places to visit near pittsburgh pa

33 Driveable Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh to Get Out of the City (+ A Map!)

Pittsburgh is a great city with so many things to do all year. But, sometimes, you want to get out and explore some other places. It’s okay. We understand!

Where should you venture when you want a getaway from Pittsburgh?

There are SO MANY options, all within just a few hours’ drive from the city.

What makes us experts? Well, we both grew up in western Pennsylvania, just outside of Pittsburgh. We’ve explored most of these locations more times than we can count over the years, so we feel great about sharing each of these recommendations with you.

What type of destination or weekend trip are you looking for? There is something in this list that could be tailored to just about any desire. Here are some great ideas for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh .

➡️Just Want The Highlights? Our Top Recommendations:

• Best for Exploring the Outdoors: Pine Creek Gorge ; Cuyahoga Valley National Park ; Dolly Sods ; Hocking Hills
• Small Town Getaways: Lancaster, PA ; Jamestown, NY
• Explore Another City: Buffalo, NY ; Baltimore, MD
• A Girls’ Weekend in Wine Country: Geneva, OH ; Finger Lakes, NY
• History Buff’s Getaway: Gettysburg ; Washington DC
• Best Relaxing Weekend Getaway: Bedford Springs

What Makes a Good Weekend Trip from Pittsburgh?

We think that a good weekend trip requires no more than 4-5 hours of driving . Typically, with those on the longer end of this range, we’d even recommend a long weekend of at least 3 days.

Anything shorter than 1.5 hours could be explored in a day trip , but this list includes a wide variety of locations and distances. Hopefully, it will at least inspire a starting point for your next weekend getaway.

One thing we really like about many of these places to visit near Pittsburgh is that they can be enjoyed any time of the year.

These destinations are all driveable, and for most of them, having a car to get around once you’re there is a good idea.

Compiling this list was seriously tough! It became overwhelming when we sat down to think of all the great places within only a few hours’ drive from the city. Basically, we could have had 50+ spots here with great reasons to visit each one.

Best Weekend Trips from Pittsburgh

Stay in the State of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is full of places to see and things to do. Check out some of these spots, some very well-known and some more off the beaten path.

1. The Laurel Highlands

Drive Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Distance: 70 miles

The Laurel Highlands is a scenic, mountainous region in Western Pennsylvania that’s perfect for a weekend getaway from Pittsburgh.  The drive time is only about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the area offers plenty of things to do.

The star of the show in the Laurel Highlands is definitely Ohiopyle State Park . Discover beautiful waterfalls , and hike great trails like Jonathan Run and the Ferncliff Loop.

In addition to Ohiopyle, other great state parks nearby include Laurel Hill and Laurel Ridge.

Ohiopyle is also a popular whitewater rafting destination close to Pittsburgh.

Book an adventurous Whitewater Rafting Trip in Ohiopyle!

The tallest point in the state of Pennsylvania is located nearby in the Laurel Highlands: Mount Davis. If you’re trying to visit the tallest point in this or every state, this is a must-visit.

During the winter months, we think Seven Springs is a great place to satisfy your winter sports adventures on the mountain. You can ski, snowboard, or tube your way down the mountain.

Drive Time: 2 hours Distance: 128 miles

Erie is a great place to visit for a getaway weekend.  It’s located in the very northwestern corner of Pennsylvania, and it’s only about 2 hours from Pittsburgh! Erie has plenty of things to do and see during every season.

The city has a rich history with ties to Lake Erie that dates back centuries. Enjoy the historic tall ships or millionaires’ row of mansions right downtown.

Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and boating are great ways to enjoy Presque Isle State Park and nearby Erie Bluffs State Park .

Stay for the sunset at Presque Isle and watch from one of the park’s beaches. We think it’s easily one of the best places to watch a sunset in the Great Lakes region .

If you’re looking for some indoor fun, enjoy the Erie Art Museum, shop at the Millcreek Mall, or catch a show at Kellar’s comedy club and magic bar. Some pretty big names have performed on the small stage at Kellar’s.

