Pleasant Hills, PA
County: Allegheny
History
Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania is a suburb located in Allegheny County, just south of Pittsburgh. The history of Pleasant Hills dates back to the early 19th century when the area was primarily rural farmland. The Pleasant Hills region was initially settled by European immigrants, including Germans, English, and Scots-Irish, who were attracted to the fertile land and abundant resources of the area.
The region's growth and development were significantly influenced by transportation improvements. In the mid-1800s, the opening of the Pittsburgh and Steubenville Railroad provided a vital link between Pleasant Hills and Pittsburgh, facilitating the movement of people and goods. This transportation connection played a crucial role in transforming the predominantly agricultural area into a more suburban community.
By the early 20th century, Pleasant Hills underwent further changes as the population grew and the demand for housing increased. New residential developments replaced many of the once-prominent farms, and Pleasant Hills experienced a significant population boom following World War II.
The borough of Pleasant Hills was officially incorporated on June 15, 1947. It continued to develop as a suburban community throughout the second half of the 20th century, with the construction of several schools, shopping centers, parks, and other amenities.
Today, Pleasant Hills is a thriving residential community with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The borough offers a range of recreational opportunities, including local parks, sports fields, and community events. Its proximity to Pittsburgh makes it an attractive place to live for those seeking a suburban lifestyle while still being close to the amenities of a larger city.
While Pleasant Hills has experienced significant growth and modernization, the community still maintains a sense of its agricultural heritage. Some of the original farmhouses and barns can still be found, serving as a reminder of the area's history.
Overall, the history of Pleasant Hills reflects the transformation of a rural farmland into a suburban community driven by transportation advancements and changing population needs. It is now a vibrant and attractive place to live, offering a mix of modern amenities and a connection to its agrarian roots.
Attractions
South Park
A large county park offering various recreational activities such as hiking, jogging trails, picnic areas, sports fields, an outdoor amphitheater, and a wave pool.
Riverview Park
Located along the Allegheny River, this park features beautiful views, picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, and a historic carousel.
Dave & Buster's
A popular entertainment complex where visitors can enjoy arcade games, virtual reality experiences, billiards, and watch sports on large screens while enjoying food and drinks.
Galleria at Pittsburgh Mills
This shopping mall offers a wide range of retailers, including clothing stores, electronics, furniture, and a food court.
South Hills Village
A shopping center with various stores, including major retail chains and boutiques, as well as restaurants and a movie theater.
Fun Fore All
An indoor/outdoor family entertainment center featuring miniature golf, go-karts, arcade games, batting cages, and bumper boats.
Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh
Located about 15 minutes from Pleasant Hills, this complex includes several museums such as the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, the Carnegie Museum of Art, and the Andy Warhol Museum.
Kennywood Park
A historic amusement park with thrilling rides, famous roller coasters, live shows, and games. Located about a 25-minute drive from Pleasant Hills.
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
A renowned zoo featuring a wide variety of animal exhibits, including elephants, giraffes, lions, tigers, and various aquatic animals.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Located in Pittsburgh, this botanical garden offers a stunning collection of plants and flowers, as well as seasonal exhibits and events.
Climate
Pleasant Hills, PA, has a humid continental climate. The area experiences all four seasons throughout the year, with variations in temperature and precipitation.
In the summer months (June to August), Pleasant Hills tends to have warm and sometimes hot temperatures. Average high temperatures range from 80°F (27°C) to 85°F (29°C), with occasional peaks above 90°F (32°C). Humidity can also be relatively high during this time, making the weather feel more uncomfortable. Thunderstorms are common during the summer, particularly in the afternoon and evening, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional lightning.
Autumn (September to November) in Pleasant Hills is characterized by mild temperatures and changing foliage colors. Average highs range from 60°F (15°C) in September to 45°F (7°C) in November. Nighttime temperatures gradually drop, and frost becomes more frequent towards the end of the season. Rainfall is moderate during the fall months.
Winter in Pleasant Hills (December to February) is cold and snowy. Average high temperatures hover around 40°F (4°C) during the day, but can often dip below freezing at night. Snowfall is not uncommon, with an average of about 30 inches (76 cm) per season. Temperatures can occasionally drop below zero Fahrenheit (-18°C), particularly during cold snaps. The area experiences relatively low humidity in winter.
Spring (March to May) in Pleasant Hills is characterized by gradually warming temperatures. Average high temperatures start around 45°F (7°C) in March and reach 65°F (18°C) in May. Precipitation levels increase, with spring showers becoming more frequent. Thunderstorms and even occasional tornadoes can occur during this period.
It is important to note that climate patterns can vary from year to year, and the above information represents average conditions.
Neighborhoods
Pleasant Hills is a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. While it is a relatively small community, there are a few distinct neighborhoods and areas within Pleasant Hills that offer their own unique characteristics. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Pleasant Hills:
Pleasant Hills Borough
The borough itself is one of the main neighborhoods in Pleasant Hills, encompassing the majority of the area. It offers a mix of residential and commercial developments and serves as the central hub of the community.
Pleasant Wood
Pleasant Wood is a residential neighborhood located in the southwestern part of Pleasant Hills. It features a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, offering a suburban atmosphere with tree-lined streets and peaceful surroundings.
Gill Hall
Gill Hall is another residential neighborhood situated in the southeastern portion of Pleasant Hills. It is known for its predominantly single-family homes, often on larger lots, which provide a more spacious and suburban living experience.
Old Clairton Road
Old Clairton Road is a major thoroughfare in Pleasant Hills and is home to several commercial areas and shops. Along this road, you will find a variety of businesses, restaurants, and services catering to the community's needs.
Mowry Park
Mowry Park is a small neighborhood located on the northern side of Pleasant Hills. It offers a mix of residential properties and is known for its proximity to local parks and recreational areas.
Rosewood Park
Rosewood Park is a small residential community located in the northeastern part of Pleasant Hills. It features a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes, making it a diverse and vibrant neighborhood.
These are just a few examples of the different neighborhoods in Pleasant Hills, each offering a unique feel and lifestyle. Whether you prefer a bustling commercial area or a quieter residential neighborhood, Pleasant Hills has options to suit various preferences.