The holiday season and giving go hand in hand. While this time of year is a joyous occasion for many, some people struggle for many reasons. Giving our time, energy, or money to just causes helps improve the lives of people all around us and promotes thriving communities. There are several volunteer opportunities right here in Pittsburgh. Determine where you may have the capacity to give back.

Snow Angels 

Image from City of Pittsburgh Snow Angels

Pittsburgh may not get as much snowfall as cities like Erie, PA or Syracuse, NY, but we get enough to transform the Steel City into a winter wonderland, if only for a few days. It’s perfect for a beautiful, brisk stroll to a nice nearby cafe like The Coffee Tree Roasters in Shadyside. However, snow can be a headache for elderly members of our community as well as people living with disabilities. This is why the City of Pittsburgh developed the Snow Angels program to help those in need deal with the aftermath of a snowfall.

To sign up, visit the official website and fill out the contact form so the organization can pair you with a neighbor in need of snow removal. You will only be paired with one neighbor within a 10-minute walk from your home unless you specify on your registration form that you are willing to help multiple neighbors. A snow shovel and salt will be provided by your neighbor in need, so all you have to do is show up and start shoveling.

Not all volunteers will be matched with a neighbor in need. Pairing will depend on whether or not a neighbor has requested help. Additionally, you may not be assigned a neighbor right away, but neighbors can request help throughout the season. The program will keep in touch via text or email to let you know if and when you receive an assignment. If you wish to volunteer, please make time to clear snow within 24-hours of the end of a snowfall. You’ll make a big difference in the day-to-day lives of your neighbors, postal workers, and firefighters. Snow Angels, we appreciate your service!

This volunteer opportunity is open all winter long.

Phone Bank to Support Isolated Seniors

Image from The Neighbor Network

The holidays typically offer an occasion to spend quality time with the people in our lives who mean the most to us. The reality of the 2020 holiday season is that not everyone will have this chance to connect with family and friends. Seniors in our communities are among those most affected by the isolation brought about by COVID-19. Simply talking with them over the phone can help immensely in easing the effects of loneliness. 

This month, Repair the World Pittsburgh is hosting a phone bank to connect isolated seniors with volunteers. This event from Repair the World is part of a larger effort by the Neighbor Network to facilitate weekly phone conversations between seniors and volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteers for this event will participate in 45 minutes of discussion and training before making calls. These calls are simple, introductory conversations to pre-screen seniors so they may be matched up with volunteers for weekly phone calls.

This volunteer event will take place on December 15 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Online registration is open here.

Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank

Image from Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank

For almost 40 years, the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank has worked to limit food insecurity within our community and provide widespread access to nutritious meals. The efforts of this organization are only made possible by the many volunteers and donors over the years. There are many ways you can get involved and support this organization’s mission.

Depending on your availability and time commitment, you can volunteer on a one-off basis or a recurring basis with hands-on work. Volunteering is open to whole families, so kids (ages 6-12) can participate in giving back to their communities. Some of the more common volunteer events entail rescuing produce from local farms, sorting and packaging food at the Duquesne Warehouse, and giving food directly to people in need. Everyone is unique and has their own skill sets. The Food Bank actively seeks help for a variety of tasks, so indicate your unique skill sets when signing up.

The type of volunteer work varies seasonally and the Food Bank is taking health and safety precautions to protect volunteers and the people they serve. If you are unable to volunteer this season, then consider donating to help feed families during the holidays.

You can schedule a volunteer opportunity here or make a donation here.

Celebrate this season of giving by helping those in need. Nothing better encapsulates the spirit of the holidays and warms the hearts of others.

Thanksgiving marks the time of year where both fall and winter festivities are in full swing. While some events are canceled this year due to COVID-19, some of our favorites are still happening. Don’t miss these highlights of the season Pittsburgh has to offer.

Image from Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium on Instagram

Zoo Lights

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium has long been a family favorite destination. Strolling through the many exhibits in the summer is a great weekend outing. However, as the temperature drops and people wish to keep warm, the zoo adapts with some spectacular events.

This year’s Zoo Lights display promises a festive holiday drive-through complete with Christmas carols and thousands of environmentally-friendly LED lights. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and drive through in your car as you listen to a themed audio tour and see many of the zoo’s fascinating residents along the way.

Zoo Lights runs on select nights from November 27 – January 3, so look to their website today and plan your visit. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Tickets cost $60 per vehicle for nonmembers and $40 per vehicle for zoo members.