Have you Pittsburghers heard of Billy Gardell? We’ve seen him at Kellar’s.

After spending the day exploring, visit one of the many great local restaurants. There are so many options that it’s hard to go wrong. Some of our favorite spots include The Cork, BrewErie, and Pineapple Eddie’s, among others. These are just a few!

3. Pine Creek Gorge

Drive Time: 4 hours Distance: 228 miles

The Pine Creek Gorge is the jewel of the northern part of the state. It’s an amazingly scenic and diverse destination. It’s an under-the-radar weekend trip from Pittsburgh!

The star attraction in this region is sandwiched between Colton Point and Leonard Harrison State Parks. It’s the gorge with the river below, known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon .

Hiking, biking, boating, and backpacking are all popular things to do in the area. You’ll want to spend all day exploring and enjoying the many trails and views. The West Rim Trail in the PA Grand Canyon is one of our favorite weekend backpacking trails in Pennsylvania at about 30 miles long.

The area is also filled with small towns, great places to eat, spots for shopping, and outdoor activities like kayaking.

Visit nearby Hills Creek State Park for more hiking and water adventures in the park’s lake. In the winter, you’ll see plenty of ice fishing happening out on the lake.

4. Gettysburg

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 185 miles

Located only about 3 hours and 30 minutes away from Pittsburgh, Gettysburg has a lot to offer, and it’s worth the drive. You’ll find all sorts of things to do in Gettysburg, and it’s a perfect destination for history buffs.

Check out sites like the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and the History Center. Then go out and explore the battlefields for a window into the events that occurred during the Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War.

We learned so much by playing the virtual tour videos from the NPS at each stop through the battlefields drive.

There are also plenty of places to go hiking nearby, including Pine Grove Furnace and Caledonia State Parks. Take a nighttime ghost tour if you’re into the paranormal.

Other things to do in Gettysburg include shopping and visiting wineries! So many quaint little shops with unique items are scattered throughout the streets of the town.

Gettysburg is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a weekend getaway, although you can certainly spend more than just a weekend exploring!

5. State College

Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 136 miles

State College is a great driveable spot near Pittsburgh with a more small-town feel. This university town still offers all sorts of fun for both visitors and locals.

Whether it’s exploring the historic sites or grabbing some grub at one of the many restaurants, there is something to do in State College every day of the week. We always make sure to stop at the Berkey Creamery for some delicious ice cream when we’re in town.

Outdoor activities are popular, too. Wander through the arboretum at Penn State or hike up Mount Nittany . Play a round of golf at one of the beautiful courses. Take a tour through Penn’s Cave . There are even a few spots nearby for afternoon wine tasting.

Visit during particular fall weekends, and you’ll see the town transform. Football games are a big deal in these parts, and people come from far and wide to cheer on their Nittany Lions. So much so, that on these weekends, State College turns into one of the largest cities in Pennsylvania. It’s definitely a sports experience you should have at some point in your life.

On top of that, this small town has a lot to offer when it comes to shopping and entertainment. For those who love culture and art, don’t miss out on visiting any museums or galleries.

6. Benezette & Elk County

Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 129 miles

Benezette is a small town about 2.5 hours from Pittsburgh, and there are plenty of things to do for visitors. This is certainly a more laid-back escape than some of the others on this list.

One of the best attractions in Benezette is seeing elk! Elk roam free on the hillsides surrounding the town, and it’s a great opportunity to see these large animals in a natural setting on the east coast.

Plan this as a fall getaway when the leaves are changing and the elk are in the rut. You’ll be in for a real treat.

Hike the nearby state forest trails, and you might get even closer to them, but not too close! Always maintain 100 yards between you and the elk for yours and the animals’ safety.

You can also enjoy some fishing or take a scenic drive through the area if that’s what you prefer!

7. Lancaster

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 238 miles

Lancaster, PA is a historic and charming area located about three hours and fifty minutes from Pittsburgh. Lancaster offers plenty of things to do for visitors and locals alike, but life’s pace is much slower than that in the city.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities like hiking or fishing, or indoor fun at the museums, there is something for everyone in Lancaster!

