Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Station Square Slide Show



Kaci Lewis

Frolicing through Station Square! Huma150

Station Square Slideshow

Present time Station Square

If you are reading this then you must have some interest in learning a little bit of information about present day Station Square, and there is a lot to learn. Station Square has so many cool and exciting features, attractions, shops, and restaurants you won’t believe it. Even if you have been there before and you think you know it all and seen everything there is, your wrong.

Station Square is a 52-acre riverfront complex located right across the river from Downtown Pittsburgh. It features over 20 delicious restaurants and eateries. I’ll name a few in case you are looking for a new spot to dine at; Hard Rock CafĂ©, Joe’s Crab Shack, The Melting Pot, Buca Di Beppo, Bar Louie, and Houlihan’s. Or how about Subway, DiSanto’ Pizza, and Moo Burger, for when your short on time and cash.

Now it’s time to walk around, sight see, and possibly burn a few calories from that meal you just ate. You have many options; let’s start by checking out a fountain show. Right smack dab in the heart of Station Square is the Fountain at Bessemer Court, it’s a tourist favorite. The fountain features hundreds of amazing multicolor jets shooting up to 40 feet into the air! It’s even more beautiful at night, but don’t fret, the colors still dazzle in the day time.

If you do visit Station Square during the day, you might want to consider staying a little later to get a taste of the night life. There are plenty of nightclubs for you to dance your heart out including Whim Nightclub, Zen Socail Club, Barroom, Steel House, Saddle Ridge, and Buckhead Saloon.

And before you leave Station Square you must must must go on the Station Square Incline! Did I mention you must go on it? Well you definitely should. It’s the perfect chance to see the city of Pittsburgh at its finest. It’s hands down the best way to sight see. And I know what you are thinking, I already live in Pittsburgh, I’m used to the buildings and bridges, why should I pay two bucks to see what I have already seen? Okay, #1 its two dollars! That’s a bargain, and #2 you‘re wrong! You haven’t seen the city like this I promise you, you’ll be left speechless once you see how truly amazing Pittsburgh really is. If you have to pick one thing to do at Station Square, I highly recommend this. (And if you can pick two things I would also recommend Joe’s Crab Shack!)

Now remember, I only mentioned a small portion that Station Square offers. You are going to have to see it for yourself in order to truly understand how incredible it is. Don’t hesitate, just go! The food and fun are waiting.
By Alexis Pampena

Station Square - A History.

A grand stretch of buildings towers over groups of trains as they enter and leave the station next to one of the three rivers of Pittsburgh. These trains are carrying passengers, raw materials, and commercial products. This is a genuine booming economy, and the area known as Station Square is the heart and soul of this economic surplus. Of course, this was at the very beginning of its life. Nothing lasts forever though, and the history of Station Square is a rollercoaster ride of glory, economic failure, and ingenuity.

Station Square was first conceived in 1877, when construction began for a rail line to connect Youngstown with Pittsburgh. Twenty-two years later the railway was open for business, and trains began moving back and forth between the stops. During this time, Station Square was highly populated, and boasted a good amount of commerce and trade. And for many years, this was the case. In those times, train was a great form of travel, and the railroad system was great for moving products back and forth, so naturally, this massive terminal was greatly used. Though, the Golden Age of Station Square didn't last forever.

After the 1940's, strides were made in the air and motor travel industries, and these forms of travel became more and more popular. Thus, as a whole, the use of the railway systems was becoming scarce. This had its toll on Station Square as well, and by the 70's, it was looking more like a graveyard than a booming symbol of commerce. With over forty acres of land set aside for this area, it would be difficult to see such a beautiful piece of architecture rot. Therefore, in the mid seventies, the land was being recycled by the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation. Station Square was going to be put into more of a practical use, and a hotel was built in the area, as well as a dock. In essence, Station Square was going to be turned into an urban playground; a fun and relaxing travel spot for locals and tourists alike.

With the reformation taking many years, it looked like Station Square could become what it once was; a booming economic area. After a trade of ownership, developer Forest City Enterprises began more work on it in 2002. Thus, Station Square has seen many generations of passersby, and has been to the edge of ruin and back. Its long history tells many tales, yet even in its old age and shaky past, it is still as glorious as it was on the day of its inception.