Image from Phipps Conservatory on Instagram

Winter Flower Show: Home for the Holidays & Garden Railroad: Rails and Trails

Magic is always in the air at Phipps Conservatory. This year’s winter showcase features thousands of poinsettias illuminated by twinkling lights. The ‘Home for the Holidays’ theme is illustrated with living room furniture and decorations composed entirely of plants. Walk through the Victoria Room and admire the dancing reflections of the carousel on the pond below. Learn about animals’ winter habitats with trees cut to resemble foxes, groundhogs, bears, and more.

As you stroll through the illuminated glasshouse, you’ll also find the beloved miniature railroad display. This exhibit is meticulously crafted to bring to life a landscape complete with a boat gliding across a lake, and people riding horses, swimming, and camping. The touchless interactive stations allow you to activate the various scenes in the exhibit while the train chugs along its tracks.

Phipps is doing its part in curbing the spread of COVID-19, so timed tickets can be purchased online. Tickets cost $19.95 for adults, $17.95 for students (age 18+) & seniors (age 62+), and $11.95 for children (age 2 -18). Admission is free with a Phipps membership.

This display runs from November 20 – January 3, so don’t miss the holiday magic at Phipps. Masks must be worn at all times.

Image from The Rink at PPG Place on Instagram

The Rink at PPG Place

This holiday staple of downtown Pittsburgh celebrates its 20th year in 2020. The ice encircles a beautiful Christmas tree adorned with lights and ornaments. Bundle up and enjoy ice skating all season long. Bring your own ice skates or rent a pair onsite ($5). Prices (excluding skate rentals) are $11 for adults (age 13 – 49), and $10 for children, seniors, and with military I.D. Check PPG Place’s website for information on special group rates, holiday hours, and more special events. Masks are required while skating.

Visit your favorite animals at the Pittsburgh Zoo, revel in the beauty of Phipps Conservatory, or strap on a pair of skates at PPG Place. These local events will bring joy to all this holiday season, and they’re all within a 10-minute drive of Franklin West’s apartments in Shadyside.

Ring in the new year and the next decade by choosing to dedicate more toward charity. In Pittsburgh, Mister Rogers taught us to support and care for one another. The people here in the Steel City are always more than willing to help a neighbor.

There are several organizations near and around Shadyside to get involved with. Whether it’s through a monetary gift, or better yet, a donation of your time. Here are some ways you can take action with charitable contributions.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Pittsburgh

This non-profit is dedicated to providing decent, affordable homes to local, limited-income families. 

Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope in Allegheny County with programs that help local families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through both homeownership opportunities and home repair services. Here’s how you can get involved.

PGH Equality Center

The Pittsburgh Equality Center (PEC) provides LGBT individuals, their families, and supporters, “resources and opportunities to promote visibility, understanding, and equality within the LGBT communities and the community at large.” This localized organization works toward these goals through education, social support, networking, and advocacy.

You can get involved with the Pittsburgh Equality Center through plenty of volunteer opportunities, or even visit the main office on Ellsworth Ave. 

Humane Animal Rescue

Visit the Humane Animal Rescue in the East End to help serve wild and domestic animals in need. This wonderful organization cares for abandoned, neglected, and injured animals; educates the community on humane care; reinforces a standard of living for animals and prevents cruelty; and so much more.

If you have a love for all animals, here’s how you can get involved with Humane Animal Rescue.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh

Whether a role model or a best friend, having someone to look up to can help push through life’s challenges, and alternatively, makes success that much sweeter. BBBS of Greater Pittsburgh is dedicated to helping all children achieve success in life through meaningful mentorship.

Headquartered on Centre Ave, Big Brothers Big Sisters is just a short walk from many of Franklin West’s Shadyside apartments. Become a Big and get involved!

Strong Women Strong Girls

This organization is about supporting strong female leaders of tomorrow. Strong Women, Strong Girls is an empowering, female mentorship program across three generations. 

The mission is to encourage “girls to imagine a broader future through a curriculum grounded on female role models delivered by college women mentors, who are themselves mentored by professional women.” Here’s how you can get involved!

Best Buddies

About 200 million people have intellectual and developmental disabilities around the world. Best Buddies works with those diagnosed with IDD to “create opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living.”

This International nonprofit has an office right here in Pittsburgh. If you share a belief of ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of those with IDD take action with Best Buddies.

412 Food Rescue

There is an enormous, and well, an embarrassing amount of food going to waste. 412 Food Rescue is on a mission to, “prevent perfectly good food from entering the waste stream.” If you have a passion for sustainable living and want to take part in a good environmental impact, then here’s how you can take action with 412 Food Rescue.

 

How will you make a difference in 2020?

RADical Days are back! This year, RADical Days will take place over the next 25 days in celebration of the 25 years that RAD has existed hosting special events and wonderful family activities.

