30 Things to Do in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh presents a captivating landscape where three rivers meet, historic bridges span the water, and steep hillsides reveal stunning city views. Once an industrial powerhouse, the Steel City has transformed into a hub of innovation, culture, and education, offering visitors a wealth of experiences, including numerous engaging free things to do in Pittsburgh like exploring distinct neighborhoods or enjoying panoramic overlooks. Its unique topography and rich history create a compelling destination.
This guide highlights 30 distinct activities to showcase the best of Pittsburgh, blending iconic landmarks with cultural treasures, outdoor escapes, and neighborhood gems. Whether you’re exploring world-class museums, riding historic inclines, cheering on local sports teams, or tasting unique culinary creations, prepare to discover the diverse character and friendly spirit of this dynamic Pennsylvanian city.
Iconic Views & Landmarks
Duquesne Incline: Ride this historic funicular up Mount Washington for breathtaking panoramic views of the downtown skyline where the three rivers converge. The observation deck at the top offers a perfect photo opportunity, day or night.
Monongahela Incline: Take a ride on America’s oldest continuously operating funicular, also ascending Mount Washington. It provides slightly different but equally stunning city vistas from its upper station near Shiloh Street.
Point State Park: Visit the park located at the precise confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, marked by a large fountain. Explore the grounds, Fort Pitt Block House, and enjoy the unique geographical setting (fountain operates seasonally).
Mount Washington Overlooks (Grandview Avenue): Stroll along Grandview Avenue atop Mount Washington for multiple vantage points offering spectacular skyline views. Numerous platforms make it easy to find a spot to admire the city lights and bridges.
Walk the Bridges: Cross one of Pittsburgh’s many distinctive bridges, like the Roberto Clemente Bridge (one of the “Three Sisters” yellow bridges) often closed to vehicles for events. Walking the bridges provides unique perspectives of the rivers and cityscape.
Museums & Culture Hubs
Carnegie Museum of Natural History: Explore world-renowned collections, including impressive dinosaur skeletons and exhibits on natural history from around the globe. The Hall of Ancient Egypt is a fascinating highlight.
Carnegie Museum of Art: Discover a distinguished collection of American and European art, including Impressionist paintings and contemporary works, located alongside the Natural History museum. Don’t miss the Hall of Architecture featuring large plaster casts for a unique perspective on building design.
The Andy Warhol Museum: Immerse yourself in the life and work of Pittsburgh native Andy Warhol at this museum dedicated solely to the pop art icon. Explore seven floors of paintings, prints, films, and archives showcasing his influential career.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Wander through stunning Victorian glasshouses and themed gardens showcasing diverse plant collections from around the world. Seasonal flower shows and the tropical forest conservatory are visual delights.
National Aviary: Discover hundreds of diverse bird species from around the globe in immersive, naturalistic habitats located on the North Side. Walk amongst free-flying birds in several exhibits for an up-close experience.
Mattress Factory: Experience contemporary installation art that often incorporates entire rooms or environments within this unique museum. Artists create site-specific works, offering thought-provoking and unconventional art encounters.
Heinz History Center: Explore the history of Western Pennsylvania through engaging exhibits covering everything from the French & Indian War to Heinz Ketchup and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. It’s the largest history museum in Pennsylvania, providing rich regional context.
Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh: Engage kids with interactive exhibits designed for hands-on learning and creative play. Located on the North Side, it offers a fun and stimulating environment for families.
Cathedral of Learning Nationality Rooms: Visit the University of Pittsburgh’s towering Gothic Revival skyscraper and tour the unique Nationality Rooms, designed to represent the cultures of various ethnic groups that settled in Allegheny County. Each room offers distinct cultural craftsmanship.
Parks & Outdoor Spaces
Schenley Park: Explore this large urban park featuring rolling hills, wooded trails, Schenley Plaza, Phipps Conservatory, and Panther Hollow Lake. It’s a vast green space offering diverse recreational opportunities in Oakland.
Frick Park: Discover another large municipal park known for its extensive woodlands, trails for hiking and biking, the Frick Environmental Center, and Clayton, the historic Frick family mansion. It provides a natural escape within the city limits.
Three Rivers Heritage Trail: Walk, run, or bike along miles of paved trails following the banks of Pittsburgh’s three rivers. Enjoy scenic views of the city, bridges, and stadiums while getting active outdoors.
Kayak the Rivers: Rent kayaks or take a guided tour to paddle the Allegheny, Monongahela, or Ohio rivers. See the city skyline and bridges from a unique water-level perspective.
Neighborhood Exploration
Strip District: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market district, bustling with ethnic grocers, produce stands, street vendors, restaurants, and unique shops. Visit on a Saturday morning for the full, lively experience.
Lawrenceville: Explore this trendy neighborhood known for its independent boutiques, hip restaurants, breweries, and restored rowhouses. Butler Street is the main thoroughfare for browsing and dining.
North Shore: Walk between Acrisure Stadium and PNC Park, visit the Warhol Museum or Children’s Museum, and enjoy riverfront trails. This area offers sports, culture, and recreation clustered together.
Cultural District: Discover downtown’s hub for performing arts, featuring historic theaters like the Benedum Center and Heinz Hall, art galleries, and restaurants. Catch a symphony performance, ballet, or Broadway show for an elegant evening out.
Sports & Entertainment
Catch a Pirates Game at PNC Park: Enjoy a baseball game at what many consider one of the best ballparks in America, offering stunning skyline views over the Allegheny River. The intimate setting provides a great game day atmosphere.
Tour Acrisure Stadium: Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the home of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team. Visit the locker rooms, press box, and field level for an insider’s look (tours offered on non-event days).
See the Penguins Play at PPG Paints Arena: Experience the excitement of an NHL hockey game cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins in their modern downtown arena. The fast-paced action makes for a thrilling sporting event.
Unique Pittsburgh Stops & Flavors
Randyland: Be amazed by the colorful, whimsical outdoor art installation created by local artist Randy Gilson on the North Side. This vibrant house and courtyard filled with found objects offer a joyful and free visual treat.
Bicycle Heaven: Browse the world’s largest bicycle museum and shop, featuring thousands of bikes from different eras and unique themed cycles. It’s a quirky and fascinating stop for cycling enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Eat a Primanti Bros. Sandwich: Try the iconic Pittsburgh sandwich piled high with grilled meat, coleslaw, and french fries all served between thick slices of Italian bread. It’s a must-try local culinary experience.
Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark: Tour the towering, defunct blast furnaces of the former U.S. Steel Homestead Works. Learn about Pittsburgh’s industrial heritage and the steelmaking process on these impressive historic structures.
Market Square: Relax in this central downtown plaza featuring restaurants with outdoor seating, seasonal events, and a farmers market. It’s a popular spot for lunch or gathering in the heart of the city.
