pittsburgh best places to visit

Pittsburgh   Travel Guide

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15 Best Things To Do in Pittsburgh

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

Pittsburgh is full of fun things to do, especially for families. You and the crew can take in a baseball game at PNC Park or root for the Steelers at  Heinz Field . You can also get to know the animals at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium  or explore

• All Things To Do

Duquesne Incline Duquesne Incline

The Duquesne Incline is one of two uphill trolleys — and it has been carting visitors up Mount Washington since the 1870s. After falling on hard times, the Duquesne Incline was lovingly restored in 1963. But why should you visit the trolley in this area instead of the Monongahela one?

This one transports you to an ideal vantage point in Mount Washington, directly above where Pittsburgh's three rivers collide. There's a large viewing platform that extends just over the cliff and on a clear day, the view from the top makes for some excellent photographs. However, some recent visitors say you should wait and hop on the incline at night since it's less crowded and you can see the illuminated city below. Once you get to the top, aside from admiring the view, you can take some time to check out the small museum with some fun facts on Pittsburgh's history and photographs, or grab a souvenir from the gift shop. There are a few restaurants near the upper station as well, though travelers say they're pretty pricey and you're better off heading back downtown to grab a bite to eat.

Strip District Strip District free

What was once a primarily industrial neighborhood is now packed with restaurants, international markets, museums and shops. The Strip District, which runs alongside the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh, measures only half a square mile, but it has plenty of attractions and eateries to fill up your day (and your stomach). 

Chow down on one of Pittsburgh's staple French fry-topped sandwiches at Primanti Brothers, wait in line for a tasty breakfast at Deluca's Diner or savor the famous pancakes from Pamela's P&G Diner. You won't find many national chain restaurants in this area, and visitors say the independently run and family-owned establishments give the neighborhood its authentic Pittsburgh charm.

Senator John Heinz History Center Senator John Heinz History Center

The  Senator John Heinz History Center  isn't your typical museum. Yes, there are artifacts from the city's role in the French & Indian War, but then there's the Western Pennsylvania Sports exhibit, detailing the city's football and baseball legacies, and the exhibit on Heinz Ketchup and other Heinz products. From the Civil War to the industry titans of steel, if it's got to do with Pittsburgh, it's here.

Most recent visitors enjoy the museum's wide variety of displays and said they left feeling pleased that they know a little more about Pittsburgh. Travelers also appreciated the sensible layout and organized approach of the museum, which made it easy to navigate.

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Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

The Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens is a popular backdrop for local weddings and a haven for stressed undergrads, since two universities are just a short walk away. But the conservatory has plenty to offer visitors as well: You can explore the collection of green rooms, each of which is dedicated to a region or specific plant type. Phipps is home to everything from tropical forests and butterfly gardens to bonsai, Joshua tree and orchid plant and flower collections. Just beyond the main entrance, a small shop and a cafe invite travelers to relax.  Phipps is great for families, too. The conservatory offers different hands-on activities as well as play areas for children.  Most visitors say while the admission may seem a little steep, it's well worth the price tag.

You'll find the Phipps Conservatory adjacent to Carnegie Mellon University's campus on Schenley Park. Admission is $17.95 for adults and $11.95 for children between ages 2 and 18. Phipps is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended hours on Fridays. Check out the conservatory's website for more information.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

Nestled in the Shadyside neighborhood, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium can make an entertaining afternoon for young families. Everything from the petting zoo in Kids Kingdom to the stingray tanks in the aquarium is family-friendly. This zoo is home to more than 400 different species of animals, some of which are threatened or endangered. Animals are grouped in different habitats, ranging from the African Savanna (where you'll see elephants, lions and giraffes) and the Asian Forest (say hello to tigers, red pandas and snow leopards) to the PPG Aquarium (with penguins, sharks and colorful fish) and Water's Edge (home to sea otters and polar bears).

Recent visitors said they were impressed by the zoo and the number of animals that were on exhibit, noting that when the weather's nice it's a great attraction to explore. 

PNC Park PNC Park

Located on the southern shore of North Side district, PNC Park is the home base for Major League Baseball's Pittsburgh Pirates. Catch an afternoon game and enjoy the local craft beers, hometown hot dogs and pierogies, plus some awesome game play.

Most visitors praise the stadium for its views (and suggest visiting on a fireworks night for added fun), but many say it's the entire experience that sets this ballpark apart. "It's not just the stunning, first-class ballpark and fabulous view of the skyline that make it great. It's the total package of greatness: the pre-game street scene, entertainment, tons of bars, sidewalk cafes, beer trucks, riverfront, kayaks — and that's just outside!" said one TripAdvisor user.

Three Rivers Heritage Trail Three Rivers Heritage Trail

An asphalt link between some of Pittsburgh's most notable spots, the Three Rivers Heritage Trail lines the banks of the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio waterways. The 24-mile-long path connects the downtown area to the surrounding neighborhoods and makes it easy for people to travel across the city without getting in a car or on a bus. It's also the perfect scenic recreation spot: You'll find people walking, running, biking and roller blading down the trail nearly every day. 

More than half a million people use the trail every year, as it's an active and fun way to see the best of Pittsburgh. A stroll down the North Side portion of the waterfront trail will bring you to the Andy Warhol Museum , PNC Park and Heinz Field . The downtown section traces the perimeter of Point State Park , where you'll find people enjoying the open park and the views of where the three rivers converge. 

Carnegie Science Center Carnegie Science Center

Offering a range of interactive exhibits covering a variety of topics, the Carnegie Science Center is a hit with adults and families with children. The science center, one of four Carnegie Museums in Steel City, is home to a planetarium, an exploration station with electricity and weather exhibits, a sports-focused venue, a robotics experience, a naval submarine and more. Within different areas of the museum, visitors can learn about energy through a kiosk game show, see what it feels like to be weightless on the zero-gravity climbing wall, understand the physics of sports and interact with the robots in roboworld.

Carnegie Science Center also offers entertainment options that are particular visitor favorites, including laser shows where neon lights and music combine (think: light shows set to Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd and Daft Punk hits) and screenings in the four-story Rangos Omnimax Theater (a massive domed IMAX theater).

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Heinz Field Heinz Field

Whether you're a Steelers fan or a devotee of another NFL team, Heinz Field is worth a visit. This modern stadium has one of the most unique views throughout the league thanks to its waterfront location. It also doubles as a concert venue for major acts throughout the year.

Although tickets for games and concerts are pricey, you can take a tour for much less. Tours last about 90 minutes, run from April through October and cost $8 for adults and $7 for seniors and kids ages 5 to 17. Recent visitors say the tour is a good consolation if you can't catch a game, noting the guides are informative and you still get the opportunity to take photos with the river backdrop.

Kennywood Kennywood

From the major splash at the bottom of Pittsburg Plunge water ride to the 230-foot drop on the Phantom's Revenge roller coaster, Kennywood has a thrill in store for everyone. Located on the banks of the Monongahela River, this 150-acre amusement park has roller coasters, water rides, carousels, bumper cars, 3D experiences, a 4D theater, paddle boats and more. Crowd favorites include Thunderbolt, a wooden roller coaster built in 1924, and Turtle, which was built in 1927 and provides picturesque views of the river valley. The park has a Kiddieland which is perfect for adventurous youngsters between 36 inches and 56 inches tall.  

Kennywood also has what many amusement parks do not: a rich history. It started as a trolley park in 1898 that offered entertainment for mill workers and their families. Now, it unites old-time nostalgia with contemporary fun, and it's one of only two amusement parks to be named a National Historic Landmark. The park even features Lost Kennywood – a section of rides which replicate the architecture and design of the park's rides decades ago. 

Randyland Randyland free

Randyland brings sunshine to Pittsburgh even on the dreariest days. Created by native Pittsburgh artist Randy Gilson, Randyland is a vibrant, intricate and eclectic experiential art museum in the city's North Side. It's been bringing smiles to visitors' faces since 1995 when Gilson originally bought the building using funds he had earned as a part-time waiter and proceeded to decorate it with repurposed trash. 

Pittsburgh's Market Square Pittsburgh's Market Square free

Market Square is an open public space surrounded by restaurants and shops, located at the intersection of Forbes Avenue and Market Street. The area has long been a meeting spot for Pittsburgh residents and it's where the city's first courthouse and first jail were built. Nowadays, the pedestrian-only square is the grounds for many community-building events and festivals.

Some of Market Square's typical summer events include farmers markets, fashion truck pop-ups, outdoor yoga classes, outdoor dance classes and KidsPlay – an active, educational program series for children hosted in the square twice a week. Residents and visitors appreciate that there is always something happening in the square, and they say it's one of the few places in the city conducive to outdoor strolling, shopping and people-watching. 

Andy Warhol Museum Andy Warhol Museum

Located a block east of PNC Park in the North Side, the Andy Warhol Museum is the largest single-artist museum in the country. Housed in a refurbished warehouse, it holds seven floors' worth of instillations, reproductions and educational exhibits dedicated to one of the most famous Pittsburghers. Fans will find originals like the Brillo Boxes sculpture and the Elvis Presley painting among other artifacts and exhibits.

And with all that space, visitors can easily get their pop art fix. Most museumgoers appreciated the colorful pieces and loved learning a little more about Warhol's life and creative process. However, some say this museum might only interest die-hard fans and note the admission is a bit pricey.

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Point State Park Point State Park free

Point State Park juts into the water at the spot where the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers meet the Ohio River. The 36-acre park in downtown Pittsburgh is at water level and provides great views of the riverboats, Mount Washington and PNC Park. Near the water, there is a large fountain where visitors can lounge and admire the views, and behind it on the lawn is the outline of the former Fort Duquesne, traced in granite. 

Point State Park holds a lot of city history, as it was also the site of the 18th-century Fort Pitt. For those looking to delve further into the details, the Fort Pitt Museum sits in the back of the park and provides information about Pittsburgh's role during the French and Indian War, and the American Revolution. The indoor-outdoor museum is kid-friendly with engaging and interactive exhibits. 

Mattress Factory Mattress Factory

Immerse yourself in an unconventional art experience at Mattress Factory – a three-building museum on Pittsburgh's North Side featuring exhibits from both established and up-and-coming artists. Mattress Factory was established in 1977 and played a major role in bringing new energy and culture to the city's North Side, specifically to the historic Mexican War Streets neighborhood. The museum came to inhabit many previously abandoned buildings and, because it appeals to tourists, it has helped make the neighborhood a more attractive place to visit in Pittsburgh.

The museum specializes in contemporary installation art, and exhibits are specifically created for the space in which they're showcased. The displays will challenge everything you think you know about contemporary art with vibrant colors, visual illusions and thought-provoking themes. Everyone is encouraged to experience the art using all their senses, so visitors can feel free to walk around, examine and, in some cases, even touch the displays. "Perplexing," "mesmerizing" and "one of a kind" are just a few ways previous visitors described the eclectic exhibits. However, some warn the content is not always child-friendly, with some exhibits leaning toward risqué and macabre. While some exhibits are permanent, others rotate every so often to keep the museum fresh and to showcase a wider variety of artists' work. Some permanent crowd favorites are the Repetitive Vision exhibit and the Infinity Dots Mirror Room. 

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Pittsburgh sits on the northwestern Allegheny Plateau , surrounding the point where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers join to form the Ohio. Once a gritty center of industry, Pittsburgh is no longer the soot-encrusted coal and steel town of the past.

The rivers define the city's layout and character, a picturesque metropolis that seems to rise up directly from the water. The city center is known as the Golden Triangle, named for its position on the point where the rivers meet. Here, you will find the historic Point State Park and the lively Strip District with its numerous markets, boutiques, eateries, and other attractions.

The Golden Triangle is also home to Pittsburgh's downtown, as well as the Cultural District , where you will find a mixture of theaters and performance venues. The rivers are lined with parks and gardens, and river tours provide a lovely way to see the skyline from many angles.

A legacy of the city's industrial wealth, the Carnegie museums are some of the best in the country, including the Museum of Natural History, the Carnegie Science Center, and the Carnegie Museum of Art. Find more great places to visit with our list of things to do in Philadelphia.

See also: Where to Stay in Pittsburgh

1. Phipps Conservatory

2. carnegie museum of natural history, 3. andy warhol museum, 4. pittsburgh zoo & ppg aquarium, 5. carnegie museum of art, 6. carnegie science center, 7. national aviary, 8. children's museum of pittsburgh, 9. point state park, 10. frick art and historical center, 11. senator john heinz history center, 12. duquesne incline, 13. cathedral of learning, 14. strip district, where to stay in pittsburgh for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in pittsburgh, pa, pittsburgh, pa - climate chart.

Real estate baron Henry Phipps donated these botanical gardens to the city in 1893. Set in Schenley Park, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers visitors a variety of things to see and do.

Be sure to see the extensive outdoor gardens that surround the central building, a 13-room Victorian glasshouse with rotating seasonal exhibits, including orchids, bonsai, and other delicate plants. Dedicated to the environment and sustainability, the gardens also include a Tropical Forest Conservatory and the Center for Sustainable Landscapes, which explore topics like water conservation and energy use, as well as an educational film about urban farming. Even kids will enjoy a visit.

The Discovery Garden offers free, hands-on children's activities and in the Garden Railroad, they can explore and interact with the tropical Treasure Island as a visiting pirate.

Address: 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.phipps.conservatory.org

One of four Carnegie Foundation museums in Pittsburgh, the Museum of Natural History is dedicated to educating and entertaining visitors, so they can gain a deeper understanding of our natural world. Exhibits explore the science behind the discovery and understanding of the earth and its inhabitants, both past and present.

The museum's central exhibit is a collection of authentic dinosaur fossils and some reproductions, including a Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops. The Cretaceous Seaway exhibit shows the life of dinosaurs who lived under water. The museum's extensive galleries also include exhibits about earth sciences like geology and gems, animal life in various parts of the world, and cultural history including Native American and Ancient Egypt.

Kids will find plenty of things to do at Discovery Basecamp, an interactive exhibit that encourages kids to get hands-on, and also at the Bone Hunter's Quarry, where they can dig and uncover their own replica fossils.

Official site: www.carnegiemnh.org

The museum contains the largest collection of work by Andy Warhol, the city's most famous artist and American pop-art pioneer. Exhibits cover all facets of Warhol's prolific career as a painter, filmmaker, record producer, stage designer, author, magazine publisher, and celebrity-gazer.

Opened in 1994, the museum is housed in a restored warehouse, and displays many of Warhol's drawings, paintings, prints, and multimedia installations, as well as presents several of his films and video clips. This large space is also used to host events and classes, and the museum is committed to promoting contemporary art by sponsoring research and scholarships.

Address: 117 Sandusky Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.warhol.org

The Pittsburgh Zoo has five unique habitats and an aquarium that house its wide variety of animal residents. The PPG Aquarium is home to water dwellers, from seahorses to sharks, including a flock of penguins that play in the snow during winter.

The Water's Edge area is dedicated to education about coastal wildlife and environmental concerns, and is home to sea otters and polar bears.

The Tropical Forest area is full of fascinating animals, including two-toed sloths, lemurs, poison dart frogs, and capuchin monkeys among many primate species.

The Islands exhibit focuses on endangered species of tropical climates, including Galapagos turtles and clouded leopards. The African Savanna section houses some of the zoo's most popular residents, including Masai giraffes, lions, rhinoceroses, African elephants, and zebras.

Address: 7370 Baker Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.pittsburghzoo.org

The Carnegie Museum, one of Pittsburgh's most internationally recognized institutions, houses extensive collections of Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings, American and European paintings over the past two centuries, sculpture, decorative art, and architecture.

Wander past the other exhibits dedicated to Japanese prints, Pittsburgh area artists, and contemporary glass work, as well as extensive photography collections, including an archive of negatives by renowned photographer Charles "Teenie" Harris.

The museum also has several rotating exhibits that showcase specific artists, media, and themes. The museum is named for its founder Andrew Carnegie, who embarked on his vision for an art center in the late 1800s.

Address: 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.cmoa.org

On the north bank of the Allegheny River is the huge Carnegie Science Center, which offers more than 250 hands-on exhibits. While visitors are exploring, they will learn about the ways that science and technology influence every aspect of our lives, from energy use, food production, and industrial processing to space exploration.

The museum also offers plenty of things to do, like the Ropes Challenge indoor climbing and zipline course, with its sibling SkyTykes ropes course for little ones; the four-story Rangos Omnimax Theater; and the Henry Buhl Jr. Planetarium and Observatory.

Meanwhile, the Miniature Railroad and Village document the state's history and culture with tiny horse-drawn carriages, cars and trucks, trees, and airplanes complete with animation. Also on site is the USS Requin, a World War II submarine that held a crew of 80. Guided tours are given by former submariners.

Address: One Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.carnegiesciencecenter.org

Visitors to the National Aviary are immersed in the habitats of birds from around the world, from bright tropical beauties to imposing birds of prey. There are also exhibits throughout the museum that educate visitors about avian biology, their environments, and how these animals are vital to understanding our own human environments.

Larger birds like bald eagles, Steller's sea eagles, and Toco toucans among other species can be found at Eagle Hall, and a large outdoor habitat is home to Andean condors, which can have a wingspan of 10 feet across.

Flamingos can be found in the wetlands habitat, and visitors can spot snowy egrets and macaws in the rainforest habitat. There is also a grassland habitat that is home to a wide variety of smaller birds, as well as a colony of endangered African penguins.

The aviary also offers bird-watching classes, as well as a variety of animal encounters with some of its favorite residents, including falcons, owls, and penguins, with the opportunity to have a private penguin feeding session.

The aviary is also home to two special residents who aren't birds: a pair of Linnaeus's two-toed sloths named Vivien and Valentino. Guests can book special up-close experiences and even watch the sloths create paintings.

Address: 700 Arch Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.aviary.org

Located near the National Aviary, the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh is the perfect place for families to bring younger children while visiting Pittsburgh. One of the most popular areas of the museum is its multimedia art studio, a well-equipped space that allows kids of all ages to experiment with paint, drawing, sculpture, fiber arts, photography, and even various methods of printing.

Another top exhibit is the "makeshop," where kids can, with the help of staff, use tools to create and investigate. Here, they can experiment with woodworking, inspect the inner workings of toys, try out sewing, and much more. Kids can do even more creating in the Garage, where there is the opportunity to build a race car, fix a clock, build, and play with a Rube Goldberg machine.

Other favorites are the water-play area, with plenty of interactive stations that teach kids about water's properties, a seasonal outdoor learning garden, and an outdoor play space with musical swings, a sandbox, and even a clubhouse.

Kids who need to get some energy out of their systems will find plenty of opportunities to climb and explore, and there is also a dedicated nursery area where the youngest visitors can play, and parents can take a well-deserved rest.

Address: 10 Children's Way, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: https://pittsburghkids.org

The heart of Pittsburgh is the "Golden Triangle" at the junction of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers. At the tip of the triangle is Point State Park, with one of the country's largest fountains, symbolizing the birth of the Ohio.

This was the site of Fort Pitt, of which there now remains only a blockhouse. The fort's original appearance is shown in dioramas in the Fort Pitt Museum, a re-created eighteenth-century bastion of the famous British fort. The 36-acre park commemorates the British settlement of the frontier outpost in 1754 until the French seized the area. Later, the British regained supremacy and erected a new fort.

Address: 101 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/findapark/point/

The Frick Art and Historical Center is a complex of museums and historical buildings located across five acres of lawns and gardens in Pittsburgh's residential East End. The highlight is the Frick Art Museum, which displays the art collection of Helen Clay Frick.

It is located in the Clayton, which was Henry Frick's mansion and the only surviving one on Millionaire's row. On display are pictures ranging in date from the early Renaissance to the end of the 18th century. The collection contains Italian, French, and Flemish paintings through the eighteenth-century; sixteenth-century tapestries; and Chinese porcelains.

Also on-site is the Car & Carriage Museum, including a 1914 Rolls Royce and 1931 Pierce Arrow 43 Club Sedan.

Address: 7227 Reynolds Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.thefrickpittsburgh.org

After spending time on the Strip, wander over to the Senator John Heinz History Center, and brush up on your Pittsburgh history. Spread over six floors is everything you could ever want to know about this great American city.

Over 370,000 square feet of exhibits will keep you and your family entertained and educated. Be sure to check out the beautifully preserved street car, giant ketchup bottles, Mister Roger's Neighborhood, and the innovation and glass exhibits. Of course, the Heinz Ketchup Company is not to be missed.

Two entire floors of the museum are dedicated to the sports franchises of Pittsburgh. Exhibits and important memorabilia from the heroes of football, ice hockey, and baseball all figure prominently. Teams featured include the local favorites: Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Address: 1212 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.heinzhistorycenter.org

Since 1877, this funicular railway has served the residents and businesses of the Duquesne Heights and Mount Washington sections of Pittsburgh. From the cars there are great views out over the city. Using two original 1877 cable cars, the Duquesne Incline is a working museum, with the upper station providing photos and displays on the history of the incline. You can also see the inner workings of the incline.

The Mount Washington neighborhood is one of the city's most popular areas for its grand homes and excellent fine restaurants and can also be accessed by the Monongahela Incline, which departs from Station Square.

Address: 1220 Grandview Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.duquesneincline.org

At the University of Pittsburgh, the Gothic Revival skyscraper known as the Cathedral of Learning towers above the campus at 535 feet tall. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 42-story building is the world's second-tallest university building.

Construction began in 1926, and classes were held inside as early as 1931 while the exterior was still being completed - a task that was not finished until 1934. Home to many of the university's current educational facilities, it also has a food court where visitors can grab a bite while exploring the impressive building's interior.

Location: University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The Strip District, on the Allegheny River at the north-east corner of the Golden Triangle, was formerly occupied by warehouses and railroad installations but is now one of the city's main tourist attractions and a scene of lively activity throughout the day.

The area is home to shopping, art, dining, and all kinds of markets to buy produce, meat, and a variety of other foods. Visitors may want to come down here to simply enjoy a meal or spend a whole day wandering in and out of the small boutiques lining the Strip. Saturdays are particularly busy but also a fun time to visit.

Downtown Pittsburgh is relatively compact with many of the top attractions, as well as restaurants and shops, all within easy walking distance of each other. The most convenient option for travelers is to stay right in the city center. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations .

Luxury Hotels :

• In the heart of the city center is the historic and elegant Omni William Penn Hotel , first opened in 1916. This grand landmark hotel, which still offers a traditional afternoon tea service, has hosted many famous people over the years.
• The Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel is a boutique hotel, also housed in a beautiful historic building in the downtown area, but complemented with contemporary décor.
• The Fairmont is another good luxury option, with a prime location and 185 bright rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, many with a view of PNC Park. This is a pet-friendly hotel, although an additional fee is charged for your four-legged friend.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A good mid-range option in the city center is the Courtyard Pittsburgh Downtown , in a renovated historic building in the Cultural District and near the Strip District.
• Just a few minutes outside the downtown core on the North Shore, but still in a good location, is the historic boutique hotel, The Priory . A former monastery, this is a hotel with character and charm, and a variety of room sizes and rates.
• A good option in the trendy Strip District is the Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown . The hotel is conveniently located close to the Senator John Heinz History Center.

Budget Hotels :

• The best budget options are just outside the city center. The Comfort Inn & Suites is a short drive north of the city center and offers comfy rooms.
• A little further afield is the Econo Lodge Pittsburg I-79 , with basic rooms but usually good prices.
• The Red Roof Plus+ is also well outside the city center but offers decent rooms at reasonable rates.

More on Pennsylvania

40+ Best Things To Do And See In Pittsburgh, From a Local

Heading to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania for a visit or weekend getaway? Here’s my local’s guide to visiting the Steel City, with the 40+ top attractions and best things to do and see.

Rachel Carson Bridge with the Pittsburgh skyline

I also give you a rundown of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh and tips for visiting.

Pittsburgh is a town that was built on steel and the Steelers. But Pittsburgh’s reputation as a gritty city is as old as petticoats.

These days, the city thrives on culture as well. Formerly a Rust Belt baby, Pittsburgh is now a cultural and artistic hub. It’s also a foodie town.

Formerly, the go to meal in Pittsburgh was a French fry stuffed sandwich. Now, there are gourmet and international restaurants, from budget to expensive.

Pittsburgh is sometimes overshadowed by the much larger city of Philadelphia in the east. But Pittsburgh also has a wealth of fine art and architecture. Some of Pittsburgh’s top attractions are its world class museums and cultural centers.

To top that off, Pittsburgh is beautiful situated. This hilly city sits at the crux of three rivers — the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio. The city is a visual feast, with a rugged topography and an enviable skyline.

Pittsburgh’s not as ancient as places like Lisbon . But its natural setting –with rivers, viewpoints, and vistas — bear a resemblance. If Pittsburgh were in Europe, the city would be wildly popular.

Pittsburgh is also a city of many neighborhoods. There’s pockets of cuteness sprinkled all over the city. You need a car or Uber to explore them properly.

Hall of Sculptures in the Carnegie Museum of Art

Best Things To Do In Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Here are my picks for the 40+ best things to do and see in Pittsburgh. I take you on a tour of all the top must visit sites, attractions, museums, and landmarks in Pittsburgh.

You’ll discover all the best destinations in Pittsburgh — where to eat, stay, and play on your Pittsburgh getaway. I also give you a long list of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh by neighborhood.

It’s possible to hit the highlights of Pittsburgh in 2-3 days. A really thorough exploration could take a week.

1. Carnegie Museum of Art

You may not think the “Steel City” of Pittsburgh is an art mecca. But for a small city, the beloved Carnegie Museum of Art (“CMOA”) packs a surprisingly art punch, with international flair.

