New Resident Guide

Be My Neighbor!

Welcome to the enchanting world of the Mexican War Streets, Pittsburgh's hidden historical gem. As the Board of the Mexican War Streets Society, we are thrilled to introduce you to our vibrant and captivating neighborhood. While Pittsburgh boasts nearly a hundred neighborhoods, none quite match the streetscape coherence and architectural splendor of the Mexican War Streets. Here, you'll find not just beautiful houses but a community that's known for its inclusivity and warmth.

In the Mexican War Streets, you'll discover an energy that radiates from the diverse group of people who call our historic homes their own. Each street carries its unique charm, yet we all share a deep respect for our past and an optimistic outlook for the future. Together, we create bonds of friendship and a shared community culture that's truly special.

If you have questions reach out to the Board of the Mexican War Streets Society at info@mexicanwarstreets.org.

Connecting with Neighbors and Community

One of the remarkable aspects of living in the Mexican War Streets is the countless opportunities to connect with your neighbors. Whether you're strolling around Lake Elizabeth, enjoying a snack or a pint at one of our charming gathering places, sipping coffee in a peaceful garden, attending a free jazz concert at the City of Asylum, or simply lounging on your stoop, you'll find plenty of ways to engage with your fellow residents.

At the heart of our community spirit are gatherings like the Mexican War Streets House & Garden Tour and The Mexican War Streets Yard Sale, offering chances to bond and explore the treasures within our neighborhood.

Basics You Should Know

  1. Parking: Be aware that many of our streets require a parking permit, which can be purchased for $20 per year per vehicle. View the permit parking areas.

  2. Trash and Recycling: Regular trash and recycling pickups occur on Fridays.

  3. Mailboxes: For outgoing mail, you can find mailboxes located at North Avenue at Monterey and at Monterey and North Taylor.

  4. Post Offices: Conveniently, post offices are within walking distance at 435 East Ohio Street and 395 Federal Street.

  5. Groceries: For groceries, there's a large Giant Eagle Store nearby at 132 Ben Avon Heights Road. For quick essentials, Mayfly Market is right here in the War Streets at 1327 Arch Street.

  6. Street Sweeping: Street sweeping takes place on the second Monday and Tuesday of each month, from April 1 to November 30, between 8:30 am and 2:00 pm. Please be mindful of where you park your car on these days, following street signs for further instructions.

  7. Drug Store: There's a Rite-Aid at 802 Pennsylvania Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15233.

  8. Gas Stations: You can find a Valero Gas Station at 820 Pennsylvania Avenue and a Sunoco at 310 Cedar Avenue, near the Giant Eagle.

  9. Local Police Station: Our local (Zone 1) Police Station is just around the corner on Brighton Road. For non-emergency issues, dial 311 or use the 311 online portal.

Getting Around

Public transportation options abound in our neighborhood. Bus service is available along Brighton, Federal Street, and North Avenue, with fares varying based on where you board. Remember that in the Downtown area, you pay as you get off, while transportation within Downtown and between Downtown and the North Side is free on the underground subway, or "T."

For those interested in biking, POGOH offers bike-sharing services with locations around the neighborhood.

Connecting With the Community

Connecting with your neighbors and staying updated is easy in our friendly community. Consider joining some of the private Facebook groups dedicated to our neighborhood:

The Mexican War Streets Society also maintains an active presence on Twitter and Instagram, ensuring you're always in the loop.

Our sister organization, the Allegheny Central Community Association seeks to enhance quality of life for all residents, building a bright future while maintaining a connection to the historic foundation of our community. They have a successful track record of developing housing, guiding public space and public safety improvements, initiating youth programs and leading historic preservation efforts.

Join the Mexican War Streets Society.

Wellness

Staying active and healthy is a breeze in our community. The YMCA on West North Avenue is easily accessible and offers a fully equipped fitness facility with a swimming pool. There's even a CrossFit center on-site, and if you present your "Be My Neighbor" card, you can enjoy a special membership deal.

Historic Architecture

Our neighborhood boasts beautiful Victorian architecture, and it has been designated as a historic district. This means that any projects involving exterior alterations to buildings within the district must be reviewed and approved by the City’s Historic Review Commission before starting. If you have questions or need guidance, you can reach out to our Chair of Historic Preservation, Gary Lilly.

