Market Square History

Milestones in the Life of Pittsburgh's Living Landmark

Market Square - 1796

Market Square - 1928

1784: Market Square, or the "Diamond," is part of the original plan of lots and streets laid out by George Woods and Thomas Vickroy, surveyors from Philadelphia.
Mid-1790s: The first Allegheny County Courthouse is constructed in Market Square
Mid-1910s: The Diamond Market is constructed, and for the first time, Diamond Street passes through the Square and intersects with Market Street. The Diamond Market occupies all four quadrants and has a roller skating rink on the top floor.
1961: The Diamond Market is demolished.
1972: Market Square is designated by the City as its first historic district.
1984: PPG Place is built. The five smaller buildings surrounding the 40-story structure are scaled back to keep with the Square's historic area

Source: Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, www.phlf.org.

Market Square summer concerts

Outdoor Dining

Brighter, livelier, more vibrant than ever—the renovated Market Square is highlighted by:

19 indoor and outdoor dining options, many open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and happy hour
Great destination for business meetings
Beautiful flowers and trees
Tables to relax outside with a cup of coffee, free WiFi or a good book
Historic architecture
Special events including live music, children's programming, farmers market, and more
Primary location for large-scale Downtown events including Light Up Night® and St. Patrick's Day
Whether you're meeting friends for dinner and drinks, doing some shopping, soaking up the sun in the open air…Downtown’s ultimate destination is Market Square.