For art lovers, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

The Carnegie was founded by industrialist and philanthropist  Andrew Carnegie in 1895. This gorgeous museum is in Pittsburgh’s lively Oakland neighborhood near the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University.

There are many wings and dozens of galleries. The wide ranging collection is devoted to art from ancient times to cutting edge contemporary works.

Launched in 1974, the Scaife Galleries are CMOA’s crown jewel. Sarah Mellon Scaife was a sister of Pittsburgh tycoon Richard Mellon.

She gifted the massive Beaux Art galleries and a slew of important works to CMOA, nearly doubling its space.

The Impressionist works on display include pieces by top shelf names like Monet , Manet, Pissarro, Renoir, Degas, and Matisse.

A unique part of the Carnegie is the Hall of Architecture. As part of his effort to “bring the world to Pittsburgh,” Carnegie commissioned plaster copies of some of the world’s most iconic buildings and sculptures. 

They were created by master craftsmen. If the citizens of Pittsburgh couldn’t get to Europe, they could at least see what they were missing.

Architectural cast collections were incredibly popular in the late Victorian era. Their popularity subsequent waned. 

Now, the Carnegie has one of the world’s best collections, rivaling the Victorian & Albert Museum in London.

Here’s my complete guide to the Carnegie Museum of Art .

2. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is a top attraction in Pittsburgh for kids. The museum has an extraordinary collection of dinosaur fossils. It’s one of the best collections in the United States.

The permanent collection explores every facet of the natural world. You’ll see dinosaur skeletons, minerals, Egyptian artifacts, and sea creatures.

The premiere exhibit is the Diplodocus Carnegie . A bone digging crew financed by Carnegie dug the 84 foot skeleton out of the dirt in southwestern Wyoming.

The sauropod is nicknamed “Dippy.” The life size dinosaur sculpture in front of the museum captures Dippy as he would have looked in real life.

There are also exhibits that explore the flora and fauna of Pennsylvania and the United States.

The Museum of Natural History is housed in the same building as the Carnegie Museum of Art. There are two cafes onsite. One is quite chic. You can also lounge in the museum’s lovely sculpture garden.

3. Carnegie Science Center

The Carnegie Science Center is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh for families.

Spread over four floors, the museum has hundreds of interactive exhibits. They explain everything from natural science, to artificial intelligence, to scientific principles, to human anatomy.

Aside from the displays, you can visit a submarine, the Blue Planetarium, the OmniMax Theater, and the sports center. At the later, you can zip line, rock climb, or take a virtual roller coaster ride.

One thing to keep in mind when you purchase your ticket is that there are separate charges for certain attractions. For example, a visit to the submarine is included in your ticket.

But you still have to book a time slot when you check in. Or, you’ll have to wait in line.

The planetarium and OmniMax are also separate charges. Check the schedule to see what’s playing every half hour to hour. Tailor your visit around those time slots.

4. Andy Warhol Museum

The Warhol Museum is my favorite museum in Pittsburgh. It’s a fabulous single artist museum that celebrates Pittsburgh’s hippest native son, Andy Warhol.

As the Prince of Pop, Warhol made himself a world famous artist. Warhol was a true iconoclast and performance artist. He was a hugely significant artist of the second half of the 20th century.

Warhol challenged traditional norms of what constituted art. He cannily merged superficial commerce and fine art.

Warhol was unashamedly obsessed with beauty and fame, how they were linked, and how to capture the duo in a shocking way.

Pittsburgh’s Warhol museum is the only one of its kind in the United States. It’s housed in a chic urban venue. It boasts a veritable treasure trove of Warhol art and archives.

Opened in 1994, the Warhol Museum is an immersive and well curated museum. If you’re a Warholic, you may think you’ve fallen into a fancified version of the factory.

The museum has 7 floors, with the art work displayed in chronological order. Four of them showcase a decade of Warhol art per floor. You start from the top and work your way down. You can see the entire evolution of Warhol’s oeuvre.

You’ll see seminal works from the 1940s to Warhol’s death in 1987, with explanations of Warhol’s creative process. The museum also has a permanent room on the 4th floor for viewing Warho’s films.

There’s gallery after gallery of paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings, and Warhol’s personal knickknacks.

Some of the drawings are by Warhol’s talented mother, Julia. The Warhol archives document his life with scrapbooks, newspaper articles, photographs, and Warhol’s time capsules (with 300,000 of Warhol’s possesions).

Click here for my complete guide to the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh .

For rabid Warhol fans, Warhol’s grave is also in Pittsburgh in the suburb of Bethel Park.

It’s an active shrine. People are constantly leaving soup cans, Coke bottles, and wigs. A local artist collects the notes people leave in languages from all over the world. 

5. The Mattress Factory

The Mattress Factory is a unique museum. It’s Pittsburgh’s premiere alternative art space and an unusual thing to do in Pittsburgh.

The museum is housed in a former industrial building. It’s become a mecca for wacked out installation art.

The Mattress Factory doesn’t even call itself a museum. Instead, it uses the phrase “Laboratory.”

The space provides an immersive experience, with engaging displays of modern and contemporary art. The museum aims to plunge you into “the creative vision of artists from around the world.” There are both temporary and permanent installations.

The light-bending Infinity Room (shown above) is wildly popular. To see it, you’ll need to don booties or socks because the floors need to be protected.

6. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Need some flower power? Set in beautiful Schenley Park, Phipps Conservatory is a beautiful and tranquil botanical garden. The glass, stone, and steel building is dubbed the “crystal palace.”

Phipps is definitely one of Pittsburgh’s most beautiful must visit attractions. The conservatory has staggeringly lush floral collections, glass art, and themed exhibits.

Phipps Conservatory is one of the few remaining public gardens that still produces full scale season flower shows year round.

The beautiful Outdoor Gardens are free to the public. Inside, the Victorian greenhouse has a wide ranging collection of 14 indoor gardens.

The well manicured exhibits range from rare miniature orchids to massive palm trees. There’s astonishing attention to detail in each room.

In addition to the permanent displays, Phipps has temporary exhibits celebrating each season. This makes Phipps a great place for repeat visits.

Phipps is especially twinkly and beautiful during the winter holidays when it hosts its annual Winter Flower and Garden Light Show .

Phipps also has a beautiful collection of glass art from renowned Seattle glass artist Dale Chihuly.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Phipps Conservatory .

Address : 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh PA 15213

7. First Presbyterian Church

The beautiful First Presbyterian Church is in downtown Pittsburgh. It was built in 1773. There’s still an active congregation.

The church’s claim to fame is its Tiffany stained glass windows. Tiffany Studios designed 13 of the church’s 26 foot x 7 foot stained glass windows (now insured for $2 million). The windows were hand-painted, making them unique among Tiffany windows.

The Tiffany windows, however, are just a few of the 253 stained and leaded glass windows throughout the sandstone church.

You’ll also find two 80 foot ceiling beams and a pair of 2 ton, 30 foot oak doors in the sanctuary. 

8. Cathedral of Learning

The Cathedral of Learning is one of Pittsburgh’s most iconic landmarks. It was built in a Gothic Revival style. The exterior was polished up in 2007.

The Neo-Gothic cathedral is over 42 stories high. It’s a lone skyscraper in the area that houses many of the University of Pittsburgh’s classes. And, in fact, it’s the second tallest university building in the world.

You enter into the stunning Commons Room. It’s a beautiful church-like three story foyer. The cathedral houses classrooms, administrative offices, and libraries.

The best part of the cathedral is the Nationality Rooms . They are themed class rooms from different time periods around the world. Each room is decorated to honor a specific ethnicity that contributed to Pittsburgh’s development. 

You can’t visit the classrooms when they’re in use. It’s best to visit on the weekend or during summer break. During the holidays, the rooms are dressed up in holiday finery.

9. Heinz Memorial Chapel

Heinz Memorial Chapel is right next to the Cathedral of Learning. It’s a tiny gem. But still one of the most striking churches in Pennsylvania.

The chapel was built between 1933-38. It’s an impressive ode to the Flamboyant Gothic style from the Middle Ages.

The chapel was built with funds donated by Henry John Heinz, the founder of the H.J. Heinz Company.

The chapel honors Heinz and his mother, Anna Margaretta Heinz. Today, it is used by the University of Pittsburgh for a variety of functions, both university related and religious.

The chapel was designed by the same architect responsible for the Cathedral of Learning. Inside are some of the world’s tallest stained glass windows. They’re simply breathtaking, reminiscent of Sainte-Chapelle in Paris .

Because it’s so beautiful, the chapel is a popular place for weddings.

The chapel is only open to the University of Pittsburgh community and not the general public. But you can book a small group tour by emailing the university.

Click here for a virtual tour of Heinz Chapel.

10. Frick Art & Historical Center

Another wonderful Pittsburgh attraction for art lovers is the Frick Pittsburgh . The Frick is a small free museum in the Point Breeze neighborhood.

It’s housed in a lovely Italian Renaissance style building. The museum was built by Helen Clay Frick to house her fine and decorative art collection.

The museum houses a collection of old masters. There’s a special emphasis on the early Renaissance and 18th century French painting. There are some masterpieces by luminaries such as Fragonard and Rubens.

There’s an extremely rare painting by Cimabue, a proto-Renaissance painter from Florence called The Flagellation of Christ . And a sweet nativity scene attributed to the Master of the Scrovegni Chapel Presbytery.

The Frick also hosts some great temporary exhibitions. I recently went to one on Frieda Kahlo and the Victorian Radicals.

11. Clayton Mansion

Along with his swanky NYC digs, Henry Clay Frick had a place in Pittsburgh. It’s an Italianate house called the Clayton Mansion . The house is on the corner of Penn and South Homewood avenues.

The Clayton House is not a grand Italian palazzo like you might find in Venice . But presidents have been entertained in this house-museum.

The museum consists of 23 meticulously restored rooms. There are more than 90% of the original period furnishings.

The only way to visit the museum is via a docent led tour. To take a virtual tour of the Frick, click here .

The Clayton House is undergoing restoration. At the moment, only the first floor is open to the the public.

12. Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall

Soldiers & Sailors is a museum in Oakland. Opened in 1910, it was originally conceived to honor the soldiers and sailors from Allegheny County who served in the Civil War.

The museum has since broadened its scope to include everyone who has served in the US military.

There are four exhibit-filled galleries. You’ll find a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and memorabilia that highlight the military history of the region — military uniforms, weapons, flags, medals, and photographs.

The Slave to Soldier exhibit in the Gettysburg Room is a highlight. It explores the experiences of African Americans in the military.

13. Saint Paul Cathedral

St. Paul Cathedral was established in 1834. It’s the principle Catholic church in Pittsburgh, home to over 600,000 Catholics. St. Paul is one of Pittsburgh’s architectural landmarks.

The pile of a church is located on Fifth Avenue between the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. It’s a popular wedding venue.

The limestone cathedral was built over 3 years, completed in 1906. St. Paul’s was built in a Gothic Revival style. It has a frilly triple portal like you would find in a cathedral in France .

Inside, there are 186 stained glass windows, double side aisles, and vaulted arches. The cathedral underwent an $8 million restoration in 2005.

14. Saint Anthony Chapel

Saint Anthony Chapel holds the world’s most extensive collection of publicly revered Christian relics outside the Vatican Museums .

The fantastic collection is displayed in handcrafted solid walnut reliquaries, arranged in altars and side areas.

The chapel has been designated by the Pittsburgh culture and foundation of monuments as a historic site. Except for Friday, visitors to Saint Anthony’s may take a one hour guided tour of the chapel each day.

15. PPG Place

The PPG Place Plaza is a one acre space in downtown Pittsburgh. It’s a year round attraction that’s akin to a mini Rockefeller Center.

The plaza is home to the PPG Building, the most interesting modern architecture in Pittsburgh. The beautiful Modern meets Gothic building is a veritable castle of shimmering glass.

During the winter months, there’s an ice rink during the winter months. The plaza is decked out for the holidays.

In summer, there’s a unique water fountain. Water pulses from the surface up to a height of over fifteen feet, with no barrier between the fountain and the rest of the plaza. The water disappears into the plaza surface and is recycled. 

16. Senator John Heinz History Center

The John Heinz History Center is housed in a former icehouse in the Strip District. The history museum is dedicated to telling Pittsburgh’s history from the pre-revolutionary era to the present day.

The museum is packed with kid friendly exhibits. It houses the original set from the TV show Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood .

Another permanent exhibit is dedicated to the H.J. Heinz Company. It shows the company’s evolution from a horseradish manufacturer to one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies.

17. Roberto Clemente Museum

I don’t know about my readers. But, in my life, I’ve been a rabid baseball fan. I spent years in fantasy baseball leagues.

During that time, I had a mad crush on Roberto Clemente. Roberto is Pittsburgh’s favorite baseball player.

Deservedly, Clemente has his own museum. The Roberto Clemente Museum showcases the world’s largest exhibited collection of baseball artifacts. Naturally, there’s a focus on the great right fielder.

Clemente came to the Pirates in 1954. He was a great baseball player who was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. But his story goes beyond his vaunted stats.

Clemente was a humanitarian. He lost his life en route to help earthquake victims in Nicaragua.

18. Randyland

This quirky Pittsburgh neighborhood is a psychedelic street art dream. Randyland is a recycled art kingdom. It’s a child-like world created by local artist and neighborhood renovator Randy Gilson.

It’s one of the most flamboyant — and free — spectacles in Pittsburgh. Gilson called it his “house of junk and joy.”

Essentially, every square inch of Gilson’s candy colored building is brightly painted and decorated with found objects — flamingos, mannequins, lawn furniture, banana plants, etc. The found object space functions as the home, garden, and artist space for Gilson and fellow creators.

But Randyland isn’t just confined to Gilson’s crazy house. Gilson has spread his artistic influence to all surrounding areas. Gilson’s “streetscapes” have transformed vacant lots into anti-depressant public parks and community gardens.

19. Benedum Center

The Benedum Center is your go to spot for Broadway shows or plays. It’s the centerpiece of Pittsburgh’s cultural district.

The Benedum Center was built in 1928. It was intended to be a “movie palace version of Versailles.”

The theater seats almost 3,000 people. It’s been perfectly restored.

The signature piece is the massive chandelier in the center of the theater. It’s 10 feet high and 12 feet wide.

As befitting a Versailles-wannabe, the Grand Lobby is also a pretty sparkler. There’s original marble and woodwork. The mirrors at the staircase landing are 18 feet high.

20. Heinz Hall

Heinz Hall is a stunning concert hall and showplace. The world class venue is home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

Like the Benedum Center, Heinz Hall is an architectural beauty.

Heinz Hall began life as a movie theater in 1927. Then, it was completely renovated and turned into performing arts venue in 1971.

Heinz Hall is designed and decorated in a French Court style. You’ll see marble, crystal, chandeliers, and gold leaf detailing everywhere.

21. Hike in Fall Run Park

Fall Run Park is a beautiful park north of the city. It’s an uncrowded hiking space.

The out and back trail is a mere one mile long. But the trail leads to a 25 foot drop waterfall.

The trail has been restored. Now, there are wide paths and bridges to help you along.

Not far from the park is the Aspinwall Riverfront Park. I’ve had some great food from a food truck there, Farmer X Baker .

22. Wander in the Strip District

Just shy of the city center is the Strip District. It runs from 11th to 33rd street. The Strip is a must visit attraction in Pittsburgh.

The Strip District was historically a wholesale produce district. Today, it’a a quirky and treasured market and food spot.

You’ll find meat purveyors, specialty shops, and popular bars and restaurants. You’ll also find the odd antique or crafts shop.

The Strip District has some of the same vibes you’d expect in Shoreditch in London . The shops and restaurant are a ragtag assemblage strung down Small Street and Penn Avenue.

The Strip District is a great place to go grocery shopping, especially if you like Italian or specialty ethnic ingredients.

Pennsylvania Macaroni Company is practically an institution. It’s a family run grocery with thousands of items, including a legendary selection of cheeses.

Enrico Biscotti Company is another good spot. If you have a sweet tooth, I love Peace, Love and Little Donuts .

Finally, for the best nightcaps, hop over to Bar Marco . It’s one of the best places to go in Pittsburgh for cocktails.

23. Explore Lawrenceville

Lawrence is a hipster mecca. It’s a gentrifying area of Pittsburgh.

Whenever I go, there’s something new. There’s a constant arts-driven urban revitalization. That makes the neighborhood one of the best places to visit in Pittsburgh.

Lawrenceville is an eminently walkable neighborhood. The main drag is Butler Street. You’ll find loads of vintage and one-of-a-kind shops, along with plenty of restaurants.

Lawrenceville is probably my favorite neighborhood to go for drinks and dinner, as you’ll see in my restaurant listings below.

24. Explore Shadyside

Shadyside is another must visit neighborhood in Pittsburgh. It’s a combination of restored Victorian mansions and student apartments in historic buildings. My daughter lives there right now in an apartment in a colorful Victorian complex.

Shadyside is one of the trendier neighborhoods in Pittsburgh. There are some beautiful places to stroll.

Walnut Street and Ellsworth Avenue offer up yoga studios, bookstores, boutiques, local eateries, and some galleries.

There are recognizable names like Apple, Lululemon, Banana Republic, and Athleta. But there are also independent local boutiques. Toadflax is an utterly adorable store with plants and cool gifts.

Be sure to check out Roslyn Place. It’s a short street off of Ellsworth Avenue.

Roslyn Place is one of the country’s only remaining wooden streets. The tiny cul-de-sac is “paved” using 26,000 oak blocks.

25. Explore South Side

The South Side is one of Pittsburgh’s cool neighborhoods. Not as hip as Lawrenceville, but still cool.

East Carson is the main drag and a designated historic landmark. But there are four micro-neighborhoods in this part of Pittsburgh.

The shopping options are endless. The South Side Works is a large open air complex with a move theater, the Cheesecake Factory, and the Hofbrau House.

You’ll also find class shops like Urban Outfitters, cocktail bars like Acacia , good eateries, and great music venues like The Smiling Moose .

Nine Mile Run, a stream in Frick Park

26. Hike in Frick Park

Frick Park is one of my favorite green spaces and a top attraction in Pittsburgh. It’s the perfect bucolic escape from the city. You can hike and bike to your heart’s content in this sanctuary.

The park has hundreds of acres. 644 to be exact. It stretches from the Pointe Breeze neighborhood down to the Monongahela River.

The park has miles of hiking trails, the famous “blue slide” playground, red clay tennis courts, etc. There are several entrances. There’s a parking lot by the tennis courts.

After you’ve got your nature fix, head to Pointe Brugge for a delicious brunch or lunch.

27. Duquesne Incline

Riding the Duquesne Incline is easily one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh. Especially if you want to experience a slice of the city’s long history. And enjoy one of the world’s best urban vistas.

The wooden cable cars were first used to transport workers back in the 1800s. They’ve now been renovated and are open to the public.

Once you arrive at Duquesne, there’s a small onsite museum. You can learn about the history of incline and many details about how the incline operates.

But the best part is the ride up. At the top, you’re treated to gorgeous views of the city from Grandview Overlook in the Mount Washington neighborhood.

Grandview Park probably has the best view Pittsburgh. During the summer, the park hosts movies and music festivals. But no matter what the view is worth it!

If you don’t want to take the incline, just drive up.

Directly across from the Monterey Bay restaurant is a life size bronze statue of George Washington and the Indian leader Guyasuta. The Point of View statue was unveiled in 2006.

28. Monongahela Incline

The other 19th century incline in Pittsburgh is the Monongahela Incline . It’s the oldest and steepest incline in the United States. The incline is three years older than its more famous counterparts in San Francisco.

The incline began operating in 1870. The incline creaks and groans like a wooden rollercoaster.

You hop on board at the lower station near the Smithfield Street Bridge and across the street from Station Square.

Like the Duquesne Incline, customers are deposited on Grandview Avenue.

29. Pittsburgh Bridges

One of the best things about Pittsburgh is that it’s set on three rivers. The city is known as the “City of Bridges.”

There’s over 446 bridges in Pittsburgh. That’s more than any city in the world including Venice .

The most famous golden bridges are an identical trio — the Andy Warhol Bridge, Roberto Clement Bridge, and the Rachel Carson Bridge.

Honestly, my least favorite bridge is the Fort Pitt Bridge. There’s a rapid merging of four lanes of traffic in a few hundred feet.

30. Canton Avenue

Canton Avenue is in Pittsburgh’s Beechview neighborhood. In a city full of hills, Canton is the United States’ steepest street. If a heart pumping hike is what you’re after, you can test your mettle here.

But, be forewarned, Canton Avenue takes no prisoners. This cobblestone beast has a 37 percent grade.

Bikers seem to like the challenge. At least my husband does. He says you need strong legs and a light bike.

Canton Avenue is part of the Dirty Dozen, a grueling bike race in Pittsburgh for hard core climbers.

31. Market Square

Market Square is the center of downtown Pittsburgh.

I think it’s most beautiful during the holidays. There are Christmas markets set up for shopping, just as in Paris or Vienna in the winter.

During the rest of the year, there’s plenty to do at this Pittsburgh attraction. There are art installations, pop-up events, and chairs for lounging and people-watching in the summer.

There are plenty of restaurants on Market Square too. Pizzaiolo Primo is a good Italian spot. Then, there are the classics like Morton’s Steak House and McCormick and Schmicks Seafood.

32. Brew Pubs in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh isn’t Bavaria Germany . By any stretch, having been there. But it still has quite a few craft breweries.

The top spot is the Hofbrauhaus in the South Side. It was designed to emulate the original brewhouse concept launched in Munich Germany .

You’ll be served German beer amids live entertainment from lederhosen-clad performers.

Another popular spot is the Church Brew Works . It’s a microbrewery and restaurant housed in a restored 1902 church. The setting is sublime. But it can be very noisy and crowded.

Click here for a guide to all of Pittsburgh’s craft breweries.

33. Kennywood

No Pittsburgh post would be complete without a mention of Kennywood . Kennywood is a large amusement park. It’s a favorite attraction in Pittsburgh for kids and teens.

Kennywood has been a Pittsburgh thrill for decades. Its classic rides were built in the early 20th century. A popular throwback is Thunderbolt, a wooden roller coaster. 

The other rides which you can enjoy here include the Pittsburgh plunge water, the Phantom’s Revenge roller coaster, carousels, water rides, a 3D experience, and a 4D theatre and paddle boats. 

You would need to spend at least an entire day here in order to truly enjoy this adventurous Park.

34. Point State Park

The “Point” is where the Monanghela and Allegheny rivers converge. Point State Park is known for its refreshing lush green gardens. It’s also a lovely place to watch the sunset.

The Point is also a historic site. It was a landmark during the French and Indian war of the late 18th century. 

The park contains beautiful riverfront promenades and a 150 tall fountain, which is a great photo opportunity. The park is home to festivals, picnics, and concerts.

The Fort Pitt Museum is situated within the vicinity. Its exhibits tell the story of the early history of Pittsburgh.

35. Schenly Park

Schenley Park is a pretty municipal park in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood. In 2011, the park was named as one of the “America’s Coolest City Parks” by the popular travel magazine, Travel + Leisure. 

Schenley was created in 1889 with land donated by heiress Mary Schenley. She was a Pittsburgh-based heiress and philanthropist. 

The park has 456 acres of trails, woods, a lake, and a golf course. It’s surrounded by University of Pittsburgh campus and Carnegie Mellon University campuses. But it’s an oasis of quietude.

The park has many attractions. Those include a plaza, a large pond, a conservatory, tennis courts, soccer field, playgrounds, a public swimming pool, and a golf course.

In the winter, the action shifts to the Schenley Park Skating Rink . The rink is generally open from early November to late March.

36. Sports Venues

Are you a sport fan? Pittsburgh wears its sporting pride proudly with three centrally located arenas. On game days, the populace is clad in the trademark black and gold color scheme used by the Pittsburgh sporting teams.

Heinz Field stadium is the home of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team. Founded in 1933 by Art Rooney, the Steelers are the fifth oldest team in the NFL.

PNC Park is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates, a team which dates to the late 1800s. The arena also hosts a variety of concerts and events.

Art Rooney had a lot of clout in the sports word. In the mid 1960s, he successfully made a bid for a National Hockey League franchise. The team was named the “Penguins” to match its PPG Paints Arena called the “Igloo.”

37. Mexican War District

The Mexican War Str e et s  is a beautiful and historic neighborhood with plenty to offer. It’s kind of a gentrified bohemian row house neighborhood with many writers, artists, eclectic personalities and interesting people.

The surrounding streets were named from people and places of the  Mexican-American War , hence the current name, the Mexican War Streets.

From the architecture to the artistic attractions, a whole day can be spent exploring this North Side neighborhood.

Attractions in this district include the Mattress Factory, Randyland, the beautiful architecture, and the popular Commonplace Coffee .

38. City of Asylum

City of Asylum is an organization that gives sanctuary to writers persecuted in their home countries.

A dissident poet from China, Huang Xiang, lived in one of the organization’s houses on Sampsonia Way. Now it’s called “House Poem,” because he painted his anthology on it in Chinese characters.

But the City of Asylum is more than just a writer’s sanctuary. It’s a thriving community that participates with the poetry, art, or music that’s being created in its living spaces.

The organization now has a neighborhood literary center. There, you can enjoy free performances, a cafe, a book store.

39. Canonsburg

Just southwest of the city lies the suburb of Canonsburg. The town is a small quaint borough with plenty to do.

Canonsburg is most well known for its Old Fashioned Christmas event . The state pitches it as “Holiday Hallmark Move-esque location.”

