Testing the Waters

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June 28, 2025


June 28, 2025

It’s finally here… almost.

After months of planning, building, painting, programming, and a few wild weather days, Riverlife’s Shore Thing is (nearly) ready for her close-up. This weekend, we’re testing our systems, training staff, and shaking out the last-minute snags before our official grand opening next week.

That means things might feel a little rough around the edges. The sound check might still be underway. The mural might still be getting its final brushstrokes. Our friend at BG Brewing are getting used to the new kitchen. We’ve got a team hanging Capiz Shells. And that’s exactly the point.

This weekend is for trying things out, making tweaks, and learning what we need to know to give Pittsburgh the best experience possible. You’ll be helping us find the gaps (and hopefully not stepping in them—please do watch your step!) as we prepare to welcome the whole city aboard.

So what’s happening over the next few days?

  • Saturday, June 28: DJ Inception takes the stage for happy hour from 4–7pm. He actually started a little early before he got rained out on Saturday night, but the vibes were tremendous all the way up the hill at Allegheny Landing.
  • Sunday, June 29: Join us for an all-levels free yoga flow at 10am. Bring your mat, and bring some water.
  • 12-10pm Saturday and Sunday, and 3-10pm Monday: BG Brewing is open with bites and beverages from Pittsburgh to the Pacific; public art by Janel Young and Fran Flaherty is underway; and our team is hard at work behind the scenes.

Then, on Tuesday, July 1 at 11:30am, join us for the official ribbon cutting and grand opening of Shore Thing. We’ll have remarks, a celebration, and the incredible Reggie Watkins Trio kicking off our first golden hour performance at 4:30pm. We’re keeping an eye to the weather, just in case things don’t work out as planned, but we can’t wait to welcome you to the riverl

Until then, we thank you—wholeheartedly—for your support, your curiosity, and your patience. Shore Thing is a bold new way to experience the river, and we’re so proud to share it with you.

Let’s make waves, Pittsburgh.

—The Riverlife Team

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