Things To Do
in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, located in Pennsylvania, is known for its industrial history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning riverfront views. The city is home to numerous universities and museums, as well as professional sports teams like the Steelers and Pirates. With its iconic bridges and unique topography, Pittsburgh offers a blend of urban and natural beauty.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy exploring the diverse neighborhoods, trying local cuisine, and attending lively events throughout the year.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Point State Park to enjoy the waterfront views and see the confluence of three rivers. Grab a coffee at a nearby café and soak in the fresh air.
Visit the Andy Warhol Museum to admire contemporary art and learn about Pittsburgh's famous pop artist. Afterward, take a stroll through the Cultural District and check out local shops.
Dine at a local restaurant to experience Pittsburgh's culinary scene. Consider catching a show at the Benedum Center for Performing Arts to unwind.
Kick off the day with a breakfast at a local diner before heading to PNC Park for a behind-the-scenes tour. Enjoy learning about the history of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Make your way to Heinz Field to delve into the world of the Steelers with a guided stadium tour. Have lunch at nearby tailgate spots serving delicious local favorites.
Catch a live game if the schedule permits, or enjoy the atmosphere around the stadium. Wrap up your night with a visit to a local sports bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to other major cities in the U.S.
- Rich cultural and historical heritage with numerous museums and theaters.
- Strong job market, particularly in healthcare, education, and technology sectors.
- Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, including the iconic Point State Park.
- Diverse culinary scene with a variety of local and international cuisines.
- Friendly and welcoming community with a strong sense of local pride.
- Cold winters with significant snowfall and harsh weather conditions.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Some areas suffer from economic decline and urban blight.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak commuting times.
- Crime rates can be higher in certain neighborhoods.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Pittsburgh
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a variety of trails and beautiful wooded surroundings at Frick Park, a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts in Pittsburgh.
Explore the city's waterfront and scenic landscapes by biking along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, which offers a picturesque route for outdoor exploration.
Experience the city from a unique perspective by kayaking on the Allegheny River, offering a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors in Pittsburgh.
Tours
Uncover the best of Pittsburgh with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Pittsburgh
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Pittsburgh skyline and three rivers
Great for views of the city and skyline, especially during baseball games
Provides a picturesque view of the confluence of the three rivers and the city skyline
Food in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These Polish dumplings filled with various ingredients are a Pittsburgh favorite. Visit spots like Pierogies Plus or S&D Polish Deli for authentic pierogi experience.
Must-Try!
This iconic sandwich includes grilled meat, coleslaw, tomato, and French fries between two thick slices of Italian bread. Grab one at the original Primanti Brothers location in the Strip District.
A salad featuring grilled chicken, French fries, cheddar cheese, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Sample it at local eateries like Pamela's Diner.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pittsburgh better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling area for an array of food markets, ethnic grocers, and street food vendors offering everything from fresh produce to gourmet chocolates and authentic international cuisine.
Check out Food Truck Roundup events around the city to savor a variety of offerings from mobile vendors, spanning from inventive tacos to artisanal ice cream.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pittsburgh, it's important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close or making physical contact without permission.
Courtesy is highly valued in Pittsburgh, so it's important to use polite language, hold doors open for others, and show appreciation for small gestures.
Understanding and respecting Pittsburgh's local customs, such as sports traditions or dining etiquette, demonstrates cultural awareness and respect for the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pittsburgh with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Pittsburgh
Ensure a smooth experience
In Pittsburgh, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, cafes, bars, and for services such as taxis and hairdressers. The standard tipping rate is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Pittsburgh is usually made using credit/debit cards or cash. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. Some businesses may also accept mobile payment apps such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pittsburgh.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Pittsburgh as the weather is pleasant with blooming flowers and trees. Enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.
Great for outdoor events, concerts, and festivals. Warm weather ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and parks.
Beautiful foliage colors, perfect for scenic drives and outdoor activities. Enjoy fall festivals and events in the city.
Winter activities, holiday events, and cozy indoor experiences. The city comes alive with holiday lights and festivities.
Pittsburgh at Night
Hiking in Pittsburgh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large urban park featuring miles of trails for hiking, biking, and exploring nature within the city limits of Pittsburgh.
A scenic park in the heart of Pittsburgh with trails, wooded areas, and beautiful views, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
Located about an hour from Pittsburgh, this state park offers stunning trails, waterfalls, and white-water rafting opportunities.
A large suburban park featuring a network of trails around lakes and through wooded areas, ideal for hiking and wildlife observation.
A popular local destination for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring various trails with varying difficulties in a picturesque natural setting.
Located a bit farther out, this national park offers diverse hiking trails through scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and rich ecosystems.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pittsburgh through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Pittsburgh by plane.
The main airport serving Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Located in Cleveland, Ohio, approximately 130 miles northwest of Pittsburgh.
Situated in Columbus, Ohio, about 185 miles southwest of Pittsburgh.
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, around 300 miles east of Pittsburgh.
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, approximately 200 miles southeast of Pittsburgh.
Situated in Chantilly, Virginia, around 225 miles south of Pittsburgh.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant majority demographic in Pittsburgh, primarily of European descent.
A prominent demographic group in Pittsburgh, contributing significantly to the city's cultural fabric.
A growing demographic group, inclusive of various ancestral backgrounds in the Pittsburgh area.
Includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, contributing to the city's diversity.
Represents individuals of two or more racial backgrounds, reflecting the increasing diversity in the community.
Includes all other demographic groups not classified in the primary categories.
The Soul of Pittsburgh
Discover the essence of Pittsburgh through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Pittsburgh is home to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a professional American football team that competes in the NFL. The team has a rich history and a passionate fan base.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are the city's professional ice hockey team, competing in the NHL. They have won multiple Stanley Cup championships, making them one of the league's successful franchises.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are a Major League Baseball team, with a storied history in the sport. They play their home games at PNC Park, known for its scenic views.
Pittsburgh has a growing soccer community, with teams like the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC competing in the USL Championship. The sport continues to gain popularity in the region.
While not as prominent as the other sports, basketball has a dedicated following in Pittsburgh, with local schools and colleges participating in various levels of competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pittsburgh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Pittsburgh's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering diverse plant-based dishes. Check out Apteka for a completely vegan menu.
Several eateries in Pittsburgh provide gluten-free options, such as gluten-free pizza at Mercurio's and gluten-free baked goods at Gluuteny Bakery.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Pittsburgh with these cultural adventures.