It’s a two day event. Festivities include a tree lighting ceremony, Christmas parade, food truck court, and live entertainment. Naturally, you can meet Santa at the North Pole.

40. Fallingwater

Fallingwater is UNESCO site in Pennsylvania. It was designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright . Fallingwater is likely the most significant building of the 20th century. 

Fallingwater is nestled in a bucolic setting. It sits atop a cascading waterfall.

Fallingwater is eye-grabbing and visually stunning. It’s a marriage of modern architecture and a wild landscape that blurs the line between the indoor and outdoor.

The house is the apotheosis of Wright’s long lasting obsession with nature and a must visit architectural site in the US.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Fallingwater . Fallingwater is about 1.5 hours from Pittsburgh. You need to make a reservation in advance.

>>> Click here to book a guided tour from Pittsburgh

41. Polymath Park: Wright Overnight

If you really want to live the Wright way, head 23 miles down the road to another Wright-designed house, Polymath Park . There, you’ll find four houses designed by Wright.

These homes reflect Wright’s Usonian ethos. The term “Usonian” refers to Wright’s concept of building planned communities of affordable homes.

Wright wanted the small homes to have the same design benefits as a grand mansion. The homes feature native stone, clerestory windows, and Wright’s trademark Arts & Crafts style.

You can stay overnight, go for dinner, or book a guided tour.

42. Boating

Naturally, as a city on three rivers, boating is a popular thing to do in Pittsburgh. There are approximately 30 marinas in Pittsburgh.

The city boasts the second largest number of registered pleasure boats in the country. There are mooring spots in the South Side and North Shore. The water is a great place to watch July 4th fireworks.

If you don’t have your own boat, take a ride on the Gateway Clipper Fleet . It’s based in Station Square. Gateway has five riverboats and an array of sightseeing cruise options.

43. Best Restaurants In Pittsburgh

I’ve lived in Pittsburgh nine years now. And I’m a real foodie.

Years ago, the coolest thing you could do in Pittsburgh was put French fries on your salad or sandwich. Those days are long gone.

Pittsburgh now has serious culinary cred, with a farm to table vibe moving in. In 2019, the city earned the title Food City of the Year.

You can eat your way through Pittsburgh like a herd of goats, the food scene’s that good. The restaurants alone are reasons to visit Pittsburgh.

Here’s a breakdown of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh by neighborhood. I also include some of the fun wine and cocktail bars around town.

You’ll find fine dining as well as hole-in-the-wall spots.

1. South Hills :

• Wild Rosemary (farm to table food in a cozy bistro setting)
• Cafe Io (casual sandwiches & comfort food)
• Pamela’s Diner (classic breakfast food at a Pittsburgh institution)

2. Shadyside :

• Senyai Thai (Thai)
• Soba (modern Asian)
• Mercurio’s (wood-fired Italian pizza and artisanal gelato)
• Noddlehead (Thai street food)
• Acacia (amazing cocktails)

3. North Side

• Siempre Algo (Spanish)
• Fig & Ash (wood-fired cuisine)

3. Strip District

• Bar Marco (Italian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients)
• DiAnoia’s Eatery (the “it” Italian place)
• Wigle Whiskey (whisky tasting spot)
• Kaya (Caribbean fare)
• Chicken Latino (Peruvian food)

4. Lawrenceville

• The Forge (craft cocktails and Mediterranean small plates)
• Pusadee’s Garden (Thai cuisine)
• Banh Mi & Ti (Vietnamese)
• Refucilo (Argentinian wine bar)
• Leo (ultra hip custom cocktail bar)
• Apteka (Eastern European, technically in Bloomfield)
• Chengdu Gourmet (Northern Chinese cuisine)
• Grapperia (Italian cocktail bar)

5. Downtown:

• Oaklander Hotel (glassed in sky bar with views)
• Eddie V’s (seafood and oysters)
• Tako (Mexican)
• Butcher & Rye (for carnivores)
• Meat & Potatoes (gastropub)
• Pizzaiolo Primo (Italian)
• Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse (steak & seafood)
• Speckled Egg (brunch food)

6. Mount Washington

• Atria’s (seafood with views)
• Monterey Bay Fish Grotto (seafood with views)
• Coughlin’s Law (bar food and tacos)

Tips For Visiting Pittsburgh

Here are some must know tips for discovering all the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

1. How To Get To Pittsburgh

If you’re coming from far afield, Pittsburgh has an international airport. From there, you can take a taxi or Uber into the city center. You can also book a one way private transfer or a round trip private transfer , for a quick and efficient trip.

2. Where To Stay in Pittsburgh

I’m a fan of the Kimpton boutique chain. So, I would recommend the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh . It’s a trademark Klimpton with some whimsy and a bold color scheme.

The Distrikt Hotel is another great option. At the District, historic meet modern and posh meet minimalism.

My previous favorite hotel was the Ace Hotel, a place I regularly went for brunch. But the hotelier closed during the pandemic.

The hotel has recently reopened with new management and a new name. It’s now called  Kasa at the Maverick . Of course, you’ll also find a Hilton Garden Inn and a Marriott .

If you want to stay in Oakland near the colleges, check out the Oaklander Hotel .

3. When To Visit Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has all four seasons to enjoy. So you can pick whichever one best suits you.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Pittsburgh is fall. The weather is perfect, sometimes even surprisingly mild. This year, we had fall colors and 70 degree temperatures in October.

Fall is also fairly dry too, without much rain. It doesn’t really turn chilly until mid November.

As you might expect, the summers are hot and sunny in Pittsburgh. You’ll have long days to get the most out of your sightseeing.

Winter isn’t actually a bad time to visit Pittsburgh either. Pittsburgh doesn’t get frigidly cold like other popular cities.

But you can expect gray skies in winter. Pittsburgh isn’t known for its winter sunshine.

On the upside, there are plenty of holiday activities and fun Christmas things to do in Pittsburgh in winter.

Late spring is a great time to see Pittsburgh’s many attractions. May is the best month. March and April can sometimes be rainy.

4. Getting Around Pittsburgh

I’m not going to lie … Pittsburgh can be a challenging city to get around in. There are hills, uncommon street grids, and loads of one way streets.

The myriad bridges can be insane to traverse. They seem to go everywhere except where you’re headed. If you get in the wrong lane or can’t instantly move four lanes over, you may well be detoured.

Use your phone GPS to get the most accurate directions.

Pittsburgh has limited public transportation. The subway, such as it is, is called the T.

But it doesn’t go to that many places. And the buses are slow. Another option is the hop on hop off tourist bus .

Don’t just hang out in the downtown area, no matter how convenient it is. Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods are what make the city’s “gritty but quirky” vibe shine the brightest.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best things to do and see in Pittsburgh. You may enjoy these other United States travel guides and resources:

• 2 day itinerary for Philadelphia
• 3 day itinerary for Boston
• 2 days in Washington D.C. itinerary
• 2 day itinerary for Cleveland Ohio
• 1 day in Denver itinerary
• 25 most beautiful towns in New England
• 45 amazing destinations in the United States
• Best places to visit in Massachusetts
• Hidden Gem Towns on the East Coast
• One week itinerary for southern New England
• Fall foliage road trip in New England

If you’d like to visit the top attractions in Pittsburgh, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “40+ Best Things To Do And See In Pittsburgh, From a Local”

Apteka is in Bloomfield, not Lawrenceville. We are trying hard to keep that neighborhood contained.

Thanks Sam. The neighborhoods are so close together, I lopped Apteka into my Lawrenceville list. I obviously need to do more research on Bloomfield! Any suggestions?

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Last Updated on July 7, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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20 Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh is a beautiful, dynamic city full of sights and attractions sure to please the avid sports fan, history enthusiast, and culture maven. Whether you're in town for a visit, or just looking for something new to try, these must-see Pittsburgh spots offer something for everyone.

Ride to the Top of Mount Washington

Duquesne incline.

No visit to Pittsburgh is complete without a ride on one of the restored 1800s inclines to the top of Mount Washington, just across the river from downtown Pittsburgh. There are plenty of great restaurants to choose from on top of this former "Coal Hill" and each has stunning views of downtown (especially beautiful at night). It's one of the best places to snap photos of the skyline.

Visit the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh History Center

Senator john heinz history center.

This former ice house has been reborn as a seven-story museum, with interactive exhibits that bring more than 250 years of Western Pennsylvania history to life. Discover how immigrants shaped the region, uncover the myths of the Underground Railroad, or climb aboard a 1940s Pittsburgh trolley. Two floors are dedicated to the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum. After all, what's the history of Pittsburgh without Franco Harris, Mario Lemieux, Roberto Clemente, Arnold Palmer, and the gang?

See Incredible Birds at the National Aviary

National aviary.

Just across the Allegheny River from the History Center is the National Aviary, where over 600 of the world's most incredible birds are displayed in naturalistic exhibits and walk-through habitats. Marvel at hummingbirds the size of a thumb or Andean Condors with giant 10-foot wingspans at the nation's premier bird zoo! Penguin Point is among the most popular exhibits.

Stroll Through the Strip District

Join locals for a Saturday tour in Pittsburgh's popular warehouse district. Grab a great cup of coffee and a fresh biscotti before taking a stroll through this combination farmer's market/street fair. Vendors, shops, and exotic grocery stores offer everything from kitchenware to costumes and Steelers merchandise to fresh flowers and fish.

Check Out the Andy Warhol Museum

The andy warhol museum.

Campbell's soup cans anyone? Continue your exploration of Pittsburgh at the Andy Warhol Museum, an ultramodern tribute to the founder of pop art. The most comprehensive single-artist museum in the world houses more than 4,000 works of art, including paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, films, and videos, from this native Pittsburgh artist. While dedicated to Andy Warhol, the museum also hosts rotating exhibits by artists who push the boundaries of art, just as Warhol did.

Learn About the World at the Carnegie Museums of Art & Natural History

Carnegie museum of art.

The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History combine two world-renowned museums in one unforgettable visit. Same day admission to both museums provides a wide variety of things to explore, and many sections include hands-on activities where children are encouraged to touch as well as look. Enjoy one of the best dinosaur exhibits in the world, breathtaking gems and minerals, and an extensive Native American gallery.

See Unique Plants at Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Zolashine / Getty Images

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Stroll through one of the largest Victorian "glass houses" in the country to see towering tropical plants that were the original seedlings at the 1890 Exposition, including beautiful orchids, indoor and outdoor gardens, and a fabulous bonsai collection. Children will revel in the Discovery Garden, where they are invited to exercise their green thumbs and explore the world of plants and flowers, worms and all. Seasonal exhibits include a butterfly garden, flower shows, and a miniature railroad display.​

Interact with Science at the Carnegie Science Center

Carnegie science center.

It's an "amusement park for the mind" at this large science museum, where more than 250 hands-on, interactive exhibits bring together science and fun for all ages. Explore a WWII submarine, marvel at a four-story Omnimax film, or tour Southwestern Pennsylvania via miniature railroad.

Visit a One-of-a-Kind "Mattress Factory"

Popscreenshot/WikiCommons

Mattress Factory

The beds are gone, and this former mattress factory is now home to a one-of-a-kind art experience. The Mattress Factory museum of contemporary art features some of the best installation art in the United States, all created by in-residence artists. The avant-garde art is sometimes a bit bewildering, but always interesting.

Learn About Pittsburgh's Diversity

Nationality rooms at the cathedral of learning.

Located in the inspiring Cathedral of Learning on the University of Pittsburgh campus, each of the 24 classrooms reflects the culture and heritage of one of the area's diverse ethnic groups and represents that nationality's contribution to the fabric of Pittsburgh.

Test Your Sporting Mettle at Highmark SportsWorks

Photojunkie/WikiCommons

Highmark SportsWorks is a unique space next to the Carnegia Science Center. Here, you can learn about physics, anatomy, and the life sciences through a series of interactive exhibits—race against an Olympic sprinter, try out your fastball, or climb a rock wall, all at the place where science and sports come together.

Watch Hilarious Improv at Arcade Comedy Theater

Pittsburgh's Arcade Comedy Theater was founded in 2013 and offers an intimate performance space (just 75 seats!) that showcases improv performances and plays. The venue even offers comedy classes if you want to try your hand at making the masses laugh.

See a Baseball Game at PNC Park

Justin Berl /Getty Images 

PNC Park is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates, the city's Major League Baseball team. The classic ballpark seats 38,000 and is located right on the banks of the Ohio River. The season runs from early spring through fall, making for a great summertime activity.

Visit the Pittsburgh Zoo

seele/Getty Images

The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium is one of only six zoo-aquarium combinations in the U.S. Housing more than 4,000 animals, the zoo represents nearly 500 different species, many of which are endangered. It's located in Highland Park.

Drink Local Beer in an Old Church

ctj71081/Flickr

Church Brew Works was founded in 1996, but the building dates back much further. Housed in a church built in 1902, the popular brewpub has four core beer brands, all with fitting names like Celestial Gold and Pious Monk Dunkel. Come for the beer and stay to admire the space's incredible architecture—including original stained glass.

Try the "Greatest Cake in America"

Prantl's Bakery is a Pittsburgh tradition for more than 50 years. While they're famed for their burnt almond torte cake, Prantl's also offers more than 100 other sweets, sure to satisfy any dessert lover.

Ride Rollercoasters at Kennywood Amusement Park

Richard T. Nowitz/Getty Images 

Kennywood is among the oldest amusement parks in the United States, having opened in 1899. This popular attraction now has six roller coasters and a kid's area with 14 different rides. As of early 2019, the park is building the Steel Curtain, which will be the state's largest roller coaster.

Enjoy the Outdoors at Point State Park

npage/Getty Images 

Point State Park sprawls across 36 acres in downtown Pittsburgh. It opened in 1974. The park is well-known for its iconic fountain, in addition to remains of Pittsburgh's two oldest buildings, Fort Pitt and Fort Duquesne. The National Historic Landmark has stunning views and is a great way to spend time outdoors.

Get a New Book at City of Asylum

Pittsburgh's City of Asylum is a unique non-profit with multiple venues throughout the city. As its name suggests, the organization supports exiled writers in residence and also sells an assortment of international literature at its North Side bookstore.

Try New Foods at Federal Galley

This North Shore food hall has four different restaurant concepts, plus a full bar that focuses on local brews. Whether you're interested in Mexican food at El Lugar or pizza at Michigan & Trumbull, there's something for everyone at Federal Galley.

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30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: October 15, 2023

It turns out Philadelphia isn’t the only “P” city in Pennsylvania that’s worth visiting.

Pittsburgh is an industrious city with lots of character.

As the next-biggest city after Philly, Pittsburgh appeals to different demographics and interests.

These are 30 of the best things to do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Table of Contents

1. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

James Kirkikis / Shutterstock

One of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh is to go to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History .

This is among the top museums in Pennsylvania.

It provides lots of fascinating insight into humans and one’s understanding of the world.

There are many unique things to see at this museum.

The exhibitions are amazing if you’re interested in humans and/or animals.

Some of the sights at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History are “Dinosaurs in Their Time” and “Alcoa Foundation Hall of American Indians.”

When you’re looking for what to do in Pittsburgh that’s related to science and natural history, a trip to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History should definitely be on your radar.

This museum is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

2. Pittsburgh Zoo and PGG Aquarium

Hannah M Johnston / Shutterstock

If you’re hoping to come to the city this weekend, one of the top things to do in Pittsburgh is to go to the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium .

You can see lots of great animals, on land and in the water.

Attractions like this make Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania one of the best places to go on vacation with your family.

The curators of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium care about conservation and giving visitors the most pleasurable experience possible.

At the zoo, you must see the elephants, tigers, rhinos, and giraffes.

At the aquarium, there are piranhas, stingrays, and penguins.

The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium is where to go if you adore animals.

Consider making a visit with your friends or family tomorrow, especially if there any special events happening.

Hours and admission costs depend on what time of year it is.

Address:  7370 Baker St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, United States

3. Trundle Manor: House of Oddities

Trundle Manor

Anyone in Pittsburgh that’s into unique experiences has to go to Trundle Manor .

It definitely earns its name as a “House of Oddities.”

However, that title could also be “House of Fun” and it would be just as fitting.

Although it appears to be quite innocuous to passersby, Trundle Manor is a whole new world on the inside.

It’s for people who find haunted houses to be too hoo-hum.

Inside, you’ll find lots of amazing taxidermied animals.

Things kept here are like what you’d see in the spookiest horror movie imaginable.

Trundle Manor is one of the best places to go to Pittsburgh for creepy delights.

It’s a lot of fun being near all of these weird objects.

Visiting Trundle Manor requires scheduling an appointment.

Address:  7724 Juniata St, Pittsburgh, PA 15218, United States

4. Carnegie Museum of Art

HoboJones [ CC BY-SA 3.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

Going to this museum should solidify your opinion of Pittsburgh as a true arts city, even if you already leaned that way.

It’s got everything an art museum should have.

In the permanent collection at this museum are tens of thousands of beautiful pieces.

There are also stupendous temporary exhibitions, such as one focused on Los Angeles artist Margaret Honda.

More than 7,000 pages of works are available for online viewing.

If you’re looking for things to do in Pittsburgh this weekend, going to the Carnegie Museum of Art should be a priority.

This museum is open from Friday to Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Admission is $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for seniors, $11.95 for students and children age three to 18.

Planning to visit other parts of Pennsylvania? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Erie, PA and things to do in Lancaster, PA !

5. The National Aviary

woodsnorthphoto / Shutterstock

Any bird lovers looking for what to do while in Pittsburgh need to come to the National Aviary .

This is one of the best bird refuges in the country.

Should you believe birds to be our feathered friends, you’re bound to love the National Aviary.

You might have grown accustomed to seeing sparrows or pigeons, but the National Aviary offers so much more.

There are more than 150 different birds to see.

You can even enjoy encounters with ones like owls and flamingos.

Non-bird species are also here and available for encounters, including armadillos and sloths.

A trip to the National Aviary is one of the most powerful activities you can enjoy in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It opens every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission costs $17 for adults and $16 for children, age two to 12, and seniors.

Address:  700 Arch St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

6. Mount Washington

f11photo / Shutterstock

For a Pittsburgh photo opportunity that’s worth more than a thousand words, you should come to Mount Washington .

This neighborhood on a hill has become a beloved spot in the city.

Arguably the biggest draw is how great downtown looks from here.

However, this isn’t just a place where you come up, take a photo, and then dip out.

Mount Washington has lots of awesome attractions.

You can appreciate the view even more when you’re eating at a great restaurant like Monterey Bay Fish Grotto.

Downtown Pittsburgh is a sight to behold, and sightseeing from Mount Washington is an amazing experience.

It’s truly fun to gaze upon the city like this.

The only warning is that there are so many things to see from Mount Washington that you’ll have to do your best to take your time to properly enjoy the moment.

7. Randyland

Jeremy Thompson / flickr

With a name that sounds like a beloved childhood board game, Randyland is one of the top attractions in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It’s an artistic wonderland that offers invigorating siteseeing.

Founded by Randy Gilson, a local artist who also lives there Randyland gives you everything you’d want from a colorful neighborhood.

The focus of Randyland is renewal.

There are bricks that came from houses that were being demolished.

Attractions like the Randyland Mirror Wall really help to heighten how playful and special this environment is.

Randy himself is also quite the character, a free spirit who clearly loves to give without expecting anything in return.

Going to Randyland is one of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh.

It’s what to see if you want to see just how resourceful the people of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania are.

Being near this sort of innovation might rub off on you and get your creative energy relly going.

It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to dusk.

Admission is free.

Address:  1501 Arch St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

8. Carnegie Science Center

EQRoy / Shutterstock

The Carnegie contributions to Pittsburgh continue with the fantastic Carnegie Science Center , one of the top 10 science institutions in the country.

When you’re at this Pittsburgh attraction, you can rediscover the fun of science as well as the educational aspect.

Coming here is also one of the most enjoyable activities for families.

Some of the exhibits at the Carnegie Science Center include “H2Oh!,” which is focused on water and rivers, “BodyWorks,” which is focused on the human body, and “SpacePlace,” which is focused on galactic exploration.

This is also the top place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to learn about robots thanks to the amazing “Roboworld.”

If you’re a science geek looking for places to visit in Pittsburgh, you should come to the Carnegie Science Center.

It’s open Monday and Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

General admission is $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for seniors, and $11.95 for children.

Address:  1 Allegheny Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

9. Phipps Conservatory

ismailbayram / Shutterstock

For plant fanatics, going to Phipps Conservatory is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

It’s a lot of fun for anyone who enjoys a more tranquil experience.

Founded in 1893, Phipps Conservatory continues to bring people in today.

Plants that you can see at this Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania attraction include orchids, ferns, trees, and palms.

There are also many great events, such as “Fall Flower Shows.” Phipps Conservatory does a great job of getting in the holiday spirit with the inclusion of the “Holiday Magic! Winter Flower Show and Light Garden.”

Phipps Conservatory is definitely among the top points of interest in Pittsburgh for its beautiful plants and great design.

It’s open from Saturday to Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Admission costs $17.95 for adults, $16.95 for seniors, age 62 and up, and students, and $11 for children, age two to 18.

Address:  1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

10. 4121 Main

Before you “stop and smell the roses” at Phipps Conservatory, you can “wake up and smell the coffee” at 4121 Main .

This is one of the best places to get a hot brew in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Whatever drink you get here, it’s one that you’ll really want to savor.

If you’re visiting from Oregon , the coffee at 4121 Main might taste somewhat familiar.

That’s because it comes from Portland ‘s Heart Coffee Roasters.

There’s also lots of stunning artwork to give this cozy shop even more charm.

4121 Main is the perfect place to stop in between siteseeing expeditions through Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It’s also lots of fun to look around the space and admire how well-put-together it is.

4121 Main is open from Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  4121 Main St, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States

Going on a road trip around Pennsylvania? Check out our lists of things to do in Philadelphia  & things to do in Scranton, PA !

11. Frick Art & Historical Center

Leepaxton at en.wikipedia [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

Coming here is one of the most fun activities in Pittsburgh.

There are multiple buildings that make up the Frick Art & Historical Center, all of which are worth visiting.

You can spend a great day at Frick Art & Historical Center by seeing things like “The Historic Clayton Mansion,” home of Henry Clay Frick and his family.

Plus, check out vintage vehicles at the “Car and Carriage Museum” and thought-provoking pieces at “The Frick Art Museum.”

To cap off your day in a peaceful fashion by exploring the Scenic Gardens & Greenhouse.

When you care about culture, going to the Frick Art & Historical Center is a top example of what to do while in Pittsburgh.

It’s open Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Some exhibitions cost money, but many attractions are free.

Address:  7227 Reynolds St, Pittsburgh, PA 15208, United States

12. Wigle Whiskey Distillery

Wigle Whiskey

If you’re looking for things to do in Pittsburgh at night, you’ll definitely catch wind of the Strip District.

In this vibrant section is Wigle Whiskey Distillery, one of the best distilleries in the United States.

A great way to start your night in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is visiting the Wigle Whiskey Distillery.

Going to the Wigle Whiskey Distillery is one of the top activities in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for people who are really serious about their love for this liquor.

Tours take place on Saturdays.

Otherwise, Wigle Whiskey Distillery is open Monday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday to Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  2401 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, United States

13. Canton Avenue

jefftakespics2 / Shutterstock

Visiting Canton Avenue is one of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh.

However, you need to make sure you’ve got your balance, as there’s no street steeper in the country.

Trying to conquer Canton Avenue is perfect if you love exciting activities.

One of the coolest things about this Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania street is how people will try to conquer it on bike in the yearly “Dirty Dozen” race.

This is one of 13 steep hills to mount.

Anyone who tries this needs to make sure they have a stable bike and that they’re willing to accept the risks.

Making your way up a dangerously steep hill might not seem like one of the most obvious Pittsburgh activities, but the adventure can seriously add to the fun.

As long as you’re responsible and know your limits, Canton Avenue will be good to you.

If you come back to Pittsburgh, it might be to ride in the “Dirty Dozen” race.

Address: 1601 Canton Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15216, USA

14. Three Rivers Heritage Trail

digidreamgrafix / Shutterstock

A fun way to get exercise and enjoy the beauty of Pittsburgh is by going on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail .

You’ll see why Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is considered one of the most beautiful places in the United States after trekking down this trail.

This is also one of the best ways to experience the community character of Pittsburgh.

Walking on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail lets you see how breathtaking the Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela rivers each are.

You can also use your walk as a chance to see some really amazing areas of the city.

If you want to get on the water in a motor-less boat, take the Three Rivers Water Trail.

Should you be coming to Pittsburgh this weekend and want to do right by your body and soul, you better come to Three Rivers Heritage Trail.

It’s a key part of the undeniable loveliness that makes up Pennsylvania.

Your heart will be flowing with love just as these rivers flow with water.

15. Heinz History Center

Alex Liivet / flickr

The biggest museum in Pennsylvania, the Heinz History Center is about more than just ketchup, although that beloved condiment certainly gets some attention.

This one of the most educational Pittsburgh attractions.

At the Heinz History Center, you can get an understanding of the past that might’ve never previously occurred.

One of the best exhibits at this Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania museum is “Pittsburgh: A Tradition of Innovation,” which shows how crucial this city has been when it comes to developing great ideas that still stick with us.

The eponymous famed ketchup brand also has an exhibit.

A more serious but absolutely necessary exhibit to see is “From Slavery to Freedom.”

Visiting the Heinz History Center is what to do if you want to grow your knowledge of Pittsburgh in fun and insightful ways.

This museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission costs $18 for adults, $15 for seniors, age 62 and up, and $9 for students and children, ages six to 17.

