Monongahela Incline (Upper Station), Pittsburgh (must see)

Constructed in 1870, the Monongahela Incline stands as the oldest continuously operating funicular in the United States. Alongside its counterpart, the Duquesne Incline, it represents one of only two surviving inclines from the original 17 passenger-carrying inclines established in Pittsburgh during the late 19th century.

The rapid expansion of Pittsburgh's industrial sector in 1860 spurred a significant influx of labor, primarily from German immigrants. This surge in population led to a pressing housing shortage, as industry claimed much of the flat terrain near the river, leaving only the steep hillsides of Mount Washington, also known as "Coal Hill," available for residential development. However, accessibility between the hill and other areas was limited by inadequate roads and public transportation.

Drawing on memories of cable cars from their native land, the predominantly German immigrant community residing on Mount Washington proposed the construction of inclines along the face of Coal Hill. This initiative materialized into the Monongahela Incline, which commenced operations on May 28, 1870.

Today, the Port Authority of Allegheny County oversees the operation of the Monongahela Incline, along with Pittsburgh's transit system, primarily for tourism purposes. Serving as a popular attraction, the incline transports visitors to the summit of Mount Washington, offering breathtaking vistas of downtown Pittsburgh and its surroundings.