Just east of Pittsburgh, tucked into the rolling hills of Allegheny County, lies Penn Hills, Pennsylvania—a township with a home rule charter, a population of 41,059 as of 2020, and a story as rich as the Allegheny River that borders its northern edge. As the second-largest municipality in Allegheny County, Penn Hills is a suburban gem that blends urban accessibility with small-town charm. From its historic roots to its vibrant community life, sprawling parks, and evolving cultural scene, Penn Hills offers a tapestry of experiences for residents and visitors alike.
A Historical Tapestry: From Pitt Township to Penn Hills
Early Beginnings and Name Changes
Penn Hills’ story begins in 1788, when Allegheny County was carved out of the Pennsylvania wilderness, and the area was part of Pitt Township. By 1850, the northern reaches of Wilkins Township were ready to form a new entity. Robert Logan, Thomas Davison, and Daniel Bieber were appointed to draw its boundaries, naming it Adams Township. But the name didn’t stick—within months, it was renamed McNair Township, and by February 10, 1851, it became Penn Township. In 1958, it evolved into Penn Hills Township, and in 1976, it adopted home rule status, giving it greater local control. This series of transformations reflects Penn Hills’ adaptability, a trait that defines it to this day.
Growth and Diversity
The 1860 census recorded 1,821 residents in Penn Township, a number that grew to 2,685 by 1870 and 3,291 by 1880. Over the decades, Penn Hills blossomed into a diverse community, with neighborhoods like Blackridge, Churchill Valley, Crescent Hills, and Laketon Heights forming a mosaic of cultures and histories. The township’s proximity to Pittsburgh made it a natural suburb for workers, families, and dreamers seeking space without sacrificing city access. Today, Penn Hills’ diversity is one of its greatest strengths, with residents from varied backgrounds contributing to a vibrant community spirit.
A Hub of Resilience
Penn Hills has faced its share of challenges, from economic shifts to recent incidents like the 2024 theft of dirt bikes or scams targeting EBT cards. Yet, the township’s resilience shines through. The Penn Hills Police Department actively educates residents on crime prevention, offering programs like the Citizens Police Academy led by Detective William Trogler. Community initiatives, such as the Penn Hills Volunteer Fire Department’s Junior Firefighter Program for 16- and 17-year-olds, foster engagement and pride. These efforts underscore Penn Hills’ commitment to safety and unity, making it a place where neighbors look out for one another.
Nature’s Embrace: Parks and Outdoor Adventures
Penn Hills Community Park: The Heart of Recreation
At the center of Penn Hills’ outdoor offerings is Penn Hills Community Park, a sprawling green space that’s more than just a park—it’s a community hub. With sports fields, walking trails, and picnic pavilions, it’s a place where families gather, kids play, and memories are made. The park sits along Plum Creek, which winds through the township before joining the Allegheny River. On a sunny afternoon, you might see Little League games, joggers on the trails, or a community event bringing neighbors together. Though pavilions were closed through May 2020 due to health guidelines, the park remains a vital space for connection.
Milltown Community Park and Beyond
Milltown Community Park, also along Plum Creek, offers another slice of Penn Hills’ natural beauty. Its open fields and serene setting make it ideal for a quiet walk or a game of catch. Nearby, North Bessemer Field provides additional recreational space, reflecting Penn Hills’ commitment to accessible parks. The township’s waterways—Plum Creek, Sandy Creek, Shades Run, and Duffs Run—add to its scenic appeal, creating natural borders and inviting exploration. Whether you’re fishing, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the views, Penn Hills’ parks are a gateway to the outdoors.
The Allegheny River: A Northern Jewel
Penn Hills’ northern boundary is defined by the mighty Allegheny River, a lifeline for recreation and reflection. Neighborhoods like North Bessemer and Universal enjoy direct access to the river, where kayakers paddle, anglers cast lines, and families picnic along the banks. Across the river lie O’Hara Township and Blawnox, but Penn Hills’ riverfront feels like a world of its own. For a unique experience, rent a kayak in nearby Verona and glide past the township’s wooded shores, where the Allegheny’s calm waters mirror the sky.
Community and Culture: The Soul of Penn Hills
Penn Hills School District: Shaping the Future
Education is a cornerstone of Penn Hills, and the Penn Hills School District serves over 3,000 students across three schools: Penn Hills Elementary (K-5), Linton Middle (6-8), and Penn Hills High (9-12). With an average of 20 years’ experience among its teachers, the district is dedicated to fostering equity and inclusion. Events like the April 25, 2025, Student Art Show at Penn Hills High School highlight student creativity, showcasing everything from paintings to sculptures. Stories like that of Jahzara Michelle, a sophomore who performed an original song at a talent show, reflect the district’s role in nurturing young talent. The Dollar Bank Foundation’s $10,000 scholarship contest further supports students’ dreams, offering $2,500 per year for four years.
Penn Hills Library: A Hub of Knowledge
The Penn Hills Library, located at 1037 Stotler Road, is more than a place for books—it’s a community lifeline. With a vast magazine collection, from National Geographic to Food & Wine, and newspapers like the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and New York Times, the library caters to diverse interests. Programs for all ages, from children’s storytimes to adult workshops, make it a gathering spot. In February 2025, the library is slated for a potential refresh, signaling its ongoing evolution as a modern resource. Whether you’re researching local history or diving into a novel, the library’s welcoming atmosphere invites you to stay awhile.