People who serve or have served in the military receive a $2 discount.

Address:  1212 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, United States

Exploring other areas of Pennsylvania? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Hershey, PA & some of the things to see in Gettysburg ?

16. Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour

Lauren Topor Reichert / Shutterstock

Some of the best Pittsburgh attractions are restaurants, and the “ Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour ” helps you to find the top ones.

No matter which tour you choose to go on, you can look forward to seeing some very cool restaurants and enjoying some scrumptious meals.

As you go around Pittsburgh, you can further increase your appreciation for the city.

Tours bring you around different areas of Pittsburgh.

Ones you can choose from include Strip District Market, Allentown, and Lawrenceville.

You can also schedule a private tour with a group of 12 or more people.

Eating shouldn’t just be done out of necessity. It should also be a lot of fun.

If you’re in or near Pittsburgh and want to enjoy dining at its most smile-inducing, you need to go on a Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour.

Make sure that you purchase your tickets in advance.

17. Andy Warhol Museum

jpellgen (@1179_jp) / flickr

The art world and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania were both shaken up by the influence of Andy Warhol, who was native to the city.

Today, one of the best places to visit in Pittsburgh for understanding a complex mind is the Andy Warhol Museum .

You might consider coming to Pittsburgh this weekend and browsing the exhibitions dedicated to this amazingly creative individual.

There are five floors of exhibitions featuring Warhol’s art at this Pennsylvania museum.

These include “Campbell’s Soup Box” and “The Chelsea Girls.”

Anyone who comes here should be able to leave with a better understanding of what drove Warhol and why he’s such an influential figure in the art world.

The Andy Warhol Museum is one of the most important places to visit in Pennsylvania if you care about pop art.

It’s open from Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for students, seniors, and children.

Address:  117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

18. Center for PostNatural History

Center for PostNatural History

The Center for PostNatural History is one of the most unusual Pittsburgh attractions but also one of the best.

It stands in sharp contrast to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, as it focuses on natural-occurring species that have since been altered by humans.

This isn’t just scientists playing God for no reason, as the Center for PostNatural History illustrates how much can be gained from delving into science this way.

At the Center for PostNatural History, you can see genetically-modified specimens like BioSteel™ Goats and Triploid Atlantic Salmon.

There are also highly intriguing exhibits like “Domestication of the Dinosaur” and “Making Nature: How We See Animals.”

If you have a child who is interested in biology, this would be a great place to take them.

If you desire places to see in Pittsburgh that show how much scientific curiosity matters, you should go to the Center for PostNatural History.

It’s open on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Address:  4913 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States

19. Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts

Popscreenshot [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

When making plans for what to do at night in Pittsburgh, Heinz Hall immediately stands out as one of your best choices.

Heinz Hall has hosted many incredible artists since it was first dedicated in 1971.

In the last few years, Steely Dan, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, Lauryn Hill, and Ringo Starr have performed here.

There could even be something amazing happening tonight.

Should you be wondering what to do in downtown Pittsburgh that will scratch an itch for culture, you should come to Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts.

Night activities like this help you to see how special of a city Pittsburgh is.

There could even be a great show with tickets still available this week.

Address:  600 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, United States

20. Penn Brewery

Brook Ward / flickr

Enjoying a cool glass of beer can be one of the best aspects of your trip to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Penn Brewery has become known as one of the best microbreweries around thanks to its fine roster of German beer.

It’s also got quite an inspiring story to go along with the beers.

Even if beer isn’t always your drink of choice, Penn Brewery has such a varied selection, it’s hard to imagine that you won’t find at least one that works for you.

Among the brews on tap include the Nut Roll Ale, the Chocolate Meltdown, and the Tangerine Swirl.

There’s also delectable food to go with your beer, including lots of hearty sandwiches.

Coming down to Penn Brewery this weekend for a delicious pint is one of the smartest decisions you can make in Pittsburgh.

The fun of sipping on these quality beers is furthered by getting it right at its point of origin.

Penn Brewery is open from Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tours are at 1 p.m. on certain Saturdays.

Address:  800 Vinial St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

21. Monongahela Incline

Checubus / Shutterstock

If steep heights give you a serious thrill, you’re going to love Pittsburgh.

Monongahela Incline is among the best Pittsburgh attractions for vertical adrenaline junkies.

It’s a wonderfully unique experience that only gets better the further up you go.

There’s so much stuff to do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that gets you out of your shell and shows you what fun is really all about.

The Monogahela Incline runs from Monday to Saturday from 5:30 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. and on Sunday and during holidays from 8:45 to 12 a.m.

It’s $2.50 for a one-way trip and $5 for a roundtrip experience.

Children age 11 and younger ride for half the cost, and children five and younger and seniors ride for free.

Address: 8 Grandview Ave, Port Authority of Allegheny County, Pittsburgh, PA 15211, USA

22. Pittsburgh Tours & More

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Rather than worrying about which Pittsburgh sites to see, Pittsburgh Tours & More provides lots of help with figuring out the ideal points of interest.

Through this service, you can get maximum fun from seeing the sites of the Steel City.

These tours are especially great if you’re traveling with your family or another group.

The guide gives you lots of interesting details about the city and its story.

You might be delighted to learn about all of the great movies that were filmed in this city.

The stops selected for Pittsburgh Tours & More are very cool and show how excellent this Pennsylvania city is.

Pittsburgh Tours & More provides you with an easy solution to sightseeing quandaries.

After you return home, you’ll have lots of great Pittsburgh information to share thanks to these tours.

23. Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery

Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery

The name Jean-Marc Chatellier might ring a bell if you follow the culinary industry, as he’s one of the most famed pastry chefs in the world.

His French bakery, located near Pittsburgh in Millvale, Pennsylvania, shows just how good Chatellier at his craft.

Anyone with a sweet tooth will recognize as one of the greatest tourist attractions in the area.

Some of the things you can get at this bakery include marvelous macaroons, cherishable cakes, and pristine pies.

If you’ve never had a Hungarian nut roll before, this bakery is the place to be.

Additionally, if you want something light but still filling, Jean-Marc Chatellier makes wonderful croissants.

You could come to Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery tomorrow and have your view of pastries fundamentally altered.

Anyone wanting to start their own bakery today needes to come to Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery for some inspiration.

It’s open from Tuesday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Address:  213 North Ave, Millvale, PA 15209, United States

24. The Weeping Glass

The Weeping Glass

Allentown, Pennsylvania is full of eccentric and fun tourist attractions.

The Weeping Glass , located there, is a store the likes of which you’ve never seen.

There are plenty of delightfully unsettling things to see at The Weeping Glass.

While it might seem like a place that’s been around for a very long time, The Weeping Glass actually opened in the second half of 2017.

You can buy some beautifully weird art and knick-knacks that you might not want to send to your mother.

However, that could change if you think your mother would love animal bones for a Christmas gift.

When you want to find places to visit that don’t just give you the same old thing, The Weeping Glass is the most excellent option.

You may come across things that repel and draw you in equal measures.

The Weeping Glass is open from Wednesday to Friday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Address:  817 E Warrington Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15210, United States

25. Historic Market Square

Downtown Pittsburgh feels as vivacious as it does thanks in part to Historic Market Square .

One of the most spirited points of interest in Pennsylvania, Historic Market Square comes across as absolutely timeless.

It fuses together the most awesome aspects of Pittsburgh into a terrific and diverse area.

The Historic Market Square is the home of the fabulous downtown farmers market, which operates seasonally and on Thursdays.

It’s also got the legendary Oyster House.

During the winter, a skating rink is introduced.

If you’re looking into how to plan a trip to Pittsburgh, you need to include going to Historic Market Square.

It’s great to come for specific events or just to see what’s happening during your trip.

Historic Market Square deserves to have its legacy as an essential part of Philadelphia cemented.

Address: 23 Market Place, Intersection of Forbes Avenue and Market Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

26. PNC Park

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Pittsburgh residents love their sports and their teams.

Anyone who loves baseball should try to see a Pittsburgh Pirates game at PNC Park .

Situated by the Allegheny River, PNC Park lets you see Downtown Pittsburgh is one of the most extraordinary ways as well as enjoy lots of great athletics and engaged fans.

On a nice day, there’s nothing better than being at a baseball game, and you must see what it’s like at PNC Park.

Tickets to see the Pirates in action are quite affordable.

Even if they’re not your home team, you can tap into the excitement of rooting alongside the diehard fans.

Address:  115 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

27. Sienna on the Square

Sienna On The Square

If you don’t want to feel like you’re stumbling around trying to find the finest places to eat in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, you should look into booking a table at Sienna on the Square .

A fantastic night on the town in Pittsburgh can definitely be going to this wonderful downtown Italian restaurant.

Sienna on the Square has a menu that takes the comfort of Italian cuisine and focuses on building great flavors, which helps you to remember your meal even months later.

Some of the things you can order include Mafalde Bolognese, Rock Shrimp & Crab Risotto, and Beef Braciole.

To help make your dining experience even better, ask your server about what wine would go best with your chosen dish.

Going to Sienna on the Square is something you must do if you love Italian food.

However, it’s not the same old dishes you could get at any Italian eatery.

Sienna on the Square is open from Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  22 Market Square, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, United States

28. The Church Brew Works

Mike (Theaterwiz) Criswell / flickr

Everyone’s heard the biblical story of water being changed into wine, but how about a church being changed into a brewery?

To be fair, the Church Brew Works turned into a church out of nowhere.

Instead, this house of suds came about from people realizing the potential for the building, following its closure as a church in 1993.

Revived as a brewery, The Church Brew Works has made excellent usage of its home.

The stained-glass windows provide the perfect atmosphere.

Plus, there are the amazing beers, including the Pious Monk Dunkel, the Pipe Organ Pale Ale, and the ThunderHop, IPA.

If you’re hungry, The Church Brew Works has menus for lunch and dinner.

One of the most impressive microbreweries in Pennsylvania, the Church Brew Works is also one of the neatest places to see in Pittsburgh.

It’s open from Monday to Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 11:15 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 a.m., Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 a.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:15 p.m.

Happy hour is Monday to Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Address:  3525 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, United States

29. Primanti Brothers

Primanti Bros.

The best sandwich you’ve ever had could be one you get at Primanti Brothers .

This establishment has become the stuff of legend in Pennsylvania and beyond.

When you’re tired from site seeing and need to refuel, Primanti Brothers has some of the most delightful sandwich combinations around.

The first Primanti Brothers opened in the city’s Strip District.

Since then, it has grown throughout the area and in nearby states, including Maryland and Indiana .

Excellent sandwiches you can get here include the famous “Pitts-burger” and the “Angus Sirloin Steak and Cheese.”

There are also many great non-sandwich options, including salads and wings.

Just being near the menu at Primanti Brothers can have your stomach rumbling.

Take a look at the menu tonight and have fun deciding what you most want to order.

Primanti Brothers has six locations in Pittsburgh, including one at the Pittsburgh International Airport.

30. Schenley Park

Christian Hinkle / Shutterstock

Schenley Park is a marvelous place for fun in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It’s been a part of the city for more than a century.

Spending some time at Schenley Park is what you must do if you love the peace that nature brings.

A fine day at Schenley Park can be spent doing things like going for a hike, riding a bike, going on a picnic, or just sitting in the shade with a novel.

The world can feel like a kinder and gentler place when you’re here.

The origins of Schenley Park are also quite kind, as it was made possible by a donation of land from the wealthy Mary Schenley in 1889.

Some of your best times in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania can be had at Schenley Park.

You can make the most of both the warmer and the cooler months when you’re here.

Schenley Park is open every day from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Address:  Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Pittsburgh

A trip to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is a great way to show appreciation towards yourself and any loved ones.

You can find attractions that are moving, weird, and everything in between.

When you want to visit a city that residents have a ton of rightful pride in, Pittsburgh is one of the best places to be.

You’d have to have a heart made of literal steel to not be able to enjoy a trip to this amazing city.

20 Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh, PA

You'll never be bored in Pittsburgh. Whether visiting for the first time, have been a resident for years, or are returning after time away, you'll love the variety of Pittsburgh tourist attractions and sightseeing opportunities available to you. Read on for more information on 20 of the best Pittsburgh attractions for visitors of all ages.

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1. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a must-see for nature enthusiasts, families seeking things to do in Pittsburgh, and friends looking for Instagram-worthy photo-ops. A learning landscape from start to finish, you can take a self-guided tour and explore the gardens on your own of their extensive collections of flora and artwork, or embark on a one-hour tour to get an explanation of the history of the astounding plant assortments. This option is perfect for exploring the gardens with a small group.

The Shop at Phipps is a great stop after you explore the grounds. You can find glass flowers, custom jewelry, and eco-friendly toys inspired by the Conservatory. By this point, you're probably feeling hungry, so stop by Café Phipps for salads, sandwiches, or other eats. The eatery has vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.

For more information on all the exhibits, events, and other attractions, visit the Phipps Conservatory website. You'll want to buy your tickets online to secure your preferred date and time to explore this amazing destination.

2. The Duquesne Incline

Have your camera ready for fantastic photo ops of Steel City’s picturesque skyline and surrounding vistas with a delight-filled ride on the historic Duquesne Incline . Climb aboard the beautifully restored wooden cable car that has transported travelers to and from the top of Mount Washington for almost 150 years.

Be sure to stop in the museum at the incline’s top station to learn about this iconic mode of transportation. You can even see the original machinery with its wooden gear teeth and today’s machinery that propels the cable car along nearly 800 feet of rail line.

FYI: The Incline is a “cash only” operation, so be sure to have the exact amount of cash in hand because there are no ATMs on-site (although they do accept Port Authority of Allegheny County bus passes and tickets). You’ll want to stop in their gift shop to find fun and interesting mementos of your time on the incline.

3. Acrisure Stadium Tours

Immerse yourself in the world of Pittsburgh football with a behind-the-scenes tour of Acrisure Stadium , home of the Steelers and the Pitt Panthers. Considered one of the best football stadiums in the nation, they offer a variety of tour options with each providing an up-close view of stadium facilities.

You’ll get to see the Steelers locker room, the playing field, and the FedEx Great Hall showcasing some of the greatest moments of Steeler’s history on the Highlights and Ultimate tours. For a truly epic experience, book a Game Day tour where you’ll have pre-game access to the field and sidelines for amazing photo ops, along with other exclusive guided tours before game time.

Of course, you can also visit the stadium for a Steelers or Panthers game, concert, or private event, as well the annual Kickoff and Rib Festival where you can enjoy ribs from a variety of vendors, beverages, festival foods, games, and tour the FedEx Great Hall.

For more information on the tours and events, check out the Acrisure Stadium website.

4. 'Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour

Enjoy a taste of Pittsburgh’s hottest culinary scenes with a 'Burgh Bits & Bites food tour, rated the city’s best! Each tour offers generous “bites” of the latest ethnic foods and traditional fare, accompanied by a delectable “side dish” of local history.

Tours are offered for the following locations, each accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, or create your own custom tour , ideal for groups and business events.

• Strip District
• Lawrenceville,

Whether you prefer your food paired with colorful and funky, artsy and historic, quaint and charming, or a simply delicious adventure, your taste buds will be thanking you. Book your guided food tour directly online at 'Burgh Bits & Bites.

5. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

If you're intrigued or simply filled with wonder by nature and the natural world that surrounds us, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History is one Pittsburgh destination you won't want to miss. With tens of millions of objects and specimens from throughout the world and down through the ages, nature’s finest is on full display and sure to delight all ages and interests.

Below is a sample of the fascinating and breathtaking galleries and exhibits you’ll find at this iconic natural history museum, known as one of the nation’s best.

• Dinosaurs in Their Time
• From Egypt to Pittsburgh
• Hall of Botany
• Discovery Basecamp
• Alcoa Foundation Hall of American Indians
• Hall of African Wildlife
• Wertz Gallery of Gems and Jewelry
• Bird Hall and Bug Hall
• Art of the Diorama

With so much to see and experience, be sure to purchase your timed ticket (s) to guarantee entrance for your preferred date and time. Don’t worry; once in with your confirmed ticket you can stay as long as you like!

6. Carnegie Science Center

With four floors filled with interactive exhibits, there is so much to see and experience at the Carnegie Science Center . From the earth’s waters to the stars and pretty much everything in between, this science museum is designed to captivate your mind and imagination.

The museum’s roster of live demonstrations and special exhibits guarantees you’ll find something new and exciting to explore, along with the many fun and engaging permanent exhibits and attractions including:

• Mars: The Next Giant Leap
• USS Requin (SS 481) (self-guided tour of actual submarine!)
• Buhl Planetarium & Observatory
• Rangos Giant Cinema (showing popular, science-related, and holiday movies)
• Highmark SportsWorks®
• Robot Hall of Fame
• H2Oh! (interactive waterways exhibit)
• NETL Energy Zone (National Energy Technology Laboratory electricity exhibit)
• Miniature Railroad & Village®
• Little Learner Clubhouse
• Bricksburgh (perfect for little ones and those who love building blocks!)
• Fab Lab Public Workshops

You’ll want to check out their calendar of special events packed full of fun and interesting activities and topics specifically geared to children, teens, and adults only.

Before visiting the science center, be sure to purchase your tickets online . Please note that while your General Admission ticket will give you access to most of the museum, there are a few areas where an additional fee is required.

7. Andy Warhol Museum

Embrace your artistic side with a visit to the Andy Warhol Museum . Housing the largest collection of Warhol art, films, and archives in the world, including his iconic “Campbell’s Soup Cans,” the museum is among the fun things to see in Pittsburgh.

The museum’s seven floors are filled with interactive experiences and displays. Stop in the 4 th floor to view a large selection of his film and videos, including screen tests he took of the famous and non-famous. Then, make your own screen test using their digital screen test machine . You can even create your own Warhol-inspired artistic masterpiece at the museum’s hands-on art studio, The Factory . Welcoming all ages, the studio is open on select days of the week

You can purchase your tickets online or at the door. Check out their public programs and performances webpage and events calendar for the latest news on all the exciting things happening at this one-of-a-kind art museum that is as unique as the artist who inspired its creation!

8. Cathedral of Learning Tour

Soaring 535 feet into the Pittsburgh skyline, the 42-story Cathedral of Learning on the University of Pittsburgh campus is one of the city’s treasured landmarks. Housing the renowned Nationality and Heritage Rooms , the Gothic Revival-inspired skyscraper honors the many communities of people who have been instrumental in making Pittsburgh the great city it is today.

The following are just a sample of the ethnicities and heritages you can see on a guided tour of the cathedral’s 31 National and Heritage rooms.

• African Heritage Room
• Chinese Room
• Early American Room
• French Room
• German Room
• Indian Room
• Israel Heritage Room
• Italian Room
• Korean Heritage Room
• Syria-Lebanon Room
• Polish Room
• Czechoslovak Room
• Ukrainian Room

Each room is beautiful and reflects the rich ethnic history of this captivating city. The university offers both 30- and 90-minute tours, including an evening tour. Book your in-person guided tour of this iconic building. It’s almost like taking a trip around the world!

9. Bike the Burgh Tour

Experience Pittsburgh’s well-known and not-so-well gems in an entirely new way with a 6- to 9-mile Bike the Burgh Tour . Their three-hour tours will have you pedaling along low-traffic streets, designated bike lanes, and bike trails along the rivers. Best yet, it’s all along flat terrain, which means no strenuous hills to climb!

All tours are led by an experienced bike/tour guide and perfect for families, individuals, and groups of friends. You can bring your own bike, but no worries if you’re packing light. You can rent an eight-speed bike, helmet, and even a bike trailer for real little ones who aren’t big enough to pedal on their own. They offer a variety of tours, including

• the highly popular Beauty of the Burgh Tour
• the “insider” Pittsburgh's Hidden Treasures Tour
• the super scenic Bridges in the Burgh Tour
• the sports lover’s Bike to the Ballgame Tour that ends at PNC Park or Acrisure Stadium to enjoy a baseball or football game and a cold beer!

Speaking of beer… They also offer a four-hour, adults-only Bikes & Brews Tour where you’ll visit four of the area’s great craft breweries and be treated to some great brews, fantastic food truck fare, and fun souvenirs.

Choose your favorite, then book your Bike the Burgh Tour for a scenic bike ride through Pittsburgh!

10. Walk the Burgh Tour

Don your walking shoes (or sneakers) for a fun, interesting, and engaging tour of “the Burgh” with a Walk the Burgh Tour(s) . For close to a decade their intrepid guides have taken scores of visitors by and into the city’s landmarks, iconic buildings, storied neighborhoods, and adventure-filled stairways, including tours where you’ll find some of the city’s tastiest libations and eeriest venues.

Their selection of tours offered year-round includes:

• Best of the Burgh Tour , exploring the downtown’s most well-known and hidden gems
• Whiskey Tasting Tour , a delicious taste of the Burgh’s whiskey-filled past and present
• Black & Ghost Tour , an eerie downtown history lesson with a spooky twist
• Art N’AT Tour , a journey off the downtown’s beaten path to find hidden treasures of art
• Hollywood East Tour , visiting original film locations shot in and around the Burgh
• Discover Oakland Tour , an epicenter of museums, mansions, universities, and history

Hardier “soles” can experience a truly insider tour of the city with a Simply Steps: A City Steps Tour of Troy Hill & Spring Garden that takes you up and down a few of the city’s 800 or so stairways linking neighborhoods and cultures and offered May-Nov.

Each tour typically takes about two hours and most welcome all ages. With so many fantastic options, it may be hard to choose! Check out all their tours and book your favorite , including their nighttime Holiday Lights tour, for a super fun and interesting time with your friends or family.

11. Gateway Clipper Riverboat Cruise

Sail along Pittsburgh’s famed three rivers with a sightseeing cruise aboard one of the Gateway Clipper Fleet ‘s riverboats. The cruises take you on all three rivers: the Allegheny, the Ohio, and the Monongahela, as entertaining and informative guides share fun facts and captivating stories of each river’s history and landmarks you pass along the way. They operate a full-service bar and a snack bar on board.

Enhance your sailing experience with a luncheon, dinner, or 21+ specialty dining cruise. They also offer Halloween Fun and Haunted cruises on select dates in the fall, as well as a variety of seasonal themed cruises throughout the year.

Make the cruising experience extra special for the little ones with their kids themed cruises featuring some of their favorite princesses, comic book, and blockbuster movie heroes for a meet and greet and DJ dance party. Be sure to check their website to see when all these and all the extra-special cruises are being offered and availability.

Check the booking availability and secure your spot for a three rivers cruise!

12. Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar

No trip to Pittsburgh would be complete without a pilgrimage to Primanti Bros. ’ original, Strip District location. Named one of “America’s Classic Restaurants” by none other than James Beard, this classic has been serving up its “classic” Pitts-burger® sandwich since 1933.

Be sure to arrive hungry because this massive sandwich starts off with two thick slices of Italian bread piled high with your choice of grilled meat, a big slice of melted Provolone, a mound of hand cut french fries, sweet yet tangy cole slaw, and topped with two slices of fresh tomato. It is a true Pittsburgh experience all its own.

Afterwards, you might want to start planning a Primanti Bros. roadtrip. They have expanded from their humble beginnings so you can find this famed restaurant at more than 40 locations, each one featuring that classic taste of Pittsburgh.

13. Passport to Pittsburgh Tours

Don’t have a lot of time but want to see as much of Pittsburgh as you can?! Enjoy a whirlwind tour of Pittsburgh’s landmarks, attractions, and neighborhoods on the Pittsburgh 101 Tour offered by Passport to Pittsburgh . This “crash course” of the city’s environs is just one of the many delightful tours they offer both in the city and the surrounding areas, along with numerous special interest tours.

Whichever tour you choose, whether it’s one of their many food-centric tours (Pass The Pierogies Tour, for example), seasonal, or specialty tours (Brews and Pews tour of churches and microbreweries), you are guaranteed to have learned and experienced something new and leave with something to remember with a smile, i.e., their “Tourism Trifecta.”

Explore their Pittsburgh tours to find something perfect for your visit! These tours sell out quickly, so plan to book your spot before arriving in the Steel CIty!

14. Bicycle Heaven

Stop by Bicycle Heaven to see the world's largest bicycle museum and bike shop. Housing 6,000 antique, rare, collectible, and new and used bikes, this little slice of (bicycle) heaven is worth the trip just to see their special exhibit featuring the Schwinn DX Cruiser featured in the 1985 film classic, “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” that starred Pee-wee Herman, along with bikes seen in movies “A Beautiful Mind,” “Super 8,” “Fathers & Daughters,” to name but a few.

Their expansive collection of bicycles includes a 19th-century “Boneshaker,” hundreds of bikes that date back to the early 1900s, and 17 of the 30 or so of the first fiberglass bikes ever made and known as the Bowden Spacelander. Add to that, their collection extends to a wide variety of bike memorabilia and bike-related, pop star merchandise.

You can even trade, rent, or purchase a new or used bike for yourself, get your bike tuned up, or find that really hard-to-find part your bike is missing. Bicycle Heaven is open daily, and owners Craig and Mindy offer free admission!

15. All Day Hop On, Hop Off Tour Pass

Hop aboard a bright red, double-decker bus and enjoy a day of Pittsburgh sightseeing with a “hop on, hop off” tour offered by The Pittsburgh Tour Company . The tour makes 21 stops and along the way, you’ll be entertained by friendly and funny guides who’ll share engaging stories about the city’s history, landmarks, art, and iconic buildings.

Hop off and indulge your cultural side at the Andy Warhol Museum, the Heinz History Center, or the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Take in a game at Heinz Field or PNC Park, grab a bite to eat in the bustling Strip District, or scope out spectacular views from the scenic overlook on Mount Washington. Explore on your own, then hop on a later tour bus.

