Pittsburgh, often on America’s list of “most livable cities,” was built on innovations in the steel industry. That legacy can still be seen today in the downtown skyline, with its towering modern buildings.
The city is also defined by its geography. Two separate rivers — the Monongahela and the Allegheny — meet to form the Ohio River. The waterways divide the city into nearly 100 distinct neighborhoods built on and around steep, picturesque hills. For the best views of the city, trace the routes of Pittsburgh’s early immigrant miners and take the Monongahela Incline or the Duquesne Incline to the top of Mount Washington.
You’ll see that there’s a good reason Pittsburgh is known as a cultural hub of the East Coast. Steel baron Andrew Carnegie, once the richest man in the world, gave his hometown four major cultural institutions. The Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History and Carnegie Science Center are all located in the neighborhood of Oakland. Learn about another famous Pittsburgh son at the fourth Carnegie institution: The Andy Warhol Museum, located at the city’s North Shore.
Pittsburgh also offers plenty of outdoor attractions. Check out Point State Park, where the three rivers meet, or take a stroll along the tranquil wooded paths at Riverview Park. Head to the Phipps Conservatory at Schenley Park for displays of botanical splendor, or the National Aviary to encounter more than 200 species of rare and exotic birds.
If you’re traveling with children, you’ll find plenty to keep them busy and happy. The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh offers a variety of opportunities to stretch young minds while Kennywood has acres of amusement park fun.
Summer is the best time to visit Pittsburgh. The city comes alive with festivals such as the Three Rivers Arts Festival and the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix. Basing yourself in the downtown areas will give you quickest access to all the major sights and attractions. The city’s winding, narrow streets can take some getting used to, but the public buses are frequent and reliable.
Pittsburgh, PA
Where to stay in Pittsburgh
Downtown Pittsburgh
Abundant dining options, interesting museums and live music are just a few top things to explore in Downtown Pittsburgh. A visit to PPG Paints Arena or Benedum Center might round out your trip, and you can jump aboard the metro at Wood Street Station or Steel Plaza Station to get around town.
North Shore
Visitors often come to North Shore for its stunning river views, but many stay to explore sights like PNC Park and Acrisure Stadium. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you catch a ride at North Side Station.
Oakland
Oakland is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Petersen Events Center and Carnegie Museum of Natural History while in the area.
Shadyside
Unique features of Shadyside include the restaurants and shopping. Make a stop by Walnut Street or Gallerie CHIZ while you're exploring the area.
Strip District
Travelers come to Strip District for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Senator John Heinz Regional History Centre and Wigle Whiskey Distillery while you're in town.
Mount Washington
Consider a visit to Patrick Fagan Overlook and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Mount Washington. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at South Hills Junction Station or Palm Garden Station.
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Popular places to visit
PNC Park
Root for the Pittsburgh Pirates at this iconic stadium, which blends a timeless ballpark atmosphere with modern amenities.
University of Pittsburgh
Enjoy the collegiate vibe around University of Pittsburgh, a top college in Pittsburgh. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the acclaimed theater scene in this vibrant area.
Acrisure Stadium
Giant ketchup bottles tilt onto the scoreboard to celebrate touchdowns in this innovative riverside football arena at the heart of Pittsburgh sports.
Carnegie Mellon University
Walk around the campus of Carnegie Mellon University, a top college in Pittsburgh. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the acclaimed theater scene in this vibrant area.
PPG Paints Arena
Catch an event at PPG Paints Arena during your trip to Pittsburgh. Experience the acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area.
Rivers Casino
Why not try your luck with a visit to Rivers Casino during your travels in Pittsburgh? Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront or experience its acclaimed theater scene.
Other places like Pittsburgh
- PNC Park
- University of Pittsburgh
- Acrisure Stadium
- Carnegie Mellon University
- PPG Paints Arena
- David L Lawrence Convention Center
- Kennywood
- The Mall at Robinson
- Hollywood Casino at the Meadows
- Station Square
- The Waterfront
- Duquesne University
- Andy Warhol Museum
- Point State Park
- Phipps Conservatory
- Sandcastle Water Park
- Carnegie Museum of Natural History
- Tanger Outlet Center
- Bakery Square