Never heard of RAD before? Here’s what you need to know. The Regional Asset District (RAD) supports libraries, parks and recreation, cultural organizations, sports and civic facilities, and more within our local Allegheny County area. 

You can find the full list of events and activities for RADical Days 2019 here, but we are going to cover all that’s happening near the Shadyside community. 

Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum

This Friday, September 20th, you can head over to visit Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum with free admission between 10 am and 4 pm. If you’ve haven’t checked out this wonderful museum yet now is the time to do it. 

Soldiers and Sailors is a unique military memorial dedicated to honoring all of those who have served our country. 

Photo credit: Darnell Creates via Soldiers and Sailors Hall Instagram

Kelly Strayhorn Theater

Participating in this year’s RADical days, the Kelly Strayhorn Theater is offering free admission on Saturday, September 21 from 10 am to 12 pm. Bring the kiddos (3-12 years of age) out for a pre-ballet and hip-hop demonstration then your whole family can put on those dancing shoes for Zumba session, line dancing and more!

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh

Get excited about free historical tours through Andrew Carnegie’s Main Library on Sundays from 1 pm to 3 pm, and Wednesdays from 11 am to 1 pm. Join the crew at CLP for a peek into the amazing architecture and wonderful art that lies within this historical landmark. 

Registration for this event isn’t needed but is strongly recommended. 

Photo credit: Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh via Instagram

Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

All-day free admission at Phipps! Yes, you read that right. On Wednesday, October 2nd, from 9:30 am to 8 pm, anyone is welcome to enjoy the awe-inspiring splendors of Phipps Conservatory. 

Wander through 15 acres of a 14-room glasshouse filled with 23 distinct gardens and three of the greenest buildings in the world. Right now, Phipps is showcasing a brilliant exhibit based on impressionist painter, Van Gogh.

Pittsburgh Glass Center

On Friday, October 4th, enjoy the sights within the Pittsburgh Glass Center during free admission between 10 am and 9 pm. A full day of heat defying acts from glass blowing to flameworking demonstrations. You’ll also get to experience the opening of a new exhibit called, Cuando el Rio Suena.

Photo credit: PGH Glass Center via Instagram

The Frick Pittsburgh

Come one, come all! The grounds at the Frick Pittsburgh are gorgeous this time of year and on Saturday, October 12, you and your family will get to enjoy free admission from 10 am to 5 pm. The Frick Pittsburgh will host many free family activities as well as open their museum to visitors to view the famous, restored Frick family mansion and art museum.

Photo credit: RADworkshere Instagram

Franklin West apartments are located throughout the Shadyside and East End areas allowing our residents to experience the best our community has to offer from local museums to parks, and eateries to local shops. Plus, we’re so lucky to have many seasonal festivals and events like RADical Days that happen right in our back yard.

Have fun, get RADical!

The City of Pittsburgh goes by many names. Some call it the Steel City, the City of Three Rivers, or even the City of Champions. All these names have been appropriately given by the people who call Pittsburgh home.

One other name that we think should be added to that list is “Park City.” A lesser-known facet of Pittsburgh is its many historic, forested parks. Once rooted in the steel industry, our city has strived to restore its other roots, its many gorgeous natural estates, and vast woodlands.

Whether you want to enjoy a Friday night at an outdoor concert, meet up with friends for a pick-up frisbee match, or a morning walk with your pup, there’s always a park close by. Mellon Park, Frick Park, Highland Park, and Schenley Park are all wonderful opportunities to be outdoors this summer and they’re all around 10-minutes from Franklin West apartments. Let’s take a sneak peek into Pittsburgh’s best-kept secret.

Mellon Park

When you need a little green and gorgeous gardens, Mellon Park has you covered. This park is rich in history. The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy reports the original estate belonged to Richard Beatty Mellon and was once known as the largest house in Pittsburgh with 60-rooms. 

Unfortunately, that home is gone now, but the biggest park attraction, the Walled Garden, is still standing. It’s been the center of countless photo opportunities and a perfect place to watch the stars like Ann Katharine Seamans, who now has a famous memorial at the Walled Garden. 

Read more about Ann’s Memorial and more Mellon Park experience here. 

Mellon Park has plenty of features like vast fields, playgrounds for the kiddos, a spray park, tennis, and basketball courts as well as a pavilion with several picnic tables perfect for a family outing. It’s also known to hold several events during the summer months like Bach, Beethoven, and Brunch.

