The Glass Castle in the Steel City

When you think of Pittsburgh, the mind often jumps to steel mills, sports teams, and rivers. But nestled in the heart of Downtown is a shimmering glass fortress that stands as a monument to the city’s rebirth and architectural ambition - PPG Place. With its gothic-inspired spires, mirrored glass façade, and one-of-a-kind public plaza, PPG Place is more than just a skyscraper complex—it's a symbol of transformation, creativity, and community spirit.

Completed in 1984 and designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson in collaboration with John Burgee, PPG Place was a daring departure from the conventional architecture of its time. Inspired by London’s Palace of Westminster, Johnson reimagined gothic architecture through a modern lens—replacing stone and iron with over one million square feet of reflective glass manufactured by the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company (PPG), the very company for which the building is named.

The complex includes six buildings, with One PPG Place as its crown jewel, soaring 40 stories into the skyline. Its glass spires reflect the city around it—skyscrapers, sunsets, and the ever-changing clouds—making it feel alive, almost sentient. It's both timeless and futuristic, a rare architectural feat that continues to draw admiration from architects, photographers, and visitors alike.

While the towers of PPG Place are iconic, it’s the Plaza at PPG Place that brings the site to life. In warmer months, the plaza transforms into a vibrant gathering space with a bubbling fountain where kids cool off and people gather for lunch. Come winter, it becomes Pittsburgh’s own mini Rockefeller Center, complete with an ice skating rink and a dazzling Christmas tree—one of the city's most beloved holiday traditions.

But the plaza isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a playground for imagination.

In true Pittsburgh fashion, the Plaza doesn’t take itself too seriously. Among the gleaming spires and polished pavement lies the quirky-named Tomb of the Unknown Bowler.

And then there’s the PPG Plaza Dino Parade, an exhibit of dinosaur statues, each representing a unique theme.

Mr. Dig, representing the skeletal remains of a T-Rex from an archaeological dig.

Ketchupsaurus, a Heinz-inspired mash-up of a Torosaurus and a bottle of Pittsburgh’s favorite ketchup.

Philliposauraus, a regal creature named after Phillip Johnson, one of the architects of PPG Place. This Stegosaurus displays a mirrored finish that echoes the spires of PPG Place itself.

These dinos bring a touch of whimsy to the architectural grandeur, making PPG Place a delight for families, art lovers, and Instagrammers alike.

However, PPG Place isn’t just a visual marvel—it’s a cultural anchor. The plaza regularly plays host to some of Downtown Pittsburgh’s seasonal events, from winter ice skating to yoga sessions to art festivals and holiday markets. It's been featured in our very own DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh tours, where guests marvel at the engineering behind the glass and get a taste of the stories hiding beneath the surface.

Whether it's a bustling market under twinkling lights or a summer water display around the Tomb of the Unknown Bowler, PPG Place has cemented itself as a dynamic gathering spot—where history, architecture, and community intersect.

No trip to Downtown Pittsburgh is complete without a visit to PPG Place. Whether you're an architecture aficionado, a local looking for a great lunch spot, or a visitor hunting for that perfect photo op, this glass-clad castle delivers every time.

So the next time you find yourself Downtown, look up—and don’t forget to say hi to Ketchupsaurus and friends on your way through!