The Big List of Must-Do’s in Pittsburgh
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
I moved to Pittsburgh not expecting much and left thinking it is one of the more underrated cities in the country. Really, not only is the skyline amazing, but there are so many gorgeous parks and wonderful museums to explore. While the city is nicknamed “The Steel City,” for its’ prominent role in the steel industry, it has come a long way since its’ industrial past. Today, you can explore some history, while also enjoying many modern amenities. Up and coming neighborhoods and many businesses are sprouting up in former mills and factories. The city is bustling today with many people moving in, as well as tourists coming from all over to enjoy the world-class scenery, grand museums, championship pro sports teams, and beautiful parks.
History aside, the city is quite beautiful. The city’s skyline is amongst the most attractive in the country, ranking right up there with Chicago in my opinion. “The City of Three Rivers,” offers a most unique landscape. The skyline combined with the 3 rivers (the Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela) creates a picture-perfect setting for recreation, annual events, and sightseeing. Another nickname is “The City of Bridges” due to the 446 bridges that can be found throughout The ‘Burgh. Pictured here is the Warhol bridge, one of the “Three Sisters” (Roger Clemente, Warhol, and Rachel Carson) which stand out due to their bright yellow color.
From touring the Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood set, to exploring the history of Heinz ketchup, to viewing the largest collection of works by pop art icon Andy Warhol, to cheering on the Steelers, there is a bit of something in Pittsburgh for everyone.
Check out my big list of the best things to do and see in The ‘Burgh!
Magnificent city views – the best overlooks!
Take in grand views of the mesmerizing skyline via a scenic overlook or cruise!
Duquesne Incline – Historic 19th century cable car ride travels 400 feet up Mt. Washington to an observing deck featuring 360 degree views.
Gateway Clipper Cruise – Sit back and enjoy a narrated cruise while you learn more about the history of the city while enjoying relaxing views of the skyline, stadiums, and historic Point State Park.
Grandview Overlook – Beautiful free observing area providing a slightly different viewpoint than Duquesne.
West End Overlook – Another wonderful free overlook. Photography hotspot and a great place to watch the fireworks.
Must-visit Museums
Pittsburgh is home to a surprisingly wonderful collection of museums which do not receive as much press as some of the bigger cities. Add these gems to your bucket list.
The Carnegie Museum of Natural History – Home to one of the best dinosaur exhibits in the country (including the T Rex holotype), an amazing Hall of Gems and Minerals, and over 2 dozen lifelike dioramas depicting wildlife in North America and Africa.
The Carnegie Museum of Art – The impressive Hall of Architecture features 140 plaster casts of masterpieces from Greece, Rome, and Egypt.
John Heinz History Center – This Smithsonian affiliate is the largest history museum in the state. See the Mr. Roger’s set, learn about the history of ketchup, and explore the history of invention and innovation in Pittsburgh.
The Warhol Museum – 7 floor museum dedicated to the life and works of the pop art icon born in Pittsburgh.
Fitness & Scenic Views
You will find a lot of great urban parks for recreation. What is more motivating than exercising in the company of a great view?
Three Rivers Heritage Trail – Gorgeous 30+ mile bike trail which lines both sides of the river downtown. Take in incredible vistas of the skyline and bridges while getting in a wonderful workout. I love biking here during the summer season!
Highland Park – Beautiful place to take a stroll through lovely gardens. Highlights include sand volleyball courts, a dog park, and a beautiful 1 mile loop trail around a reservoir. This is a nice place to take a stroll before visiting the zoo – it’s just 5 min away.
Frick Park – The largest park in the city is home to an extensive trail network. I love hiking here during the fall – it’s a great leaf peeping destination!
Amazing Annual Events
Pittsburgh offers no shortage of interesting events. No matter what time of the year you visit, you are bound to find something that interests you. From popular summer festivals like Picklesburgh, Little Italy Days, and The Vintage Grand Prix, to winter holiday lights & Christmas festivities, there is something going on in the ‘Burgh no matter the weather outside.
Picklesburgh – Iconic event where you can test all sorts of specialty pickle products, from ice cream to tacos. Try the Pickle pierogies! Great photo opps of the giant Heinz pickle!
Open Streets PGH – Free event where various city roads are closed to vehicles and open to pedestrians and cyclists. Event typically runs from 10am-2pm on Sundays during the summer season.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Celebrate all things green at one of the biggest St. Pat’s Day parades in one of the most Irish cities in the country.
Asian Lantern Festival – Colorful zoo event featuring dozens of Asian and dinosaur themed lighted sculptures, plus specialty food and drink. This is one of my favorite annual events – the displays are so over-the-top and amazing!
One of the city’s newest event is the Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza at the Pittsburgh zoo. This festive event includes hundreds of jack o’lanterns carvings, special holiday treats, and a synchronized show.
Lace up your skates!
One of the best attributes about Pittsburgh is the many affordable ice skating rinks. As the city is cold and dreary for many months on end, ice skating is a wonderful way to get out there, have some fun, and burn some calories. Both North and South Park are home to incredible huge ice rinks and skating is priced at just 5-6 bucks so you can skate all season long without breaking the bank!
North Park – Features a large indoor viewing area.
South Park – Features an NHL size rink and skating trail. Also a cozy fireplace to warm up by!