In addition to all these wonderful attractions, the area also has a lot of restaurants where you can taste the local flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. You’ll never go hungry here with this delicious home cooking.

Take an Amish Immersion Tour to Learn More About the Pennsylvania Dutch Culture in Lancaster!

Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine is a mixture of German and Dutch elements. These foods emphasize meat, potatoes, cornbreads/biscuits, cabbage dishes with pork or beef sausages; fresh loaves of bread; apple pies; pretzels; and scrapple.

8. The Poconos

Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes Distance: 279 miles

If you’re looking for a more adventurous weekend getaway, the Poconos are a great option! This area is located about four hours and thirty minutes from Pittsburgh.

It’s quite a large area, so you could easily spend a long weekend exploring the Poconos and still not do everything you want.

Outdoor activities include hiking, biking, watersports, and golfing during the summer. Check out the nearby Ricketts Glen State Park Waterfall Trail for a real treat! There are over 20 waterfalls along the trail.

You can also enjoy some time at the casino or take a trip to one of the area’s many water parks. Indoor fun includes visiting the various museums and theaters or simply relaxing at the spa. In the winter, it is a ski and snowboard destination.

A trip to the Poconos is truly an adventure, whether you prefer relaxing or being active. While it is a little further drive, it is well worth the time and effort.

Drive Time: 50 minutes Distance: 33 miles

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Butler County may be just what you need to explore. Although it’s one of the closest destinations on this list, and you might be wondering why it made the cut, there are plenty of hidden gems here.

About fifty minutes or so from Pittsburgh to the north, there are plenty of outdoor activities as well as indoor fun. Hiking is plentiful in nearby McConnells Mill and Moraine State Parks . Sections of the North Country Trail travel right through both parks.

Shopping and dining options give you some variety that is different from the city. A few craft breweries, wineries, and local restaurants serve up delicious treats.

Numerous festivals are held in Butler every year, too. The Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival attracts Jeep enthusiasts from all over the country to the area for a weekend of on and off-road fun. I love my ’97 TJ and make it a point to attend every year.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that doesn’t require a lot of time, driving, or effort to reach, heading just north to Butler County is an easy trip.

10. Philadelphia

Drive Time: 4 hours 50 minutes Distance: 304 miles

Philadelphia is such a historic city with plenty to do, whether you plan to spend a week or one day in Philadelphia . It’s also the place where American independence was first declared, so history has a big influence on the city’s culture.

Museums, dedicated to different varieties of art, history, or oddities are scattered throughout the city! The Mütter Museum is one of the strangest museums we’ve ever been to, but those fascinated by the human body may also find it interesting.

Stop by Independence Hall where the founding fathers debated and signed some of the most important documents in US history, the Constitution and Declaration of Independence. After, take a short walk to the famous Liberty Bell.

Take a Walking Tour of the historic Old City with a guide to be sure that you don’t miss any of the most notable sites during your visit!

Those interested in crime will enjoy a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary. Wander the eerie passageways on a self-guided tour where notorious criminals like Al Capone were once locked away. We found the audio tour that comes with your entrance ticket really interesting!

In addition to all these wonderful attractions, the area also has a lot of restaurants where you can taste local flavors. The Philly Cheesesteak war is alive and well. While Geno’s and Pat’s are the most famous, they’re not the only places to grab these sandwich staples.

Before leaving the City of Brotherly Love, visit the Museum of Art and run up the stairs made famous in “Rocky.”

➡️ Pro Tip: If you’re able to plan a visit on Independence Day weekend like we have, you may be lucky enough to sit on the museum stairs and catch the movie being played under the stars.

11. Delaware Water Gap

Drive Time: 4 hours 50 minutes Distance: 299 miles

The Delaware Water Gap is an ideal destination if you are looking to explore the outdoors. The area features caves, waterfalls, hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and many other outdoor attractions.

The Delaware River forms a natural border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey at this location, which also makes it a great spot for fishing or canoeing on the river.

The area is so beautiful that many are hoping that the national recreation area will soon be upgraded to national park status, becoming Pennsylvania’s first.

