Pittsburgh is where it all comes together.
Where the Monongahela and Allegheny Rivers meet to form the Ohio, there's a shining gem of a city you never suspected could be so cool. You think you know Pittsburgh? Get ready for a shock.
You may know the Steelers and Pirates, but Pittsburgh is way more than that. Brendan Gill, writing in the New Yorker, summed it up best: "If Pittsburgh were situated somewhere in the heart of Europe, tourists would eagerly journey hundreds of miles out of their way to visit it." And like Governor Rendell said in his latest TV spot, this really is a world-class city. Just like its cosmopolitan counterpart in the East, Pittsburgh is a sophisticated mélange of art, culture, and historical attractions.
Let's start with the museums— there are the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, and the world's largest homage to a single artist, the Andy Warhol Museum. And those are just the biggies. The avant-garde Mattress Factory, the Silver Eye Center for Photography, and countless other small museums and galleries make Pittsburgh a city with a surprise around every corner. If you love the Franklin Institute, you'll appreciate the Carnegie Science Center—it even has a submarine you can explore! And if you're jonesing for the Liberty Bell or Independence Hall, you can get your history fix at the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh Regional History Center, a Smithsonian affiliate, or the Fort Pitt Museum.
Food? We got that. If you love those cheesesteaks (and who doesn't?), try Primanti Brothers—yeah, the place with the fries and coleslaw right inside the sandwich. Too scary? Dine at the Original Oyster House, with its kitschy collection of historic Miss America photos—it's the oldest tavern in town (and way more casual than Bookbinders, so be prepared). If you're into extreme posh, try the Le Mont—all you Le Bec-Fin fans will feel right at home. And if it's pub fare you want, there's always the friendly corner bar. (We have plenty of those.) Or shop for ethnic goodies in the Strip, our version of the Italian Market. Hope you brought your appetite!
Bring your walking shoes, too. Stroll along the rivers at Point State Park, explore several centuries of architectural history in the Golden Triangle, or head up Mount Washington for a panorama that USA Weekend called the "Second Most Beautiful View in America." Grandview Avenue is probably the only place where you can stand on the ground and look down at the skyscrapers. But don't worry—it's not really a hike, because you can ride one of our charming inclines up the slope. You'll still need to catch your breath once you see the view.
Night owls love Pittsburgh for its unique party scene. From elegant soirees to shot-and-beer bars, nightclubs, lounges, and everything in between, you'll find friendly people who make you feel welcome. You'll also find city B&Bs, swanky hotels, and nearby resorts that will take care of your every need, so kick back and enjoy your stay.
Weekend getaways, 'Burgh-style:
- Philly/ Pittsburgh Sampler
Not sure where to begin? We've selected some of the best of the 'Burgh! Start off with visits to the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History. The extensive collections will amaze you, as will the famous dinosaur exhibit. Next up is the Andy Warhol Museum and its seven floors of Pop paradise. Decompress with some natural beauty at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. (If you like Longwood, you'll love Phipps.) Finally, experience firsthand how Pittsburgh's unique topography makes transportation unusual and exciting. Take a ride up the Duquesne Incline for a spectacular view of the city, and then ride back down and catch the Good Ship Lollipop! It’s part of the Gateway Clipper Fleet, a super-fun collection of riverboats. Check out the full package and book it right here.
- A journey through time
Check into the Morning Glory Inn, an Italianate B&B on the South Side. Stroll along Sarah Street and imagine what life was like back in the day—lots of charming Victorian rowhomes to ogle. Then head over to the Fort Pitt Museum to learn about the region's strategic role in the French and Indian War. From there it's a short stroll across the Smithfield Street Bridge (Pittsburgh's oldest), where you'll find Station Square, a rail station that's been converted into a nightlife and shopping mecca. Take the Monongahela Incline up Mt. Washington to enjoy the view that George Washington once surveyed. (Bonus points: ride the Duquesne Incline, too, and check out its little museum.) The next day, hit the Heinz History Center.
- Posh life
Glitz and glamour? Oh yes. Check into the elegant Omni William Penn Hotel, located right downtown. Be sure to spend some time in the lobby, where you can enjoy afternoon tea and the piano stylings of some of Pittsburgh's best mood musicians. (This is where Lawrence Welk invented his bubble machine, by the way, but don't let that throw you.) For dinner, you have choices galore. Try the swanky Eleven, or for a spectacular view of the city, head up to Monterey Bay Fish Grotto. Spend the next day shopping on Walnut Street in Shadyside, or pamper yourself at the Sewickley Spa.
- Funkytown
If you think South Street is wild, wait'll you see South Side! Wake up with a potent concoction at the Beehive, the city's first and funkiest coffeehouse. Sit in the window and watch all the characters stroll by, then shop the eclectic boutiques lining Carson Street. If you get thirsty, you're in luck; there are more bars here per capita than almost any other place on Earth. Try Dee's for a gritty taste of original South Side or the Tiki Lounge for the eye-popping atmosphere and drinks that give Copabanana a run for its money. There's a new Holiday Inn right here for when it's time to crash. Spend the next day checking out the brand-new SouthSide Works or biking along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail.
Getting here by air
Travel to Pittsburgh is surprisingly affordable; flights to Pittsburgh International Airport are available for $59* from USAirways. The airport is only 16 miles away, and it's an easy drive—just follow Route 60 and then Route 22/30 east into town. And whether you opt for a rental car, taxi, or airport shuttle, there's a surprise at the end of the journey. When you drive through the Fort Pitt Tunnel, you'll be blown away by the immediacy of the downtown view. People are invariably impressed; the New York Times said that Pittsburgh is "the only city with an entrance."
Fly to Pittsburgh from Philadelphia for $99 or less!
(Restrictions apply; please book in advance.)
Getting here by car
If you're more of a road warrior, you can take the PA Turnpike or any of the more scenic routes. Give our Trip Generator a spin to create your personalized roadtrip to Pittsburgh, complete with stops and attractions along the way. We've put together a bunch of regional roadtrips in case you want to check out the countryside, too.
See you soon!
No matter how you get here, get here. We're looking forward to your visit. Like Governor Rendell said, "you're gonna love this town." Check out the resources on the right for more information about travel to the 'Burgh and things to do once you arrive. Or, if we've already convinced you to visit the 'Burgh, book your getaway now!
*Advertised fare is one way available on nonstop flights only and requires 14-day advance purchase. Tickets are non-refundable; any change will incur an additional fee of $100. Additional taxes and fees include: September 11th Security Fee of $2.50 and federal excise tax of $3.30 per flight segment plus $4.50 in airport passenger facility charges where applicable. Fares are subject to change.
Download this page as a PDF here.
