City Steps of Pittsburgh: A History & Guide

by Laura Zurowski

Exploring Pittsburgh's Ups and Downs
 In Pittsburgh, the elevation varies wildly, fluctuating 660 feet from highest to lowest points throughout the area and making it one of the hilliest cities in the United States. Throughout this unruly and physically challenging landscape, the city's first mass transportation system was built - a steadily expanding network of public stairways, locally referred to as city steps, these flights of stairs are a throwback to a very different time in history and a very different Pittsburgh. Authors Laura Zurowski, Charles Succop and Matthew Jacob present the history of the Steel City steps and a walking guide to their scenic locations today.

Genres: History

256 pages, Paperback

Published July 15, 2024

Reviews

[Grace Wall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved how this was written. I felt like I was going on an adventure every time I picked it up. Like the sections about Beechview & Beechwood because I take the T and can see many steps on my commute. I learned more about the city I’ve lived in most of my life!

[Richard A · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good follow-on to Bob Regan's "The Steps of Pittsburgh". This has more backgound on the history of the construction of the city steps and the rebuilding effort over the years. This book includes many good walking tours.

[Kaitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun and informative, I'm inspired to do some urban hiking and explore the steps!