23 Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh, PA

Anderson

Updated on:

Pittsburgh, often unnoticed, is a stunning city in the United States because of its steep hills, wide rivers, and many bridges. It is known for its industrial past and tall downtown buildings, but it also has various neighborhoods to explore, each with unique characteristics.

The city used to be a hub of industry, but now the old warehouses and mills are home to lively businesses and important cultural institutions. The diverse population and the three rivers that flow through the city have greatly influenced its development. Along the riverbanks, there are beautiful parks, scenic trails, and sports stadiums.

Pittsburgh offers a vibrant arts, culture, and dining scene, as well as exciting sports events. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy in this city nicknamed “Steel City.”.

23. PNC Park

PNC-Park

If you want to watch an amazing sports event, PNC Park is the other main stadium in town that you should go to. It’s the beloved home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, a team in the MLB. From there, you can cheer for the team while enjoying incredible views of the beautiful field and the city’s impressive skyline.

The stadium is designed in a retro style, inspired by older venues like Forbes Field, but with modern amenities and classic design features. Fans can relax in comfortable seats, have great sightlines of the game, and choose from a wide selection of food options. You can even find beer trucks and bars to quench your thirst.

The atmosphere is always exciting, and there are regular fireworks nights to make it even more fun. PNC Park was built in 2001 and has consistently been ranked among the best ballparks in the league because of its stunning location, views, and design.

22. Frick Art and Historical Center

Frick-Art-and-Historical-Center-1

The Frick Art and Historical Center is an interesting and educational place to visit. It is located in the Point Breeze neighborhood of the city. Here, you can learn about the life and living conditions of a wealthy industrialist family from the early 1900s. The mansion used to belong to Henry Clay Frick, a steel magnate.

It was transformed into a museum in 1990. Inside the mansion, you can take tours and see its elegant interior, beautiful gardens, and greenhouse. The museum also houses a large collection of classic cars, carriages, and other old automobiles. This estate is a great destination for those interested in art, architecture, history, and antique cars.

21. Duquesne Incline

Duquesne-Incline

The most famous attraction in the city is the Duquesne Incline. It has been in operation for more than a hundred years and takes people up the steep side of Mount Washington to see the beautiful views. It was built in 1877 and is now a National Historic Landmark. The ride only takes five minutes in an old car.

The higher you go, the better the views of the city’s skyline. At the top, there is a gift shop and you can also explore more of the South Side of the city.

20. Senator John Heinz History Center

Senator-John-Heinz-History-Center

The Heinz History Center in Western Pennsylvania covers a wide range of topics related to the area. It is named after a former senator and is located in the Strip District near the river. The museum was established in 1879 and has since become the largest history museum in the state. It is housed in a renovated red brick warehouse.

The museum has exhibits spread across six floors, showcasing the Civil War, the steel industry, successful sports teams, and early settlers. There are also sections dedicated to Heinz Ketchup and other important inventions and innovations from Pennsylvania.

With thousands of interesting items on display and a variety of captivating subjects, it would take a long time to see everything the museum has to offer.

19. Bicycle Heaven

Bicycle Heaven, located in the North Side’s Chateau neighborhood, is the world’s largest museum and shop dedicated solely to bicycles. It may seem like an unusual place to visit, but once you step inside, you will be amazed by the thousands of incredible bike models on display.

The collection includes over 4,000 rare and vintage bikes from all over the world, with many more stored away. While the futuristic Bowden Spacelanders are a must-see attraction, there are also prop bikes from famous movies like A Beautiful Mind and Fences. Additionally, themed bikes for artists like Elvis and The Beatles are on display.

If you feel inspired, you can even rent a bike and go on a ride around town yourself.

18. Point State Park

Point-State-Park

Point State Park is a beautiful and peaceful park located at the meeting point of three rivers in the city. The park offers stunning views and pleasant walks along the riverside. Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and boating are also available.

