Insider's Guide: Monongahela Incline

Climb aboard this Pittsburgh gem that's been defying gravity and dazzling locals and visitors since the 19th century!

Dating back to 1870, the Monongahela Incline (we call it the Mon Incline for short) is the oldest continuously operating funicular in the U.S., transporting more than a half million riders each year.

A ride on the Mon Incline should be at the top of your Pittsburgh Itinerary! Besides the scenic lookouts and breathtaking ride, both upper and lower stations offer shopping, dining and a chance to explore unique Pittsburgh neighborhoods. Follow our insider's guide to maximize your visit:

Credit |
Dave DiCello

About the Mon Incline

Picture this: It's the late 1800s, and Pittsburgh is a bustling hub of industry and innovation. The steel mills are roaring, the rivers are bustling with barges and the city's hills are filled with hardworking folks who need a quicker way to commute. Enter the Monongahela Incline, the brainchild of engineer John Endres and his daughter, Caroline.

Opened in 1870, this incline railway was a game-changer, whisking passengers up and down Mount Washington with style and efficiency. Imagine wooden cars clattering along steel tracks, powered by a robust steam engine, giving riders a scenic view of the burgeoning city below. It was the coolest ride in town!

But the Monongahela Incline isn't just a historical artifact; it's a living, breathing piece of Pittsburgh's soul. Over the years, it's been upgraded and modernized, yet it still retains that vintage charm. Today, it travels 635 feet along a 35 degree grade at a pleasant six miles per hour, carrying local commuters and tourists alike.

But the Monongahela Incline is more than just transportation—it's an experience. It's about feeling the history under your feet, seeing the city from a new perspective, and being part of a tradition that's more than 150 years strong.

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@obliquephotoco on Instagram

Know Before You Go

The Monongahela Incline is operational year-round and runs approximately every 5-10 minutes.

Monday-Saturday: 5:30 a.m. – 12:45 a.m.
Sundays and Holidays: 8:45 a.m. – midnight

Fares for the Monongahela Incline are collected at the upper station atop Mt. Washington, and can be paid via cash, card, Connectix, Connectcard or mobile ticketing via the ready2ride App. Fares include:

  • Adults (ages 12-64): $2.75 (3-hour pass)
  • Children (ages 6-11): $1.35 (3-hour pass)
  • Children 5 and under: Free

Fine more fare info on the PRT website.

The Mon Incline Lower Station is easily accessible via the T light rail system and multiple bus routes. Parking is available near the Lower Station at Station Square, which offers several lots and a covered garage less than five minutes walking from the station. The Upper Station offers free parking on Sundays at the Shiloh Street lot.

There are no public restrooms available at the Mon Incline.

Insider's Tips

  1. Sit in the very front - There's not a bad view on your ride, but for the very best views, sit towards the front for the most unobscured views of the city (board at the bottom of the car)
  2. Bring cash - The fare machines can get backed up during the busiest times of day. Bring exact change or use the ticketing on the ready2ride app to spend less time paying and more time riding.
  3. Bikes are ok - the Mon Incline can accommodate one bike per ride on the upper level of the car. This includes ebikes. Battery-powered scooters, however, are not permitted.
  4. The West car is wheelchair accessible - making the Mon Incline accessible for all.
  5. Every season is worth a visit - While most people travel during the summer, don't forget about the Mon Incline the rest of the year. This is one of the most scenic rides to enjoy fall colors or a gentle snowfall as it blankets the Burgh.
  6. Take advantage of your three-hour pass - Because you aren't buying one- or two-way tickets on the Mon Incline, enjoy the time you have. Feel free to ride to the top, explore the views at your leisure, grab something to eat and ride back down. You have tons of time!
  7. Go at dawn - Skip the crowds and enjoy the sunrise. Dawn is pretty quiet on the Mon Incline but one of the best times for photos.
  8. The best place to watch fireworks - Pittsburgh loves fireworks, and not just for the 4th of July. If you want to avoid Downtown, consider watching the fireworks from the top of Mt. Washington via a Mon Incline ride.
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@bmbruno on Instagram

Explore Shiloh Street & Scenic Lookouts

One of the best parts of the Mon Incline is that, no matter which station you're at, you're in a hotbed of things to do. Once you exit the Upper Station, your first priority is to take in the views and snag all the photos of scenic lookouts.

But don't be in a hurry to head back down! Instead, walk along Shiloh Street and you'll be treated to a bevy of small businesses perfect to spend an afternoon or evening at. Grab street corn and fish tacos at Gordo's that are straight 🔥. Treat the kids to ice cream at DiFiore's. Or meet up with friends for drinks with innovative cocktails at Coughlin's Law and great local brews at Redbeard's.

Don't forget to grab some souvenirs at love, Pittsburgh's boutique before returning to the bottom!

Your Gateway to the Clipper and Station Square

The fun doesn't end at the Lower Station of the Mon Incline, either. In fact, your night could just be beginning! Cross the street at the bottom and you've reached Station Square, a sprawling, 52-acre riverfront complex with upscale dining, entertainment and unparalleled river access.

Dine at the Grand Concourse, a former train station converted into a stunning upscale restaurant that will be the talk of your trip. Grab souvenirs from the Hard Rock Cafe. On Saturdays, be on the lookout for a Pittsburgh Riverhounds home game and take in the sights of beautiful Highmark Stadium as our soccer team competes for USL glory.

If you want to get out on the water, Station Square is also a hotspot to enjoying our three rivers. The iconic Gateway Clipper fleet boards here, and it's also where you can find Pittsburgh Party Pontoons, Cruisin' TIkis and Rush Hour Boat Charters for the best way to move your excursion out to the rivers.

So next time you're in Pittsburgh, hop on the Monongahela Incline and let it whisk you away on a trip through time. Feel the excitement, embrace the heritage, and enjoy the ride!

Jared B.

Author

Jared B.

Enthusiastic Pittsburgher

Always in search of the next great craft beer and arcade. Can be found in the Supporters Section of Pittsburgh Riverhounds games and at whatever festival is happening in the city.

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