War Streets Events

Throughout the year, the Mexican War Streets hosts a variety of exciting events, such as out Mexican War Streets Society Community Meetings held bi-monthly. For details on the specific events visit the Events page. Below is an outline of events by season:

Winter:

  • Annual Mexican War Streets members’ holiday party

  • Holiday Decorating Contest

  • Luminaria on Palo Alto Street, Christmas Eve

Spring:

  • Mexican War Streets yard sale

  • Mechanics Retreat garden maintenance

  • City of Asylum Alphabet Reading Garden

Summer:

  • Olde Allegheny Community Gardens

  • Mexican War Streets House tour

  • Stoop Night on Thursdays

  • First Freitag in nearby Deutschtown

Fall:

  • Halloween community-wide party

Don’t Forget…

For year-round events and activities, you can also explore Allegheny Commons Park, Pittsburgh’s oldest park. From the Water Lantern Festival to the Northside Farmers Market, there's always something happening in this green oasis.

Eating and Drinking Discounts

As a foodie destination, Pittsburgh offers an array of culinary delights, and our community is no exception. Several local establishments are part of our "Be My Neighbor" initiative, where you can enjoy special discounts with your card.

  • Monterey Pub: A bit of Ireland in the heart of the War Streets at 1227 Monterey Street.

  • ShadoBeni: A cafe at 1534 Brighton Road serving delicious vegan Trini cuisine.

  • Commonplace Coffee: Found at the corner of Buena Vista and Jacksonia Streets, this cafe is a haven for coffee lovers.

  • Mayfly Market: A convenient grocery store at 1327 Arch Street.

  • 412 Brewery: A local brewery at 847 Western Avenue with a taproom for enjoying drafts and pub fare.

  • Adda Coffee & Tea: Located at 926 Western Avenue, it offers thoughtfully sourced coffee, tea, and baked goods.

  • Four Points Brewing: Situated at 919 Western Avenue, it offers an array of flavors and bites to enjoy with friends and neighbors.

  • Happy Day Dessert Factory: Located at 906a Western Avenue, it serves premium homemade ice cream and more.

  • Livefresh Juicery: At 845 Western Avenue, enjoy fresh, natural juices, smoothies, and vegan-friendly options.

  • Refucilio Vineyards of Argentina: Offering fine wines at 907 Western Avenue.

Are you a local establishment that would like to be on this list? Contact Barbara Ivanko.

Nearby Arts, Entertainment, and Sports

  • The Mattress Factory: Founded in 1977, this museum supports artists in residence to create site-specific installations, presenting new works by over 750 artists. It fosters unconventional and thought-provoking art, embracing technology and audience interaction.

  • City of Asylum: Located at 40 West North Avenue, it houses a bookstore, restaurant, and 40 North. City of Asylum hosts literary readings and musical performances free of charge, promoting artistic freedom.

  • here gallery: Founded in August 2020 at 527 North Taylor Avenue, it's a contemporary art gallery with a roving curatorial program, now based in the historic Mexican War Streets.

  • Randyland: The colorful gem at 1501 Arch Street started in 1995, transforming rundown buildings into an incredible art center. It's a local treasure that's gained national and international attention.

  • National Aviary: Located in Allegheny Commons Park, it's America's only independent indoor nonprofit zoo dedicated to birds, housing over 500 birds from around the world.

  • The Children’s Museum: Found at 10 Children’s Way, it's an interactive adventure in a historic space, offering educational fun for all ages.

  • The Warhol Museum: Situated at 117 Sandusky Street, it occupies a 7-story building in the Pop District, exploring Andy Warhol’s story and his artistic legacy.

  • The Moonshot Museum: At 1016 North Lincoln Avenue, it showcases real lunar spacecraft, offering simulated lunar missions and a glimpse into the future of space exploration.

  • Carnegie Science Center: Located at 1 Allegheny Avenue, it's Pittsburgh’s most visited museum, featuring interactive exhibits, a submarine, the Buhl Planetarium, and a theater.

  • New Hazlett Theater: This nonprofit theater in the historic Carnegie Hall at 6 Allegheny Square East presents a variety of performance art disciplines and supports emerging talent.

  • Stage AE: A multi-purpose entertainment complex at 400 North Shore Drive, featuring an indoor concert hall and an outdoor amphitheater.

  • Bicycle Heaven: At 1800 Preble Avenue, it's the world's largest transportation museum dedicated to bicycles, with a personal collection by founder Craig Morrow.

  • PNC Park: Home of the Pirates, it's within walking distance of your new home.

  • Acrisure Stadium (Heinz Field): This stadium hosts the Steelers and the Pitt Panthers and is also a major concert venue.

  • PPG Paints Arena: Just a short subway ride away, it's home to the Penguins and a popular concert destination.