Kidsburgh Neighborhood Guide: Explore Oakmont

Photo above courtesy of Oakmont’s Kerr Museum.

Just a short drive from the city of Pittsburgh, Oakmont is packed with kid-friendly parks, sweet treats and a welcoming small-town feel. Whether you’re exploring nature trails, diving into books at the library or grabbing a cone after the splash pad, there’s something here for every family.

Here’s how to make the most of a day with kids in tow: 

Splash, Climb and Play at Riverside Park

No family visit to Oakmont is complete without a stop at Riverside Park, the town’s vibrant green space that hugs the riverbank. The gated playground is a highlight, featuring modern climbing structures, slides and inclusive equipment designed for children of all abilities. In the warmer months, the splash pad is a magnet for giggles and shrieks, with water jets and fountains offering a welcome reprieve from the summer heat.

Parents can unwind at shaded picnic tables while kids roam around, and the park’s paved walking loop is perfect for strollers or family walks. Tennis courts provide opportunities for older children to join in, while the riverside setting adds a touch of tranquility to this bustling community hub.

Cool Off with a Cone at Brr-Kee’s Ice Cream

Open seasonally, this little walk-up window is a summer essential. Kids love the bright colors and hand-dipped cones; parents appreciate the easy grab-and-go setup. It’s located just a few blocks from the splash pad. Coincidence? We think not.

Burn Off Energy at Creekside Park

Creekside Park is a wide-open, kid-friendly destination that’s great for burning energy. It features soccer and baseball fields, a flat gravel loop trail for biking or walking, and the region’s first VeloSolutions asphalt pump track, perfect for scooters, bikes, and skateboards. Installed in 2021, the track is open from sunrise to sunset, and helmets are a must. Whether your kids want to ride laps or just run free, this is a top pick for active play.

Wander the Woods at Dark Hollow

Dark Hollow Woods offers a serene counterpoint to the riverside energy. It is a peaceful, almost 50-acre nature preserve tucked within Oakmont. 

A gentle 1.2-mile loop trail winds beneath a canopy of oak and maple, where children can hunt for wildflowers in spring or crunch through a carpet of leaves come autumn. The terrain is manageable for sturdy strollers, though the real magic happens when little explorers wander off the main path to search for salamanders or admire a curious cluster of mushrooms.

Dive into Books and Discovery at Oakmont Carnegie Library

Steps from the main thoroughfare, the Oakmont Carnegie Library is a testament to the town’s commitment to community and education. Built in 1901 and steeped in history, the library’s children’s wing hosts weekly storytimes that draw toddlers and preschoolers for lively readings accompanied by puppetry and crafts.

Beyond the story circle, the children’s area at the Oakmont Carnegie Library is thoughtfully designed with little rocking chairs, colorful rugs and inviting reading nooks. Summer reading challenges keep young bookworms engaged, and periodic STEM workshops provide opportunities for hands-on learning. Don’t miss the downstairs Makerspace, where kids can explore 3D printers, sewing machines, VR goggles, Snap Circuits, and more. (Note that kids under 13 need parental supervision at all times.)

It’s the perfect place to while away an hour after lunch or to take a break from the afternoon sun.

Don’t Miss the Meet and Bleat with the Oakmont Goats (Tuesday, July 15, 2:00–3:00pm.) In its third year of programming, the event offers goat-themed storytime featuring live goats, stories, and a free goodie bag for the first 100 kids. Hosted rain or shine by the library in partnership with Capricious Goats, LLC.

Catch a Glimpse of Golf History

While Oakmont’s famed Oakmont Country Club is a private golf course (host to the recently concluded U.S. Open tournament), families can still drive by this landmark or visit during community events. Golf-loving tweens might be excited just to see the grounds.

Enjoy a Movie at The Oaks Theater

This restored 1938 Art Deco theater brings vintage flair to family outings. Programming changes regularly and includes kid-friendly classics, animated features and occasional live performances or magic shows. With snacks available at the concession stand and a relaxed vibe, it’s an easy and walkable option for families spending the day in Oakmont.

Shop and Stroll on Allegheny River Boulevard

Oakmont’s main shopping street, Allegheny River Boulevard, is a walkable strip with family-friendly stops. Highlights include Mystery Lovers Bookshop, which has a strong children’s section and regular storytime events, and The Good Home, known for seasonal gifts and home décor. 

Nearby, Carabella offers women’s clothing, and Goatfeathers sells shoes and accessories. The boulevard is stroller-friendly with street parking, and it’s just a short walk to both Oakmont Bakery and Riverside Park.

In summer, the street sales and night markets bring together local artisans, live music and a fleet of food trucks.

Autumn includes Oakmont’s Fall Festival and Costume Parade, where pumpkins and hay bales line the sidewalks and children dressed as pirates, superheroes, princesses and more join in the parade down Allegheny River Boulevard.

Come December, the Hometown Christmas Parade ushers in the holiday season with carolers, hot cocoa, and Santa himself arriving by fire truck, waving to families gathered under the glow of festive lights.

Step Back in Time at the Kerr Museum

History buffs (and curious kids!) will appreciate the Dr. Thomas R. Kerr Memorial Museum. The Museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 1897 Queen Anne–style home that once belonged to Dr. Kerr and his family. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into upper-middle-class life at the turn of the 20th century.

Visitors can explore a recreated doctor’s office, admire original family furnishings, and discover antique toys that capture the imagination of younger guests. Kids especially enjoy trying on vintage hats and exploring the rooms where history feels alive. Tours are available by appointment and admission is free, making it a charming and educational outing for families.

Kayak & Paddleboard Fun on the Allegheny

Oakmont provides easy access to the Three Rivers Water Trail, with nearby spots like Allegheny RiverTrail Park offering kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals in season. Outfits such as 3 Rivers Outdoor Co. operate pop-up boat rentals here during summer, with options for single or tandem kayaks and family-friendly launch points just minutes from town.

For larger groups, Pittsburgh Boat Rental offers pontoon boats on the Allegheny River. These boats come equipped with life jackets, coolers, and shaded canopies; ideal for a leisurely cruise under the Hulton Bridge.

Sweet Treats at Oakmont Bakery and More to Eat

A wonderland of cupcakes, cookies, donuts and cakes. The bright, bustling atmosphere at Oakmont Bakery means even the wiggliest kids can enjoy a treat (or two). The “Oakmonter” pastry is a local legend.

For hearty Italian-American fare, locals love Hoffstot’s Café Monaco, while Oakmont Deli is a reliable stop for sandwiches and kid-friendly lunches. The Pub at 333 offers classic comfort food in a relaxed setting. Parents can unwind at Local Remedy Brewing, a small brewery with a welcoming vibe, often featuring food trucks and early-evening live music that’s friendly for kids too.

Plan Ahead for a Smooth Visit

Getting Around: Oakmont is easily walkable, with sidewalks linking parks, shops, and restaurants. Street parking is ample, though festivals can draw crowds, so arrive early for the best spots.

When to Go: Riverside Park’s splash pad operates from late spring through early fall. Oakmont Bakery is busiest on weekend mornings; midweek visits offer a quieter experience.

Accessibility: Riverside Park features paved paths and accessible restrooms near the playground. The library is stroller-friendly, with elevators for navigating between levels.