Photo credit to Jeremy Marshall from Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Mellon Park page

Frick Park

Much like Mellon Park, the Frick Park is an estate that once belonged to wealthy Pittsburgh native, Henry Clay Frick. Stretching from northern parts of Point Breeze all the way down to the Monongahela River, the Frick Park has around 106 acres of land. The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy reports the Frick Park opening as a park in 1927 after it required more land. 

The Frick has a wonderful spread of outdoor and indoor activities, truly having something for everyone. If you want to go on a long hike, this park is the perfect getaway with extensive woodland trails. The park also features the famous Blue Slide Playground, red clay tennis courts, baseball fields, and much more. 

We can’t forget to mention the Clayton Mansion and Museum. Take a tour through the very home the Clayton family once lived in and become mesmerized by the architectural and designs from the 20th century. You can also visit the art museum! 

Today, the art museum is hosting a fabulous exhibition called A Sporting Vision. Click here for The Frick’s $5 off A Sporting Vision special offer ticket 

Photo from The Frick Pittsburgh Facebook page

Schenley Park & Plaza

Schenley Park is one of Pittsburgh’s most extensive and beautiful parks. The park’s 456 acres was donated land from Mary Schenley and now contain trails, woods, and many attractions. 

The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy and Eat’n Park Hospitality Group teamed up in 2001 to restore the Schenley Park Cafe and Visitor Center and in 2005 the City of Pittsburgh rehabilitated Phipps Run Stream. If you love a good hike, Phipps Run Stream doesn’t disappoint.

You could spend a few hours every day at Schenley Park experiencing something new. There’s the Bob O’Conner Golf course for any golf enthusiast. The Schenley Oval Sportsplex where you will find ice skating in the winter, summer sports during warm months, and take a dip in the pool when the summer sun gets too hot. 

Plus, Schenley Park hosts big annual events like the famous Vintage Grand Prix and the Pittsburgh Race for the Cure! The amazing Phipps Conservatory is also near Schenley Park, which we don’t believe we have to sell you on. The gorgeous garden at Phipps is one all Pittsburghers know about!

Photo credit to Joe Serkoch from Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Schenley Park page

Highland Park

A sanctuary reminiscent of the Victorian era, Highland Park is the quintessential an urban oasis. This reservoir has provided drinking water to Pittsburgh since 1879 according to Pittsburgh Park Conservancy. It’s open space and beauty makes it a popular location for picnics and joggers for the iconic Reservoir Loop or Entry Garden. 

Highland Park features Victorian-style gardens with fountains and benches, a bike track, swimming pool, and sand volleyball courts. If you are looking for a fun-filled Saturday with the kids, consider fishing in Carnegie Lake and exploring The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, one of only six zoo and aquarium combinations in the country as reported by Next Pittsburgh. 

If you’re up for an awesome Friday night out after a long work week, don’t miss out on the Pittsburgh Zoo’s “Summer Safari” special fundraising party. Learn more about the event here.

Photo credit to Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Highland Park page

Whatever your plans are this summer, be sure to get out to one of these spectacular woodland areas! Go out on an impromptu hike with nature or visit the park’s website if you’re looking to plan out your visit! Summer is almost over, don’t spend it indoors.

Are you a fan of vintage items? There’s something special about treasures from the past and some people just can’t get enough of it.

Who can blame them? Some vintage markets have the most extraordinary items like retro T-shirts, unique decor, or even homemade items. Plus, these markets support local vendors so what better way to support your small businesses in Pittsburgh!

If that sounds like you, then definitely mark your calendar for these nearby vintage events!

Vintage Pittsburgh | Heinz History Center | Sat. March 23rd

This coming Saturday, get your shopping bags ready because Vintage Pittsburgh Retro Fair is back! Between 10 am through 3 pm, you’ll be able to shop unique, vintage items like clothing, home decor, vinyl records, and so much more!

See the Facebook page here.

*photo from Heinz History Center via the website

Pittsburgh Pickers | Ace Hotel Pittsburgh | Sun. March 24th

From noon to 6 pm, enjoy the many vintage items from 20 different local vendors and collectors. This event is hosted by Retro Gems and Zeds LLC. Did we mention admission is completely free?

Check out the vendor list through the Facebook page.

*photo from Ace Hotel via the website

Vintage Mixer Home Show | Teamsters Hall | Sat. April 6th

Just imagine two floors filled with unique and unusual pieces from over 30 local vintage sellers. Yep, you read that right. You’ll find authentic, vintage items and collectibles at the Pittsburgh Vintage Mixer Home Show!

Starting at 10 am (8 am if you have early bird access) to 5 pm, this vintage fair brings local collectors and small vintage businesses together to highlight, “community, creative inspiration, and nostalgia.” Tickets are only $5 for adults and free for kids under 12 years of age.

