In the shadow of the Cathedral of Learning, the PNC Carousel at Schenley Plaza spins its gentle magic — a Victorian-style carousel of hand-painted animals that has become Oakland’s happiest meeting place for families.
The Plaza around it sets the day up perfectly: a great green lawn for picnics and cartwheels, food kiosks, free Wi-Fi for the grown-ups and the Mary Schenley Memorial Fountain splashing nearby. The carousel is fully accessible — a stationary bench ‘chariot’ welcomes riders of all abilities — and proceeds support the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy’s care of the parks.
The carousel operates seasonally at 101 Panther Hollow Road, typically spring through fall with weekend hours in the shoulder seasons. Check pittsburghparks.org for the current schedule, then claim a horse and a lawn spot.
