Things To Do
in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, located in southwestern Pennsylvania, is a vibrant city known for its rich industrial history and transformation into a hub for technology and education. The city is characterized by its iconic three rivers, numerous bridges, and a stunning skyline that reflects its historical architecture. Pittsburgh is home to a diverse cultural scene, including museums, theaters, and sports teams, making it an exciting destination for visitors.

With friendly locals and a unique blend of urban and outdoor experiences, Pittsburgh offers something for everyone.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Downtown
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at Pamela's Diner, famous for its crepe-style pancakes. Afterward, visit the Andy Warhol Museum to explore the works of the Pittsburgh native.

afternoon
:

Head to Point State Park for a scenic walk and enjoy views of the confluence of the rivers. Then, visit the nearby Fort Pitt Museum to learn about the city's history.

evening
:

Dine at Meat & Potatoes, a popular gastropub, before catching a show at the Benedum Center.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the Franktuary, renowned for its gourmet hot dogs, then visit the Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History.

afternoon
:

Explore the vibrant Strip District, filled with local shops and markets. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some local snacks.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at The Capital Grille followed by drinks at one of the many bars in the Lawrenceville neighborhood.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Public Transit Ticket$2.50
🏨Hotel Night$100-$200
🍻Beer at a Bar$5-$8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
  • Vibrant food scene with diverse options
  • Public transportation can be limited
  • Some areas may feel isolated or less safe at night
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter

Places to Visit in Pittsburgh

Visit one of these nice places.

Mount Washington

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Pittsburgh's skyline and rivers, especially stunning at sunset.

Pittsburgh Point at Point State Park

The iconic fountain at the confluence of the rivers makes for a perfect photo backdrop.

The Roberto Clemente Bridge

A beautiful yellow bridge that is especially photogenic at night when illuminated.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional flavors and modern cuisine, showcasing local ingredients and cultural influences.

Pittsburgh Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Primanti Brothers Sandwich

A famous sandwich stuffed with meat, cheese, coleslaw, and fries, served between two slices of Italian bread.

Must-Try!

Pierogies

Dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese, often served with sour cream and onions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Strip District

A bustling area filled with food vendors, markets, and shops offering local produce, meats, and snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pittsburgh experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average highs around 80°F (27°C). Winters can be cold and snowy, with average lows around 20°F (-6°C). Spring and fall are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents appreciate friendly greetings and polite conversation, reflecting the city's welcoming spirit.

Respect for Sports

Pittsburghers are passionate about their sports teams; showing enthusiasm is a great way to connect.

Queueing

Forming an orderly line is expected, especially in public transport and popular venues.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pittsburgh has a relatively low crime rate compared to other urban areas, but visitors should still be aware of their surroundings, especially in less populated areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911, and it's advisable to stay in well-lit and busy areas after dark. Always keep personal belongings secure and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in vehicles.

Tipping in Pittsburgh

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% in restaurants, while rounding up for bartenders is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather attracts crowds to parks and outdoor events, though humidity can be high.

Fall

Stunning fall foliage provides a picturesque backdrop, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall create a winter wonderland, ideal for holiday events and indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Pittsburgh at Night

Pittsburgh's nightlife is diverse, ranging from casual pubs to upscale cocktail bars and vibrant music venues. Neighborhoods like Lawrenceville and South Side are particularly known for their bars and clubs. Enjoy live music at places like the Rex Theater or dance the night away at local clubs. The city also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, contributing to a lively after-dark atmosphere.

Hiking in Pittsburgh

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bald Mountain Trail

Located just outside the city, this trail offers a moderate hike with beautiful views of the Allegheny Valley.

McConnells Mill State Park

About an hour's drive from Pittsburgh, this park features stunning landscapes and various hiking trails, suitable for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Pittsburgh by plane.

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

Located about 20 miles from downtown, this airport serves as the main gateway for national and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pittsburgh is a walkable city, especially in neighborhoods like the Strip District and Lawrenceville, where shops, restaurants, and attractions are in close proximity. Downtown is also pedestrian-friendly, with many amenities within walking distance. However, some hilly areas may require more effort to navigate on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Pittsburgh, attracted by job opportunities in technology and healthcare sectors.

University Students

With several universities in the area, including Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh, the student population adds to the city's vibrancy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a passionate following, with games held at Heinz Field, creating a lively atmosphere.

Hockey

The Pittsburgh Penguins are another beloved team, with a strong fan base that fills the PPG Paints Arena during the NHL season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pittsburgh can be congested during rush hours, particularly on major routes leading into and out of downtown. Public transportation options include buses and light rail, operated by the Port Authority of Allegheny County, which can be a convenient alternative to driving. Biking and walking are also popular for short distances, particularly in well-connected neighborhoods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pittsburgh.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask about meal preparation.

Gluten-Free

Several places cater to gluten-free diets; always check the menu or ask staff about options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Pittsburgh is home to several top-rated hospitals and healthcare facilities, including UPMC and Allegheny Health Network. Emergency services are available 24/7, and many clinics offer specialized care. Visitors should have travel insurance to cover any medical needs during their stay.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

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