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Pittsburgh is famous for its stunning skyline, vibrant neighborhoods, and eclectic cultural experiences. Despite having a bit of wanderlust for traveling, Pittsburgh has always been my home. I love the four seasons, the quirky festivals, and most of all its welcoming hills.
This city is full of history, forts, and rivers. In 1754, the French built Fort Duquesne at the confluence of the three rivers. Later, when the French left the area after losing the French and Indian War, the British built Fort Pitt from 1759-1761. Today, you can walk the outlines of George Washington visited the area multiple times. He even owned acres in what is now Washington and Fayette Counties
Insider Tips: Pittsburgh has many nicknames, including Steel City, Three Rivers, City of Bridges, City of Champions, Iron City, Golden Triangle, and Sixburgh. The three rivers’ names the Ohio, Monongahala, and Allegheny. We, Pittsburghers, are sometimes called Yinzers.
Lastly, all of Pittsburgh’s sports teams’ colors are black and gold: Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. You will see a lot of black and gold in Pittsburgh, this dates all the way back to the colors in William Pitt’s coat of arms!
ART AND CULTURE
If you love art, Pittsburgh won’t disappoint. The city is home to exceptional museums like the Carnegie Museum of Art and the Mattress Factory, showcasing contemporary art installations. You may want to also check out the Andy Warhol Museum dedicated to the iconic pop artist. I personsly love visiting Maxo Vanka Murals in St. Nicolas Church in Millvale. To visit the murals check their website for the schedule of tours.
If you love animals, you may want to visit the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium to see the sea otters, polar bears, and red pandas.
DOWNTOWN
Downtown Pittsburgh offers a lively atmosphere, filled with exciting attractions, and cultural experiences that you won’t want to miss. Here are a few highlights to explore during your visit!
Point State Park
Situated at the confluence of the three rivers, Point State Park offers a stunning green retreat in the center of it all. Be sure to walk along the riverfront and enjoy a picnic. Or simply admire the iconic Fountain.
Market Square
Located in the heart of downtown, Market Square is a bustling hub of activity with shops, restaurants, and outdoor seating. Grab a coffee and enjoy the atmosphere. You may want to indulge in some delicious local cuisine from Primanti Brothers!
Cultural District
Pittsburgh’s Cultural District is a haven for art enthusiasts and theater lovers. Catch a Broadway show at the Benedum Center, explore contemporary art at the Mattress Factory, or enjoy a performance at the iconic Heinz Hall. The district is brimming with artistic expression and creativity.
A FOODIE PARADISE
Pittsburgh is a haven for food lovers! Indulge in mouthwatering pierogis, Primanti Brothers’ famous sandwiches, or enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at one of the city’s many upscale restaurants.
Apteka
Apteka is my favorite restaurant, known for serving an artistic combination of vegan and Central and Eastern European food. That said, my Czech husband considers it Polish. Our favorite meals are the celeriac schnitzel and apple pancakes. We also enjoy trying new drinks at every visit.
Grand Concourse
Located in a beautifully preserved train station, the Grand Concourse
at Station Square is one of the most elegant dining experiences in Pittsburgh. The meals are delicious, and the river front location features stained-glass, marble columns, and a dramatic staircase.
Richard Deshantz Group Restaurants
The group includes nine restaurants: Meat + Potatoes, Butcher and the Rye, Tako, Tako Torta, Poulet Blue, Fish Nor Fowl, Coop de Ville, Gi-Jin, and Sally Ann’s. I have eaten at several, the food is creative and delicious and the locations are unique and special.
Lucca Ristorante
Located on South Craig Street in Oakland, this is Pittsburgh’s best kept Italian secret. You will love the cozy setting, in house made pasta, and seasonally fresh ingredients.
Nicy's Thai Kitchen
Thai food is amazing at all of the Pittsburgh locations. My favorite location is in the North Side with its friendly staff, intimate setting, and beautiful garden.
Fiori's Pizza
Fiori’s is the best pizza I’ve had in Pittsburgh. A friend introduced me to Fiori’s when we were in college and I have loved it ever since! Firori’s has an old school pizzeria feel, you can even watch the staff make pizza in the main room of the restaurant, making it a fun experience for the senses! It’s the perfect amount of cheese with a sweet and tangy sauce on the best crust.
Parking in Brookline may require a little patience, though, as it’s a busy place with limited parking. The shop itself just feels right.
VIBRANT NEIGHBORHOODS
Pittsburgh is known for its unique and diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm. From the trendy restaurants and boutiques in Lawrenceville to the historic architecture and cultural spots in the Strip District.
