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.

 

Pittsburgh is home to many winter traditions. One local favorite and our must-do winter tradition is visiting The Frick Pittsburgh. From the historic home of the Frick family and the 5 plus acres of gorgeous gardens to the truly awe-worthy art exhibitions, The Frick is absolutely Pittsburgh’s hidden gem!

The Frick’s Clayton Holiday tours are such a site to see! The Clayton Mansion is lavishly decorated with holiday splendor that is reminiscent of the 1900s. General admission is only $15 and the celebrations last up until January 6th.

Plus, every Friday evening, The Frick hosts Holiday Harmonies! A trio of carolers strolls through the Frick grounds singing traditional holiday songs up until the last Friday of the month. The wonderful carols paired with brilliantly decorated lights, it’s a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit!

Click here for The Frick’s calendar of events and to purchase tickets!

While you’re enjoying the Clayton Home, The Frick is also showcasing the amazing Isabelle de Borchgrave: Fashioning Art from Paper during the winter season. You haven’t seen paper like this before.

Borchgrave’s breathtaking work reflects Renaissance Italian gowns and modernist costumes of the Ballet Russes. Her life-size, works of art is completely made of painted and manipulated paper. That’s right, simple paper.

Watch a quick video and hear from the artist herself!

On Fridays starting at 2 pm The Frick hosts Gallery Talks. Join art admirers in a conversation on Borchgrave’s work. This week, the conversation will focus on Succès de Scandale: Picasso, Satie, and the Ballets Russes.

Isabelle de Borchgrave: Fashioning Art from Paper exhibit is open to the public from now until January 6th. If you have a love for fashion or art, we can’t recommend this exhibit enough. Want to learn more about Isabelle de Borchgrave’s process? You can find a short excerpt about her and her amazing art here.  

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*All photos were found on The Frick’s Facebook page.

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!

Anyone else dreading the coming of winter? Before we know it, we’ll wake up to frost on our cars, and not too long after, Pittsburgh will be covered in a blanket of snow. That thought is making us shiver already!

Unfortunately, there’s no avoiding it. Soon, winter will be here. At Franklin West, it’s important to us that our residents are well prepared. We put together a list of reminders and a checklist of things you can do to keep your apartment warm and cozy in the months ahead!

BE ALERT

✔️Call Franklin West maintenance at the first sign that something seems “not right” in your apartment or the building’s common areas.

Although this is true at any time of the year, the winter poses many more challenges and potential for emergency situations. We take pride in our experienced maintenance staff to professionally serve our residents.

Maintenance requests should be directed to the office during regular service hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

We know, however, that maintenance issues don’t conveniently arise during regular business hours. For weekend and evening emergencies, calling our answering service at 412-661-1151 is the way to go. Be as specific as possible so that the answering service can contact the appropriate person to help you as soon as is possible.  Anything from clogged drains, no hot water, no heat, frozen pipes to an overflowing toilet or water leaking from your ceiling are all considered emergencies.

HEAT

The type of heat in Franklin West apartments varies … some have gas central air/heat (you have an HVAC unit in your apartment that serves only your apartment), others have gas boiler systems that provide hydronic hot water heat through baseboard heaters to every apartment in the building … still others have electric heat pumps. Not sure what type of heat you have and want to make sure that you are doing what you can to ensure that your system can run efficiently, please call us! We’d be happy to come over and talk with you! Here, however, are some heat basics…

• Central Air/Heat (gas furnace or electric heat pump)

✔️Your thermostat setting should be set on “auto” and the desired temperature.

We recommend using the “auto” setting because it switches automatically, causing the fan to cycle on and off as a function of heat or cool demand by the thermostat. Please note, the “on” setting of the thermostat fan switch simply causes the fan to run continuously whether a heat or cool demand is present or not.

✔️Franklin West is replacing your furnace filters!

When a furnace filter gets clogged with dust, dander, and other particles, your furnace is forced to work harder. Regularly changing a furnace filter will ensure your furnace runs properly, which is really important during winter time. No need to worry though. Our staff will take care of it for you (as you are aware, we are in the process of changing all furnace filters this fall)!