The event is being catered by Badamo’s Pizza, Espresso a Mano and The Allegheny Wine Mixer Inc!

Get all the details from the Facebook page here.

*photo from Pittsburgh Vintage Mixer via Facebook

Want to shop for more vintage pieces? Check out the several antique shops right in our backyard of Shadyside, Pittsburgh.

• Kozloff and Meaders on Ellsworth Ave
• Merryville Antiques on Ellsworth Ave
• Lily’s Antiques on South Highland Ave

As temperatures begin to fall into the 20s and snow makes its arrival here in Pittsburgh, we know it’s officially time for the holidays. With joy and merriment in the air, we gathered a list of our favorite holiday events near Shadyside.

Here are some events you’ll want to mark down on your calendar for this month.

Shadyside Nursery Trees and Charity Wreaths

If you’re still in the market for a holiday tree, head over to the Shadyside Nursery! With a wide range of different types and sizes, you’ll definitely be able to find a tree you like. This year, the Shadyside Nursery is also selling locally made ornaments and holiday lawn decor too.

When you purchase a handmade Charity Wreath you’ll be supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh. Over one hundred have been sold so far!

photo from Shadyside Nursery website

Phipps Conservatory’s “Let it Glow!” Show

When you ask any Pittsburgh local what the best thing to do during the holidays, we would bet Phipps Conservatory is one of their suggestions. Phipps winter garden show is both breathtaking and mesmerizing!

The theme is “Let It Glow,” and they certainly pulled out all the stops. With a ton of new features, you’ll experience dazzling holiday tree displays, winter ice towers, color-changing architectural lights, and an array of gorgeous flowers. On select nights, Phipps will host a variety of musical entertainment. Check out the schedule here.

photo from Phipps Conservatory Instagram 

This weekend is the Gifts and Greens Market too! It’s a free event hosted by Phipps and welcomes guest vendors. Shop for fresh greens, garland, poinsettias, holiday decorations, and so much more.

If you haven’t yet been out to Phipps during the holidays, you definitely need to put it on your calendar this year.

East End Brewing: Holiday Crafts & Drafts

On Saturday, December 15, East End Brewing will host Crafts and Drafts! Local artists and vendors will be present with arts, crafts, and gifts to help with your last minute shopping. Great food will also be available from La Palapa Mexican Kitchen and Leona’s Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Clayton Holiday Tour at The Frick Pittsburgh

Holiday tours at the Clayton Mansion are a must-see Pittsburgh tradition. The beautifully decorated Frick Family home will allow you to reimagine the events of 1908. This Saturday, December 8th, the Frick is also hosting a free event of holiday art-making and interactive tours. Check out their site for more events and ticket information.

Holiday’s at The Carnegie Museum of Art

There’s nothing more festive than towering evergreen trees dressed in lights and decorative ornaments! As you make your way to the Hall of Architecture, you’ll experience the Carnegie Trees and Neapolitan Presepio.  

This year, CMOA collaborated with Carnegie International artist, Karen Kilimnik, to bring the five trees to life. Each one decorated with handcrafted ornaments. Displayed next to the trees is a lifelike and colorfully detailed 18th-century Neapolitan Presepio Nativity Scene. CMOA notes the scene was crafted by hand between 1700 and 1830.

CMOA’s holiday display will be up until January 7th. This one is a Pittsburgh tradition you’ll want to see for yourself.

photo from the Carnegie Museum of Art Instagram

Holiday Events at Ace Hotel

If you want to do something unique during the holidays, you can always count on the Ace Hotel. They’re hosting several events this month. The first is Yappy Holidays: A No-Flea Market for Humane Animal Rescue and it’s this Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm. It’s a holiday pet market with plenty of pet-related vendors and bloody marys for you. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Humane Animal Rescue.

On Sunday, December 16th, the Ace Hotel is hosting the Anemoia Vintage’s Made + Found Holiday Market. It will feature over 50 of the regions vintage and handmade vendors! Admission is free and light drinks and brunch will be available for purchase.

Wanting more of a holiday dinner experience? Get yourself a ticket to Sharing Knives – Apteka’s Eastern European Christmas Dinner with Kate Lasky and Tomasz Skowronski. This vegan style dinner is based around traditional Eastern European holiday meals. Buy your ticket and make your reservation soon because this event is taking place on Wednesday, December 19th.

