What to do in Pittsburgh, PA

Activities, attractions and tours

Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Attractions

Sitting in southwest Pennsylvania, this city of steel may have a history deeply steeped in the metal industry, but these days it is teeming with everything from art to sports. Things to do in Pittsburgh include visiting an elaborate waterfront complex brimming with restaurants and shopping, cheering on the local baseball team, and learning something new at one of the many local museums. Of course, Pittsburgh activities can also appeal to your stomach, since the city is no stranger to ethnic cuisine from around the world.

Areas & Neighborhoods

Neighborhoods in Pittsburgh each boast their own unique charm and appeal. While the city’s reputation may paint it as a bit of a rough and tumble character, make no mistake: Pittsburgh is also soft around the edges in many respects. It’s not just sports and steel that thrive here. Art and culture are also a huge part of the landscape in many Steel City neighborhoods.

Downtown — Naturally downtown Pittsburgh is teeming with lots of activity; this is the place where more than 20 miles of riverfront trailway, tons of shopping, and the historic Market Square make a home. While you’re downtown, you can also explore the nightlife when the sun goes down.

Oakland — In the mind of a foodie, the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh reside in a neighborhood called Oakland. In this district you are met with restaurants are serving up authentic cuisine from countries including Malaysia, China, and India.

Strip District — Don’t miss a chance to visit the Strip District, which is replete with sidewalk vendors and local sandwich shops. While the dining may not be fancy here, it is definitely delicious.

North Shore — This river city couldn’t be replete without a thriving riverfront neighborhood, and the North Shore fills the niche. Including venues like Heinz Field, PNC Park, and a local casino, this part of Pittsburgh can keep you very busy.

Of course, day trips from Pittsburgh let you explore western Pennsylvania, but you may find you have no desire to leave the city.

Things to See in Pittsburgh

Before you get busy taking Pittsburgh by storm, consider slowing down and visiting some of the best things to see in the city. Marvel at the works inside the Carnegie Museum of Art, take a leisurely stroll through the botanical gardens in the Phipps Conservatory, and pay homage to a world-class artist at the Andy Warhol Museum. Keep your camera handy, because you never know when Pittsburgh will present you with an excellent photo opportunity.

Things to Do & Attractions in Pittsburgh

From the great outdoors to thumping music festivals, The River City has many things to offer a traveler. Of all the things to do in Pittsburgh, PA, perhaps the most quintessential is a trip up the Duquesne Incline. The railway affords an unparalleled view of the city as it travels up the steep hillside. You can also go on a river boat tour, bike along the Great Allegheny Passage, or spend the day in nearby Kennywood®, where rollercoasters and other thrill rides are calling your name.


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What to do in Pittsburgh


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Explore areas of Pittsburgh

Downtown Pittsburgh

Downtown Pittsburgh

4.5/5(190 area reviews)

Discover the urban downtown center, home to historic sites like Point State Park and the Cultural District. Enjoy diverse shopping options and easy access to public transportation, including the "T" light rail and bus networks.

Downtown Pittsburgh
North Shore

North Shore

4.5/5(30 area reviews)

Heinz Field, PNC Park, and The Andy Warhol Museum await in this vibrant area, connected to Downtown Pittsburgh by the iconic Roberto Clemente, Andy Warhol, and Rachel Carson Bridges. Enjoy easy access to two light rail stations.

North Shore
Oakland

Oakland

4/5(22 area reviews)

Academic and healthcare hub, Oakland boasts museums, shopping venues, and diverse dining options along Forbes and Fifth Avenue. Explore historic districts and easily navigate the area via the distinctive city steps and public transportation.

Oakland
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA, USA 4-30-2018 Mellon Park. Designed in 1929 and later donated to the city by Richard Mellon as part of his estate in the Shadyside neighborhood of the the City

Shadyside

Victorian mansions and modern apartments create a diverse residential atmosphere. Explore upscale stores on Walnut Street, dine at local eateries like Pamela's Diner, and easily walk between the three business corridors. Public transportation is accessible.

Shadyside
North Side

North Side

If you're spending time in North Side, check out sights like PNC Park or Acrisure Stadium and hop on the metro to see more the city at North Side Station or Allegheny Station.

North Side
View of the Strip District, from Frank Curto Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Strip District

4/5(1 area review)

Brimming with specialty shops, unique boutiques, and ethnic food purveyors, the Strip District offers a lively atmosphere with art studios, antique dealers, and the historic St. Stanislaus Kostka Church. Enjoy open-air markets and vibrant nightlife during summer months.

Strip District

 

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Day trip destinations from Pittsburgh

Frequently asked questions

Is Pittsburgh worth visiting?
Known for its dining and history, discovering cool things to do in Pittsburgh is a breeze. Remember to add Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium and Kennywood are two excellent places to start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Pittsburgh while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Pittsburgh?
You can't go home without visiting Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, rated the top tourist attraction in Pittsburgh.
Is three days enough to stay in Pittsburgh?
Three days will give you enough time to tick off many city highlights, including Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, Carnegie Science Centre and Andy Warhol Museum. The average stay in Pittsburgh is two days. If you have the urge to extend your adventure, Coraopolis isn't far away.
Is Pittsburgh a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you plan to see and do in Pittsburgh. Several sights, like Carnegie Science Centre and Andy Warhol Museum, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Pittsburgh's neighbourhoods, Downtown Pittsburgh is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Oakland is 3 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Pittsburgh with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes a big difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Pittsburgh with kids.

What to do in Pittsburgh for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Pittsburgh, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Penn Brewery or Wigle Whisky Distillery.
Are there free things to do in Pittsburgh?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Pittsburgh is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without opening your wallet. Point State Park is one sight that doesn't charge an admission fee.

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