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Why Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh, often affectionately known as “The Burgh,” boasts a diverse array of attractions that cater to various interests, making it an ideal destination for a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re on a bachelorette party weekend, a quick getaway, celebrating a birthday weekend, or simply seeking some fun-filled activities, Pittsburgh has something for everyone.
The City Has a Bit of Everything
- For the Socializers: Pittsburgh is a haven for those who enjoy a good drink and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re into trendy cocktail bars or cozy breweries, the city’s nightlife scene won’t disappoint.
- Sports Enthusiasts: With a rich sporting culture, Pittsburgh offers a plethora of options for sports fans. From catching a game at one of the iconic stadiums to engaging in outdoor activities like kayaking, there’s no shortage of sports-related fun here.
- Outdoor Adventurers: Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Pittsburgh beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its abundance of parks, trails, and scenic overlooks. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or simply strolling along riverfronts, the city provides ample opportunities to commune with nature.
- Seekers of Chill Vibes: For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, Pittsburgh offers plenty of laid-back activities. From exploring vibrant neighborhoods to indulging in delicious local cuisine, there’s always something to enjoy at your own leisurely pace.
Trendy Neighborhoods
When it comes to trendy hangout spots, two neighborhoods reign supreme: the Strip District and Lawrenceville. During both day and night, these areas buzz with activity, offering a blend of hip cafes, eclectic shops, unique food finds, and fun bars. For those looking to paint the town red, the North Shore and South Side neighborhoods provide a lively assortment of bars and clubs, although Southside may come with a note of caution due to its reputation for rowdiness.
📍 Southside Flats
Foodie Paradise
Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner – Pittsburgh has an incredible food scene. Feel free to reach out about reviews on places not listed here. These are just a few favorites, there are hundreds of places around here.
Breakfast
- Pamela’s Diner: Iconic breakfast spot.
- Waffles Incaffinated: Known for waffle selection.
- Kelly O’s: Featured on the Food Network.
- The Speckled Egg: New and trendy breakfast spot.
- Delucas Diner
- Lolas Eatery: Highly rated breakfast spot.
Brunch Favorites
- Ritual House: Newest and most trendy brunch and dinner spot
- The Yard: Famous for gourmet grilled cheese. The bottomless mimosas will put you on your bum!
- Urban Tap: We love their food and drinks, I celebrated a birthday brunch here and it was so fun!
- The Speckled Egg
📍 The Yard | Always a fun cocktail to be had here
Dinner Delights
I would highly recommend securing your spot with a reservation at almost all of these spots! Pittsburgh’s food scene is highly loved by all of us yinzers and will likely be highly occupied on any weekend night.
Upscale Selects
- Fig and Ash
- Bridges and Bourbon: Trendy drinks and hangout spot.
- Gaucho: Best dinner spot with Argentina-style food.
- Grand Concourse: Elegant dining in a historic train station.
- DiAnoias Eatery: Favorite Italian restaurant.
Casual But Cool
- Pusadees Garden: Popular spot for unique Thai experience.
- Tako or Condado: Great Mexican taco places.
- Apteka
- Cinderlands: Brewery with tasty food.
- Industry Public House: Brewery with a huge selection of drafts and cocktails.
- The Slippery Mermaid: A bit away from downtown, but by far the best sushi in the city!
📍 Cinderlands Brewery
Dessert
- The Milkshake Factory: Known for gourmet shakes.
- Pages Dairy Mart: Most popular ice cream spot.
- Prantl’s Bakery: Highly rated bakery.
- Oakmont Bakery: Highly regarded bakery in Pittsburgh.
- La Gourmandine
The Evening Scene
Local Hangouts
- Cinderlands Brewery
- Kingfly Spirits
- Pins Mechanical: Arcade with a bar.
- Shortys Pins & Pints: Arcade spot on the North Shore.
- Marios East Side Saloon: Locals hangout spot with a great atmosphere.
- Southside (Marios or Carson City): Popular with the younger crowd.
- Southern Tier Brewing Co: Fun spot with outdoor games and great libations.
Party Bars
- Tequila Cowboy: Most visited bar with three huge themed rooms: Country, 90’s, and Karaoke.
- Jason Aldens: New spot offering the best time. Both these bars are transplants from Nashville.
- Coop De Ville: Fun hangout spot known for its fun time, board games, and arcade.
- Cavo: True nightclub experience. Be aware, this place does have a dress code
- McFaddens: You will often find locals or college kids here.
- 5801: Premier gay bar and nightclub. Its a great time and welcomes all people.
Things to Do
Free Attractions
- Point State Park: A trip to Pittsburgh isn’t complete without a visit to Point State Park, located downtown and just a 5-minute walk from the square.
- Market Square: Explore the bustling hub of downtown at Market Square, where you can find popup shops, a small market, and the iconic PPG Square and fountain.
- The Strip District: Immerse yourself in culture and culinary delights at the Strip District, filled with small markets, vibrant restaurants, hangout spots, and bars.
- Mount Washington: Take in breathtaking views of the city by driving to the top of Mount Washington or enjoying a scenic ride on the Mount Washington Incline.
- Visit the North Shore: Discover the excitement of the North Shore, home to Heinz Field memorials, a casino, riverwalk, and museums offering endless entertainment.
- Randyland: Marvel at the unique art display and vibrant colors of Randyland, a local man’s whimsical property adorned with treasures and creativity.
- Festivals and Carnivals: Keep an eye out for Pittsburgh’s lively festivals and carnivals during the warmer months, such as Picklesburgh, Jazz Fest, Oktoberfest at Penn Brewery (our favorite), Three Rivers Art Festival, and Pittsburgh Beer Fest.
📍 Point State Park
Paid Activities
- Phipps Conservatory
- Andy Warhol Museum
- Kayaking on the River
- Pittsburgh River Party Tikis: Experience the novelty of renting a boat Tiki and cruising the rivers while enjoying drinks and music.
- Pittsburgh Party Peddlers: Hop aboard a popular mega bike that fits a dozen people, a common sight during the summer months.
- Candle Making: Mix Candle Co is a hot spot
- The Puttery: Enjoy interactive indoor mini-golf paired with a fun cocktail bar experience.
- Top Golf: A bit of a drive (20 mins from downtown), but well worth it for a ton of fun.
- Gourmet Food Tasting Classes: From cheese tasting to wine tasting and cooking classes, Pittsburgh offers a variety of gourmet food experiences to indulge in.
- Sporting Events: This trip has not been completed unless you attend a sporting event! With all three major sports, there is something for everyone. I’d highly recommend a pirates game, it is cheap, chill, beer, and lots of fun! Don’t forget to try an IC Light (Pittsburgh’s most popular brew)
📍 Pittsburgh Penguins Game
Tips for a Memorable Trip
- Mount Washington: While the view from Mount Washington is undeniably breathtaking, opt to dine elsewhere as the food offerings may not match the scenery.
- Safety First: While Pittsburgh is generally safe, exercise caution when exploring downtown and the South Side, especially after dark.
In conclusion, Pittsburgh stands as a dynamic destination that caters to a diverse range of interests, making it the perfect choice for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and everything in between. Whether you’re sipping craft cocktails at a trendy bar, savoring mouthwatering cuisine, or exploring the city’s cultural offerings, The Burgh promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.