They even offer haunted tours on Friday and Saturday nights in the fall if you want to explore Pittsburgh’s spooky side. It’s easy to plan your Pittsburgh trip when you book your all-day tour pass for a hop-on, hop-off adventure or opt for a shorter sightseeing trip only with their Just The Tour pass for a once-around, 2.25-hour tour of Pittsburgh’s cultural, historic, architectural, and shopping gems.

16. Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour

Calling all craft beer lovers! Enjoy VIP access to some of the best and biggest breweries in Pittsburgh on The Pittsburgh Signature Brew Tour offered by City Brew Tours. You’ll visit three of the city’s stellar craft breweries, each with its own unique ambiance and beer styles on your 3.5-hour tour.

Each tour is led by a guide who knows the Steel City and knows beer. Along with a behind-the-scenes tour of each brewery, up to 12 samples of fine craft beer, and a delicious local snack, you’ll get to expand your beer knowledge from the history of this storied beverage from ancient times to today’s modern brewing methods. Contact City Brew Tours to arrange your exclusive beer tour today.

After the tour, extend the “hoppiness” by subscribing to City Brew Tours’ monthly beer box. Each box is packed with eight craft beer samples from select breweries in a particular city from throughout the U.S. When the winter holidays roll around, surprise your beer loving buddies with a “12 Days of Christmas” or “8 Days of Hanukkah” beer box.

17. Pittsburgh Outdoor Escape Game

Explore Pittsburgh in a whole new and exciting way with Questo’s Discover Pittsburgh outdoor escape game. With intriguing clues and puzzles to solve, you’ll find some of the Steel City’s hidden gems as you make your way from the Strip District’s unique food markets, restaurants, and shops to the Heinz History Center where you’ll learn about the city’s amazing past and its impact on U.S. history.

Next stop: the fun interactive activities and exhibits at the Andy Warhol Museum housing the world’s largest collection of the amazing artwork of Pittsburgh’s favorite son, Andy Warhol. The game ends on the North Shore with its spectacular views of the city’s skyline and storied bridges.

To play, download the Questo game on your mobile device and follow the city-specific instructions. There’s no need to worry about time expiring because unlike typical escape room challenges there’s no time limit to complete this escape game and one of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh!

18. Pittsburgh Scavenger Hunt

Bar crawling just got better with this twist on tradition! The Let’s Roam “Party Through Pittsburgh” Bar Crawl Scavenger Hunt will provide plenty of laughs and entertainment and fun evening out. The two-hour-long, eight-stop scavenger hunt is designed for maximum adventure, whether with a bunch of friends or groups looking for fun Pittsburgh activities with individualized roles and challenges for everyone.

The game begins when you start searching for clues as you walk to various bars on Carson Street. Discover clues found on statues, plaques, and other hidden sites as you traipse from bar to bar guided by the scavenger hunt’s interactive questions and photo challenges. Along the way, you might even learn some things about Pittsburgh you never know before!

Purchase single scavenger hunt tickets or an unlimited annual pass covering you and your entire posse for scavenger hunts at a wide variety of locations.

19. Pittsburgh Parks

Take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle and escape to the great outdoors at one of the city’s awesome parks without ever leaving the Burgh. First, get your Primanti Bros. sandwich to go (or food from one of the city’s other fantastic eateries!), spread out a blanket, and then sit back and enjoy a delicious al fresco lunch or early dinner surrounded by the sights and sounds of Mother Nature.

These are a few of our favorite parks in Pittsburgh:

• Schenley Park
• Point State Park
• Point of View Park
• West End Overlook Park
• Arsenal Park
• Highland Park
• Grandview Park

20. Local Pittsburgh Landmarks

There’s so much to see and do in Pittsburgh that we couldn’t limit the count to just 20, so below are some other of our favorite spots you might want to check out next time you’re in the Burgh!

• Water Steps and Canal Square in in the North Shore Riverfront Park
• Market Square
• Fort Pitt Block House
• The Tribute to Children, Fred Rogers Memoria l
• August Wilson Center for African American History
• Church of the Epiphany
• Inventionland
• Carnegie Museum of Art

We've highlighted some amazing things to do near Pittsburgh and in the city’s environs, but the greater Pennsylvania has so much more to offer. In-state and out-of-state travelers looking for unique overnight accommodations or day trip advice will find just what they're looking for on the VISIT PA website. From dining and wineries to events and outdoor adventures , visitpa can help you plan a Pennsylvania trip packed with excitement and help you plan the best experience in Pennsylvania.

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22 Unique & Fun Things to Do in Pittsburgh, PA

Last Updated: May 29, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

The following list of things to do in Pittsburgh is brought to you by Julia from Planned Wanderings . A western NY native whose dad is obsessed with all things Pittsburgh, Julia enjoys exploring new places, meeting penguins, and chasing after the best donuts in the US (all of which you can do in Pittsburgh)!

I don’t usually like big cities. I prefer cute small towns that look like Gilmore Girls or Hallmark movies were filmed there.

But Pittsburgh, PA is truly something special. Sure you have your typical big city attractions, but there are also so many unique things to do in Pittsburgh that you really can’t do anywhere else! And the city itself is beautiful, with its gorgeous skyline, iconic yellow bridges, and central fountain located at the very tip of The Point, where three rivers unite.

While the Steel City hasn’t always been the destination that it is today (the smoke from the steel factories actually made it constantly dark and smoky–there’s even a theory that Batman’s Gotham City was based on Pittsburgh!), I believe it is truly one of the best city destinations in the U.S.

You can even knock out a huge chunk of my Pennsylvania bucket list, just by visiting Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas! So here is my list of the best things to do in Pittsburgh, PA, plus helpful advice and extra tips for visiting this top U.S. city destination.

Save this List of Things to do in Pittsburgh for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Get to Know Pittsburgh on the “Transportainment” Bus

If this is your first visit to Pittsburgh (or if you just want to take a comedy filled tour with a drink in hand), get to know the city a little with a comedy tour on The Burgh Bus. This BYOB tour is led by local comedians through all of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and iconic sites.

2. Ride the Inclines

Without a doubt, riding one (or both!) of Pittsburgh’s historic inclines is one of the most special and unique things to do in Pittsburgh! Pittsburgh has two historic inclines (they originally had 12!), the Monongahela (pronounced mah-non-ga-hail-la) and the Duquesne (pronounced due-kane). These two inclines remain from the glory days of the city’s steel industry, when the steel workers would ride them up and down Pittsburgh’s steep hills to get to work.

The Monongahela: The “Mon” Incline was the first funicular railway built to carry passengers in the US! It rides up the side of Mount Washington, and looks out on the Monongahela River.

This incline is a little bit cheaper than its sister (about a mile down the road), but the view here is not as spectacular. A lot of Pittsburghers still use this incline to commute to work in the city. It is easy to walk to from the Station Square neighborhood, and you can park in the Station Square Parking Garage or take the subway.

It’s $3.50 for a round trip fare. You can pay in cash (but bring exact change) or use a credit card at the ticket machine.

Duquesne Incline: The Duquesne Incline is not as easily accessible by public transportation as its sister incline, but this one has the best view of Pittsburgh! It is purely magical! Try to come in the evening to catch the sunset.

It is located about a mile down the road from Station Square. You can park in either the upper or the lower parking lots (If you’re going to ride the incline, I suggest parking in the lower lot to ride it up the hill. If you just want the view, park at the top, AKA Grandview Overlook).

It costs $5 for a round trip ticket, and you do need exact change. Also be aware that there are no public restrooms available at the Duquesne Incline.

3. Float on 3 Different Rivers

I always love enjoying the waterfront area of a city, but Pittsburgh is extra special because it is not just one, not even two, but THREE different rivers! Pittsburgh is located at the meeting point of 3 rivers: The Monongahela, the Ohio, and the Allegheny rivers.

There are a lot of different ways you can enjoy the waterfront:

• Pro Tip: Don’t sit in the back by the motor, or you won’t be able to hear any of the fun facts on the tour!
• Rivers of Steel: Rivers of Steel actually offers multiple different tours of the city of Pittsburgh, including walking tours through old blast furnaces (now a national historic landmark), and their “Uniquely Pittsburgh” boat tour.
• Venture Outdoors: If you want to get out on the river(s) on your own, one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh is to rent a kayak and hit the water! Venture Outdoors has several kayak locations where you can explore all around downtown, North Shore, and South Shore at your own pace.

4. Walk Across the Famous Yellow Arch Bridges

The Steel City is also known as the “City of Bridges.” In fact, Pittsburgh has the most bridges of any city in the world (446 to be exact), including Venice, Italy! And almost all of those bridges are painted a bright yellow that is an iconic part of Pittsburgh’s skyline.

Three of these bridges connect the North Shore to the downtown heart of Pittsburgh. They all have matching arches, are named after famous Pittsburghians (who all have museums you can visit), and have dedicated pedestrian walkways. These are known as the “Three Sisters,” and walking across them is one of the iconic things you have to do on a trip to Pittsburgh (not to mention the great photo ops they afford!).

The Three Sisters bridges:

• Roberto Clemente Bridge – Roberto Clemente was a Hall of Fame baseball player for the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 50s and 60s. You can learn more about him at the Clemente Museum.
• Andy Warhol Bridge – The famous pop artist Andy Warhol was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. You can learn more about his Pittsburgh roots, and see his famous artworks at the Andy Warhol Museum.
• Rachel Carson Bridge – Rachel Carson was a national scientist and celebrated author during the early to mid twentieth century. You can visit the Rachel Carson Homestead, just north of Pittsburgh.

5. Follow the Fred Rogers Trail

Another famous Pittsburghian is Mr. Fred Rogers, the beloved TV personality behind Mr. Rogers Neighborhood. The Show was filmed in Pittsburgh, where Fred Rogers lived. Be sure to watch the Tom Hanks movie A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood to learn more about Fred and his life in Pittsburgh.

There are so many places you can visit dedicated or related to Mr. Rogers that there is an entire “trail” to follow. Here are some of the highlights of the Fred Rogers Trail :

• See sets, puppets, and some of Fred’s iconic sweaters at the Heinz History Center.
• See the Mr. Rogers statue, and hear a recording of him singing some of his original songs.
• Spend a day at Mr. Rogers favorite amusement park: Kennywood.

6. Learn About Ketchup

While you’re at the Heinz History Center, you can learn all about ketchup, America’s favorite condiment, and the product the Heinz family is most known for. For example, you can learn that they originally made a variety of ketchups, including mushroom and liver… (feel free to impress your family with that #funfact).

There are also tons of other history exhibits to explore at the center, including the Mr. Rogers set, a tribute to the Lewis and Clark expedition that passed through Pittsburgh, and even a children’s play area. This is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh, especially if you are visiting with the whole family.

7. Explore Classrooms from Around the World

Probably Pittsburgh’s most recognizable building, the Cathedral of Learning is a 42 story building on the University of Pittsburgh’s Campus. People used to gather here to watch baseball games at the nearby Forbes Field, which could be seen from the top observation deck.

The cathedral is the second tallest educational building in the world. But it’s worth visiting for more than just its height and (Hogwarts-esque) architecture. You can take a guided tour of the building to see the nationality rooms that are designed to represent classrooms from all over the world, or you can pop in on your own for free during school hours. This is by far one of the best and most unique things to do in Pittsburgh.

Be sure to check the school’s hours if you plan to visit on your own, so you don’t show up the day after graduation… The best place to park if you are driving yourself is in the Soldiers & Sailors Parking Garage, just up the street.

8. Go on a Mission to the Moon

There are multiple museums to visit in downtown Pittsburgh. One of the most unique museums is the Moonshot Museum, a small science museum where you can watch actual spacecraft be assembled, and go on a virtual mission to the moon!

The museum’s main goal is to create interactive experiences that simulate working in the space industry, so if you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at being an astronaut, this is the place for you!

9. See Andy Warhol’s Famous Pop Culture Paintings

Another of Pittsburgh’s many museums, and one of the most popular things to do in Pittsburgh, is to visit an art museum with 7 floors dedicated entirely to one of the most famous artists of all time: Andy Warhol.

Although Warhol worked and lived in NYC, he was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he began his art career as an intern designing window displays for local businesses. The Andy Warhol Museum is located on the North Shore, just across the Andy Warhol Bridge from downtown Pittsburgh. Try to visit right when they open to avoid crowds.

Bonus: As a fun day trip, you can make your way to the suburb of Castle Shannon to leave a soup can at Andy Warhol’s gravesite.

10. Experience Weird Art & Illusions

Located in the narrow historic streets of Pittsburgh’s Mexican War Streets district, T he Mattress Factory (contrary to its name) is a local art museum full of unique exhibits.

Their mission is to provide a space where artists can work without boundaries or hindrances. As such, they usually have an artist in residence, who lives on grounds while creating something really special in the space provided. You will see some of the most unique and immersive art here, making it a great spot for instagram selfies!

The Mattress Factory has three different historic buildings to explore, and a beautiful garden. They do have a small (free!) parking lot, and are within easy walking distance from several bus stops and the National Aviary. If you do drive yourself, take note that the streets in this neighborhood are extremely narrow.

Bonus: If you like weird art and illusions, be sure to check out Pittsburgh’s version of the Museum of Illusions.

11. Take a Selfie in Randyland

Randyland… Randyland is… well, you just have to see it. Local resident Randy Gilson decided to brighten up the neighborhood by painting recycled objects he found and creating artistic sculptures around his house.

This eventually led to what today is known as “Randyland,” an entire street corner covered in the most colorful and eccentric display you’ve ever seen. It is a must-see spot on any Pittsburgh itinerary!

It can be difficult to find a parking spot (and the streets are super narrow!), so I would suggest walking from the nearby Mattress Factory or the National Aviary/Allegheny Commons Park.

12. Get a Painting Made by a Sloth

Pittsburgh is home to the National Aviary, the country’s largest zoo dedicated just to birds (and their popular resident sloth!). You can get super up close to the birds at the National Aviary. I’m talking right in your face (but hopefully they don’t poop on your face…) close.

In addition to seeing all the amazing animals (including penguins, which are the best!!), you can book a unique animal encounter. Some of the ones they offer include feeding penguins or sitting down with the sloth while he actually makes a painting just for you!!! I honestly can’t get over how cool that is (though it’s a bit expensive too, so I may just go with the cheaper option to meet and hold said sloth). Talk about a special souvenir to remember your unique Pittsburgh trip.

Located on the beautiful grounds of Allegheny Commons Park, close to the children’s museum, and easy to get to via public transportation, the National Aviary is one of the best Pittsburgh attractions to visit. If you’re driving, they have a small parking lot that costs $5 for the day, or you can find paid street parking out front.

13. Relax at Point State Park

Point State Park is located (in my opinion) in the most beautiful part of Pittsburgh, right at the little point of land where the three rivers meet. There is a gorgeous fountain right at the tip of the point, where I love to just sit and relax for a while.

But there are even more things to do at Point State Park than just relax at the giant fountain. You can rent a bike and ride around the park (and the three rivers heritage trail ), or just take a stroll through the many riverfront trails. You can also visit the Fort Pitt Museum (which is included with your admission to the Heinz History Center).

14. Get Excited About Sports History

My dad is a HUGE Pittsburgh Steelers fan. And a Pirates fan. And a Penguins fan. And he doesn’t even watch baseball or hockey… he just likes Pittsburgh.

Now, I myself (for the record) am NOT a Steelers fan. Orrr… a baseball fan at all (but seriously, it’s sooo boring!!!). However, I can’t help but get a little excited about sports when I see all the historical sites in Pittsburgh. I even got excited about baseball when I read all the historic baseball moments that took place in the city.

Here’s what I mean:

• Pittsburgh is the site of the first professional football game. In other words, it’s the place where players were first paid to play (American) football.
• If you’re a football fan, you can also tour Acrisure Stadium (Formerly Heinz Field, which I personally think is a much better name. Like, how do you even pronounce that?? But I digress…). And I have to admit, it is a pretty cool stadium (If you’re not a sports fan, you can also experience the stadium for an epic concert, like Taylor Swift. Or as my mom called her, Twila Paris…).
• You can stand in the spot where the immaculate reception was caught (if you’re not familiar with sports history, the immaculate reception was an unlikely reception off a teammate’s helmet that resulted in a game winning touchdown in the final seconds of a playoff game. Talk about dramatic. It is one of the greatest, and most controversial plays in sports history).
•  The Pittsburgh Pirates played in the very first game of the World Series in 1903, at Huntington Ave. Grounds in Boston, MA. But games 4-6 of the first World Series were played at Exposition Park in Pittsburgh.
• Babe Ruth hit his last (three!) home runs in Forbes Field in Pittsburgh, PA, just a few days before the final baseball game of his storied career. His third and final home run of the game sailed out of the park, which was the first time anyone had ever hit a fair ball out of the (larger than average) Forbes Field.
• Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente played baseball in Pittsburgh for his entire career, from 1955-1972. He was one of the first players of color to be hired by major league baseball, and was the first Latin-American player to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. But he is most remembered for his charity work, his incredible heart, and his tragic death, which occurred in pursuit of helping others. One of the Three Sisters bridges is named after him, and he has his own museum in Pittsburgh you can visit to learn more!
• In 1971, the Pittsburgh Pirates became the first team in major league baseball to field an all-Black lineup! So many big moments in baseball history happened right here in Pittsburgh!
• To top it all off, if you’re a baseball fan (which I’m not…) you will know that PNC Park, the present day ballpark in downtown Pittsburgh, is considered by many to be the best ballpark in major league baseball. Not a bad spot to watch a game!

15. Relive a 1960’s World Series Game

Ok, I think I went a little crazy talking about all of the unique sports history that took place in Pittsburgh, but the city honestly has so many things to be proud of, that even us non-sports fans can get excited!

But there is one sporting event I haven’t mentioned yet, because it deserves its own spot on my list of unique things to do in Pittsburgh. If you are in town on October 13, you can relive the final World Series game of 1960!

And when I say relive, I mean that people gather at the site of the old ballpark, maybe pick up a hotdog from the stand down the street, and listen to a radio recording of the final game of the 1960’s World Series.

They cheer when the crowd cheers. They sing Take Me Out to the Ball Game when it’s played. And they don’t high five at the end of the game. Because people didn’t high five in 1960.

The 1960 World Series was unique to the history of baseball because it is the only World Series game that was won on a home run hit in the bottom of the final inning of the seventh (and last) game of the World Series. Talk about a dramatic finish.

And it just happened to be the Pittsburgh Pirates who won.

So go ahead and plan a trip to Pittsburgh in the fall, so you can relive this dramatic moment with a radio, hot dogs, and no high fives.

16. Eat Around the World in the Strip District

Moving on from sports… there are so many great places to eat in Pittsburgh! One of the best places to eat, and the best things to do in Pittsburgh, is the Strip District.

The Strip District is a neighborhood of Pittsburgh, located mostly between Penn Ave. and Smallman Street, with lots of local shops and restaurants.

The area is especially known for its international shops. You can visit a Japanese market, an Italian bakery, a Thai restaurant, or the famous Pennsylvania Macaroni Co. Whether you’re looking for fresh food to cook a meal, or want to grab an authentic slice of pizza and a cappuccino, you can find it in the Strip District.

There is plenty of parking available along the street, but the easiest place to park is in the lot behind The Terminal on Smallman Street. Parking is free for the first half hour. Also note that most shops in the Strip District will accept credit cards, but be sure to check first, as there are a few that don’t.

17. Eat Fries on a Sandwich (and Everything Else)

When you think of food in Pittsburgh, the first thought that comes to mind should be fries on sandwiches.

And when you think of fries on sandwiches (and salads!) the first thought that comes to mind should be: genius (because seriously, more people would enjoy eating salads if they all came with fries!).

The story goes that the truckers and blue collar workers didn’t have a lot of time (or hands) to eat with. So when Joe Primanti threw some spontaneous fries on their sandwich orders, they loved it! They could now scarf down their meals and get back to work, or eat everything with one hand, while still driving with the other.

Primanti Bros. is the famous chain from Pittsburgh, PA that sells the classic sandwiches with fries and coleslaw (though you can find fries on pretty much anything on pretty much any menu). Now, many Pittsburghians don’t particularly love the Primanti Bros. chain. But, they can all agree that if you’re going to eat at Primanti Bros, you have to eat at the original location in the Strip District (and, if you’re going to Pittsburgh, you have to eat a sandwich with fries on it).

The store is pretty small, so try to visit outside of peak dining hours. You can seat yourself, and pay at the counter when you’re done eating (and yes, they do accept credit cards).

18. Eat (Lots of!) Little Donuts

I have one more particular Strip District restaurant that I want to point out. Probably because I am obsessed with donuts, and these donuts are actually in my top 5 favorite donut shops in the US!

Peace, Love and Little Donuts is a small chain that can be found all over the north east, but the original shop is in the Strip District in Pittsburgh (and a bonus of visiting the original shop is that you get a free donut just for walking in!).

They have TONS of toppings to choose from, and the best part is, because they’re so little, you can try lots of different flavors!

19. Attend a Pickle Festival

On the subject of food, one of the most unique things to do in Pittsburgh is to attend a… wait for it… pickle festival (this is an entirely G rated festival, so if you’re mind went somewhere else… don’t!).

As we’ve already covered, Pittsburgh is home to the iconic Heinz ketchup company, but their original products were actually horseradish, sauerkraut, and pickles. You can celebrate this history at the annual pickle festival: Picklesburgh.

The festival takes place in July each year, and includes pickle pizza, pickle cotton candy, and even a pickle juice drinking contest… Challenge accepted! (Just kidding…I think I may have just thrown up in my mouth a little bit).

20. Eat a Big Mac at the Big Mac Museum

Now that we’re near the end of my list of things to do in Pittsburgh, I have a few unique things to add outside of the main city itself.

The first is a trip to a McDonald’s just outside of Pittsburgh, in Huntingdon, PA. Now…normally I don’t go to McDonald’s (you can’t even find one with a working milkshake machine most days…). But this McDonald’s has a display dedicated to the history of the Big Mac and the iconic restaurant chain (because #funfact the Big Mac was invented here!!).

They also have a giant Big Mac (a BIG Big Mac?) by the play area, which is great for goofy selfies. So it’s worth a stop if you have a car. Just make sure to add fries to your Big Mac, in true Pittsburgh fashion.

21. Day Trip to Fallingwater

Frank Lloyd Wright is probably the most well-known architect of all time (he’s at least the only architect that I know). And probably his most famous creation is Fallingwater.

This unique house is about an hour south of Pittsburgh, and is definitely worth a day trip to see the famous landmark and explore the walking trails on the grounds. 

22. Day Trip to Punxsutawney

And last of all, one final unique thing you can do on your trip to Pittsburgh is to take a day trip to Punxsutawney, PA (pronounced Punks-uh-taw-nee), home of the famous groundhog Punxsutawney Phil.

You can find fun groundhog statues all over the small town, see the adorable “Phil” and his family (Phil magically doesn’t age, and has been the same venerable groundhog since they started the festival in 1877. There’s a sign), at the local library, and eat at Punxy Phil’s Family Restaurant.

Or, come in February for the annual Groundhog Day celebrations! And be sure to watch the movie Groundhog Day in preparation for your visit.

Did I Miss Any of Your Favorite Pittsburgh Activities?

Don’t be fooled into thinking these are the only things to do in Pittsburgh! The Steel City has no end to attractions, restaurants and entertainment!

If you have any more ideas of unique Pittsburgh attractions, feel free to share them in the comments below!

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The best 12 things to do in Pittsburgh

Jul 7, 2021 • 4 min read

Pittsburgh's underrated wonders will astound © Mandritoiu / Shutterstock

The Steel City may be known for its trifecta of professional sports teams, but this historic hub of Pennsylvania offers much more. From incredible outdoor opportunities to world-class museums and tours, these are the best things to do in Pittsburgh . 

1. Ride the inclines 

Funiculars were all the rage in the late 1800s, when two incline railways were constructed on Pittsburgh’s Mount Washington. Now, these remain two of the last operation inclines in America – the lingering remnants of a system that once contained 17 of these tiny railcars. Pittsburgh's twin funiculars, the  Monongahela  and  Duquesne , offer beautiful views of downtown Pittsburgh and the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny Rivers. Located about a mile apart, visitors can ascend on one line and descend on another if they so choose.  

2. Wander the West End Overlook 

Pittsburgh has no shortage of serendipitous skyline views, but the best views likely come from West End Overlook. This vantage point atop Elliott’s Bluff offers a wide view of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers and downtown. Once a humble turnaround with a commanding view, the city renovated the location into a park with benches, gardens and a pavilion in 2003. 

13 free things to do in Pittsburgh  

3. The Strip District 

Avenues of converted warehouses and gourmet eateries line the Strip District. This former industrial area now houses some of the city’s best international food and grocery spots, like  S&D Polish Deli ,  Salem’s Market  and the  Pennsylvania Macaroni Co . The Strip District allows offers diverse educational opportunities. For example, you can visit the  Senator John Heinz History Center  to learn about the fascinating history of ketchup and then hit up the  Carnegie Museum of Art  for one of North America’s premiere contemporary art collections. 

4. Carnegie museums 

The Carnegie Museum of Art is just one of three Pittsburgh Carnegie Museums, each with its own all-star attractions. The  Carnegie Museum of Natural History  is home to a complete tyrannosaurus rex skeleton. The  Carnegie Science Center  houses an otherworldly planetarium. 