Festivals and Events: Celebrating Together
Penn Hills knows how to bring people together. The annual Memorial Day Parade, though canceled in 2020 due to health concerns, is a cherished tradition that fills the streets with music, floats, and pride. Community events like Valentine’s Bingo, benefiting local firefighters, showcase the township’s tight-knit spirit. The Penn Hills Municipal Building’s Council Chambers host regular meetings, such as the September 16, 2024, council meeting or the October 23, 2024, Zoning Hearing Board session, where residents shape the township’s future. These gatherings, advertised on pennhillspa.gov, reflect Penn Hills’ commitment to transparency and engagement.
Food and Drink: Savoring Penn Hills
Rodi Road: A Culinary Corridor
Rodi Road, or Pennsylvania Route 791, is Penn Hills’ culinary and commercial artery. Stretching from Frankstown Road to Interstate 376, it’s lined with restaurants, fast-food joints, and diners that cater to every taste. Grab a burger at a classic spot like Eat’n Park, where locals swap stories over coffee, or try a family-owned pizzeria for a slice of Pittsburgh-style pie. Truckers and travelers exiting I-376 fuel up at gas stations and dine at eateries, giving Rodi Road a lively, welcoming vibe. For a special night out, venture to nearby Monroeville for upscale dining, but Rodi’s casual charm is hard to beat.
Local Brews and Bites
While Penn Hills itself doesn’t boast craft breweries, its proximity to Pittsburgh’s thriving beer scene means you’re never far from a pint. Head to Oakmont’s Local Remedy Brewing, opened in January 2025, for a taste of small-batch brews crafted with passion. Back in Penn Hills, convenience stores and markets stock local favorites like Iron City Beer, a Pittsburgh staple. For a sweet treat, visit a bakery along Frankstown Road, where homemade cookies and pastries pair perfectly with a morning coffee. Penn Hills’ food scene may be understated, but it’s rooted in community and comfort.
Farmers’ Markets and Fresh Finds
Penn Hills residents love their fresh produce, and nearby farmers’ markets in Wilkinsburg or Plum Borough offer seasonal bounty. From summer tomatoes to fall apples, these markets connect Penn Hills to Allegheny County’s agricultural roots. At home, community gardens in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park foster local food production, with residents sharing tips on growing herbs or canning preserves. It’s a small but meaningful way Penn Hills stays connected to the land.
Exploring the Neighborhoods: Penn Hills’ Diverse Communities
A Patchwork of Places
Penn Hills is a township of neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Blackridge, with its tree-lined streets, feels like a quiet retreat, while Crescent Hills buzzes with family-friendly energy. Churchill Valley, home to the former Churchill Valley Country Club, offers a nod to the township’s past, while Eastmont and Valemont Heights provide modern suburban comfort. Along the Allegheny River, North Bessemer and Universal are gateways to waterfront recreation. Whether you’re strolling through Rosedale or exploring Sandy Creek, Penn Hills’ neighborhoods invite you to discover their unique stories.
Connectivity and Access
Penn Hills’ location makes it a commuter’s dream. Interstate 376 (Penn Lincoln Parkway) runs through its southern tip, with Exit 81 leading straight to the township. Rodi Road and Verona Road (part of the Green Belt) connect Penn Hills to Pittsburgh and beyond. Port Authority buses, including several “flyer” routes, whisk residents to Downtown Pittsburgh, while Allegheny County Airport in West Mifflin serves small aircraft. For major flights, Pittsburgh International Airport is a short drive west. This connectivity makes Penn Hills an ideal base for exploring the region.
A Community in Motion
Penn Hills is always evolving. The 2025-2029 Capital Improvements Program, discussed at the September 16, 2024, council meeting, outlines plans for infrastructure and growth. Projects like the potential Penn Hills Library refresh and the reopening of Milltown Road in February 2025 after repairs show a township on the move. Residents are encouraged to attend meetings at the Municipal Building (102 Duff Road) to voice their ideas, ensuring Penn Hills remains a place where community input shapes the future.
Penn Hills’ Quirky Side: Fun Facts and Local Lore
Penn Hills has its share of quirks. Did you know the township’s Green Belt includes Robinson Boulevard, Verona Road, and Sandy Creek Road, forming a scenic loop through the community? Or that Shades Run in Lincoln Park marks the border with Pittsburgh, creating a natural divide? The Penn Hills Post Office at 11650 Penn Hills Drive is a passport hub, helping residents embark on global adventures. And for sports fans, the Penn Hills boys basketball team clinched a spot in the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs in February 2025, proving the township’s athletic prowess. These tidbits add flavor to Penn Hills’ character, making it a place of surprises.
Challenges and Triumphs: Penn Hills Today
Like any community, Penn Hills faces challenges. Recent news highlights issues like a stabbing on Hamil Road in 2024 or scams targeting vulnerable residents. Yet, the township’s response—through police outreach, community programs, and vigilant reporting—shows its strength. The Penn Hills Zoning Hearing Board and Planning Commission work tirelessly to balance growth with preservation, as seen in their April and September 2025 meetings. Meanwhile, stories of triumph, like Sydney Smith’s pursuit of a WPIAL swimming championship or the library’s enduring role, remind us of Penn Hills’ heart.
Why Penn Hills Matters
Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, is more than a suburb—it’s a community where history meets hope, where parks and people create lasting bonds, and where diversity fuels creativity. From its origins as Pitt Township to its modern role as a Pittsburgh anchor, Penn Hills has grown without losing its soul. Its schools inspire, its parks rejuvenate, and its residents persevere. Whether you’re hiking along Plum Creek, cheering at a high school game, or savoring a meal on Rodi Road, Penn Hills invites you to be part of its story.
So, come explore Penn Hills. Wander its neighborhoods, join its festivals, and listen to its stories. This township isn’t just a place on a map—it’s a home, a haven, and a heartbeat. Discover Penn Hills, and you might just find a piece of yourself here.