We had a fantastic time sipping on a drink at the Glass Wine Bar in the Ledges Hotel. Make sure you request a table with a view of the waterfall!

We had an early reservation for a drink and appetizers and then drove the 30 minutes back to Raymondskill Falls. The restaurant wasn’t as busy, and we had Raymondskill to ourselves.

12. Cherry Spring State Park

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 182 miles

Cherry Spring State Park is a perfect destination for visitors who want to enjoy some relaxing time outdoors. It’s a great space to get “off the grid.”

This park is a true destination for stargazers. It’s known as the darkest spot on the eastern seaboard. The park is situated far away from any big cities, light pollution, and traffic; all of which make it the perfect place for seeing the Milky Way, among other things.

Cherry Springs also offers educational programs throughout the summer to help visitors learn more about astronomy and the night sky.

You’ll need to book a campsite far in advance for any big events such as eclipses or meteor showers. There aren’t a ton of campsites, and they can book up quickly, and they’re definitely rustic.

Trails in the surrounding state forest are great for mountain biking and hiking. Although the only overnight options within the park are rustic tenting options, check out Airbnb or VRBO for private cabin and home rentals near the park.

13. Hershey

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 215 miles

Hershey, Pennsylvania is a small town near the heart of Amish country. For those who are thrill-seekers, there is plenty to do. The amusement park is a main attraction for tourists.

Next door, the Hershey Story Museum & Chocolate World offers visitors a glimpse into the history of Milton S. Hershey’s chocolate empire and how it has grown to include popular brands like Reese’s, Twizzlers, Almond Joy, Mr. Goodbar, and many more.

Five-pound Hershey chocolate bars exist and are sold here. I know. I got one!

You can also take a guided tour, which is more of an experience through the Chocolate World with animations and songs.

Enjoy some shopping or play a round of golf if the weather permits. There are several hotels and motels close to the Hershey area, including one right next to Hersheypark.

14. Bedford Springs

Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes Distance: 108 miles

The Bedford Springs Resort is a historic property that was established in 1806. The resort is centered around healing mineral springs that were discovered in 1796. In those times, it was a destination for city dwellers who would vacation to get away from the pollution and hustle and bustle of city life.

It was completely renovated and restored, then opened back to the public in 2007. Let me tell you, this property is a hidden gem in south-central Pennsylvania. We were pleasantly surprised with what we discovered staying at the resort.

The 300-acre property features a spa, fed by a mineral spring, which pays homage to the original purpose of the property. Indulge in a “Bedford Bath” which is the signature treatment here, alternating hot and cold baths with steam from the springs, too.

This is a great weekend getaway where you can indulge in relaxation, but there are also onsite hiking trails, bike rentals, and golf. An outfitter on site can help book fishing trips in the area.

Getaways from Pittsburgh in the Neighboring States

Pittsburgh is within just a couple hours’ drive to multiple other states. There are plenty of options when considering weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, so don’t be afraid to get outside the city and the state.

Access to many spots in Ohio is just a short drive away. Although some rivalry exists between residents of the two states, that shouldn’t deter you from considering a visit!

15. Cleveland

Drive Time: 2 hours 15 minutes Distance: 133 miles

While some Pittsburghers may roll their eyes or shake their head any time Cleveland is mentioned, it’s an enjoyable spot to visit for a weekend. At just over 2 hours from Pittsburgh, it’s an easily accessible drive for just a short visit.

Cleveland’s downtown features an impressive skyline of high-rises, fun restaurants, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. For music lovers, this place is a must-visit!

Cleveland also has the closest NBA professional basketball team in the Cavaliers, if you’re looking for a different sport to watch that isn’t offered in Pittsburgh.

There are so many great restaurants, bars, and breweries to visit, too, scattered all over town. Don’t just head down East 4th Street. Check out Tremont or Ohio City, The Flats, and other hotspots around town.

And, if you’re a beer lover, Cleveland has an impressive list of breweries to visit, many of which offer samples or tours. We love Noble Beast, Masthead, Terrestrial… We could go on!

16. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Drive Time: 1 hour 50 minutes Distance: 112 miles

Who knew a national park was so close and accessible? Even if the Delaware Water Gap becomes a national park, this one is closer! Cuyahoga Valley is a newer and lesser-known national park, but there are some beautiful spots to check out.

Brandywine Falls should be one of your first stops, and then hike along some of the fantastic trails, including a section of the Buckeye Trail. Take a ride on the train, especially if you’re visiting during the fall when the leaves are at their peak.

The Towpath Trail is a popular spot for bicyclists. The trail, which follows the Ohio & Erie Canal currently for 87 miles, is mostly flat and makes for an easy ride. It will be 101 miles long when it’s all finished!

The trail offers great views of the Cuyahoga River and the surrounding landscape, as well as some information about the historical significance of the canal way.

All of these sites certainly make Cuyahoga Valley National Park worth visiting on a weekend from Pittsburgh.

17. Nelson Ledges

Drive Time: 1 hour 35 minutes Distance: 92 miles

Nelson Ledges is a great place to explore the natural rock formations that make up the park. Hike, swim, bike, snorkel, camp, or find another activity that gets you excited to be outdoors. The possibilities here are nearly endless!

Check event schedules. The park is sometimes home to arts festivals and musical events on its 250 acres of land.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, take a walk along one of the nature trails or enjoy a picnic lunch.

There are also two fishing lakes in the park if you’d like to relax by the water. Just be sure to check with the park staff about fishing regulations before you start casting your line.

18. Put-in-Bay

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 202 miles

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway with both a party atmosphere and spots to find some solitude, Put-in-Bay is the perfect spot. Just a few hours from Pittsburgh, this island offers plenty to do and see.

The town is situated on South Bass Island in Lake Erie. You’ll have to take a ferry to get to the island.

There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore in town. Rent a golf cart for a fun way to get around town. You can also visit some of the historical sites or take a boat tour of the area.

If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of bike trails or golf courses to check out. And don’t forget about the beaches! Put-in-Bay has some of the best beaches around for swimming and enjoying Lake Erie.

19. Hocking Hills

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 193 miles

Hocking Hills is a favorite destination in the region for a number of reasons. It’s one of the most popular state parks in Ohio. Things to do in Hocking Hills include canyoneering, rafting, and hiking through the scenic landscape of rock formations, cliffs, and waterfalls.

The area can get quite busy during the summer, so consider visiting the Hocking Hills hiking trails during the winter for a different experience. Just make sure that you have the appropriate gear.

The trails can get really icy and dangerous! We definitely needed our Kahtoola microspikes , especially on the Old Man’s Cave and Rock House trails.

In addition to the great outdoors, the town has a number of places worth checking out. Take a ride around the area, visit some of the antique stores, or stop at the winery for an afternoon of tasting.

For overnight stays, there are soooo many cabins throughout the area with great amenities like game rooms, hot tubs, and beautiful fireplaces. Many pet-friendly cabins and hiking trails allow dogs in Hocking Hills , making this a great place to get away with your pups.

Pro Tip: Cell phone service can be extremely limited in many spots, even at some of the cabins that we’ve stayed at. Make sure you have paper maps and plan your trip ahead of time. You don’t want to risk missing things you’d like to do because you don’t have wifi or cell service.

Drive Time: 2 hours 20 minutes Distance: 138 miles

Geneva, Ohio is a small town with a big heart. The wine country of northeast Ohio has been growing and thriving. It’s home to beautiful scenery, delicious food & drink, outdoor adventure opportunities…the list goes on!

Geneva is home to more than just vineyards. It’s also the perfect place to visit if you want the best of both worlds: a weekend spent exploring or relaxing- all without having to travel too far from Pittsburgh.

Check out some of the beautiful covered bridges of Ashtabula County. There are 19 of them around the county.

Spend your time wandering “the Strip” for a carnival-like atmosphere during the summer months or get out and get active at the state park. Then, enjoy the wine! One of my personal favorites is Laurello’s.

