PITTSBURGH — An attraction years in the making, Shore Thing is the North Shore’s newest place for fun.
But what exactly is Shore Thing? Technically, it’s a floating barge, but the creators envision it as a space for eating, drinking, and outdoor activities.
Wednesday was the first official day open to the public, and judging by the crowd, it’s clear that this attraction is going to be popular.
“I didn’t know they would have a restaurant or nightclub on the water, but I’m all for it—it’s pretty cool,” said Austin Daniel as he biked past for the first time on Wednesday afternoon.
So, is it a nightclub, a restaurant, or a floating fitness studio? According to Riverlife CEO Matthew Galluzzo, it’s all of the above. Shore Thing is a floating barge platform that is two to three times the size of the average house.
“When we completed our master plan for the riverfront, creating a continuous water experience was a crucial part of that vision,” Galluzzo explained.
This innovative venture is the brainchild of Riverlife, a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating Pittsburgh’s riverfronts. The floating destination is located in the heart of the Sister Bridges—Roberto Clemente, Andy Warhol, and Rachel Carson bridges—on the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh’s North Shore.
The space is open to all ages; however, children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by adults. Shore Thing can be relocated, stored during the winter, and is set to return annually in the spring. Galluzzo said that the maximum occupancy is 200 people.
“This is really meant for Pittsburgh; it’s an extension of the park, so it’s open to all ages and abilities—there are no limits,” Galluzzo said.
In addition to the 10 modular barges that comprise the area, it features fenced nets that allow guests to sit or lie down over the water. Visitors can also check out the Pittsburgh Chandelier, a suspended installation made of Capiz shells designed by artist Fran Flaherty and her students from Carlow University, as well as a vibrant mural titled “A New Wave,” created by Pittsburgh-based artist Janel Young.
Designed to invite people to enjoy the city’s waterways and celebrate Pittsburgh culture, Shore Thing features a unique menu.
“We’ve created a menu that reflects both Pittsburgh and the Pacific, featuring burgers, pierogies, and Hulusi,” said Alaina Webber, co-owner of Brew Gentlemen.
Alaina and her partner, Matt Katase, will serve food, beer, cocktails, coffee, and even juice boxes for kids on the barge.
“We want Pittsburgh to be a cool place with interesting things to do,” she said.
Funding for Shore Thing came through the Allegheny Regional Asset District and the Pennsylvania Waterfront Development Tax Credit Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
Shore Thing will be open until mid-October, operating from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and from noon to 10 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The platform will be closed on Mondays, except for select dates as determined by Riverlife.
For more information about Shore Thing, click here.
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