This historical city has been home to many nicknames throughout the years; ‘Steel City’ was once a large producer of steel in the world, ‘City of Bridges’ due to the number of bridges needing to cross the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers that surrounds Pittsburgh, ‘The Burgh’ because Pittsburgh retains the H at the end of its name.
Along with its history, Pittsburgh has so much to offer for everyone visiting. Here’s my list of must visits while you’re in the area. All areas are within Pittsburgh.
What to Do
Ride The Duquesne Incline
1197 W Carson St | South Shore
Capture the best views of downtown Pittsburgh while riding the century-old cable car. Spend a few hours enjoying the experience, by touring a self-guided museum at the upper station and/or dining near the Upper Station. Both cars operate continuously approximately 5 minutes apart, payment is by exact cash only.
See a Sporting Event
The ‘City of Champions’ is home to numerous sports champions between its three teams. If you’re ever in town during a home game, it’s definitely a great way to spend several hours. Pittsburgh is home to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and the Pittsburgh Penguins. Both the Steelers and Pirates Stadiums are located along the North Shore, while the Penguins play in the heart of Downtown for their home games.
Visit a Museum
Pittsburgh offers several museums in the area, any of which are great to check out.
THE CLEMENTE MUSEUM
3339 Penn Avenue | inside the historic Engine House 25 building
This private museum is a wonderful tribute to the former Pirate’s right fielder, containing the largest collection of items from Roberto Clemente’s life. This a great correlation if you happen to see a baseball game while in town. Being a private museum, you’ll need to book a guided tour prior to your visit via their website.
HEINZ HISTORY CENTER
1212 Smallman St | located at the Chautauqua Lake Ice Company Building
Explore thousands of artifacts at Pennsylvania’s only affiliated Smithsonian Institute, including exhibits dedicated to Mister Rogers’s Neighborhood and the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum. You’ll need about 2.5-3.5 hours to explore this 6-story building.
Explore the Strip District
This area has pleasantly become revitalized over the years; although you come across the occasional derelict building, there’s still plenty of restaurants, stores, and bars in the area. Here are some of my favorites in the Strip District, including The Terminal.
Experience Wigle Whiskey
2401 Smallman St | Strip District
Tour Wigle (pronounced wiggle) distillery and learn about Wigle’s history to both whiskey and Pittsburgh and end with a tasting. You also have the opportunity to have lunch or dinner here as well.
Mini-Golf
Being reminiscent of days of outdoor miniature golf, the modern days have changed the game and gone indoors. The Strip District offers 2 locations to enjoy a fun round or two.
The Puttery
1415 Smallman St | Strip District
This 21+ location accommodates Walk-Ins as well as Reservations, with 3 courses, and 2 bars.
Puttshack
1729 Smallman St | The Terminal in the Strip District.
This family friendly space is very bright, from its electric colors (takes you back to the 80’s!) to its tech-infused putt-putt. Recommended for ages 7+ due the challenge of the golf course,
Explore the Countless Breweries
Allegheny County is home to multiple breweries, from Pittsburgh to its surrounding areas of the Three Rivers. This is definitely a good place to start if you’re a fan of craft beer. Discover the Pittsburgh Brewery Trail by purchasing a Brewery Guide at one of the participating breweries.
Where to Eat
Breakfast + Brunch + Lunch:
- Kelly O’s Diner ($-$$): Featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives.
- Primanti Bros ($-$$): Eat at the original location in the Strip District while you’re exploring this section of Pittsburgh. Located at 46 18th Street.
- Square Cafe ($-$$): 134 S Highland Ave, this one is well worth the trip out to the East Liberty neighborhood.
Food + Drinks:
- The Church Brew Works ($-$$): Housed in the original church of St. John’s the Baptist, the interior has been painstakingly restored to the current brewery and restaurant.
- Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh Brewery & Restaurant ($$): Experience the tradition of Bavarian food and German Bier in one of the American locations extended from the Munich, Germany.
- Penn Brewery ($-$$): Being Pittsburgh’s oldest brewery, visit the Northside location and try a number of items it offers, such as the “French Fry Salad”.
- Steel Mill Saloon ($$): Located at the upper Duquene Station in the South Shore of Pittsburgh, this is a great place to either grab drinks or a bite to eat while you’re at the
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