Stay at the Lakehouse Inn in Geneva-on-the-Lake to be within walking distance of the Strip and enjoy epic lakefront views.

21. Sandusky

Drive Time: 3 hours Distance: 182 miles

Cedar Point Amusement Park is a world-famous amusement park located in Sandusky, Ohio. It’s home to some of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world, as well as a variety of other rides and attractions.

You could absolutely spend an entire weekend in Sandusky visiting the beach on Lake Erie, checking out Cedar Point, and exploring the shopping and restaurants in town. There’s so much to see and do in the region.

This would be a great weekend getaway for families, especially with older children. Park entrance fees can be on the pricey side, but buying multi-day passes does give some discount.

Sharing a lot of the southern border of Pennsylvania, Maryland is home to a couple of weekend getaway destinations from Pittsburgh.

22. Deep Creek Lake

Drive Time: 2 hours 10 minutes Distance: 103 miles

Just over two hours away, this lake offers plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. You can go fishing, boating, swimming, or hiking on the trails around the lake during the summer.

Wisp Resort in the area is a great winter destination for skiers and snowboarders. The resort is on the smaller side but offers slopes for all levels of skiers and a terrain park for the more adventurous.

There are also restaurants and shops in and around the town of McHenry if you need to take a break from all the outdoor activities, or stay in and just spend a weekend relaxing in one of the lakeside cottages.

23. Baltimore

Drive Time: 4 hours 5 minutes Distance: 248 miles

Baltimore is a city with a rich history, both as an industrial port and as the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner. But today, Baltimore’s many charms extend to its diverse restaurants and neighborhoods, world-class museums and art galleries, beautiful parks, and waterfront promenade. It’s also home to world-class universities like Johns Hopkins.

Some must-sees include The National Aquarium, which showcases millions of gallons of water-filled tanks with thousands of different species of aquatic life from around the world. You can explore the Atlantic coral reef or get up close with sharks in Shark Alley.

Baltimore is also home to the famous Inner Harbor, with its beautiful skyline views.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, stop by the Johns Hopkins University campus or check out the museums and art galleries around town. Stop by the Westminster Presbyterian Church, where you can see Edgar Allen Poe’s gravesite.

New York is such a large state that much of it is not accessible within a reasonable amount of time to be considered a weekend trip, even a long weekend trip from Pittsburgh. There are a few options, though, all of which have something fun to offer.

24. The Finger Lakes

Drive Time: 5 hours Distance: 284 miles

The Finger Lakes wine country in upstate New York is a beautiful destination for a weekend getaway. The region is home to stunning landscapes, delicious food and drink, and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities.

The Finger Lakes region is one of the furthest destinations included in this list, and you’ll want to take a long weekend vacation (or maybe more) to explore everything the region has to offer.

Spend the mornings exploring the many waterfalls scattered throughout the area or one of the stunning state parks near the lakes. The afternoons can be saved for wine tasting. Relax by one of the beautiful lakes in the evenings. What could make a better weekend getaway?

Make sure you check out Watkins Glen , Taughannock Falls , and Letchworth State Parks. These are just a few hiking options that have beautiful things to see around the Finger Lakes, but each one has great waterfalls and hiking trails.

25. Jamestown

Drive Time: 2 hours 40 minutes Distance: 171 miles

Did you know that Jamestown, NY is the birthplace of Lucille Ball? She was born there in 1911 and spent her childhood there. It is also her final resting place, along with some members of her other family members.

After a successful career in Hollywood, she retired to her hometown and opened the Lucy-Desi Museum. The museum celebrates her life and career and is home to many artifacts from her time on I Love Lucy.

Jamestown is also home to the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival each year. The festival features stand-up comedians, sketch comedy groups, and performances from both up-and-comers and well-known comedians.

For outdoor lovers, nearby Chautauqua Lake has plenty to do from boating and watersports to hiking trails and parks. Visit Southern Tier Brewing’s original location, and during the summer, you might be able to catch a musical act on the small outdoor stage while you grab a drink and bite to eat.

