University, Pittsburgh

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This is one of the most prestigious universities in Pennsylvania. Founded in 1787 near the Three Rivers, it has grown to about 34,000 students and 12,000 employees.

Of particular interest is the Cathedral of Learning. At 42 stories (535 feet), it dominates the area. Nearby is the Stephen Foster Memorial Museum. Hailing from Pittsburgh, he was among the most celebrated songwriters of the 19th century. He wrote "My Old Kentucky Home" while visiting a friend in Bardstown, Kentucky. It's now Kentucky's state song.

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Now located on 132 acres in Oakland, Pitt was originally founded in a log cabin in what is now downtown Pittsburgh in 1787. In 1909 Pitt chose the Panther as their mascot as they are local to the area, and they were the first university with this mascot. 34,000 students attend Pitt.

One of the key landmarks on the Pitt campus is the Cathedral of Learning which stands some 35 stories above Oakland. The Pirates former stadium, called Forbes Field, is also on the Pitt campus, with the location of home plate inside Pozvar Hall.

Famous grads include Gene Kelly, Mike Ditka, Tony Dorsett, and Dan Marino. The polio vaccine was also developed by Jonas Salk and other Pitt researchers here on campus in 1955.

This area, located east of downtown, has a really wonderful and youthful atmosphere. Several famous universities are located here.