5. Andy Warhol Museum 

Pop art icon Andy Warhol was born and raised in Pittsburgh, and it's here that you’ll find an incredible museum dedicated to his life and art. This museum—located in an 88,000 square-foot facility— is the largest in North America dedicated to a single artist. The Andy Warhol Museum operates an annex in New York’s Lower East Side, but the main attraction is in Pittsburgh, where Warhol’s path toward international celebrity began. 

Warhol in the US: Where to see the iconic pop artist's work

6. Mattress Factory 

Speaking of contemporary art, there’s perhaps no equivalent to the spectacle at  The Mattress Factory . Founded by Barbara Luderowski in 1975, this sprawling complex of the avant-garde houses 17 permanent installations and a rotating rogue’s gallery of exhibits that bewilder and bedazzle visitors. The Mattress Factory is historic, too. It’s often credited as one of the early catalysts for Pittsburgh’s modern revitalization.  

7. Peruse Point State Park 

Located at the tip of Pittsburgh’s “golden triangle,”  Point State Park  is a time capsule of Pittsburgh’s early history. Learn about the French and Indian War, the American Revolution and the city's early beginnings at the Fort Pitt Museum. This 12,000-square-foot museum is built on the bones of historic Fort Pitt, once the largest fortification in North America. 

The state park also houses the Fort Pitt Block House, a structure predating the American Revolution.  

8. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens 

Home to flower shows that change with the seasons,  Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens  is a wonderland for lovers of botany and foliage. The stunning steel-and-glass architecture of the conservatory harkens to the height of the industrial age when its greenhouses brought orchids, cacti and tropical fruits to crowds of Pennsylvania locals. Today, you can see some of the same rooms for yourself.

Pittsburgh's best neighborhoods   

9. Take a Furnace Tour 

Rivers of Steel  offers an incredible tour of Pittsburgh’s industrial history at Carrie Blast Furnaces National Landmark. This remnant of the former U.S. Steel Homestead Steel Works offers insight into a bygone era of American manufacturing. During the two-hour tour, visitors hear stories about steel-making technology, steel workers and the incredible supply chain required to build the bones of 20th-century America. 

10. Cruise on a Gateway Clipper 

Sightseeing, dinner and even ghost cruises are available on the  Gateway Clipper  fleet. Gateway Clipper operates five riverboats ranging from 55 feet to more than 200 feet in length. Each week, they peruse the waters of the three rivers area, providing spectacular views, meals and libations for those who want to see the city from the water. 

Best day trips from Pittsburgh  

11. Bicycle Haven 

The world’s largest bicycle museum and shop is located on Preble Avenue. The museum began life as a bicycle repair shop in 1996 before adding a massive museum collection in 2011.  Bicycle Heaven  houses nearly 4,000 bicycles – from space-age fiberglass concepts to movie bicycles and more. Once more, cycle lovers can rent a bike at the museum and see Pittsburgh from two wheels. 

12. Pittsburgh sports

The NFL’s Steelers, NHL’s Penguins and MLB’s Pirates give Pittsburgh a grand slam of professional sports franchises. Each has a loyal, local following and all share the city’s iconic colors of black and gold. Whether you’re a sports fanatic or not, catching a home game is sure to put you in the midst of fervent locals eager to share their own secrets about the Steel City. 

Why Pittsburgh is the best sports city in the US

You might also like:  How to get around Pittsburgh  Best things to do in Pittsburgh with kids   Essential eats in Pittsburgh  

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Pennsylvania (PA) » 15 Best Day Trips from Pittsburgh

15 Best Day Trips from Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is an exciting and versatile city in Pennsylvania. There is a lot to explore in this city, in fact, Harper’s Bazaar named Pittsburgh on of the ‘best places to travel in 2017’ and they’re keeping up their fantastic track record.

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are surely the highlight of any visit to Pittsburgh.

Art lovers will fall head over heels for the Andy Warhol Museum and the Carnegie Museum of Art.

With so much to see and do in Pittsburgh you’ll be hard pressed to find time to venture out of the city limits. You really should though.

Lying within easy reach of Pittsburgh are dozens of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Pittsburgh :

1. Cleveland

Crossing over the state lines into Ohio, Cleveland is a wonderful city in which to spend a day.

There is plenty to see, do and explore.

Cleveland lies on the shores of Lake Erie and is one of the most historical cities in the state.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a massive attraction in Cleveland and is home to exhibits on the world’s biggest and best music superstars.

The Cleveland Museum of Art holds an impressive selection of artistic works from the last 6,000 years.

If you’re travelling with children the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a great place to spend an afternoon.

2. Penn’s Cave

Penn’s Cave is America’s only wave cave and wildlife park.

This fun and family friendly day out is one of the most easily accessible and affordable day trips from Pittsburgh.

You can opt for a steady day walking around the wildlife park and observing the animals go about their business or you can tick of everything Penn’s Cave has to offer.

You can tear around the Miner’s Maze in search of the treasure, you can take a tour of the cave complex themselves or even pan for gemstones.

Engaging and educational, Penn’s Cave is a great day out for all; no need to pack a picnic, grab lunch at Cave Cafe.

3. Fallingwater

Fallingwater is one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic homes.

Designed and constructed by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of America’s greatest ever architects, Fallingwater has been preserved as a National Historic Landmark.

Since 1964 over five million people have come from far and wide to tour this impressive architectural gem.

The team at Western Pennsylvania Conservancy run tours of Fallingwater daily from 10 am – 4 pm, except on Wednesdays.

During your tour you will learn about the quirky and innovative design features of the house and its interesting history too.

Over the weekends it is possible to team a house tour with a landscape hike for a more rounded day trip.

4. Hartwood Acres

Hartwood Acres Mansion is one of Pittsburgh’s best kept secrets, lying just outside the city limits the mansion and grounds are a joy to explore.

The mansion itself is built in 16th-Century style Tudor design and is simply majestic in its stature.

The heritage preservation teams run tours of the property and grounds on a daily basis.

The Allegheny County Park in which Hartwood Acres Mansion spans an impressive 629-acres, although you cannot cover all that ground in one day taking a stroll through the gardens and taking in the scenic vistas is a refreshing change from the traffic and city smoke in Pittsburgh.

5. Columbus

Leave Pennsylvania behind and head to Ohio and its state capital, Columbus.

Rich in history and with a wonderful selection of sights to explore Columbus is an interesting and insightful day trip from Pittsburgh.

Columbus was home to German settlers in the early 1800s and their restored village homes can still be visited today.

The Franklin Park Conservatory is a peaceful and relaxing spot to spend an afternoon.

The gardens have both plant and art exhibitions and there is something truly photogenic to snap everywhere you turn.

The COSI Columbus is a great place to head if you’re interested in science and stars.

They have a planetarium and plenty of hands on exhibits to experience.

6. Gravity Hill

A visit to Gravity Hill is a bit of a novelty nonetheless is really rather cool.

Also known as magnetic hill, gravity road and mystery hill, Gravity Hill can be found in sleepy Bedford County.

This magical spot appears to make cars roll freely uphill and soccer balls struggle to roll downhill.

You’ll know you’ve reached the spot when you see ‘GH START’ spray painted on the road before you.

Knock the car into neutral, gingerly take your foot of the brake and let the phenomenon begin.

The landscape surrounding the road only serves to intensify the optical illusion and make the feeling of movement even more bizarre.

7. Washington DC

It’s always a pleasure to visit the capital city of a nation and none so true of the United States of America.

Washington DC is a full day trip from Pittsburgh but well worth every mile.

The first port of call should, naturally, be the White House closely followed but the United States Capitol building.

It is possible to book on to guided tours of both buildings should that be of interest.

You could easily spend a day, or more, touring through the Smithsonian Institution.

Their vast collection of museums, zoo and research facilities are simply incredible.

8. Chautauqua

Should you be seeking an action packed, fun filled day out then head to Chautauqua, you will not be disappointed.

Chautauqua is home to the self proclaimed ‘World’s Vacation Learning Centre’, the Chautauqua Institution.

Hosting daily talks and seminars on every last topic you can think of; arts, sciences, sociology and more you’ll leave a more enlightened individual for sure.

Then there is Chautauqua and the aerial adventure playground at Peek ’n’ Peak Resort.

Get rushing through the forest canopy on zip lines or perhaps grace the lake on a kayak and explore the beaches and coves that are lying in wait.

9. Baltimore

Time to tick off another state on your American adventure and stray into Maryland, to visit Baltimore for the day.

A vast city home to 200 very different neighbourhoods Baltimore has a diverse culture and a welcoming array of communities.

Sitting on one of the most important and lucrative mid-Atlantic trading routes Baltimore is still a thriving port and dock today.

Great spots to visit in Baltimore include the National Aquarium, Fort McHenry and Port Discovery.

The American Visionary Art Museum is inspiring even for those who generally remain unmoved by fine art.

There are some unsual and truly unique artistic exhibits to explore.

10. Seven Springs

For all you adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers out there you will be thrilled with a visit to Seven Spring Mountain Resort.

There is a whole mile of zip line courses to explore that see you whip from treetop to treetop with the valley sprawling away beneath you.

Mountain bikers will feel like they’ve landed in paradise.

Offering a great selection of trails from beginner level all the way through to near-pro Seven Springs is adventure central.

In the winter months, once the snow has settled you can don the skis or even the snow board and hit the downhill trails in a whole other way.

11. Monongahela National Forest

Monongahela National Forest is one of West Virginia’s best kept secrets and lovers of the great outdoors will be stoked to explore this vast wilderness.

Spruce Knob is the highest peak of the Allegheny Mountains and can be accessed from Monongahela National Forest.

The Dolly Sods Wilderness is a breathtaking landscape featuring fiery red spruce trees, smooth, weathered boulders and vast expanses of forest.

There are hiking trails crisscrossing through the park and you can find route maps and information at the Visitor’s Centre.

On your way back to Pittsburgh take a pit stop at the Mountain State Brewing Co, you won’t be disappointed.

12. Lake Erie

This is a popular spot for weekend getaways and has dozens of camping spots and picnic parks.

With Lake Erie being so incredibly large you can easily forget that you’re in the heart of the USA as the gentle waves lap against the pebbledash shoreline.

If you’re travelling with children who like a little more structured fun be sure to take a trip to Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort.

It’s also a great place to keep in mind if the rain clouds appear.

13. Laurel Highlands

Lying just south of Pittsburgh is the magnificent mountainous landscapes of the Laurel Highlands.

Looked over by Mount Davis this area of Pennsylvania is the gateway to the Great Allegheny Passage.

The Laurel Highlands encompasses eight individual state parks that all offer free entry to visitors.

The route to the Mount Davis’ peak is completely paved, all the way to its 3,213 ft pinnacle, its possible to drive most of the way and hike the final ascent.

There is so much to see and do in the Laurel Highlands, from canoeing in the rapids, to pottery making sessions, there’s a number of high-end hotels with luxury spa complexes open to non-residents too.

14. Meadville

Budding brewers and self proclaimed foodies will be chuffed to discover Meadville PA. Home to an ever expanding community of craft brewing companies, it is advisable to book a driver for a day trip to Meadville.

Popular breweries include TimberCreek Tap & Table and Voodoo Brewery.

The Sprague Farm & Brew Works produces 100% keg conditioned, unfiltered lagers and ales all on their humble, family run farm.

You can get tours of their operation on Thursdays, Fridays from 4-9 pm and Saturday from 12 – 9 pm.

You can soak up your beer with a visit to Hoss’s Steak and Sea House for a phenomenal surf ’n’ turf dinner.

15. Niagara Falls

A trip to Niagara Falls is an incredible day trip from Pittsburgh and is one of the great wonders of North America.

Straddling the international border of Canada and the United States of America the Niagara Falls must be visited once in every lifetime.

This iconic collection of waterfalls can be experienced from one of the many viewing platforms or by jumping aboard the Maid of the Mist.

This boat tour takes you as close as possible to the roaring falls and you’ll feel the formidable force of the 600,000 gallons of water gushing into the river below.

15 Best Day Trips from Pittsburgh:

• Penn’s Cave
• Fallingwater
• Hartwood Acres
• Gravity Hill
• Washington DC
• Seven Springs
• Monongahela National Forest
• Laurel Highlands
• Niagara Falls

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Pittsburgh Travel Guide: 10 Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh [2023]

As the second biggest city in our native state of Pennsylvania and the city we now call home, Pittsburgh is a place that we know very well! At one point it would’ve been fair to say that Pittsburgh was past its prime, but that is no longer the case. Recent years have seen a major influx of young adults and young families, and the city is back on the map as an awesome place to be, and a really cool city to visit.

Pittsburgh is one of the best places to visit in Pennsylvania !

This post will give you the inside scoop on the best things to do in Pittsburgh, help you to figure out the logistics for your trip, and hopefully convince you to make the trip to the Steel City.

The Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a really unique place, and its history has led to a really cool blend of things to do. From great museums to beloved sports teams and historic sites still in action, there is no shortage of things to do in the Steel City. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it’s a good start to pinning down some of the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

1.  Ride the Duquesne Incline

Back before cars were commonplace, factory workers needed a way to get from their homes to work. The factories are traditionally located along the three rivers, as the easiest way to transport heavy metals is by ship, and the workers’ homes were traditionally up in the hills surrounding the city.

As a result, walking to work was not a great option for most people, and walking home from work was virtually impossible. The city constructed several inclines, or cable cars, to bring people from the hills into the city. 

As owning a car became fairly standard the inclines slowly disappeared, leaving only two functioning inclines in service today. These are both on Mount Washington, and the Duquesne Incline is the much more popular one to ride these days. The incline is almost 150 years old and provides spectacular views of the Pittsburgh skyline.

Additionally, there is a museum of Pittsburgh history located in the station at the top. The fare to ride the Duquesne Incline is the same as the city’s bus fare, which is $2.75.

2. Get a Taste of the Strip District

The Strip District is one of the coolest and most unique neighborhoods of Pittsburgh. Made largely of old converted warehouses, the Strip District is the home of ethnic grocery stores, meat and fish markets, Italian restaurants, hip bars, and high-end boutiques ranging from artisan coffee to high-end chocolate.

The Strip District is where you can find ethnic grocery stores, hip bars, artisan coffee, high-end coffee, and more.

As one of the most culturally diverse areas in Pittsburgh and now one of the most popular places to spend a Saturday, the Strip District deserves a visit on your next trip to Pittsburgh. 

There are plenty of places to check out in the Strip District, and everyone has different recommendations. However, I would recommend visiting  Wholey’s Fish Market , Pennsylvania Macaroni Company , and  Allegheny Coffee Company .

Some of the other things on this list, including a couple of museums, are just a quick walk from the heart of the Strip District, too. The Strip District has a little something for everyone, and a stroll through its half-square-mile range is easily one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh. 

3. Check out the Mattress Factory

The Mattress Factory is widely considered to be one of the coolest museums in the city and one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh as a whole.

First things first, no – you will not be going home with a Tempur-pedic or a Sleep Number mattress. The Mattress Factory is a museum of modern art that believes in creating art that can appeal to everyone, or “art you can get into.”

Yes, it is in an old mattress factory. But the Mattress Factory is so much more than just that. The non-profit organization that the Mattress Factory is incorporated through has put in a lot of effort to restore the nearby community in Pittsburgh’s North Shore.

The Mattress Factory has been going strong for almost 50 years now, and it is conveniently located very close to the Strip District.

The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so be sure to take that into account when you visit! Admission costs $20 for adults and $15 for students and senior citizens. 

If you enjoy visiting churches while traveling, Valladolid has plenty more options for you. The Iglesia de San Servacio is located right by the zocalo, and it is possibly the most beautiful church in the entire city. Valladolid is known for its colorful streets and colonial architecture, and many of the most colonial buildings in the city are churches.

4. Go on a Free Walking Tour

No visit to a city is truly complete without a walking tour, and when there are free walking tours on offer, you’d be silly to miss out.

Free Pittsburgh Tours is a company dedicated to providing high-quality, educational, and fun walking tours of the Steel City while allowing you to name your price. The tour itself is free, and the guides are rewarded with whatever you decide to tip at the end. This is a can’t-miss opportunity in Pittsburgh!

I really love walking tours, because I find that you really don’t know what you don’t know until you know it. Walking tours are a really cool way to learn neat things about the place that you are visiting while also getting a little bit of physical activity.

Going on a walking tour is not just one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh but probably one of the best things to do when you visit any city. When the tour is free, there’s simply no reason not to do it!

5. Explore the Best Museums in Pittsburgh

Many people don’t think of Pittsburgh as a museum city, but you’d be very wrong to overlook the abundance of great museums that this city offers!

The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History are often cited as the two premier options, but there are great museum options of every kind in Pittsburgh and you could spend days checking them all out.

I’ve already mentioned the Mattress Factory, but in addition to that and the Carnegie Museum of Art , the Andy Warhol Museum is a can’t-miss.

If art isn’t really your thing, there are plenty of other museums that you might find more interesting. The Heinz History Center is dedicated to preserving the local legacy and Pittsburgh’s history, the Carrie Furnaces are a really interesting spot to check out, and the Fort Pitt Museum is a must for any history lover, just to name a few.

Regardless of your interest, one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh is to spend at least an afternoon in one of its museums.

6. Take a Trip to Fallingwater

Fallingwater is a house located about an hour and a half southeast of Pittsburgh, meaning that not everybody will want to make the trip out. However, it is a really unique and interesting place to visit, and I definitely recommend taking the time to check it out if you can.

Fallingwater was designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright for one of the wealthiest families in Pittsburgh, and the house itself is really cool. It might be a stretch to call this one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh, given its location 70 miles away, but it really is worth the time if you are already in the area.

Frank Lloyd Wright had a passion for organic architecture – like buildings woven into the natural fabric of the world – and this house is the perfect example of that. It is right on the edge of a small waterfall!

This home has been named the “best all-time work of American architecture” and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you like architecture, you can’t miss this.

7. Wander Through Phipp’s Conservatory

Phipp’s Conservatory is the premier botanical garden in Pittsburgh, and exploring its glasshouse is a great way to spend a morning or afternoon. The greenery and flowers at Phipp’s Conservatory are beautiful, and the diversity of plants they have inside is both really interesting and really educational! Seeing the wide range of plants that exist and how different they all can look is a really cool experience.

The Conservatory also has a nice cafe where you can grab a good bite to eat or a nice cup of coffee. When we visited, we even had a glass of wine while talking about how beautiful of a place the conservatory is. It is a wedding reception favorite, and a quick stroll through its gardens will show you why.

8. Head to a Sporting Event

Few cities as small as Pittsburgh have such a prominent sports scene. With just under half a million residents, Pittsburgh is by no means a big city.

However, the Steel City has the Penguins, the Steelers, the Pirates, and some pretty great college sports as well. Sports are very much a part of Pittsburgh culture, and a night out at a sporting event is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

Even if you aren’t much of a sports fan, going to a sporting event is a really good time. Honestly, who doesn’t love good stadium food and the time out with friends and family? Pirates tickets especially are quite cheap, meaning a summer night at the ballpark shouldn’t even put much of a dent in your wallet.

9. Eat Up at the Pickle Festival

Every year in late August, Pittsburgh hosts arguably its biggest event of the year, which is a massive pickle festival. They call it Picklesburgh , and it is an absolute must if you happen to be visiting while it is going on. In fact, Picklesburgh has been named the top specialty food festival in the entire United States for the past two years.

This festival celebrates all things pickled, and it is definitely a unique experience. From food vendors to pickle juice drinking contests, there is always something going on during the three days of pickled fun. Be sure to check their website for information about visiting and future dates.

10. Relax by the Rivers at Point State Park

Point State Park is an outdoor park located at the confluence of Pittsburgh’s three rivers. The park is dedicated to the remembrance of the area’s strategic importance during the French and Indian War, where its position on the three rivers led to significant interest and eventual battle.

Point State Park is located on top of where Pittsburgh’s two most important military forts stood – Fort Pitt and Fort Duquesne – and visitors can learn all they want about the conflicts at the Fort Pitt Museum. 

The park is not just about history – it is also just a great place to hang out and socialize. If you are looking for a breath of fresh air during your time in Pittsburgh, make sure to pop over to Point State Park and take in the views of the city and check out the iconic fountain located at the tip of the park. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go kayaking here too!

Best Places to Eat in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a great city for foodies to visit, with great restaurants spanning just about every type of cuisine. From fantastic foreign cuisines like Thai and Mexican to some really great waffles, Pittsburgh has it all. Here is a list of some of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh and what you can expect there:

• Umami (for sushi)
• Ramen Bar (for ramen)
• Bahn Mi and Ti (for bahn mi and bubble tea)
• Gauchos (for great cuts of meat)
• Salems (for Arab food)
• Butter Joint (for cocktails and finer dining)
• The Abbey (for American food, best for brunch)
• Waffles Incaffeinated (for the best waffles in Pittsburgh)
• Streets on Carson (for a cool experience of global cuisines)
• Fuel and Fuddle (for great pub fare)

How to Get to Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is located about 20-30 minutes outside of the city. The city is in the process of reinventing itself, and the airport is one of the major factors leading that charge as it is often ranked among the top 10 airports in the entire country.

While it is not a massive hub airport, it does offer 50 direct routes, both domestic and international.

To get from the airport into downtown Pittsburgh there is only one public transportation option, which is to take the 28X Airport Flyer bus. This route costs $2.75 and the fare must be paid in exact change. The bus departs every 30 minutes outside of baggage claim door 6 and makes a few stops on the outskirts of the city as well as downtown.

If you don’t want to take the bus and don’t have your own ride, your only other options are to take a taxi or call an Uber. Both of these options tend to cost around $50, but the prices fluctuate heavily.

Pittsburgh International Airport is also served by several budget airlines, including some that made my list of the best American budget airlines .

If you are worried or apprehensive about flying on budget airlines, don’t be. They’re awesome and offer so many great benefits. For more information about flying on budget airlines, check out my in-depth budget airline guide .

– R E A D –

How to Get around Pittsburgh

BUS | METRO | BIKE | CAR

Pittsburgh is moderately well connected by public transportation. The bus network is pretty extensive with 98 different routes, there is a modest three-line metro system connecting a few different parts of the city, and a large-scale bikeshare program also exists to help you get where you want to go.

Fares for buses and the metro are $2.75, and children under 5 years old ride for free if they are with a fare-paying adult. The best way to plan your public transportation is to use either the Port Authority’s real-time map or the Port Authority’s route map.

Personally, I have never thought of Pittsburgh as a public transportation kind of city. The city is quite spread out for its size, and I see it as much more of a car city.

If you don’t have a car, public transportation will have you covered! But if you do have a car, parking is plentiful and cheap, and the traffic is usually tolerable as long as you avoid tunnels at rush hour.

Is Pittsburgh Worth Visiting?

Pittsburgh is a really unique place, and in recent decades it may not have been very high on many peoples’ bucket lists of places to go. After all, the city did decline a lot from its former glory as the steel hub of the United States.

In the past decade, though, the city has really rebounded and is a vibrant, bustling place to visit filled with very enjoyable and unique things to do. If you’re wondering “is Pittsburgh worth visiting?” hopefully this post has given you the answer. If you are still not convinced and are looking for more reasons to visit Pittsburgh, here are a few:

Pittsburgh’s History and its Former Glory

Nowadays we often forget just how prosperous Pittsburgh used to be, but to put it simply, it was one of the premier cities in the country. Some of the richest and most successful Americans in history were Pittsburgh people, and while the glory of the city may have faded, its legacy certainly has not.

Pittsburgh is jam-packed with historic places to see and things to learn. As the former center of the American steel industry – which was absolutely massive – Pittsburgh will always have a special place in American history.

Pittsburgh’s Renowned Museums

Most of Pittsburgh’s best museums were included on the list above, but I want to explicitly point out here just how remarkable it is that a city of Pittsburgh’s size has so many highly regarded museums – especially art museums.

The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural Science are the most widely known, but the other places that cracked the list are all highly worth visiting as well. Pittsburgh has a very storied past, and places like the Heinz History Center and the Frick House are great testaments to that.

Pittsburgh’s Beloved Sports Teams

Pittsburgh has a really great sports scene, especially for such a small city. Pittsburgh is a city of fewer than 500,000 people, making it a very medium-sized city by American standards. Yet it has an NFL team, an NHL team, and an MLB team.

Pittsburgh sports fans are very into their local teams, and the spirit can be felt on any game day! One really cool feature of all of the Pittsburgh sports teams is that they all wear the same colors, which is quite uncommon around the country.

That’s all we have for you about Pittsburgh! Hopefully, this Pittsburgh travel guide helps you to plan the best possible trip to the Steel City.

If you’re planning a trip to Pittsburgh, comment below ! We’d love to chat ahead of time and answer any questions you have.

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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Home » North America » Pittsburgh

14 BEST Places to Visit in Pittsburgh (2024)

Pittsburgh Pennsylvania isn’t the sort of destination that’s usually on people’s bucket lists. But if you enjoy great food from every corner of the world, picturesque cityscapes, watching any sport played in the US, or an ever-growing art scene, then you’ll find lots of great places to visit in Pittsburgh.

You might think that Pittsburgh is an ordinary, everyday city that can’t compare to some of the more popular tourist attractions. And truth be told, it isn’t as popular as certain international destinations. But there’s still a lot to see and do when you travel to Pittsburgh. And to help you find it all, we’ve created this list.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Pittsburgh:

These are the best places to visit in pittsburgh, faq on the best places to visit in pittsburgh.

Located where the Monongahela, Allegheny and Ohio Rivers meet is downtown Pittsburgh. The historic, cultural and economic centre of the city, downtown Pittsburgh is a neighbourhood characterized by its tall skyscrapers and stunning views.

