Duquesne Incline — Attraction in Pittsburgh

I lived in Pittsburgh for 23 years. I can remember our Family traveling to Pittsburgh over the Holidays to see decorated department store windows and all the festive lights. In the celebration of Thanksgiving and Christmas we include a ride on the Incline but I do remember there were times when they had to close the service due to inclement weather. It is an extraordinary sight to see the City and the sparkles of light on the three Rivers, coming together as one river at the "Point". Throughout the remainder of the three seasons, it still is a beautiful sight.

The history of Pittsburgh Inclines is interesting. They built the first steam powered Incline in the1800's to carry cargo up and down Mount Washington till late in the 19th century. Mount Washington Residents grew tired of walking up the long, high footpaths to the top and eventually Inclines were built all along Mount Washington. At some point they had 17 Inclines located in different areas along the Mount. If your interested they have a more detailed History of this era. All but two have been closed and no longer exist. The Menoghela and Duquesne Inclines are the two that have lasted. Pittsburgh has given needed overhauls throughout the years to keep the historical landmarks for running. Each time we go back to visit family, I enjoy going to My Big City to see the changes, but so happy we still have the Historical Inclines to enjoy. I included photos, but must say I didn't take them. It has been three years since I've been back and I want to make another trip. I will take photos. !!! If you visit Pitsburgh, they have, as all Cities do , interesting places to see and things to do. There are many family operated eating establishments that are well known with great ethnic foods. Their Riverfront is awsome, and the traffic can be tuff on you. Many of the Motels have shuttles that drop you off in the area you want to visit and when you are ready to return , they will pick you up. The rates for the Inclines are included in the photos. Hope you enjoy as...

Not worth $2.50 for a one way ticket. If you don't have exact change they will give you dollar coins for your change. Sure, it's a nice scenery for only a minute. There is plenty of great scenic views throughout the city. The system is outdated and cash is only accepted. It is not family friendly. If you bring a stroller with you. You're going to be bumbarded with rude staff members telling you, you need to fold the stroller. Even when you're not ready to board the lift. The staff was not friendly towards children and gave us the impression that families weren't welcome. You get consistently stared at and scowled by the staff. It left me questionable as to why we were targeted but I also seen other families targeted as well. Mind you, we were standing along the sides browsing the pictures on the wall and my child was not at all loud. I would understand if my child was loud and not friendly and if so I would remove my child and go outside. We were not by any means a disturbance. We were directed down stairs to the self guided tour that is not children friendly just so we could get out of their hair. The staff goes in their little boxes and speak badly about every person who enters the establishment. I believe it was anal retentive staff members. They like the environment to be a certain way and if they don't get their way they're rude. It was the most herendious experience we've had in Pittsburgh. it is our first time. Additionally, when questions are asked by customers the staff rudely shuts down customers questions and walk away. I would not recommend this for families or being family friendly. Not worth the money or...

I grew up in Pittsburgh and genuinely love the Duquesne Incline’s place in our city’s history, so I was excited to return for a visit after several years. Unfortunately, today’s experience left a lot to be desired.

Good: Stunning views of the skyline & river. Charming, historic cars and tracks that showcase Pittsburgh’s industrial roots

Bad: Terrible customer service at the upper station. We stood in front of the gift shop window for five minutes while two staff chatted obliviously. After pressing the “ring for service” button three times, one employee finally ambled over, sucked on her teeth, and flatly told us “buy tickets at the lower station,” then walked off. Cold, dismissive, and completely unwelcoming.

Long waits downstairs. Once we got down, a large tour group - two hours past their scheduled arrival time - filled every car, forcing regular ticket holders to wait. We waited more than 20 minutes and then finally managed to squeeze into an already full car, but other passengers were still waiting when we left. The lower-station clerk did her best under confusing management, but guests shouldn’t be left stranded on the platform.

Bottom Line: The Duquesne Incline’s historic charm still shines, but the apathetic staff and mismanagement today overshadowed it. I hope they improve their training and scheduling - right now, two stars...