 ✔️Keep your “stuff” away from HVAC units, hot water tanks, etc.. Please do not use mechanical rooms — where your HVAC unit and/or hot water tank may be located, depending on your particular apartment — as an overflow storage closet. Not only can such clutter prevent these mechanicals from working efficiently and properly, blocking these systems can this be very dangerous. Also, our maintenance staff is not able to provide proper service if they do not have sufficient access. Keeping these areas clear is as much a safety issue as a maintenance one.

• Gas Hot water/baseboard heat

✔️Don’t put anything directly up against baseboard radiators.

Baseboard heaters need space to allow the air to flow properly. This way it enables the heating system to work most efficiently. So when placing furniture in front of baseboard heaters, just try to leave a 6-inch space in between.

• Electric baseboard heat

✔️Don’t put anything directly up against electric heaters.

PIPES

✔️Do not set your thermostat for less than 58 degrees!

This reminder is very important! Keeping your thermostat at 58 degrees or higher will prevent your pipes and, if applicable to your apartment, your sprinkler heads, from freezing in the winter. Never, ever, turn off your heat! A frozen pipe or sprinkler head that bursts can lead to a whole mountain of mess … not only in your apartment but in all apartments below and around you.

✔️Do not turn off your heat! … EVER!

✔️Let us know if you are going to be away!

We get that winter in Pittsburgh means a much-needed trip south. Anything to get away from the cold. Just make sure you keep the heat running in your apartment while on vacation. If you do plan on being away during the winter, even for just a few days, let us know! We’ll keep an eye on your apartment and take the necessary steps to keep your pipes from freezing.

✔️Keep a faucet on a slow drip when the temperature drops below 20 degrees  When the weather is very cold outside, let warm water drip (so that both cold and hot water are slightly dripping) from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe – even at a trickle – helps prevent pipes from freezing.

✔️Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing during those frigid days or nights.

✔️Don’t forget to close your garage door when you back out of the garage!!

Often, water pipes run near or through garages … if you have an attached garage in your building or townhouse, never leave your garage door open, as frozen pipes will be the likely result. Tie a string around your finger or put a sticky note on your car’s dashboard if you have to, but please don’t forget to close that garage door! At work and you’re not sure if it’s open or closed? Call us and we’ll check for you!

✔️Call us immediately if you think your pipes might be frozen (i.e., you turn on a faucet and water doesn’t come out or comes out only at a trickle — this is a sign that you likely have frozen pipes).

REGULAR UPKEEP & HEAT SAVING TIPS

✔️If you see a hallway or exterior light has burned out at your building, please let us know! 

✔️Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

Usually, all you need to do is change the batteries. Though if you feel the detector isn’t functioning properly, don’t hesitate to reach out. Keep in mind, while smoke detector(s) are in ALL apartments and townhouses, CO detectors are only in apartments and/or buildings that have either gas heat and/or appliances or interior garages.

✔️Turn on your ceiling fan to the winter setting and use it, even in the winter.

Ironic, right? Heat rises. By switching the fan to spin clockwise this will pull the warm air back down into your apartment.  If you cannot reach your fan to do this safely, please call our office and our maintenance staff will do this for you.

✔️Hang wintertime curtains.

Insulated or heavy curtains can reduce heating costs. Purchasing curtains that fall to the floor will maximize the effectiveness.

✔️Make sure your windows are completely closed.

The slightest opening can cause a drafty apartment during the cold temperatures!

✔️Close your chimney flue.

If you live in an apartment that has a wood-burning fireplace, be sure to close your damper when it is not in use. Not sure whether the fireplace in your apartment works or is just decorative? Not experienced with the proper care and use of your wood-burning fireplace? Please call us and our maintenance staff would be happy to give you a primer before you try to use it for the first time!  Not sure how to turn on or use your apartment’s GAS fireplace? Please call us!

That wraps up our list of things to do to prepare for the winter weather! Remember, if there’s anything our staff can help you with, don’t hesitate to call!

Want to expand your love for a good brew? Are you new to the Burgh and looking for something to do? Beers of the Burgh is returning. This year, the best fest is happening at Hunt Armory in Shadyside!

Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or someone who’s up for a good time, Beers of the Burgh never disappoints. This event will feature more than 30 diverse breweries, all local to Western Pennsylvania, including Grist House Craft Brewery, Hitchhiker Brewing, East End Brewing Company, Eleventh Hour Brewing, and a ton more. See the full list on the official site.