• Feel like a kid again at Toonseum, a museum dedicated to cartoons
• Marvel at the U.S. Steel Tower, the tallest building in the city
• Savour one of the best fish sandwiches in the city at Patty Kraus

You’ll need to stay in one of Pittsburgh’s coolest areas to really make this a memorable trip. I mean, it WILL be memorable, but with the right accommodation in the right neighbourhood for you, even better! Have a gander and then continue to scroll on down into the fun!

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#1 – Phipps Conservatory – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Pittsburgh

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• A beautiful and varied botanical garden located in the heart of the city.
• The gardens are extensive and offer a nice break from the busyness of the city when you’re visiting Pittsburgh.

Why it’s so awesome: These gardens were donated to the city in 1893 by real estate baron Henry Phipps. They offer an amazing variety of different landscapes and things to do, which makes them a Pittsburgh must-see. It’s also a great place to take the kids as the gardens offer exhibits and exhibitions that are both fun and educational.

What to do there: Put aside a couple of hours to escape the city and immerse yourself in mother nature. Check out the outdoor gardens first, including the Victorian glasshouse that contains seasonal plants and flowers. There’s also a Tropical Forest Conservatory and Center for Sustainable Landscapes where you and the family can learn about the importance of water conversation and energy use. The Discovery Garden is a Pittsburgh must-do for kids, as it offers free, hands-on activities that will keep them occupied for hours.

#2 – The Strip District – A great place in Pittsburgh if you love to shop!

• Once a warehouse district, this has now become the city’s hub for shopping and eating and a great place to spend a couple of hours
• Aside from the stores and restaurants, keep an eye out for the markets that pop up in the area for some great produce and snacks.

Why it’s so awesome: The Strip District was once filled with warehouse and railroad paraphernalia but has been given a facelift. It’s now one of the most popular places to visit in Pittsburgh for tourists and locals who are looking for boutique shopping and lots of food options.

What to do there: Take half a day, or a whole one, and prepare to spend some money. Wander the streets and duck in and out of the boutiques, grab a meal at one of the many restaurants when you get hungry, and people watch along the way. If you head down on a Saturday it’s usually really busy, but you’ll have an even more fun and vibrant outing!

#3 – Cathedral of Learning – A great place to see in Pittsburgh if you love architecture

• A gothic revival skyscraper that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• This building is the second tallest university in the world, making it one of the most striking landmarks in Pittsburgh.

Why it’s so awesome: This building started taking classes in 1931, while it was still under construction and it still contains lots of the university’s educational facilities. It’s 42 stories high and is the second tallest university building in the world. Aside from that, it’s also a neo-Gothic masterpiece, and the rooms were designed in the style of all the nationalities that influenced the founding and growth of the city. This means that you can see rooms that represent everywhere from Russia to Lithuania and China! The East Coast of the USA was at the center of the skyscraper boom so come and learn all about it here.

What to do there: You can explore the interior of the building and its architecture before settling down in the food court for a snack. During your explorations, make sure you seek out the 29 rooms that are themed to different countries and see if you can guess which country influenced each room.

#4 – Carnegie Museum of Natural History – A fascinating educational place to visit in Pittsburgh

• Get a deeper understanding of the natural world at this museum when you travel to Pittsburgh.
• The exhibits cover everything from dinosaurs to earth sciences and cultural history.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is a gem and one of the most popular hotspots in Pittsburgh for tourists. It offers a comprehensive view of the natural history of the world from space to the earth and the animals and people that have walked on it.

What to do there: You’ll need a few hours to explore this museum and take the kids along with you for a few hours of happy quiet. Check out the central exhibit on dinosaurs as well as the Cretaceous Seaway exhibit, which explores the lives of these underwater giants. Take the kids along to the Bone Hunter’s Quarry, so they can dig for their own fossils, and the Discovery Basecamp exhibit as well.

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#5 – The Andy Warhol Museum

• This museum contains the largest collection of work by Andy Warhol.
• Learn more about this city’s favorite son and the incredible variety of work he produced.

Why it’s so awesome: Andy Warhol is an icon. A painter, record producer, author, filmmaker, stage designer, and magazine publisher, he touched almost every aspect of modern life. And you can explore his influence and his prolific work at this museum, which is what makes it one of the most popular landmarks in Pittsburgh. You may even get lucky with an Andy Warhol themed Pittsburgh Airbnb !

What to do there: Explore the museum and its many displays of Andy Warhol’s movies, artwork, prints, and multimedia installations. The museum also hosts events and classes, so check out what’s on while you’re in the city and show up to anything that sounds fun or interesting.

#6 – Duquesne Incline

• A funicular railway that’s been in operation since 1877 and still uses two original cable cars, making it a moving museum.
• The railway will give you access to the Mount Washington neighborhood, one of the most popular areas for sightseeing and fine restaurants.

Why it’s so awesome: It isn’t often that you actually get to be a part of history, and yet when you ride this railway you’re sitting in it. The railway functions both as transport and as working museum, with photos and displays of its history at the upper station. It also offers stunning views out over the city.

What to do there: Make sure you take your camera along and take pictures of the views as the cable car moves upwards. At the upper station, take the time to examine the photos and displays on the history of the incline as well as its inner workings. And then head out to explore the neighborhood. Mount Washington is particularly popular for its stately houses and fine dining options.

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#7 – Carnegie Science Center – One of the most amazing places in Pittsburgh!

• A huge museum of science with more than 250 hands-on exhibits.
• Learn about the ways that technology impacts every aspect of human life.

Why it’s so awesome: This science museum is simply huge, with more than 250 exhibits that have been deliberately designed to be fun and interactive. And there’s more to do than just look at technology too, with lots of activities in the building that includes indoor climbing and a zipline course.

What to do there: Kids will love this museum, but so will adults. Check out the four-story Rangos Theater, the Skytykes rope course for small children who aren’t old enough for the bigger zipline course, and the Planetarium and Observatory. You can also learn more about the state’s history and culture at the Miniature Railroad and Village and explore an actual submarine!

#8 – St. Anthony’s Chapel – One of the most religious places to see in Pittsburgh

• This chapel contains the largest display of religious icons outside of the Vatican.
• The outside of the chapel is relatively ordinary, so don’t be put off. Instead, just focus on the treasures within.

Why it’s so awesome: This chapel is a Pittsburgh must-see for the number and quality of the religious relics that it contains. The founder, Father Mollinger, was an immigrant from Belgium who collected homeless relics all around Europe. When he had gathered too many to keep in his home, he built the chapel and stored them in it.

What to do there: The church is still used, so be respectful while you’re there. However, if there aren’t any services on, the attendants will sometimes broadcast an audio tour into the church at your request. This is the best way to understand what you’re looking at and where it came from. There’s also a gift shop across the street when you’re done looking at the relics, which include skulls, teeth, and even a piece that’s supposedly from the crown of thorns used in Jesus’ crucifixion. You will have to make a small donation to visit and to light a candle if you feel the need to do so.

#9 – Homewood Cemetery – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Pittsburgh

• This cemetery, which dates back to 1878, is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Pittsburgh.
• Don’t be surprised at the wildlife you’ll see in the area.

Why it’s so awesome: This tranquil cemetery is a haven inside the busy city. It’s also a great thing to do in Pittsburgh itinerary if you love animals. The beautiful natural surroundings are home to frogs and whitetail deer who are used to the presence of humans. Don’t try to approach them too close, and you’ll be treated to the sight of them picking their graceful way through the gravestones.

What to do there: A walk through this cemetery is one of the best and unusual things to do in Pittsburgh. It’s quiet and peaceful, and you can see animals milling around including whitetail deer and turkeys. If you want a slightly spooky time, try going early in the morning on misty days, but you’ll have to get up early to get there before the mist dissipates. And while you’re there, have a look around for graves with famous names on them such as Henry P. Ford, Chuck Cooper, Teenie Harris, Henry Clay Frick, Errol Garner, and Henry John Heinz.

#10 – PNC Park – Cool place to see in Pittsburgh with friends!

• You can’t explore Pittsburgh without seeing one of the iconic sports teams, and this is the best place to do it.
• If you’re visiting Pittsburgh during the summer or spring, make sure you stop by and catch a game.

Why it’s so awesome: Pittsburgh locals love their sports, whether it’s hockey or baseball in the spring and summer. And if you want to catch a game, then this sporting arena will offer you lots of chance if you’re in the city in the right season. It’s the home of the city’s Major League Baseball Team, the Pittsburgh Pirates.

What to do there: This is a huge stadium that seats around 38,000 people, so you should be able to get a seat to see a game. In fact, watching the teams fight for supremacy is the perfect summertime activity. And you’ll get to eat lots of delicious, fattening food too!

#11 – Kennywood Amusement Park – Awesome place to visit in Pittsburgh with kids!

• This is one of the oldest amusement parks in the US, but it’s constantly updating to stay relevant.
• Forget about your diet and recapture your childhood at this park.

Why it’s so awesome: There’s nothing like a day at the amusement park with cotton candy, lots of fattening and deep-fried foods, clowns, and roller coasters. So, if you want to bring back treasured childhood memories, spend a day exploring this Pittsburgh must-do.

What to do there: This is one of the best places in Pittsburgh for kids and for adults who’ve held onto their sense of fun. It contains 6 roller coasters and a kids’ area with 14 rides that are safe and fun for the little ones. It also has a new attraction coming in 2019, the Steel Curtain, which will be the state’s largest roller coaster.

#12 – Federal Galley – A must-see for foodies!

• An innovative eating hall with a full bar and four different restaurant concepts.
• One of the best places to eat in Pittsburgh If you’re looking for delicious food to suit every taste.

Why it’s so awesome: Located in the North Shore, this food hall is dedicated to innovative dining and eating. This is where the top restaurateurs and cooks in the city show off their wares and bring their creativity to the table, and you’ll be the happy beneficiary of the results.

What to do there: When you’re looking for a tasty meal, grab some friends and show up at the food hall to see what’s on offer. There are four kitchens and over 200 seats available, so show up early or make a booking to ensure that there’s room for you. Have some Mexican food, eat a pizza, or just enjoy the local brews at the bar and have a great start to your night out in Pittsburgh.

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#13 – Market Square – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Pittsburgh

• This area is the center of all the action in Pittsburgh, and there’s always something going on there.
• You could spend a whole day in this area, shopping and eating and taking in the crowds.

Why it’s so awesome: Market Square is the center of the action in Pittsburgh’s downtown. During the holidays, it’s usually filled with markets where you can buy souvenirs or anything else that catches your eyes. And during the rest of the year it hosts a variety of events and art installations.

What to do there: Take an afternoon or a day to just explore. Check out any special events that are on in the area, wander through the shops, and grab a meal or snack. There are always chairs set up so you can just lounge around and people watch on hot summers’ days when it’s too hot to do anything more energetic.

#14 – The Original Oyster House – A great place to visit in Pittsburgh at night

• This is the oldest bar and restaurant in the city.
• The restaurant is one of the most popular landmarks in Pittsburgh and is an absolute must-do!

Why it’s so awesome: Located in Market Square, this restaurant first opened in 1870 and has been serving fresh oysters since that day. It’s been designated a historic landmark and represents the respect for the past and for good food that is the spirit of the city. Coming to this restaurant is an absolute must when you travel to Pittsburgh.

What to do there: Take some friends with you and show up for a meal. The restaurant walls are covered with old photos and memorabilia from Pittsburgh’s past, and give a nostalgic air to the old walls. Order the oysters and just let yourself be a part of that atmosphere. You’ll feel like a local, while still enjoying the excitement of being in a new city.

Get insured for your trip to Pittsburgh!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Pittsburgh

What are some fun places to visit in Pittsburgh?

Take the historic Duquesne Incline FUNicular railway up to the Mount Washington neighborhood where there’s great views and heaps of restaurants.

What are the best places to visit in Pittsburgh for free?

Hang out with the locals at Market Square. It’s right in the heart of the action and it’s often filled with some great markets too.

What are some great places to visit in Pittsburgh in the summer?

Catch a ballgame at PNC Park and watch the Pittsburgh Pirates play the nation’s pastime in some really cool surroundings.

Where are the best places to visit in Pittsburgh at night?

Have a meal out at the fantastic Federal Galley. Here you can choose between a myriad of different cuisines, all expertly cooked to perfection!

Final Thoughts on the Coolest Places to Visit in Pittsburgh

Like any other city in the US, Pittsburgh has its problem areas. However, this shouldn’t dissuade you from exploring this up-and-coming city. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the excitement and comradery of the sport culture, and you’ll also be able to eat some amazing food. So, if you’re looking for the most interesting places to visit in Pittsburgh, start with the attractions on this list and then let the city be your guide!

Looking for some budget accommodation in the city, check out the hostels in Pittsburgh for your stay.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Mary Beth Skylis

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📍 Strip District

Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour

Tours & sightseeing.

​However you like to roll, Pittsburgh is sure to have the sightseeing option for you.

By land or water, on four wheels or two, tour and experience Pittsburgh first hand.

Tag along with knowledgeable guides for free walking tours of Downtown, or take food tour to sample Pittsburgh's authentic culinary prowess . Get out on the water aboard the Gateway Clipper or the Rivers of Steel Riverboat. Keep active with a bike tour or keep it interesting on a Segway , there's something incredible to see in Pittsburgh, no matter how you get there.

Bike, Boat & Bus Tours

There are a wide variety of bike, boat, and bus tours available throughout Pittsburgh, with options to meet the needs of every sightseer.

• Golden Triangle Bike - Rent a bike and go for a guided or self-guided bike tour.
• Gateway Clipper Fleet - The Gateway Clipper Fleet has been sailing Pittsburgh's three rivers for more than 50 years. Sightsee, dine, celebrate and relax aboard a cruise unlike any other.
• Bike the Burgh Tours - Learn about the city's history and culture on a Bike the Burgh tour.
• Cruisin' Tikis - Bring your camera on this two hour cruise with plenty of photo worthy moments.
• Rivers of Steel - This sightseeing cruise highlights the region’s steel heritage.
• Molly's Trolleys Pittsburgh - Enjoy a narrated sightseeing tour in a comfortable trolley.
• The Burgh Bus - Laugh your way through the city on this comedian-led bus tour.

Art & Architecture Tours

Gain a deeper understanding of the impressive architecture and stunning works of art that make Pittsburgh such a vibrant city on one of these tours.

• Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater - Explore this UNESCO site on a guided interior tour of Fallingwater, the only remaining Frank Lloyd Wright house with its setting, original furnishings and artwork intact.
• Antique Skyscrapers: Talks & Tours - Learn about Pittsburgh's skyscrapers on a customizable group tour.
• Nationality Rooms - Head to the University of Pittsburgh's Nationality Rooms to admire the architecture and decor depicting the ethnic heritages of the city.
• Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation - Go on this walking tour of Downtown and other Pittsburgh neighborhoods to learn the local history.
• Hartwood Acres Mansion - This Tudor mansion offers daily tours to visitors as well as special events, outdoor trails, and more.
• The Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals of Maxo Vanka - Gaze at the awe-inspiring murals of Croatian artist Maxo Vanka on a guided tour at St. Nicholas Croatian Catholic Church.

Brewery & Food Tours

Foodies and beer lovers rejoice! Take one of these tours to try mouthwatering bites from local restaurants and sample craft brews at local breweries .

• ‘Burgh Bits and Bites Food Tour - This food tasting and historic walking tour guides guests to incredible restaurants throughout Pittsburgh's neighborhoods.
• Penn Brewery - Go behind-the-scenes at the oldest brewery in Pittsburgh.
• City Brew Tours - Hop from brewery to brewery sampling expertly crafted beer.

Explore all of the different tour options below, then get out and explore Pittsburgh!

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5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Pittsburgh on Your Next Trip

Published by Jeremy . Last Updated on January 26, 2022.

Disclaimer : Our site uses demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links. Please check out our Terms and Conditions . Pricing, operating hours, or menus may have changed since our initial visit and may not be reflected in subsequent updates. Please confirm these directly with any business or attraction prior to visiting.

As a travel writer by trade, I have seen many tourism campaigns from cities all over the world trying to highlight the main reasons outsiders should visit.

Some highlight geographical features like beaches and mountains, others promote the libations scene in the form of winery or brewery trails. Some push sports, others promote their architecture and history as a draw. Some push that the city is a popular tourist destination, others promote that they're under the radar.

For Pittsburgh, however, I don't think we can push just one narrative. In fact, we have all of the categories mentioned above , and it is only when you take a step back to appreciate how it all works together that you truly get a feel for what makes Pittsburgh the city that it is.

So if you have no idea what Pittsburgh is all about and need to learn more before deciding if you should visit, this one is for you!

Pittsburgh's History is an Important One

If you know anything of Pittsburgh's history, odds are good that your first thought will be that it is a steel town. This is true- or rather,  was true. 

After being settled by colonists in the 1700s, Pittsburgh became an industrial hub for two reasons. The first is that the hills around the city were rich in raw materials, like coal, which were used as a precursor for iron production. As technology advanced, iron production turned to steel production, and Pittsburgh was known to produce a significant chunk of the country's steel in its prime (you can tour the Carrie Furnaces , seasonal, and the Frick House to learn more about this side of our history). 

The second is that Pittsburgh's three rivers made it easy to transport coal, iron, and steel to other cities and to ports for export. In fact, our rivers are one of the main reasons why the region was colonized to begin with as the confluence of the three rivers had a strategic advantage to it which the French and British battled fiercely to control.

One of the first battles of the French and Indian War started in the nearby Laurel Highlands (known as the Battle of Fort Necessity ) where a young George Washington led a small number of British troops who inadvertently killed the leader of a French contingent in the area. This escalated the battles from there, with the British ultimately claiming what is now Pittsburgh in the Forbes Campaign a bit later, but that shot set the stage for the Seven Years' War and the subsequent American Revolution as well.

Pittsburgh's modern renaissance can be traced back in only the last few decades. As steel and other manufacturing moved elsewhere, new industries moved in including medicine, tech, and of course, tourism. Couple this with the city's industrial spirit and you shouldn't be surprised that there are a number of famous Pittsburgh inventions that have come out over the years- all beyond just steel. You can learn even more about all of these at the Heinz History Center in the Strip District which is a must-see attraction for anyone wanting to learn more about our local history.

• Did you know that Pittsburgh is home to a site showing evidence of human habitation dating back 19,000 years? While we often speak of colonists as the starting point of the region's history, you can learn even more when visiting Meadowcroft Rockshelter (seasonal).

Our Drinking and Dining Scene is Hard to Beat

We know that most major cities like to claim that they are having a food and libations resurgence, and this is indeed true. But the Pittsburgh restaurant and libations scene is hard to beat for one specific reason- our farms are located just a short drive outside of the city. 

This means that many restaurants have access to local meats and dairy, local grains for beer, and local fruits when in season to name a few- we can truly grow a lot in this area!

And if you're looking for  even more reasons to drink, well, our local spirits scene is booming (again, thanks to our grains) and many local distilleries like Wigle Whiskey are bringing back historical spirits like Monongahela Rye- one of the first American whiskeys to gain popularity. In fact, western Pennsylvania made a pretty forceful stand in the early days of Washington's presidency when farmers protested a new whiskey tax in an event that later became known as the Whiskey Rebellion. 

To say we've been taking libations seriously for hundreds of years is an understatement and that trend continues to this very day. 

• Looking for Pittsburgh foods to try when you visit? Check the previous link to see some items that are truly “Pittsburgh”. Or check out classic Pittsburgh food institutions that serve popular meals that have a die-hard following. Or if you simply want a good cocktail likely made with local spirits, we've got some great cocktail bars for you too. You can't go wrong with any of these!

The City is an Urban Oasis in the Middle of Appalachia

We've alluded to this fact a few times in this article so far, but one of Pittsburgh's many nicknames is the Paris of Appalachia. The city is an oasis in the heart of nature, and you do not have to travel very far to get out of town for some quick hiking , biking, or more. 

If you are fortunate enough to visit the city in the spring (late April, to be specific), a visit to Raccoon Creek State Park's wildflower reserve is another gem as it is home to one of the largest collections of native plants in the state. 

If biking is more your thing, Pittsburgh is home to many rail trails on former train lines that explore some of the region's most beautiful spots. The most notable of which is the Great Allegheny Passage which travels from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, MD, and then continues on the C&O Canal Path to Washington DC- a solid week's ride if you want to go the whole way.

• A good number of breweries are open along bike trails as well- allowing you to hit two highlights at once!

We Have Some Good Sports Teams, Too

If you know anything else about Pittsburgh beyond it being the Steel City, you may have heard of it as the City of Champions. This is because our sports scene is among the most vibrant in the country thanks to being home to the likes of the Pittsburgh Steelers , Pirates , and Penguins (not to mention the Riverhounds soccer team and an array of college teams, too). Together the three major teams have  sixteen championships between them!

This means our city is crazy about sports, and thanks to the scheduling of games odds are good there will be at least one going on every single week of the year either live or streamed across TVs in bars and restaurants all over the city.

Perhaps even more impressive is that all of our arenas are in the heart of the city. The Pirates and Steelers play right along the river in the North Side , the Penguins have an arena just outside of the business district in downtown Pittsburgh , and the Riverhounds play in Station Square along the water as well. It really is just a short walk between all of the arenas. 

Finally, if you are not big on sports but love the ambiance, all of our arenas for outdoor sports have  stellar   views of Pittsburgh . Many visit the arenas for the views just as much as the game itself!

• Insider tips: Steelers Training Camp in Latrobe, Penguins Practice at the Mario Lemieux Complex in Cranberry, and a behind-the-scenes tour of PNC Park are not to be missed if you are a die-hard fan.

Pittsburgh Isn't a Touristy City

Finally, we come to the true highlight of Pittsburgh that ties all the previous points together- we are not really on the tourism scene (although, we probably should be). While the city receives over 10,000,000 visitors per year, it doesn't feel that way for a few very specific reasons:

First, many visitors to the city are displaced Pittsburghers who are returning to see family. The mass exodus after the collapse of the steel industry is still felt to this day as Pittsburgh's population decreased by 50% in the decades that followed (we are only now just bottoming out). This is one reason why “Steeler Nation” is such a popular slogan- fans spread out all over the country and took their love of the team with them.

Second, many visit the city purely for sports (naturally). Our major arenas range in capacity from 19,000 to 68,000 and a lot of attendees are not local. Visit PNC Park when the Phillies are visiting, and you'll know exactly what we mean by this.

Third, our cultural scene is just as big as our sports scene. Between the symphony, opera, ballet, many performing arts troupes, and nationally touring shows, odds are good there are multiple performances going on all over the city every night of the week!

Finally, of course, there is business travel. As the city has diversified greatly after the collapse of steel, we're now becoming a hub for tech, medicine, and many other industries that bring in business travel, conventions, and more.

But there are other reasons that make it seem like Pittsburgh's tourism scene isn't booming and that is the city is a collection of 90 neighborhoods . Each of these has its own unique vibe, culture, restaurants, bars and breweries, and attractions. Sure, almost everyone will take a ride on our historic Duquesne Incline,  ride the Gateway Clipper , and shop the Strip District (as you should), but as you expand out and explore other neighborhoods based on your interests, tourist volume plummets accordingly and residents take their place. 

As such, it is rather easy to see the city the way Pittsburghers see it as opposed to seeing a facade with forced (and often cringey) narratives constructed by the tourist office. Pittsburgh doesn't need it, and that's the way we like it.

• Pittsburgh's museum scene truly is vibrant. Odds are good we'll have several museums that align with your interests when visiting! (Our unusual museums are our personal favorites.)

Things to Consider Before You Visit Pittsburgh

When it comes down to it, Pittsburgh is what we would consider the definition of a hidden gem. The city is established and ready to welcome visitors but isn't overly built upon its tourism scene that things feel forced simply for the sake of tourism.

There are, of course, some things you may wish to know before you visit.

The biggest issue visitors to Pittsburgh face is that our city is lacking in public transportation. We have buses, but you'll likely require a transfer to get to a lot of places in the city. We have a metro, but it only goes south (it is free in downtown proper and the North Side, but you can also walk that that in just about the same amount of time). Throw in copious amounts of hills and 446 bridges (some, quite literally, built overtop one another) and navigating the city can be challenging. 

When you're in any given neighborhood, they are inherently walkable, but getting between each can be troublesome at times. This cannot be overstated.

As such, we recommend all visitors to the city bring a car and plan your hotel stay accordingly (as parking fees are not equal). We personally always recommend the Hampton Inn in the Strip District as it is one of the only hotels in the city with free parking and has a prime location just at the border between the Strip and downtown proper- so you can walk to attractions in both of those neighborhoods all without having to drive!

From there, our recommendations are in line with those with other major cities. Book restaurants well in advance (some of the most popular book up weeks or months ahead of time), pack clothes for all weather scenarios as weather changes fast (we have all four seasons- sometimes in a single day), and take whatever amount of time you plan on visiting here and add a day or two on for good measure.

You won't regret it!

Now that we've hopefully helped convince you to visit Pittsburgh, we've got more for you! Hop on over to our Pittsburgh weekend guide for first-timers to see more spots we recommend hitting on your very first visit! Or, if you're looking for where to stay in Pittsburgh , we've got you covered with that too!

2 thoughts on “5 Reasons Why You Should Visit Pittsburgh on Your Next Trip”

As a Pittsburgh native, I wish you had covered our cultural scene. We have a slew of amazing art and heritage festivals, a generous local theater scene, (my favorite being the City Theater in the South Side), many art schools for those wishing to try their hand at learning a technique, and some opulent historic theaters that are as enticing for their architecture as for their programming. We get a lot of travelling national theater companies performing many of the top musicals, plays and comedy routines. Overall this town is a wonderful place to live but also fun to visit!

