Forest Hills, PA

Forest Hills is a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States. The history of Forest Hills dates back to the 19th century when the area was primarily rural and characterized by rolling hills and dense forests. Initially, the region was used for farming and agricultural purposes.

The development of Forest Hills began in the early 20th century, around the time when the railroad came to the area. In 1906, William McAdoo, a prominent attorney and financier, purchased 800 acres of land to establish a suburban community. He envisioned creating an idyllic residential area with modern amenities and natural beauty.

McAdoo hired renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., who designed New York City's Central Park, to plan the community layout. Olmsted's design aimed to preserve as many trees as possible, resulting in curving streets and spacious lots for each home. The community's name, Forest Hills, was inspired by the lush, wooded landscape that surrounds the area.

The first residents began to move into Forest Hills in 1908, and the borough was officially incorporated in 1919. Over the following decades, the community grew steadily, attracting new residents looking for a suburban retreat from the city. Forest Hills became known for its tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and a strong sense of community.

One significant event in Forest Hills' history occurred during World War II when the region experienced a surge in population due to the war effort. The Glen Hazel Housing Project was constructed to accommodate workers employed in nearby steel mills and defense factories. This temporary housing complex was eventually phased out after the war and replaced with private housing.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Forest Hills continued to thrive as a desirable residential community. In recent years, the borough has focused on preserving its natural beauty and historic character. The community has implemented various initiatives to maintain its green spaces, such as the preservation of natural trails and parks.

Today, Forest Hills is known for its friendly atmosphere, well-preserved homes, and abundance of green spaces. The borough offers easy access to downtown Pittsburgh while providing a quiet, suburban lifestyle. Residents enjoy a range of amenities, including parks, playgrounds, and a community pool, making Forest Hills an attractive place to live.

Frick Park

A large park with hiking trails, sports fields, a playground, and picnic areas.

The Tower at Carnegie Mellon University

An iconic landmark on the university campus which offers stunning views of the city skyline.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

A popular family-friendly attraction featuring various animal exhibits and interactive experiences.

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

A renowned museum showcasing exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, gems, and minerals.

Schenley Park

Located nearby, this park offers beautiful scenery, walking trails, outdoor recreational facilities, and the iconic Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

The Andy Warhol Museum

A world-class museum dedicated to the life and works of the famous pop artist, Andy Warhol.

The Strip District

Just a short drive away, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its local markets, shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

Heinz History Center

A museum showcasing the history and heritage of Western Pennsylvania, including sports, industry, and immigration.

Carnegie Science Center

A hands-on science museum featuring interactive exhibits, a planetarium, an IMAX theater, and a submarine tour.

Point State Park

Located at the confluence of the three rivers, this park offers beautiful views, walking paths, and historical significance as the site of Fort Duquesne.

The climate in Forest Hills, PA is classified as a humid continental climate, which means it experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers in Forest Hills are generally warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the upper 60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 20-30 degrees Celsius). July is typically the warmest month, with temperatures occasionally reaching the low 90s Fahrenheit (around 33 degrees Celsius).

Winters in Forest Hills are cold and snowy. Average temperatures range from the upper 20s to the mid-30s Fahrenheit (around -2 to 4 degrees Celsius). January is typically the coldest month, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, with an average annual snowfall of around 44 inches (112 cm).

Spring and autumn in Forest Hills are generally mild and comfortable. Spring temperatures range from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 7-18 degrees Celsius), while autumn temperatures range from the mid-50s to the upper 60s Fahrenheit (around 12-20 degrees Celsius). These seasons experience moderate rainfall.

Forest Hills also experiences moderate humidity throughout the year. Summers can be quite humid, with occasional thunderstorms. It's advisable to stay updated on weather forecasts, particularly during periods of severe weather, to ensure preparedness for any potential weather-related events.

Forest Hills, PA is a small suburban town located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. It is primarily a residential area and is known for its peaceful and quiet atmosphere. Here are some of the neighborhoods within Forest Hills:

Forest Hills Borough

This is the central neighborhood that comprises the town itself. It is the administrative, commercial, and cultural hub of Forest Hills. The borough is characterized by tree-lined residential streets, well-maintained homes, and local businesses.

Forest Hills Gardens

This is a neighborhood known for its upscale, spacious homes. It is an affluent area with larger properties and grand architecture. Forest Hills Gardens is often considered one of the more exclusive and desirable locations within Forest Hills.

Blackridge

Situated to the east of Forest Hills Borough, Blackridge is a neighborhood that offers a mix of residential properties. It features a blend of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Blackridge is known for its community park, extensive green spaces, and proximity to the Blackridge Reservoir.

Westwood

Located in the western part of Forest Hills, Westwood is a predominantly residential neighborhood. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, duplexes, and apartments. Westwood is also home to the Riverside Park, which provides recreational facilities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.

Ardmore

Ardmore is a neighborhood situated to the south of Forest Hills. It features a range of housing options, including apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. Ardmore is known for its strong sense of community and is a popular choice for families with its proximity to schools and parks.

Each of these neighborhoods within Forest Hills contributes to the overall charm and diversity of the town, offering residents a variety of housing options and community amenities.