Monongahela & Duquesne Inclines, Pittsburgh, PA 2024-2025

Pittsburgh, known as the City of Bridges, offers some of the most stunning cityscapes in the USA, thanks to its location at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers. While the city once had over twenty inclines, only two remain operational: the Monongahela Incline and the Duquesne Incline. Both inclines, well-maintained and historically significant, attract millions of visitors each year for a memorable experience of Pittsburgh’s panoramic beauty.

The Monongahela Incline

The Monongahela Incline, built in 1870 by John J. Endres, is one of Pittsburgh’s two remaining operational funiculars. Originally constructed to transport workers to Mount Washington, it remains a vital commuter route and a popular tourist attraction. The incline runs from Smithfield Street in downtown Pittsburgh to Grandview Avenue, offering scenic views of the city. Two cable cars, each with a capacity of 23 passengers, continue to serve daily riders. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of the cars from the South Shore, making for a great photo opportunity.

Hours & Admission

The Monongahela Incline operates from 5:30 am to 12:45 am Monday through Saturday and from 8:45 am to midnight on Sundays and holidays. To avoid crowds, it is best to ride during non-rush hours. The fare is $2.50 one-way and $3.50 round-trip for adults, while children ages 6-11 and persons with disabilities pay $1.25 one-way and $2.50 round-trip. Children under five ride free with an adult, and seniors (65+) travel for free with proper ID. Payments can be made with cash or credit card, ensuring convenience for all passengers.

Duquesne Incline

You can walk along Grandview Avenue from the Monongahela Incline to the Duquesne Incline, which is less than a mile away, but be prepared for a steep hill along the way. The Duquesne Incline, near Station Square, has been in operation since 1877 and remains one of the few historic funiculars in the U.S. It offers stunning views of Pittsburgh’s skyline. Visitors can explore its upper station, which features a museum on Pittsburgh’s history, a viewing area for the incline’s machinery, and a gift shop with unique souvenirs, maps, and historical photos.

Open Hours & Admission

The Duquesne Incline operates daily from 6:30 am to 12:30 am with no reservations or advance tickets required. Standard fares are $2.50 each way or $5.00 round trip for adults (ages 12-64) and $1.25 each way or $2.50 round trip for children (ages 6-11), while children five and under ride for free. University students from Pitt, Carnegie Mellon, and Chatham can ride for free with valid ID. Group rates are available for ten or more people at discounted fares. The incline is busiest on weekends after noon, so visiting earlier in the day is recommended to avoid crowds.