General admission costs $45 for Beers of the Burgh with the doors opening at 5 pm. The three-hour event offers a keepsake tasting glass, live music, and entertainment. But maybe you and your friends are the kinds of people who love an exclusive pass. Early admission is starting at $59 per person and you get access to all the tasty brews an hour before general admission. That sounds pretty good to us!

Safety is a top priority during Beers of the Burgh. After 3 or 4 hours of drinking, no one should even think about driving home. So for all those designated drivers out there, your ticket is only $20.

This awesome ‘Burgh event is sponsored through Variety. This charity’s mission is to help children with disabilities live a full life! All proceeds will benefit Variety and their mission.

We can’t forget to mention that Beers of the Burgh also strives to help keep Pittsburgh Green! The Beers of the Burgh team pledges to keep the event sustainable and environmentally friendly by reducing the events carbon footprint. Beers of the Burgh has partnered with Pennsylvania Resources Council and Zero Fossil Energy Outfitters.

So what’s better than enjoying an evening of good people and delicious brews? We couldn’t think of anything else. Get your ticket here and we’ll see you at Hunt Armory on Saturday, November 3rd!

Both photos used in this blog were originally published on Beers of the Burgh’s Facebook page.

October is chalk full of awesome things to do in Shadyside! From fitness to local parties, and, of course, all things Halloween themed. We’re making sure you have all the dates and times you need to know about.

Friday, October 5th

Steel City Improv Theatre Mixer

Does the thought of improv scare you? Steel City Improv Theater doesn’t want you to be. In fact, they host mixers so you can meet the teachers and people who’ve done it before. It’s the ultimate baby step. It’s absolutely free and begins at 9:30 pm! 

Just remember, if Michael Scott can do it, so can you. Click here for more details!

Saturday, October 6th

Run Shadyside

Supporting the Boys and Girls club, the Run Shadyside 5k is this weekend! The quiet streets of Shadyside will turn into a cheering squad as runners take their mark. The race begins at 8 am on the intersection of Walnut and Ivy street.

Register before it’s too late! Click here for details.

photo cred: @latebloominglotus via Instagram!

Radical Days at the Frick

In case you’re new to the area RADical day events are the coolest. This Saturday the Frick Pittsburgh has free family activities. That’s right completely free. Activities include getting creative with paint, entertaining outdoor games, and the History Mystery game! Plus, you and your family will be able to tour the Clayton Mansion at your own pace.

This event is definitely one you won’t want to miss! Click here for details and for more events happening this month.

Mac Miller Tribute at Amazing Yoga

Are you a Mac Miller fan? Amazing Yoga is hosting a special one hour class to honor the late rapper. All of the proceeds from this class will go to the Make a Wish Foundation of Pittsburgh! Sean Conley will begin the class at 6 pm at the Shadyside location. Make sure you sign up.

Sunday, October 7th

Anemoia Vintage’s Made & Found Fall Market

We can’t think of anything better than a little local shopping. The Made and Found Fall Market is back with over 25 handmade, vintage vendors from around our region. This fun event begins at 10 am. But make sure you make all your purchases before it closes up at 4 pm! Click here for the list of vendors.

photo cred: @theprinterscabinet via Ace Hotel Pittsburgh’s Instagram

Saturday, October 13th

Celebration & Blessing of Animals

If you believe in celebrating your pets, this is an event for you! Humane Animal Rescue, Journey’s of Life, Petagogy, and Think Shadyside are hosting the annual Celebration and Blessing of Animals. Here your beloved pets can receive interfaith blessings, enjoy many vendors, and even get animal psychic readings.

This event will take place at Journey of Life on Bellefonte Street from 11 am to 4 pm. Visit their Facebook page for more details.

Thursday, October 18th

Fright This Way

Love to paint? Paint night is coming to the Hyatt House on Baum Boulevard. Make it a friends night out or a wonderful date night! Starting at 6 pm, you’ll be able to grab a drink and put your creative skills to the test. Get the details you need here.

Saturday, October 20th

Super Science Saturday: Boo-seum Trick-or-Treat

It’s time for the more spooktacular events. First up is Boo-seum Super Science Saturday at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History! From 12 pm to 4 pm, enjoy Super Science events with friends and family with museum admission. Experience live animals up close and participate in Halloween activities.