I honestly had to read through the article again to realize that, yes, I completely forgot to mention that. Much like our sports scene, where there is likely a game (home or away) every week, there are likely shows going on every night of the week. Great catch!

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Celebrating 10 years of NEXT

8 places to escape with a book in Pittsburgh

As a bonus, we recommend the perfect pairing of a book that fits the space.

Novel Breads Co.

504 Pittsburgh St., Mars

The Cathedral of Learning

4200 Fifth Ave., Oakland

Mellon Park Walled Garden

1047 Shady Ave., Point Breeze

Acclamation Brewing

314 Arch St., Verona

Ineffable Cà Phê

3920 Penn Ave., Lawrenceville

177 40th St., Lawrenceville

1937 Murray Ave, Squirrel Hill

Riverstone Books

8850 Covenant Ave., McCandless

Aakanksha Agarwal

Aakanksha Agarwal is a wine, travel and lifestyle writer from India. Formerly a Bollywood stylist, she now resides in Pittsburgh, embracing full-time writing while juggling family life and indulging in her passions for cuisine, literature and wanderlust.

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• Summer Travel

How to Spend a Food-Filled Weekend in Pittsburgh

It’s about a four hour drive from D.C. to an impressive dining scene

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At just about four hours from D.C. (as long as Beltway traffic doesn’t have other plans), Pittsburgh can be an ideal long weekend trip. This hilly and bridge-tastic city (famous for putting fries on everything from sandwiches to salads ) has a lot of character, as well as a burgeoning (if somewhat transient) food scene, and many cultural highlights.

For those mostly in it for the food, here’s how to spend a weekend’s worth of meals in the city (with some activity suggestions along the way). This guide is designed with flexibility in mind, with ideas for several arrival times on Friday and departures on Sunday. Heading in Thursday to get even more Pittsburgh action? Consider the alternate Sunday night path for your evening agenda.

Arriving around 1 p.m.? Ride the Incline, then grab some ice cream.

If you’ve got some afternoon time to spare, make your first stop one of Pittsburgh’s most iconic sites: the Incline. The city has two funiculars that have been around since the 1870s, and riding these historic cable cars offer unparalleled views of the city at the top of Mt. Washington. Take the Monongahela one up and back for a round-trip fee of $3.50; if you want to linger for a bit, there are a handful of bars within walking distance to grab a quick drink ( Shilo Gastro makes a decent cocktail), or you can get some solid ice cream at DiFiore’s . For the true ice cream connoisseurs, one of your best options is about a 15-minute drive away at the institution Page’s on East Carson.

Arriving around 3 p.m.? Shop and wander around Lawrenceville.

The bulk of your evening and drinking will take place in this ever-changing Pittsburgh neighborhood. Its main drag of Butler Street has some cute bars and shops to keep you occupied. Make sure to duck into Wildcard , a quirky card and gift shop. Feel free to pop into any bar that looks appealing (also nearby, the Church Brew Works , a Catholic church-turned-brewery with a menu of burgers, pierogies, and other Pittsburgh-centric dishes), but if you’re looking for more of a roadmap...

4 p.m. Happy hour at Grapperia

You don’t find too many bars dedicated to grappa, but this offshoot located behind (and affiliated with) neighborhood Italian favorite Piccolo Forno is all about the Italian spirit (amari are also a big focus). You’ll find several cocktails featuring the ingredients, but a flight is a great way to sample a few offerings. Bonus: It opens before 5 p.m. and is usually pretty empty beyond a handful of regulars at this time.

Another idea: Bar Botanico opens at 5 p.m. Fridays.

5:30 p.m. Meat plate at Morcilla

Justin Severino’s Spanish-leaning Morcilla is one of the best places in the city to sample charcuterie. Sidle up to the bar and treat yourself to the $30 plate (Severino is excited enough about the craft to spin off his own cured meat company, Salty Pork Bits ), and maybe pair it with a little sherry.

Other ideas: Sibling to Umami down the street, there’s the Parlor Dim Sum from Roger Li, an updated take on Cantonese American dining, for snacks. It’s closed temporarily, but a martini with the impossibly skinny frites from French favorite Poulet Bleu is normally a move here. Ask for all the steak sauces for dipping on the side; you understand it’s extra.

7 p.m. Dinner at Pusadee’s Garden

This longtime haunt for Thai food got some new digs a couple of years ago, and the expansive, floral patio feels like something you’d be more likely to find in Southern California. Even if the weather won’t cooperate for eating outside, this place has more than atmosphere to recommend it — order dishes like tom yum spiked with shrimp dumplings, spicy Northern-style sausage, a thrilling mushroom larb, or an assertive pumpkin curry; vegetarians can eat very well here.

Other ideas: DiAnoia’s (book a reservation far ahead) or Piccolo Forno for Italian (reservations via phone only), Umi for omakase sushi (make a reservation), or the family-friendly Driftwood Oven for good sourdough pies.

9 p.m. Jazz at Con Alma

Wind down your evening at this cozy downtown spot for live music and cocktails (and an eclectic menu with plenty of vegan options); keep an eye on the calendar to see who’s playing.

8:30 a.m. Breakfast at Kelly O’s

This friendly diner caught the attention of Guy Fieri several years ago for its version of haluski , a cabbage and noodle dish with strong roots in Pittsburgh (his visit upped the diner’s business enough to allow them to expand to multiple locations). Be sure to make the dish part of your order, but there are plenty of other diner classics on the menu here, and some tasty specials like breakfast potatoes topped with breakfast gravy.

Other ideas: Depending on where you’re staying, Mediterra Cafe or a coffee and pastry from La Prima could be options. There’s also KLVN in up-and-coming Larimer, with breakfast tacos and burritos from Baby Loves Tacos .

10 a.m. Wander the Strip District

This commercial, industrial area of Pittsburgh comes to life on Saturdays with produce vendors, seafood wholesalers (take a quick wander through the epic Wholey’s and rub the pig statue for luck), Italian and Polish markets and delis ( S&D is another haluski purveyor know for its pierogi), and a zillion vendors selling Pittsburgh team-related merch. Pennsylvania Libations is a fun stop with booze all from the state’s distilleries (they offer free samples, too). Once 11 a.m. rolls around, be sure to swing into Wigle , Pitt’s best distillery, for a flight or a cocktail (the saffron Negroni is a great pick). D.C.’s own Aslin now has a brewery outpost in this neighborhood, too, and they open as early as 8 a.m. for the breakfast crowd.

Noon. Visit the National Aviary

One of Pittsburgh’s treasures, find a dizzying collection of birds here, from the tropical to the arctic — owls, birds of prey, flamingos, and colorful showcase birds like the cock-of-the-rockwok. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Wookie, the Aviary’s beloved sloth — it’s no surprise that he’s often curled up and asleep high up in the trees, but when he’s active, he’s a sight to behold.

1:30 p.m. Lunch at Max’s Allegheny Tavern

You may have noticed from your time in the Strip District delis that Pittsburgh has a significant Eastern European population, and this classic has been around since the ’70s. Order any of the ’wursts here, plus spaetzle, schnitzel (five varieties!), potato pancakes, and more.

Another idea: Federal Galley food hall (Detroit-style pizza, Mexican fare, and more; vendors rotate). Alternatively, if you have the wherewithal to plan ahead, consider booking tours of the Troy Hill Art Houses , three amazing head-to-toe installations inside what looks like an everyday residence from the outside. Nearby is Threadbare Ciderhouse for a vast array of ciders that will make you a convert, from the folks behind Wigle. This means, though, you may not have time for…

2:45 p.m. Trip to the Andy Warhol Museum

Find an impressive selection of works and exhibits from the pop art master here; he was born in Pittsburgh.

4:30 p.m. Happy Hour at Eleven

One of the best happy hours in Pittsburgh runs from 4 to 6 p.m. on weekdays at this restaurant from the Big Burrito empire. Wines, bites, and cocktails are all $9 and the snacks range from mussels spiked with kielbasa to fried curds in a beef bourguignon sauce.

Another idea: A drink at Southside cocktail bar Acacia , which opens at 5 p.m., or head on over to the new Jackworth Ginger Beer (opens at 4 p.m.) for...well, you can figure it out.

6:30 p.m. Dinner at Chengdu Gourmet

In Squirrel Hill, a neighborhood brimming with excellent Chinese options (not to mention Korean fare, Jewish food, and even a Laotian restaurant, among other choices), this Sichuan restaurant from chef Wei Zhu is a particular standout (it’s been on the semifinalist list for the James Beard awards many times). You’ll do very well with Sichuan dishes like double-cooked pork, dry-fried green beans, and anything cooked in a flaming pan; find a variety of offal dishes here, too.

Other ideas: African Eats , Kiin Lao (where D.C.’s own chef Seng Luangrath consulted on the opening), and Jian’s Kitchen , all in Squirrel Hill.

7:45 p.m. Drinks at Hidden Harbor

Tiki bars often face warranted criticism of cultural appropriation. But it’s worth noting for fans of the genre that Hidden Harbor isn’t just the best tiki bar in Pittsburgh — it’s one of the best in the country. Keen attention to detail shows on the hideaway’s cocktail list (with both original and historical drinks), elaborate decor (including commissioned pop art), and festive glassware; shark fins indicate the potency of various cocktails, and the snacks are great, too. There’s always a frozen cocktail option or two, and many more fishbowl-sized, dramatic drinks are meant for sharing (though no judgment if you decide to down an entire one yourself).

9:30 p.m. A late night soup dumpling snack at Taiwanese Bistro Cafe 33 — or a slice of pizza.

You don’t want a hangover after those sugary tiki drinks, so here’s one more chance to sop up some booze. Beyond having a strong Taiwanese menu, Cafe 33 makes the second-best soup dumplings in town, and they’re open until 10 p.m. on weekends (the xiao long bao at Everyday Noodles are probably a smidge better, but they close at 9 p.m.). If you’re ready to move beyond Chinese fare after eating so much of it at Chengdu (or you just lingered a little longer at Hidden Harbor, and Cafe 33’s already closed), instead try to decide which of Pittsburgh’s popular pizza joints serves your favorite slice — Napoli’s , Mineo’s , or Aiello’s (all open till midnight).

11 a.m. Brunch at Casbah

Another restaurant from the Big Burrito empire, this Mediterranean-focused restaurant is a nice option for brunch, especially because of its pretty patio surrounded by well-attended greenery. There are more breakfast-leaning options like sticky buns and a crab and roasted red pepper omelet, but pastas are a highlight at the restaurant, so why not have one first thing in the morning?

Another idea: Pamela’s for Pittsburgh’s favorite hotcakes, but note that they do not take reservations and often have a long wait.

1 p.m. Tour Phipps Conservatory

Pittsburgh has a gorgeous botanical gardens display worth a tour, and they often go all out with special exhibits (such as this past one inspired by the fashion of Pitt native Billy Porter). If brunch was enough to get you through dinner, consider also making a stop at the nearby Carnegie museums of Art and Natural History .

3 p.m. Sushi snack at Mola

Pittsburgh’s East Liberty neighborhood is worth a brief cameo for a snack and a wander. Surprisingly, one of Pittsburgh’s best tacos can be found at Duo’s Taqueria , a side project from, of all things, language learning app Duolingo , which is Pittsburgh-based. Sadly, it’s closed Sundays. Instead, head to Mola for some yellowtail jalapeno and Mola-style vegetables (good light options since brunch wasn’t that long ago).

Other ideas: Oysters at Muddy Waters Oyster Bar , okonomiyaki at Teppanyaki Kyoto , festive spins on everything from pierogi to Japanese sweet potatoes at the new Lilith , or arepas at the Colombian Spot.

Sticking around for the evening? Choose your own adventure.

Door #1: head to bloomfield, 5 p.m. quick beer at trace brewing.

Local brewery Trace has a great inclusive vibe and plenty of space for a quick beverage before dinner; there are a few cocktails on draft for non-beer drinkers, too. Sadly, cocktail fans will not be able to make a visit to the excellent nearby neighborhood bar Tina’s , which is closed Sundays, but worth a visit if you are back in the area.

6:30 p.m. Burger at Tessaro’s

Neighborhood standby Tessaro’s has a pretty extensive menu and old-school feel, but people in the know (i.e. most people in Pittsburgh) go there for the burgers, which are excellent (the Cajun and the bacon bleu are two notable options, but there are several choices). The home fries also have a following, but be sure to order them well-done.

Another idea: Apteka , a short-listed James Beard nominee with vegan Polish fare and unusual specials like grilled sunflower heads, along with a compelling natural wine selection.

8:15 p.m. Karaoke at Cobra

End your time in Pittsburgh singing your heart out at the newish Cobra, which has private room karaoke (and a pretty extensive Korean/Japanese menu with tableside barbecue if you are still peckish). The lounge vibes here can often attract people dressed to party. Find Pennsylvania sake, Japanese whiskey, and more on the drink menu. Reservations recommended.

Door #2: Explore Downtown Pittsburgh

5 p.m. drink at the warren.

It can be hard to find a place that feels like a neighborhood bar downtown while still having some ambitious options — the Warren fits the bill with reasonably priced and interesting cocktails that often riff on classics like Old Fashioneds or Bee’s Knees.

6:30 p.m. Show at Liberty Magic

How many cities do you know outside of Las Vegas with their own magician community? Liberty Magic, run by the city’s Cultural Trust, has shows every week Wednesday through Sunday, usually featuring local acts; check the calendar for specifics, but Sunday shows are usually on the earlier side.

8:30 p.m. Dinner at Meat & Potatoes

Pittsburgh has a reputation for being a meat-and-potatoes town, so it’s not shocking this restaurant from chef Richard DeShantz might hold some appeal. Roasted bone marrow, steak frites, and Welsh rarebit are among the choices here, but even non-carnivores can sample dishes like a hearty vegan meatloaf.

Another idea: The same restaurant group operates the sleek Gi-Jin, pairing hand rolls and gin drinks (maybe go for another snack option besides Mola if you take this route), but reservations fill up months in advance.

Where to Stay

Kimpton’s Monaco and the AC Hotel by Marriott are nice options downtown; TRYP by Wyndham is in hip Lawrenceville and has a rooftop bar ; Hotel Indigo will offer more of a feel of the East Liberty neighborhood.

After Middling Reviews, Keith Lee Might Already Be Moving On to Baltimore

Slipstream cafe is on the move in logan circle, bethesda brothers make restaurant containers more sustainable in d.c..

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Downtown Pittsburgh Restaurants

Make a free reservation, check out diners' favorite restaurants in downtown pittsburgh.

Updated on 8/5/2024

Diners’ Choice Awards are based on where your fellow diners book, dine, and review. Only verified diners get to review restaurants on OpenTable, so our data doesn’t lie.

See what locals rave about in Downtown Pittsburgh

• C Charles Pittsburgh / Western PA • 20 reviews 5.0 Dined 2 days ago Our Server Chandler was amazing! Very fast and efficient constantly asking if we needed something. They were very busy but she was all over her role in the process. Great job Chandler! It is always nice seeing Jake and he always ensures a wonderful experience is had by all. More info Fogo de Chao - Pittsburgh $$ $$ Price: Moderate • Brazilian • Downtown • 4.5
• K Kevin vip Houston • 20 reviews 5.0 Dined 3 days ago Ashley was an amazing bar tender!! She took care of me two nights this week and did so very very well More info The Capital Grille - Pittsburgh $$$$ Price: Very Expensive • Steakhouse • Downtown • 4.8
• B Brooke vip Pittsburgh / Western PA • 15 reviews 5.0 Dined 4 days ago Had lunch yesterday at RH again - they are always on point.. the place is gorgeous but not stuffy and the bartenders/ front of the house are always so cheery and nice. I had the rainbow bowl and added shrimp and my colleague had a new steak sandwich on the menu.. everything was fresh and delicious. Service perfect. We go to their HH’s also which are fun with lots of people. Their creative drinks are delicious-check them out! More info Ritual House $$$ $ Price: Expensive • Contemporary American • Downtown • 4.8
• P Paula Cleveland / Akron / Canton • 2 reviews 5.0 Dined 6 days ago My husband and I celebrated our anniversary at Eddie V's and we could not have asked for a more lovely experience. We were treated to champagne and our waiter was exceptional. The pace of service was perfect and allowed us to enjoy every single minute of our meal. The live music was an unexpected surprise. The food options were varied and felt upscale. Nothing was ordinary and everything we ate was delicious. The desserts were so beautiful - the whole experience was very special and I hope we can return again soon. You will not be disappointed. More info Eddie V's - Pittsburgh $$$$ Price: Very Expensive • Seafood • Downtown • 4.9
• J John vip Greater Boston • 49 reviews 5.0 Dined 6 days ago My wife and I had dinner at Del Frisco’s and had a wonderful time. The service was top notch and every need was catered to. Pre-dinner, we particularly enjoyed their VIP and 12-point sour cocktails. The dynamite shrimp and crab cake each made for excellent appetizers. We did also get the salmon crudo which was nice but didn’t stand out. They have a wide array of steak options and I had their dry aged strip and my wife had the filet Oscar-style and both were cooked perfectly and delicious. The wild mushrooms were a standout as a side. For dessert, the tiramisu creme brûlée was a real star. Absolutely outstanding. Of course, this was a celebratory meal for us and we had intended to splurge. This is a difficult menu to navigate on a budget but we felt that the price was easily justified by the quality of the food and service. More info Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse - Pittsburgh $$$$ Price: Very Expensive • Steakhouse • Downtown • 4.7

Trending dishes in Downtown Pittsburgh

Restaurant experiences trending in pittsburgh / western pa, international whiskey experience, guest appreciation -- august 25th to august 30th, lakeside cabanas, discover downtown.

Downtown Pittsburgh is often referred to as the Golden Triangle. With its blend of history and modern design, you can find restaurants to suit any craving. An aroma of Philly cheesesteak wafts from a busy restaurant in the center of the city while a quiet street delivers smells of kielbasa and pierogis. Start your day by enjoying coffee or an espresso drink at one of the many coffee shops. Pizza is common at almost every turn when you're walking along the city streets. Market Square features farm stands with fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade items. A fun event in the downtown area is Picklesburgh, a festival that features everything dealing with the pickle. There, you'll also find a host of other foods that go great with pickles.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best restaurants in downtown pittsburgh for a special occasion.

Celebrate special occasion at the best restaurants in Downtown Pittsburgh. Our customers recommend Grand Concourse , Ritual House and ELEVEN

How many restaurants are on OpenTable in Downtown Pittsburgh?

As of August 26, 2024 there are 87 restaurants in Downtown Pittsburgh. Filter by “outdoor dining”, “romantic” or “dog friendly”.

What cuisines are available near me in Downtown Pittsburgh?

On OpenTable we support all cuisines. Find Steakhouse, Seafood, American, Italian, Contemporary American and more. Use our filters to find exactly what you’re looking for and make your reservation today.

Can you get delivery in Downtown Pittsburgh with OpenTable?

Yes! We partner with restaurants in Downtown Pittsburgh who deliver with Postmates, Toast, Uber Eats, Olo, ChowNow.

Can I order takeout as well?

Yes, you can also see restaurants near you offering takeout.

Can I reserve a table at a restaurant as well on OpenTable?

Yes! OpenTable provides free, convenient and trusted options to book the best restaurants in Downtown Pittsburgh either on OpenTable or directly with the restaurant.

Can I see menu information for restaurants?

Yes, we partner with a third party to bring back menu information for restaurants near you.

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Watch CBS News

When and where to see August's rare supermoon blue moon

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: August 19, 2024 / 5:33 PM EDT / CBS News

August's supermoon blue moon , the first of 2024's four consecutive supermoons, will appear full from Sunday through Wednesday this week, giving astronomy fans a rare show when they look to the skies. 

The full moon had been expected to reach its peak on Monday, Aug. 19, at 2:26 p.m. EDT, and it will appear full for three days, NASA said. The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonrise times for different ZIP codes across the U.S. 

When and how you can see the August supermoon blue moon peak?

While the full moon peaked on Monday afternoon, it first appeared full on Sunday morning, and will continue to appear full through early Wednesday morning.

Around 98% of the moon's nearside had been expected to be illuminated by the sun on Sunday, according to NASA. By Monday, 100% of the moon's nearside will be illuminated and about 99% of it will be illuminated by the sun on Tuesday.

You don't need binoculars or a telescope to enjoy the spectacular view.

What is a supermoon?

Supermoons occur when the moon's orbit is closest to Earth at the same time as the moon is full, according to NASA. The moon's distance from Earth varies between about 221,457 miles and 252,712 miles. 

During this month's supermoon peak, the moon will be around 225,288 miles from Earth. It will be even closer to Earth in September: roughly 222,005 miles. In October, the full moon will be about 222,095 miles from Earth. The last supermoon in the series — November's — will be when the moon is around 224,385 miles from Earth.

Supermoons appear bigger than the average full moon. It's similar to the size difference between a quarter and a nickel, according to NASA . They're also about 16% brighter than an average moon. 

How much bigger and brighter will the August supermoon appear than the average full moon?

While all supermoons appear bigger and brighter than the average full moon, there is some variance. According to NASA, the August full moon should appear 6.2% bigger and 12.8% brighter than the average full moon. 

The moon will appear even bigger and brighter the next month. September's full moon will look 7.5% bigger and 15.5% brighter than average, NASA said.

October's full moon, which will appear 7.6% bigger and 15.7% brighter than average, will be the biggest and brightest moon of the year, according to the space agency.

The November full moon will appear 6.2% bigger and 12.8% brighter than 2024's average full moon.

When are the next supermoons this year?

August's full moon is the first of four consecutive supermoons this year. The full moon in September will reach peak illumination on Tuesday, Sept. 17. It's known as the Harvest Moon.

The full moon the following month, known as the Hunter's Moon, peaks on Thursday, Oct. 17. The final supermoon will be November's Beaver Moon, which peaks on Friday, Nov. 15.

According to NASA, the full moons in September and October will be virtually tied for the closest full moons of the year.

Will the blue moon look blue?

August's full moon is not just a supermoon — it's also a blue moon. But those hoping to see a shade like cerulean, cobalt or navy blue when they check out the moon are out of luck. A blue moon has two meanings when it comes to astronomical phenomena, and neither one is related to color. 

A blue moon refers to the third full moon in a season with four full moons, as is the case with this August's full moon, according to NASA. The term is also used to refer to the second full moon in a month that has two full moons. 

Does August's full moon have a special name?

August's full moon is called the Sturgeon Moon, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac . The name comes from the giant lake sturgeon of the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain, which was easily caught during this part of the summer. 

This month's full moon is also known as the Red Moon, Corn or Green Corn Moon, the Barley Moon, the Herb Moon, the Grain Moon and the Dog Moon, NASA notes.

Aliza Chasan is a Digital Content Producer for "60 Minutes" and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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You Won’t Want to Miss August’s Rare Super Blue Moon. Here’s How and When You Can See It

O n the heels of  the exciting Perseid meteor shower, the public will be graced with another thrilling night sky moment.

On Monday evening, you’ll have more of a reason than usual to gaze up at the sky, as August’s rare super blue moon will take center stage for the pleasure of photographers, astronomers, and casual viewers.

Here's what to know about the celestial event:

What is a super blue moon?

A super blue moon is simultaneously a full moon, blue moon, and a super moon.

The first of these three is pretty well known to us: a phase in the lunar cycle in which the Earth, sun, and moon are aligned with the Earth in the middle, so the moon is fully illuminated on Earth.

A blue moon is not about the color of the moon, but instead the frequency of the full moon. There are two definitions of a blue moon—the first describes when there are two full moons in a single month. Since the moon’s cycle is 29.5 days, and our average calendar month is 30-31 days, it is incredibly rare to have two full moons in one single month, but it is possible, happening every two to three years, according to NASA. Around 3% of full moons are blue moons.

There are also seasonal blue moons, in which a calendar season contains four full moons instead of the usual three, and the blue moon is the third of the four full moons. August’s full moon is of this variety. The next seasonal blue moon is expected in May 2027.

The super moon part refers to the moon's orbit, which brings it slightly closer to Earth this month, making it appear bigger and brighter. This occurs since the moon’s orbit around the Earth is elliptical instead of just a circle, and thus there are times when the moon is further and closer to our planet.

During the moon’s closest approach to Earth, it can appear approximately 14% larger and shine 30% brighter than when at its farthest point in the orbit. This will be the first of four consecutive super moons this year, and it is less rare than the blue moon, occurring three or four times a year.

August’s full moon is often called the Sturgeon moon , dubbed by the Algonquin Native American tribe living in the Great Lakes area and throughout what is now known as the northeastern United States. They named the full moon after sturgeons—a type of large fish—which were most plentiful in the lakes during the month of August.

How and when can you see August’s super blue moon?  

The full moon's peak will occur on Monday afternoon, according to NASA , at 2:26 p.m. EDT and 11:26 a.m. PT. It will appear for three days, from Sunday morning until early Wednesday morning.

Though the moon will be visible to the naked eye, Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Ariz., says that telescope and binocular viewers will be able to see even more detail on the lunar surface than usual.

How rare is a super blue moon? 

According to NASA, the combination of the super moon and the blue moon is rare, and the time between their occurrences is quite “irregular” and could be as much as 20 years, with 10 years between the average.

Though we had a super blue moon somewhat recently, in August 2023, NASA predicts the next super blue moons will occur in January and March 2037. All the more reason to make sure you don’t miss 2024’s offering.

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