Pitt University Campus Guide: A Comprehensive Exploration
The University of Pittsburgh, commonly known as Pitt, stands as a beacon of academic excellence and a vibrant hub of activity. With its soaring popularity, Pitt welcomes prospective students to explore its diverse campus and the surrounding city of Pittsburgh. Whether you opt for a guided tour with the knowledgeable Pathfinders or embark on a self-guided adventure, this guide will provide helpful tips to navigate the university's key landmarks and resources.
Embarking on Your Pitt Journey: Guided or Self-Guided Tours
Pitt's rising popularity makes it an exciting destination for college hopefuls. To facilitate exploration, the university offers both guided tours led by Pathfinders and self-guided options, allowing visitors to discover the campus and city at their own pace. If a guided tour isn't feasible, the self-guided tour provides an excellent alternative for independent exploration.
The Iconic Cathedral of Learning
Begin your exploration at the Cathedral of Learning, affectionately called "Cathy." This 42-story Gothic Revival skyscraper, standing 535 feet tall, is Pitt’s signature building and the tallest educational building in the Western Hemisphere. Inside, discover classrooms and other meeting places, including the impressive Commons Room. The Cathedral houses 31 nationality rooms, 29 of which serve as active classrooms. Each room is dedicated to a country's cultural heritage, commemorating the diverse cultures that have shaped Pittsburgh's history and growth.
Schenley Plaza and Park: Green Spaces and Recreation
Across from the Cathedral of Learning lies Schenley Plaza, an acre of green space offering dining options and a pavilion hosting live entertainment. Enjoy a ride on the PNC-sponsored carousel (rides available for $2). Adjacent to the plaza is the Mary Schenley fountain, erected in 1918 to honor Mary Schenley's contribution of the 456-acre Schenley Park. The park boasts trails, woods, and various attractions, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Posvar Hall and Hillman Library: Academic Hubs
Walk between Wesley W. Posvar Hall and the Hillman Library to find the bright yellow steel statue that many call the “Giraffe.” Posvar Hall is home to many Pitt schools and departments. The Hillman Library, the largest of Pitt’s 26 libraries and collections in the University Library System, contains approximately 1.5 million volumes and over 200 computers.
Read also: Exploring Pitt's Academic Excellence
Fun Fact: The original home plate for Forbes Field is located on the first floor of Posvar Hall.
Litchfield Towers and Schenley Quad: Residential Life
Litchfield Towers, the largest housing complex on Pitt’s campus, accommodates 1,868 students each year. Towers A and B offer double rooms, while Tower C offers single rooms. Every Pitt residence hall has a welcome attendant at the door 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ensuring student safety and security. While you’re unable to view a dorm on our self-guided campus tours, we have virtual tours of each residence hall.
Look up from the center of campus and around at the tall buildings -- those are five residence halls: Holland, Brackenridge, Bruce, McCormick, and Amos, forming the Schenley Quad. Schenley Quad is filled with shops and eateries for a morning meal or a late night snack. It is a great place to study while getting fresh air or to meet up with friends.
Fun Fact: Brackenridge Hall is named after Hugh Henry Brackenridge, the founder of the University of Pittsburgh (formerly Pittsburgh Academy).
William Pitt Union: Student Life and Services
Originally Pittsburgh's leading hotel in 1898, the William Pitt Union is now Pitt's hub for over 650 student clubs and organizations. It houses Student Services offices such as the Career Center, PittArts, Pitt Program Council, the Global Experiences Office, and Disability Resources and Services (DRS). Additionally, the Union's lower-level hosts Schenley Cafe and Nordy’s Place, a recreational space offering an arcade, snacks, and pool and ping pong tables.
Read also: Faculty at Pitt CC
Housing and Dining: Amenities and Options
Pitt offers a wide range of housing options with amenities such as high-speed Internet access, basic cable, kitchen and laundry facilities, fitness centers, and living-learning communities. Pitt’s flexible meal memberships can be selected to fit unique and individual needs.
Sustainability at Pitt: A Greener World
Sustainable design and innovation are literally built into Pitt’s campus. Discover how Pitt is helping to “green” the world through various initiatives and projects.
Exploring Pittsburgh: Beyond the Campus
Oakland is just one of the city’s 90 neighborhoods. When you’re visiting campus, it is recommended to stay at one of the University Preferred Hotel Properties as they offer University of Pittsburgh discounts. There is so much to do and see throughout the City of Pittsburgh.
Staying Safe: COVID Health & Safety Protocols
We encourage all visitors to continue to follow the COVID Health & Safety protocol of wearing face coverings as you explore our hometown.
Getting Involved: Campus Organizations
Interested in getting involved on campus? With over 650 student clubs and organizations, Pitt offers a multitude of opportunities for students to connect, engage, and pursue their passions.
Read also: University of Pittsburgh Student's Disappearance
State-of-the-Art Research: Pushing Boundaries
View some of the state-of-the-art laboratories where Pitt researchers push the boundaries of knowledge, contributing to advancements across various fields.
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