Kids will also be able to go trick or treating throughout the museum so make sure they’re dressed up! Get the details here.

Wednesday, October 24th

Ghostly Gallery at the Carnage Museum of Art

Now, The Carnegie Museum can’t let History have all the fun. Carnegie Museum of Art is hosting a Ghostly Gallery on Wednesday. The three-hour event starts at 7 pm. Walk through the haunted halls of CMOA, take in the beautiful artwork, and of course, there are snacks involved.

You can’t show up to a party without your costume, but there are a few restrictions for everyone’s safety. CMOA is also kindly asking for donations to enter, which will benefit the museum. Find out what you need to know.

Friday, Oct. 26

Halloween Happenings at Phipps

For some family-friendly Halloween fun, Phipps Conservatory is the place to be. Come out to the Conservatory, in a costume of course, for Halloween activities like pumpkin carving and kid-friendly entertainment. Click here for more details.

photo cred: Phipps Conservatory via Instagram

October 19, 20, 26, & 27th

Bump In The Night

During October, spooky things go bump in the night. The Frick hosts a special Halloween themed event for kids between the ages of 3 and 9. Starting at 6:30 families will be able to learn about nocturnal animals, enjoy a campfire, carve pumpkins, and go on a night walk!

Before you head home though, stick around for the musical performance! Get tickets here.

Saturday, Oct. 27

10th Annual Halloween Mayhem

Next Pittsburgh calls Kelly Strayhorn Theater’s 10th Annual Halloween Mayhem, “a Halloween event that fits the whole family.” From noon to 3 pm this East Liberty tradition involves spooky activities, hands-on crafts, and youth-led performances. Get your tickets here!

 

To finish this list of October events, we have to mention Trick or Treating day! Pittsburgh neighborhoods can run amok from 5:30 to 7:30 pm on Halloween Day.

 

Happy Halloween!

The beginning of the fall season welcomes live performances and some of Pittsburgh’s most unique events. Shadyside, in fact, has a little something for everyone. Want to enjoy a chill night with your significant other? Head over to Mansions on Fifth. Are you an adventurous spirit willing to try anything new? You have to check out MakerDate.

We rounded up the dates you need to know to keep your calendar full of fun. Here are some events you won’t want to miss during September.

Events at Mansions on Fifth

1. On September 13th, Mansions on Fifth hosts Performance Thursday with guitarist and singer Meredith Holiday! You’ll surely enjoy her acoustic take on classic rock and roll. Starting at 5:30, the two-hour long musical session will have complimentary cheese and charcuterie as well as cocktail specials.

The following Thursday, September 20th, look forward to Donna O!

MakerDate

2. Calgon Carbon is presenting this year’s annual MakerDate! The one-of-a-kind event on Friday, September 14 from 6 to 10 pm at Ace Hotel Pittsburgh. MakerDate pairs skilled creators with people who want to learn something new.

Come out for the live maker auction, music, and hands-on activities! All funds raised at the event go toward Assemble’s educational Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) programs.

Jam on Walnut

3. This outdoor concert will block off Walnut Street once again for the city’s biggest block party! Jam on Walnut is a benefit concert that raises funds for the Humane Animal Rescue.

Pencil in Jam on Walnut for September 22nd at 7 pm. Do some early shopping, visit the local bars and restaurants, and stay to listen to the Good Guys Acoustic Duo & Band, plus No Bad JuJu!

Performances At Kelly-Strayhorn Theater

4. The sixth annual Thrival Festival at Kelly-Strayhorn welcomes inspiring speakers and an open format discussion. The three-hour session on Wednesday, September 19th will explore the transformation of society through the lens of business and culture.

Come to see a live excerpt of the Pulitzer Prize-nominated play Marjorie Prime.

5. On Saturday, September 22nd at 4 pm, Kelly Strayhorn Theater along with Philippine-American Performing Arts presents Halo Halo. This program will host more than 40 dancers, musicians, and singers on a variety of performances that preserve folk traditions while mixing in a new light.

It will be an evening filled with music and dance in celebration of Filipino arts.

 

See, we told you there’s something for everyone! Look us up on Instagram for updates on local events.

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.

Whether it’s a career move or just to experience a new area, picking up and finding a new place to live can be a daunting task.

