What to do in Pittsburgh, PA

Activities, attractions and tours

Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh showing modern architecture and a square or plaza
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh showing a city and a skyscraper

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

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Downtown Pittsburgh

4.5/5(187 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
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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
Southwest Pennsylvania

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
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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
Senator John Heinz History Center which includes signage and interior views

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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Mount Washington

Consider a visit to Grandview 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.

Mount Washington

 

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Day trip destinations from Pittsburgh