Here are a few more holiday events hosted by Ace Hotel:

• 4th Annual Christmas Eve on the Moon, Baby
• New Year’s High Tea with Chef Casey Renee and Thommy Conroy
• New Year’s Eve with Tres Bon Plus Nicole Greider and Mike Masai

New Years Eve Fiesta at Steel Cactus

If you’re looking for New Years Eve plans, check out the Fiesta at Steel Cactus. Make dinner reservations before 8 pm and get your new year celebration on with a DJ and dancing starting at 9 pm.

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That’s a wrap on our list of holiday events, and yes, we checked it twice! Don’t forget to follow us on social media for more updates on events in Shadyside and so much more during December.

 

Is there anything better than shopping for bargains and supporting local business? We couldn’t think of anything either.

Small Business Saturday is on November 24th this year and we’re very excited! In case you didn’t know, Shadyside is home to over 80 independent and national businesses. Oh, the treasures you will find!

During the biggest shopping season of the year, we decided to handpick a few of our favorite local shops to help you with your gift search. Plus, Think Shadyside is giving us the insights on which small businesses are having the biggest sales!

Image from Think Shadyside via Facebook events

Him and Her Clothing

There are plenty of clothing boutiques and shops around the Shadyside area. Each just as unique as the next. Here are some of our favorites:

• Roberta Weissburgh Leathers – 5415 Walnut Street
• E. B. Pepper – 5411 Walnut Street
• Pursuits Pittsburgh – 740 Filbert Street
• Moda Pittsburgh – 5401 Walnut St
• Trim Pittsburgh – 5968 Baum Blvd.

When you visit E.B. Pepper this weekend, take 20% off all regular priced items. We like that kind of bargain!

Roberta Weissburg Leathers has something big in store for Small Business Saturday. If you donate a gently used jacket or coat on Saturday, Leathers will gift it in your name to The Clothing Line, which benefits the Magee Hospital and you’ll receive a discount on any new outerwear!

Jewelry

If you’re looking to treat yourself or your significant other, look no further than the gorgeous jewelry from these local stores.

• Henne Jewelers – 5501 Walnut Street
• Four Winds Gallery – 5512 Walnut Street
• Wax Jewelry Store – 5901 Ellsworth Ave

Kid’s Favorites

For kids, this time of the year means it’s time to start scouting out the best toys and getting that list together. These two local shops are a child’s favorite in Shadyside, so be sure to stop!

• Picket Fence Shadyside – 5425 Walnut Street
• S.W. Randall Toys – 806 Ivy Street

While you’re out shopping for the kiddies, don’t miss Santa. That’s right, Santa Claus himself will be visiting Walnut Street, Shadyside between 1 to 3 pm during Small Business Saturday! Santa will have treats for the kids and shopping discounts for the moms and dads.

Pet-Friendly

Our pets are family and Petagogy is the local place to go for your beloved pet! On Small Business Saturday, you will receive 10% off your total purchase (minus gift cards) and they are running a contest too.

When you shop in-store, snap a quick selfie, post it on Instagram, and use #PetagogyShopSmall in the post. Petagogy will then select a winner at random from those who participated and give a gift bag filled with holiday goodies!

Head on over to 5880 Ellsworth Avenue and visit Petagogy!

Shoes

“I hate shopping for shoes.” Said no one ever. Shadyside is home to a handful of fabulous shoe shops. Up until Monday, you can get $50 off any order over $150 when shopping at Footloose.

• Footloose Shadyside – 5411 Walnut Street
• Emy Mack – 723 Filbert Street
• Ten Toes Walnut – 5502 Walnut Street

Housewarming

If you’re looking for a practical, but out of the ordinary gift, something for the home can be a timeless treasure.

By the way, you’ll find Feathers offering up to 25% off select beds and bath linens plus up to 20% off more select styles from brands like Sferra, Matouk and so much more!

• Feathers – 5408 Walnut Street
• Glassworks and Cheeks – 5406 Walnut Street
• Alex’s East End Floral Shop – 236 Shady Ave
• Contemporary Concepts – 6343 Penn Ave
• Toadflax – 5500 Walnut Street
• Penhollows – 244 S Highland Ave

Gifts

There are a few stores in Shadyside that’s fully dedicated to specialty gifts. Eureka Gifts is starting their celebration on Friday, November 23rd with chocolate treats and wine to kick off the season! When you visit Kards Unlimited you will get 10% off ornaments.

• Eureka Gifts – 735 Copeland Street
• Kards Unlimited – 5522 Walnut Street
• Kawaii – 738 Copeland Street
• La Feria – 5527 Walnut Street

One last thing before we go. Have you heard of Museum Store Sunday? We’ve all done Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but it’s time to experience a new kind of shopping. Museum Store Sunday means all the museums in Pittsburgh will have special events and sales happening in their stores on Sunday, November 25th!