We’ve compiled a few must-do items to complete after you’ve found the place to call home. We get it. You’ve picked a nice apartment, paid the movers, and now you’re in your new living room staring at a ton of boxes wondering, “where in the world do I even begin?”

Wipe the sweat off your brow and let’s get to that checklist!

Settling-In checklist:

1. If you haven’t done so already, complete and return the inspection report you received in your move-in packet. Not only does this document any cosmetic damages so that you won’t be held responsible upon move-out, Franklin West can schedule work orders for maintenance to stop by your apartment to do any needed repairs.
2. If you haven’t done so already, set up your renters’ insurance coverage. Not only is renters’ insurance required in your Franklin West lease, it is both affordable and easy to do. Looking for the best rates? Consider “bundling” it with your car or homeowners’ insurance, if you or your parental co-signers own a home.
3. Unpacking can be incredibly overwhelming when you’re doing it by yourself. Make things accomplishable. An easy place to start is focusing on unpacking one box a day. As you unpack, take pictures of your possessions too. This is also a great way to document your stuff from an insurance perspective.
4. Moving becomes a prime opportunity to declutter and purge things you forgot you ever owned. If you didn’t do this when you were first packing up, definitely do it while you unpack. It’s an awesome way to hit the refresh button. Plus, your unwanted items may be another man’s treasure, so always try to donate!
5. Ensure that your utility accounts were properly set up at the beginning of your lease. If you have questions about the utility responsibility for your apartment, please call the Franklin West office.
6. If you did not do so prior to your move, set aside some time to visit your local U.S. Post Office. This visit is to make sure your new mailing address is correct or to update voter registration. This can actually be done online as well through USPS.

Bonus: We saved the niftiest trick for last. Furniture shopping for your new apartment can be tricky, especially if you’re on a budget. Here are a few apps you need to have to monitor product price drops or rebate options.

– Shoptagr (a Google Chrome extension)

– Ebates

– Paribus

Are you a newbie to Shadyside neighborhood? Check out our Instagram feed for the best Shadyside has to offer from local shops to eateries, and seasonal events to things to do on a Friday night.

Welcome to Shadyside!

After a hectic day, there’s nothing better than knowing your favorite eatery has a happy hour waiting for you. This gives you the perfect opportunity to get your crew together for a few drinks as you vent about the day or rummage on past memories. With that said, it’s also a fantastic way to meet new people if you just moved into the area.

Shadyside is home to plenty of restaurants and bars which make it the perfect area for exploring different happy hours.

1. Harris Grill

It’s the place you’ll want to go back to in a heartbeat. Harris Grill serves to provide a comfortable, friendly atmosphere with great beers, stiff drinks and quality food.

Tuesday is bacon night, Wednesday are all about wine and Sunday’s are saved for $1 off drafts plus bogo apps. Need we say more?

2. Shady Grove

Shady Grove is right in the middle of Shadyside’s cultural district on Walnut Street. The food is delicious and full of variety, there’s bound to be something for everyone.

Every Monday-Friday 5 – 7 PM take your pick of a $4 house wine or $3-4 draft beer. Oh and for an added bonus on Tuesday happy hour is all day. Yep, you read that right!

3. Tipsy Cow

Tipsy Cow is conveniently located on Ellsworth Avenue with a variety of beers on tap, mixed drinks, and delicious sangria. This spot is known for its wings, burgers, and of course the awesome happy hour.

Every Monday-Friday from 4:30 – 6:30 PM treat yourself to ½ off all drinks!

4. The Urban Tap

With over 140 drafts, this gastropub and draft house on Highland Avenue is perfect for relaxing with some friends. Don’t forget to enjoy one of their creative American food dishes.

From Monday – Thursday 4:30 – 6:30 PM enjoy 1/2 off Drafts, $2 off Wine Glasses, $2 off cocktails and $2 off small plates.

5. Kelly’s Bar & Lounge

A hidden gem that embraces the local Pittsburgh vibe, Kelly’s Bar and Grill is the eclectic and relaxed spot. We hear the menu is full of the comfort food you dream about.

Enjoy $2 off drafts and ½ off appetizers during happy hour from 5 to 7 pm daily.

 

 

 

If you have a car, leave it at home. All of these watering holes are just a short walk from Franklin West Shadyside apartments.