One of the main attractions is a large fountain that shoots water 150 feet into the air, perfect for capturing memorable photos. The park is adorned with lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the city’s bridges, stadiums, and waterfront.

Visitors can also explore the granite outline of the old Fort Duquesne and visit the Fort Pitt Museum, which provides historical information about the park’s former fortifications. These fortifications were fought over by Native Americans, French, and British due to their strategic location.

17. Cathedral of Learning

Cathedral-of-Learning-2

The Cathedral of Learning is a remarkable and distinct building that stands tall above the University of Pittsburgh campus. It is the tallest educational building in the Western Hemisphere and has 42 floors filled with classrooms, labs, and even an auditorium and theater.

The construction of this incredible Late Gothic Revival-style skyscraper was commissioned in 1921, and it reaches a total height of 535 feet. Inside, you will find beautiful cathedral-like halls with elegant arches and about thirty Nationality Rooms that honor the various cultures and countries that have contributed to the growth of Pittsburgh.

In addition to exploring the campus and visiting the nearby Heinz Chapel, you can take guided tours of some parts of the building. During these tours, knowledgeable guides will share the history of the Cathedral and highlight its impressive architectural features.

16. Heinz Field

Heinz-Field

If you’re in Pittsburgh, you should definitely check out a sports game as it’s known for being a great sports city in America. One place you can go is Heinz Field, which is located by the waterfront. This is where the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are part of the NFL, play. The fans are extremely passionate and create an amazing atmosphere.

The stadium itself is really modern and has great facilities. You can get seats or suites with amazing views of the city skyline and the riverfront. While you’re there, you can grab some food from the stands or take a tour of the Hall of Fame.

It’s quite difficult to get tickets for the Steelers’ home games as they have been sold out since 1972, so you might have more luck catching a concert or a college football game featuring the Pittsburgh Panthers, who also play at Heinz Field.

15. Three Rivers Heritage Trail

Three-Rivers-Heritage-Trail

One great way to explore the city and its surroundings is by walking, running, jogging, or cycling along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail. This trail connects many neighborhoods and tourist attractions, and it also allows you to pass through beautiful natural spots and enjoy stunning views of the rivers and city skyline.

The trail is approximately 33 miles long and consists of paved paths on both sides of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers. These three rivers meet at Point State Park, which is home to other notable sites such as the Carnegie Science Center, Market Square, and the Andy Warhol Museum.

The trail is popular among both locals and tourists as it offers a convenient way to navigate the city. Along the trail, you’ll come across various public artworks and informative plaques that provide interesting insights into the city and its attractions.

14. Pittsburgh Zoo

Pittsburgh Zoo

The Pittsburgh Zoo is located in Highland Park and is home to a wide variety of animals from different parts of the world. In addition to the enclosures and exhibits, there are also aviaries and aquariums to explore. The zoo was established in 1898 and has since grown, now housing over 4,000 animals of more than 475 species.

Guests can visit themed sections like the African Savanna or Tropical Forest, where they can see lions, giraffes, Komodo dragons, Amur leopards, Siberian tigers, and more. There are also petting zoos where you can interact with farmyard animals and touch tanks where you can stroke stingrays.

13. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Carnegie-Museum-of-Natural-History-2

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is located in the Oakland neighborhood and was founded by a wealthy industrialist. This museum is one of four in the city and is known for having one of the world’s largest and best collections of fossils.

Inside the beautiful classical-style building, there are an astonishing twenty million specimens to view. The museum is famous for its dinosaur skeletons, but it also has interesting artifacts like Egyptian mummies and stuffed animals.

Additionally, visitors can participate in educational activities like digging for dinosaur bones and grinding corn in a Hopi home. Since it opened in 1895, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History has been a leading institute in paleontology, biology, geology, and anthropology in the United States.

