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 Mellon Park 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 Pittsburgh Opera 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.
Reviewed on May 10, 2024
Reviewed on May 10, 2024
Reviewed on May 9, 2024
Reviewed on Jan 7, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 30, 2024
Reviewed on Mar 5, 2024
Popular places to visit
PNC Park
Root for the Pittsburgh Pirates at this iconic stadium, which blends a timeless ballpark atmosphere with modern amenities.
Acrisure Stadium
Giant ketchup bottles tilt onto the scoreboard to celebrate touchdowns in this innovative riverside football arena at the heart of Pittsburgh sports.
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.
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.
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.
Kennywood
Spend a fun-filled day making your way between over 30 rides and attractions in one of the oldest continually running amusement parks in the United States.
Things to do
Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour
Pittsburgh Whiskey Tasting Pass
Pittsburgh City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by 3Quest Challenge
Reviews of Pittsburgh
5/5 - Excellent
We love Pittsburgh!
5/5 - Excellent
I LOVE Pittsburgh!!!
5/5 - Excellent
Under the circumstances with COVID-19 I actually had a safe and wonderful time.
4/5 - Good
It’s a good place. I’ve noticed the people are friendly and say hello on the streets. The city is old but beautiful. I’ve never seen mountains so mount Washington was a sight to see and the incline up was amazing. Good for hiking, outdoor activities.
3/5 - Okay
Stay away from the Motel 6 Crackhouse!!! Crafton, Pa.
5/5 - Excellent
Pittsburgh is a beautiful city with the most bridges in the world! We walked the Riverwalk and watched the sunset. Everywhere we wanted to go we could walk to. The parks were well maintained.