All four Carnegie museums, The Frick, Phipps Conservatory and so many more Pittsburgh museums are participating. If you’re looking to give a loved one a unique gift this year, you have to check out Pittsburgh’s museums. Get more information here!

If you walk through Shadyside today, you will experience charming Victorian homes, many unique shops, and eateries, as well as one of the most historically rich areas of Pittsburgh.

Shadyside has also been known as one of Pittsburgh’s best neighborhoods. This awesome claim to fame comes from the fairly, convenient public transportation, nightlife, nearby universities, and walkability.

We’re visiting some of the key places which led to Shadyside being known as a millennial hot spot.  

The Neighborhood

First, let’s talk about Shadyside’s walkability. What we’re trying to say is you can literally walk to just about everything you may need. Restaurants, local shops, grocery stores, and so much more are within a ten-minute walking distance.

Shadyside’s quiet, tree-lined neighborhood is simply a joy for anyone who likes to go for a little stroll after work. Plus, this neighborhood always has events going on. From the summer long, Sunday morning farmers market to the Annual Sidewalk Sale and the Arts Festival. 

Check out Think Shadyside’s Facebook events to keep up to date on upcoming events.

Photo from Think Shadyside Facebook page, credit goes to Richard Prescott.

The Bare Necessities

Moving on to living necessities like the food scene, services, gym and everything in between.

There is a Whole Foods on Centre Ave and a Trader Joes on Penn Ave, so your grocery needs will undoubtedly be met. The food scene has a variety of options as well. You can find American bistro, Asian cuisine, authentic Mexican dishes and so much more.

Click here to discover some favorite restaurants in Shadyside that happen to have awesome happy hours!

Shadyside, however, is not just a one-dimensional “entertainment zone”  dominated by restaurants and retail. It is a true “neighborhood” with service providers for all of your life’s needs at your fingertips like Automotive care (Bastone’s), Zumba classes (Club One Fitness), primary care medical doctors, financial advisers, dry cleaning to hair salons.  And what’s even better is the comfortable mix of both independent locally-owned businesses that flourish, even side-by-side with the “big chains” that are so prevalent today. ”

If you already live in Shadyside or are thinking of moving to the area, Think Shadyside has the low down on all the things you need to know.

If you’re the type of person who likes to stay fit, Shadyside has a variety of gyms and yoga studios for you to check out. The Barre Code is located on South Aiken Street. This gym focuses on cardio, strength, restoration, and most importantly, empowerment.

Harmony Pilates is another great fitness choice located on South Highland Ave. Their crew focuses on how movement or exercise can improve your daily life.

The Heart of the East End

When you live in Shadyside, you are just steps from the best that the East End’s diversity has to offer. From checking out the lush gardens at Phipps Conservatory, catching a show at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, or shopping locally for the latest styles at Hey Betty.

We feature many of these local businesses through our Instagram feed but here are a few of the outdoorsy places we believe capture the essence of East Shadyside.  

One of your first stops needs to be Shadyside’s Walled Garden at Mellon Park, just across Fifth Avenue. You’ll find this gorgeous, stroll-worthy location behind the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts and the Phipps Garden Center. The Walled Garden was developed on the Mellon Estate back in 1912.

Need a second to escape the chaos of life? The Walled Garden is the go-to place to relax. Plus, during September 7th through the 9th, head out to A Fair in the Park for the annual contemporary fine art and creft festival. 

Photo from the Mellon Park site credited to Jeremy Marshall

If you have a love for historic charm, Shadyside has a few landmarks you need to check out for yourself.

As you head toward the heart of Shadyside, you’ll find Howe Springs. This structure was originally built in 1896 then renovated in 1912 by notable Pittsburgh based architect W. H. Van Tine. It’s located between S. Highland Ave and College Street.

The Howe Family was inspired to create the spring to represent free water accessibility for all following the devastation of Johnstown Flood in 1889. Howe Springs became a City Historical Landmark by Preservation Pittsburgh in January of 2016.

Resource: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howe_Springs

Lastly, the Hunt Armory on Emerson Street was completed in 1916 and designed by Pittsburgh architect W.G. Wilkins Co. It has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places since 1991 and received historical landmark status from the City of Pittsburgh in 2014. 

From Franklin West’s perspective, Hunt Armory is near and dear to our hearts. Did you know that our office, 272 Shady Avenue, was once owned by Alfred Hunt. Indeed, ALCOA was founded in what is now our front office.

Before the Pittsburgh Civic Arena was completed in 1961, the Hunt Armory was the largest auditorium in Pittsburgh hosting concerts and political events. In October 1948, the Hunt Armory staged Harry S. Truman with a crowd of 25,000. Another famous event happened in 1969 when Led Zeppelin’s North American Tour came to the Armory.