12. Andy Warhol Museum

Andy-Warhol-Museum-2

You can find the Andy Warhol Museum on the other side of the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh. It is very popular and located near PNC Park. The museum has a big collection of Andy Warhol’s paintings, prints, photos, and films. You can also see things from his childhood and personal life like objects and news clippings.

The best part is looking at his colorful art and learning about how he was creative. There are also temporary exhibits that show how he has influenced many artists.

11. Randyland

Randyland

Randyland in Pittsburgh is known as the city’s most vibrant landmark. Located on the North Side, it features colorful and imaginative murals that greet visitors. In 1995, Randy Gilson, a local artist and activist, purchased the building and began transforming it into the unique artwork that exists today.

Every part of the house, gardens, and courtyards are covered in bright colors. Many of the mannequins, models, and oddities found in Randyland were saved from people’s trash and given a new purpose. Meeting Randy is inspiring as his positive attitude and love for life are contagious.

Randyland, often categorized as “outsider art,” has become one of the most photographed places in Pittsburgh.

10. Strip District

Strip-District

The Strip District in Pittsburgh is a lively neighborhood with a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. It is located next to downtown and the Cultural District, along the Allegheny River. In the past, it was home to many mills and factories, which provides a rich history for visitors to explore.

Today, the district is filled with businesses and boutiques that have taken over the old warehouses. The area has a diverse mix of cultural influences, with gourmet food shops, traditional greengrocers, Italian eateries, Polish delis, and Thai restaurants all coexisting.

Additionally, big tech companies like Apple and Facebook have recently established a presence in the area, but this hasn’t affected its vibrant nightlife scene. Throughout the year, the district also hosts farmers markets, food truck festivals, and concerts, providing plenty of entertainment options for visitors and residents alike.

9. Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh

Childrens-Museum-of-Pittsburgh-2

On the North Side of town, there is a fantastic place called the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh that kids will love. It was founded in 1983 and is located in beautiful buildings with different architectural styles. Inside, children can have fun, learn, and try out new things. The museum used to be an old post office and a planetarium.

There are sections that focus on art and water, while others encourage hands-on activities and exploring by creating and designing things. In addition to the indoor exhibits, there are also outdoor spaces and gardens where children can enjoy nature.

The museum is highly regarded and is often considered one of the top children’s museums in the country.

8. Carnegie Science Center

Carnegie-Science-Center

Don’t forget to visit the amazing Carnegie Science Center, which is located right next to Heinz Field. This modern museum and planetarium have a great view of the Ohio River. It is a popular choice for families because it has more than 400 interactive exhibits and hands-on activities spread across its four floors.

Some sections focus on engineering and electricity, while others explore gravity, space, and sports. In the Roboworld exhibit, you can meet famous robots like R2-D2 and C-3PO. There is also a Cold War-era submarine, a challenging ropes course, and a giant cinema screen for you to enjoy.

7. Monongahela Incline

Monongahela-Incline-3

One of the must-do things in Pittsburgh is taking a romantic ride on the city’s famous old inclines. One of these inclines is the Monongahela Incline, located just across from the city center on the South Side. It’s a fantastic experience that takes you to the top of Mount Washington, where you can enjoy incredible views.

The Monongahela Incline is the oldest funicular still operating in the United States, dating back to 1870. Originally built to help residents climb the steep hillside, it has now become a popular tourist attraction, with many locals also using it daily.

Besides its historical charm and nostalgic feel, the incline offers a peaceful ride and amazing panoramic views of the city’s skyline from the top, which is designated as a National Historic Landmark.

6. National Aviary

National-Aviary-2

The National Aviary is a great place to visit because it has over 500 beautiful birds of about 150 different types. It is located on the North Side of town and takes up a large part of Allegheny Commons West Park. Originally, it was a small operation when it started in 1952, but now it is the largest aviary in the country.

In the 1990s, the United States Congress gave it the honorary title of ‘National’. The aviary has created habitats that resemble the natural homes of the birds, filled with trees and pools. When you walk around, you can see a variety of birds, such as flamingos, penguins, owls, eagles, sloths, and brightly colored parrots.

