extend invitations to your friends at work to join you for Chilean sea bass and butternut squash risotto. Watch the sunset over an early dinner, followed by an angel food cake grilled cheese sandwich for dessert. Gather your courage if you fear heights — this restaurant’s elevator takes you high up for the best views of the city.

Kickstart your next night out with a charcuterie plate of cured meats and artisanal cheeses at Altius, another posh restaurant with killer views of Pittsburgh. Celebrate your next birthday over Skuna Bay salmon or the signature grass-fed beef short rib with Mexican chocolate. Ask your server about which ingredients come from nearby vendors — Altius tries to use only fresh, organic produce from local growers.

Bars and pubs serve as the main nightlife attractions in North Duquesne Heights. Unwind after a long work week in the city at the unassuming Packs & Dogs, an un-stuffy hot dog and beer joint on Shiloh Street. Order a six-pack of beer from over 500 imported, domestic and micro beers, soaking up the alcohol in your tummy with fried pickles, pub fries and Vienna beef hot dogs.

Wine lovers head to Grandview Saloon on the South shore to sample wine from America, Argentina and Australia. Get there early for scenic sunset views that overlook the river while munching on coconut shrimp. Be sure to make reservations for late-dinner outings — tables fill up quickly after dark.

Locals tend to drive downtown to run errands or commute to work; however, the Port Authority of Allegheny County provides over 800 buses to the greater Pittsburgh area. This makes public transportation readily accessible across North Duquesne Heights.

Cabs prove difficult to hail downtown, but you should have no problem during special events. Arrange an Uber ride share to travel as far north as Hampton Township or as far south as Upper St. Clair.

Find parking in downtown Pittsburgh for $10 to $20 per day. Easily access the two freeways that straddle North Duquesne Heights, connecting Interstates 79 and 279, for weekend escapes.

Steep inclines make neighborhood biking and walking difficult. Beware of busy intersections as bike lanes don't always exist in this neighborhood.

Parks in and around North Duquesne Heights cater to dog lovers and exercise enthusiasts. Jog around the magnificent fountains at Point State Park located at the cross section of the Ohio River and the Allegheny. Visit during the annual Three Rivers Arts Festival to buy the latest paintings and sculptures from Pittsburgh artists.

Bring the family and puppies to Olympia Park in the neighboring town of Mount Washington. With ample space to run and throw a Frisbee, Olympia Park serves as the go-to place for meeting fellow dog lovers. Play fetch with your dogs while the young ones throw around a ball on the baseball diamond, or organize an intramural soccer match with your friends. Street parking and lot parking cost nothing here.

The cost of living in North Duquesne Heights runs less than the pricier parts of downtown Pittsburgh. A one-bedroom apartment rents for an average of $1,000 a month in Duquesne Heights.

Travel to the center of Pittsburgh from North Duquesne Heights for $2.50. Gas prices run about 15 percent higher than the national average. Expect to pay about $3 for a typical beer at a bar.

Large malls and chain stores make up most of the shopping areas in and around North Duquesne Heights. Visit SouthSide Works for brunch and traditional outdoor shopping at stores like H&M and Forever 21. Write poetry while you people-watch in the center square before catching a flick at the AMC Theatre.

Head out for a weekend shopping binge at Pavement, a women’s shoe and fashion store on Butler Street. Hunt for the latest urban clothing styles by designers Free People and Heidi Roland. Ask about the specials on handmade, ecofriendly pieces by local artists. Spend hours trying on designer boots and shoes, but call ahead during the holidays — this establishment doesn't always open during normal business hours.

Head down the road to Figleaf Boutique to try on jeans, tops and dresses at affordable prices. Gaze longingly at the color-coded sections of miniskirts while you talk to the owner about the up-and-coming inventory. Inexpensive yet classy, Figleaf rises to the top of the boutique shopping experience in Pittsburgh.

Locals have their pick from large chain markets and smaller grocery stores in North Duquesne Heights. Choose from rare produce at Lotus Food Company, an Asian market on Penn Avenue, before filling your cart with tofu and other Asian cuisine necessities.