The future of the Hunt Armory has been the subject of much discussion. Aiming to both preserve its architectural heritage and to creatively re-use it for the benefit of all, development plans are in the works for it to become the first, and only, year-round ice hockey and figure skating rink in the city.

Resource: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hunt_Armory

Living in Shadyside

So where does Franklin West Apartments fit within one’s love for Shadyside? We take pride in preserving and renovating many of the Victorian-era mansions in the Shadyside area. Our residents just adore the character and charm of our apartments.

Over the years, our team has selected and carefully restored buildings of historic value and preserved the original characteristics of the time period. By pairing contemporary interiors with high ceilings, fireplaces, hardwood floors, and original stained glass, we create unique, comfortable residences of architectural beauty and integrity.

Interested in the history of your home? Our website showcases the interesting backgrounds on many of our buildings. If only these walls could talk! Take a look at our current listings.

Still unsure if Shadyside is the right place for you to call home? Check out our Instagram feed for the best our neighborhood has to offer from local shops to eateries, and seasonal events to things-to-do on a Friday night.

At Franklin West, apartment living is our bread and butter. We value making sure residents are able to comfortably call our apartments home.

Though occasionally, the sunny season throws a few curve balls in apartment life. Today, we’re arming you with convenient, easy, and life-changing tips so you can get back to enjoying Pittsburgh’s summer activities.

Curtain and Fan Tricks

Summertime in city apartments can get a little too roasty toasty for comfort. Your home should bring cool relief after working all day. We rounded up nifty little tricks to help you stay cool without having the AC on high.

• Keep curtains closed during the day. Up to 30% of unwanted heat comes from your windows, simply closing and covering the windows can dramatically impact indoor temperatures.

• Spray ice water on your curtains! When a breeze comes, your curtains become a homemade air conditioner.

• Toss a water bottle or two in the freezer during the day so by bedtime, you have an ice pack to keep your bed chilled.  

• Consider replacing your flannel sheets with lighter, cooler alternatives. Pillows, too, like natural buckwheat hull, are actually designed to keep heat away from your head while you sleep.

• Place fans strategically around your apartment to circulate the air and create the perfect cross breeze. Go old school by placing a shallow bowl filled with ice in front of a fan for a nice cool mist.

• If you have ceiling fans in your apartment, set them to rotate counter-clockwise during the summer. If you do not know how to do this or if they are out of your reach, please call our office and one of our maintenance technicians would be glad to do it for you.

Appliances that Generate Heat

• Save on your electric bill by keeping lights turned off when not in use.

• Your stove, oven, and dishwasher create more heat when in use. So, avoid using these during the day.

• Do laundry in the evening. Generating a lot of heat and humidity, whether you have your own washer or dryer or shared laundry in the building, remember that heat rises. Your upper floors neighbors will thank you!

• Exhaust fans aren’t just for smells. When cooking, use the exhaust fan to draw out excess steam and humidity. The same goes for the bathroom. Without it, all of the humidity that builds up will leak out making your apartment feel a lot warmer.  

• Have an overabundance of electronics? Even when not in use, computers and televisions generate heat. When these items are not in use, consider unplugging them. Doing this will help your electric bill, too!

• Close off the rooms/areas you are not using so that the cold air stays where you want it to be and doesn’t go where you don’t want it.

Air Conditioning Tips and Maintenance

• If your apartment has central air conditioning, set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible. The more cooling you do with your central or room air conditioner, the higher your electric bill will be.

• Setting the thermostat to a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner won’t cool things down any faster, and if you forget, you’ll end up paying for it when the bill comes.  

• Also, don’t place large appliances near your thermostat. These emit heat and can cause your central AC to run longer than necessary.

• If your apartment has wall-unit air conditioning, only turn it on in the room(s) you want to have cooled and turn it off if you are no longer using that room.

• Whether you have central air-conditioning, wall-unit or window air conditioning, make sure that your registers and filters are clean and that they are not being blocked by furniture or other items.

We want to make sure our properties are a haven from the summer heat. Residents are encouraged to call right away if you find that your air conditioning unit is not functioning properly.

For best service, report air conditioning problems early in the workday. This way our maintenance technicians will have sufficient time to diagnose the problem, can purchase any parts that may be needed, and then fix the system for you.

 

There you have it. All the do it yourself tips and old school tricks to keep you and your family cooler than cucumbers. Besides, if all else fails, we hear homemade popsicles become a wonderful family activity and a perfect remedy for any summer heat!