5. Roberto Clemente Bridge

Roberto-Clemente-Bridge

The Roberto Clemente Bridge is an impressive architectural and engineering marvel that stretches across the Allegheny River in downtown Pittsburgh. It is one of the three suspension bridges in the city that look similar and it connects PNC Park and the North Shore to the lively Cultural District.

This bridge, named after the famous Pittsburgh Pirates baseball player, is 884 feet long and has two tall towers, steel girders, and suspension cables that support it. It was built in 1928, replacing the previous three bridges in the same location. Currently, it is only open to pedestrians on game days for the Pirates and the Steelers.

If you visit Pittsburgh, it’s worth exploring the Roberto Clemente Bridge as the city is known for its many bridges, with nearly 450 spanning its waterways. Besides capturing photos of this superb structure, you can also enjoy magnificent views of the city and the river.

4. Market Square

Market Square in Pittsburgh is a great place for shopping and dining. It has recently been renovated and is surrounded by many cafes, shops, restaurants, and fast-food places. Locals and tourists always find something they enjoy in this popular pedestrian area.

The square has been a significant part of the city since 1795 when the first courthouse and jail were built here. Nowadays, you can find well-known establishments like Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Chipotles in the historic buildings around the square.

Market Square is not only important for its history but also for its social and cultural events. Throughout the year, it hosts community events, concerts, and festivals. Additionally, there is a fantastic farmers market every week, as well as activities for children, yoga classes, and dance lessons during the summer.

3. Carnegie Museum of Art

Carnegie-Museum-of-Art

The Carnegie Museum of Art is located in the Oakland neighborhood and is known for its impressive collection of paintings, photos, and sculptures. It has over 35,000 artworks, mainly from Europe and North America.

It was established in 1895 by Andrew Carnegie, a wealthy industrialist, and was the first museum in the country to primarily focus on contemporary art. The museum’s collection has grown over time and now includes Japanese prints, artworks from Pittsburgh artists, ceramics, glassworks, and decorative arts.

One of the standout features of the museum is the Grand Staircase and Hall of Architecture, which showcases full-size plaster casts of famous architectural elements from around the world. In addition to these, the museum also has a diverse range of exhibits, including old altars, armor, African artifacts, and ancient Greco-Roman vases.

Art enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to visit this museum.

2. Phipps Conservatory

One of the top things to do in Pittsburgh is to visit the picturesque Phipps Conservatory. It is a beautiful botanical garden where you can take leisurely walks along lovely paths, enjoy the sight of colorful flowers and sparkling fountains.

The conservatory was established in 1893 and now occupies a large area in the northwest corner of Schenley Park. Inside the conservatory, which has a Victorian-style made of steel and glass, there are fourteen amazing exhibits showcasing various plants, including desert shrubs, orchids, and tropical plants.

As you explore the exhibits, you can also appreciate the breathtaking sculptures, water features, and architecture. Afterward, don’t forget to take a stroll around the Japanese Courtyard Garden and the Children’s Discovery Garden outside and capture some beautiful photos of the charming conservatory.

1. Kennywood Park

Kennywood-Park

Kennywood Park has been a popular choice for families since it opened in 1899, despite its smaller size. The park offers exciting water slides and rollercoasters that are enjoyed by all. It has a charming and nostalgic atmosphere, and is located just a short drive southeast of the city center along the Monongahela River in West Mifflin.

In addition to the thrilling wooden rollercoasters, visitors can try out rides like the sling-shot and giant disk. For those who prefer gentler experiences, there are also swing rides, bumper cars, and teacups scattered throughout the park’s leafy surroundings.

Alongside snack stands, picnic areas, and souvenir stalls, you’ll find colorful old-style fountains and landmarks that add to the park’s unique charm.

Leave a Comment