Strip District
Some of my favorite shops and restaurants include Pennsylvania Macaroni Co., Wholey’s, Roxanne’s Dried Flowers, My Sweet Lilly, and Deluca’s! Save time to walk and admire the vintage storefronts and vibrant street art that adds an artistic touch to the neighborhood. Consider checking out Heinz History Center, named one of the best museums in the US! Also, just across the river, is Herr’s Island, with the beautiful Washington’s Landing park.
North Shore + North Side
The North Shore of Pittsburgh is an exciting destination with an eclectic mix of entertainment, sports, and riverfront views! Maybe you’ll be interested in exploring the Andy Warhol museum, the Children’s Museum, the National Aviary, or Carnegie Science Center. It’s always fun to catch a Pirates baseball game! Photogenic spots include the Mexican War Streets and the eccentric Randyland.
South Shore + South Side
South of downtown, we have two inclines: the Monongahala Incline and the Duquesne Incline. You can take a ride up to Mt. Washington from the South Shore on the Monongahala while beholding the Pittsburgh city skyline. This area is full of great restaurants including the Grand Concourse, Melting Pot, and Buca di Beppo. Farther south you can explore more great places to eat and cozy coffee shops in the South Side.
Check out Color Park! It is our center for street art, and is very welcoming for family pictures. The Highline is a relaxed place to eat and hang out. Renovated from an old warehouse, the Highline also features beautiful outdoor seating near the Monongahala River.
Oakland
Oakland is home to the University of Pittsburgh. The Cathedral of Learning is its iconic center. Consider touring the nationality rooms in the cathedral of learning. These 31 classrooms commemorate a different cultural heritage in each space. Construction on these classrooms began in the 1930s.
Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and Carnegie Library are nearby and are gems! Phipps Conservatory, built in 1893, is a beautiful green space for plant lovers!
I love heading to Craig Street after visiting the museums to visit a small Irish shop and try one of the many ethnic restaurants.
Lawrenceville
We love walking around Lawrenceville’s Butler Street. A fun combo is to grab a dinner at Smoke and stop for a movie at the Row House next door. Other days we shop, eat Korean, and savor an individual sized cake with a flower on top from the Butterwood Bake Consortium. I have heard great reviews about Pusadee’s Garden as well. It’s on my list to visit soon!
Shady Side, Squirrel Hill, Point Breeze
Outside of my hometown of Mt. Lebanon, I probably spend the most time in these neighborhoods. I enjoy catching up with friends over an afternoon tea at the Cafe at Frick. The Frick is a special place, it’s possible to tour the Clayton Mansion, visit the green house, art and car museums. Save time to also walk the many trails through Frick Park.
Perhaps the best shopping in Pittsburgh can be found on Walnut Street, Ellsworth, Murray, and Forbes Avenues. If you haven’t been to Dobra Tea, give it a try. It’s a Czech chain of relaxed tea shops!
Mellon Park is my absolute favorite place in Pittsburgh. It’s a perfect place for a picnic or a photoshoot.
FESTIVALS AND ACTIVITIES
You can always find something happening in Pittsburgh! In addition to my favorite festivals listed here, be sure to google what is happening when you are visiting. In the summer, consider attending special events in the parks including, outdoor movies, and concerts.
Three Rivers Arts Festival
Every June, Pittsburgh celebrates its talented artists with a festival in downtown. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a music lover, or a foodie, you’ll have a great time immersing yourself in the creative energy of the city.
Picklesburgh
Each July, Pittsburghers celebrate all things pickles! Imagine pickle-themed food and drinks, live music, and pickle-themed merchandise! Every year the festival seems to grow in popularity and continues to draw large crowds.
Goat Fest
Goat Fest is a unique event in Pittsburgh usually at the end July, where you can watch (and pet) the Allegheny Goatscape goats eat the invasive vines. Also features live music, local craft vendors, goat yoga and food trucks.
Three Rivers Regatta
Three Rivers Regatta highlights everything related to water sports, boating, and entertainment along the three rivers. Every August, you can witness powerboat races, water ski shows, and even a spectacular fireworks display over Point State Park.
Light Up Night
Every third Friday of November, the city lights up to celebrate the holidays. You can expect spectacular display of lights, beautiful decorations, live music performances, delicious food vendors, and fun activities for the family.
WORTH THE DRIVE
Frank Lloyd Wright Homes
Architecture fans and Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiasts should head to the Laurel Highlands to tour Fallingwater, Kentuck Knob, and Polymath Park.
Hartwood Acres
One of my favorite places in the Pittsburgh area is Hartwood Acres’ mansion and surrounding county park. Check before you visit to schedule a tour or attend an event or check the summer concert schedule to attend a free concert at the amphitheater located at the other end of the park from the mansion.
Kennywood
Pittsburgh’s historic amusement park was build in 1898. The park, located eight miles southeast of Pittsburgh on the Monongahela, is fun for all ages.
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I love your awesome recommendations! I can’t wait to visit Pittsburgh!