Things To Do
in Plum
Plum is a suburban borough and township east of Pittsburgh in Allegheny County, known for its residential neighborhoods, parks and easy access to the city. It combines quiet, tree-lined streets and family-oriented amenities with quick commuter routes into Pittsburgh’s cultural and employment hub. The area is surrounded by green space — including county parks and trails — that attract walkers, cyclists and weekend nature escapes. Expect a close-knit community feel, strong local schools and practical services for visitors who prefer a low-key base near a major U.S.
city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plum Historical Society where you can learn about the rich history of Plum and its surrounding areas. Stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the charming architecture and local shops. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, sampling some local pastries and coffee.
After lunch, take a guided walking tour of the historic district, stopping at key landmarks like the Plum Community Center and local parks. Visit the Plum Library to explore its collection of local history books and exhibits. Spend some time at the nearby Plum Creek Park, enjoying the natural beauty and perhaps a leisurely walk along the creek.
As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table offerings, experiencing the flavors of the region. After dinner, gather at a local pub for some live music, immersing yourself in the local culture. Wind down your day with a peaceful stroll under the stars, taking in the serene atmosphere of the historic district.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk through the serene trails of the Plum Parks and Recreation area, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. Breathe in the fresh air as you explore the scenic routes, perfect for bird watching and photography. Stop for a picnic breakfast at one of the park's beautiful picnic spots.
After your morning walk, take part in a guided nature hike that showcases the local flora and fauna, learning about the ecosystem from an experienced naturalist. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local diner, relishing classic American comfort food. Spend the afternoon kayaking on the nearby waterways, soaking in the tranquility of nature.
As the day winds down, return to the parks for a sunset viewing, where the colors of the sky reflect beautifully on the water. Have a casual dinner at a nearby grill, enjoying some barbecue while sharing stories of your day. Conclude your evening with a stargazing session, either in the park or back at your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4.50 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-150 |
| 🚕Local taxi / short ride | $10-25 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (bar) | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, family-friendly suburban environment with access to parks and outdoor space
- Short drive to Pittsburgh’s cultural attractions, restaurants and nightlife
- Good base for exploring regional outdoor recreation areas and scenic drives
- Car-dependent — limited public transit options inside Plum compared with an urban center
- Limited nightlife and boutique dining within the borough itself
- Winters can bring snow and icy road conditions that affect travel
Places to Visit in Plum
Visit one of these nice places.
Wooded trails, open glades and seasonal wildflowers make this county park a great spot for nature photography, especially in fall and spring.
Local parks and neighborhood streets provide charming suburban scenes—mature trees, classic American homes and small-town civic buildings that photograph well in morning or golden hour light.
From Mount Washington overlooks or Point State Park at the river confluence, capture iconic Pittsburgh skyline shots—best at sunrise or after sunset when city lights glow.
Large lakes, forested trails and quiet shorelines offer scenic landscape and wildlife photography opportunities a short drive from Plum.
Food in Plum
Plum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dumplings filled with potato, cheese or meat, often pan-fried with onions; widely available at diners, Polish-American eateries and market stalls in the nearby Pittsburgh Strip District.
Must-Try!
A signature regional sandwich piled with meat, coleslaw and fries inside the sandwich; try this classic in Pittsburgh spots or at nearby sports bars.
A comforting dish of noodles or cabbage sautéed with butter and onions, often served in community-style eateries and family-run restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A short drive west, this historic market neighborhood features fresh produce vendors, butcher shops, ethnic groceries and street-food stands—ideal for sampling local specialties and buying picnic ingredients.
Seasonal farmers’ markets and community markets in and around Plum offer fresh produce, baked goods and local crafts; check borough schedules for weekend markets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People in suburban Pittsburgh are typically friendly and conversational—small talk about sports or the weather is common. Be polite, say please and thank you, and respect personal space.
Driving is the norm—obey local traffic rules, be patient in rush hour and yield appropriately; turn signals and defensive driving are appreciated.
Stick to public trails and parks unless granted permission—do not trespass on private land and clean up after yourself in natural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Plum
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tipping is customary: typically 15–20% of the pre-tax bill at sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for takeout or delivery; tip hotel staff and taxi drivers modestly for services.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common in many establishments. Carry a small amount of cash for very small purchases, some markets or tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and budding trees make spring pleasant for hikes and outdoor exploration; expect occasional rain—bring a light waterproof layer and insect repellent by late spring.
Warm and often humid with temperatures regularly in the 70s–80s°F (20s–30s°C); ideal for park activities, lake recreation and evening outdoor dining—stay hydrated and seek AC during heat waves.
Crisp, comfortable weather and excellent fall foliage make this a popular time for hiking, scenic drives and photography; pack layers for cool mornings and evenings.
Cold with periodic snow and ice—temperatures can drop below freezing; prepare for winter driving conditions, bring warm clothing and check road conditions if traveling to parks or into the city.
Plum at Night
Hiking in Plum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Local county-park trails with varied terrain, mountain biking routes, paved walkways and wooded loops—good for short hikes and family outings.
Extensive trails around a large reservoir with rolling hills, good signage and picnic areas—popular with walkers, runners and cyclists.
A larger state park within reasonable driving distance offering longer trails, lake access, diverse habitats and more secluded hikes for day trips.
A long, mostly flat rail-trail ideal for extended bike rides and walks that links communities and offers scenic rural-to-suburban views.
Airports
How to reach Plum by plane.
Major regional airport ~25–35 minutes drive west depending on traffic; offers domestic and international flights, car rental and ground transport options.
General aviation airport east of Pittsburgh for private and charter flights; limited commercial service—useful for private aviation access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Plum is home to many families and commuters who work in Pittsburgh, attracted by good schools and residential neighborhoods.
The community includes long-term homeowners and older adults, contributing to a stable, community-focused atmosphere.
Like many suburbs around Pittsburgh, Plum is gradually becoming more diverse with a mix of backgrounds and increasing cultural variety in restaurants and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is culturally significant—local interest in the Pittsburgh Steelers is strong, and many residents follow college and high-school football as well.
Hockey is popular locally; the Pittsburgh Penguins have a large fan base and youth hockey programs are common.
Youth and adult league baseball/softball are common in suburbs like Plum during the warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Plum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common at diners and cafes (sandwiches, salads, pasta), and many Pittsburgh restaurants offer meat-free entrees; call ahead for dedicated vegetarian or vegan restaurants in the city if you need a wider selection.
Gluten-free menus are increasingly available in larger restaurants; smaller family diners may have limited options—ask staff about ingredient substitutions and cross-contamination if you have celiac disease.
Most eateries can accommodate common allergies if notified; for severe allergies, choose larger restaurants with ingredient lists and confirm preparation methods.