26. Niagara Falls

Drive Time: 3 hours 40 minutes Distance: 238 miles

Niagara Falls is quite a famous destination, being one of the most visited tourist attractions in North America. It’s no wonder why; Niagara Falls is truly spectacular. It’s the largest waterfall in North America by volume.

There are so many things to do at Niagara Falls, including taking a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat tour , visiting the Cave of the Winds, and even hiking along the Gorge Trail.

You can take out the planning and book a day-long tour of the highlights of Niagara Falls .

Discover Niagara Falls through a Guided Tour, Including Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds.

There are also many hotels located near the falls, making it easy to stay overnight while enjoying the beauty of the falls. Some even overlook the falls, but you’ll have to head over to the Canadian side for most of them.

While the area is very built-up and touristy, the magnitude of these falls should not be missed. In our experience, visits during the colder months were less crowded.

27. Ellicottville

Drive Time: 3 hours 15 minutes Distance: 203 miles

Ellicottville is a small town in Western New York, south of Buffalo. This quaint little town provides a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities.

The town is home to 2 ski slopes, which offer even more than just winter fun.  During the summer, trails are open for exploration and mountain biking at Holiday Valley. Just south of town, there are more trails and outdoor areas to visit in the state forests.

After a day of exploring, you can spend the evening wandering through the shops in town or grab dinner and a drink at Ellicottville Brewing.

If you’re looking for a quiet weekend escape in a small town, this is the perfect spot.

28. Buffalo

Drive Time: 3 hours 20 minutes Distance: 219 miles

The city of Buffalo gives off very similar vibes to that of Pittsburgh with the locals and things to do.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, as well as museums and art galleries, and a waterfront with activities in all seasons. 

Ever wanted to try your luck at curling after watching it on TV during the Olympics? There are lanes at the waterfront area, known as Canalside, where you can try it out and learn the sport. There are also skating rinks and plenty of winter fun. 

During the summer, the waterfront becomes a popular location for concerts and festivals, such as the annual Taste of Buffalo food festival. You could also combine a trip to Buffalo and Niagara Falls, as they’re only about 20 miles apart.

West Virginia

Wild and wonderful, West Virginia has plenty of outdoor adventure waiting in its mountains.

29. New River Gorge

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 217 miles

Just over 200 miles to the south, you can visit the US’s newest national park the New River Gorge .

The area in and around the gorge is popular with thrill-seekers, as there is fantastic whitewater rafting in both the New and Gauley Rivers. While we haven’t tackled the Gauley, the New River trip is fun in the spring.

Rock climbing and hiking are also other popular activities in the park, and you’ll find lots of camping options to stay the night in the area. Whether you’d like to spend the night in a primitive cabin or one with lots of amenities, there is a suitable choice. Plenty of tent camping sites are available, too.

Cell phone reception can be a problem in parts of the park, so plan ahead by downloading maps, just in case you find yourself off the grid. It is one of many great areas in West Virginia to get off the grid.

30. Charleston

Drive Time: 3 hours 35 minutes Distance: 228 miles

This historic city is the capital of West Virginia. With its beautiful architecture and charming downtown, Charleston is an absolute must-see when visiting West Virginia.

Although it is the capital of the state, Charleston has kept much of its small-town charm throughout, making this a relaxing weekend getaway from Pittsburgh.

Shop in the Capitol Market or attend an event at the Haddad Riverfront Park amphitheater. Grab a bite at one of the many downtown restaurants serving dishes like Italian or Mexican favorites. 

For a long weekend option, combine a visit to Charleston and the New River Gorge. The one-hour drive between the two destinations on Route 60 is scenic and beautiful. It’ll give you a good taste of those West Virginia country roads.

31. Dolly Sods Wilderness

Drive Time: 3 hours 25 minutes Distance: 152 miles

Another beautiful off-the-grid destination in West Virginia, Dolly Sods is a hiking paradise. As part of the larger Monongahela National Forest, there are over 17,000 acres of outdoor areas to explore.

This is a destination for those who are more adventurous outdoor lovers. 

There are trails for hikers of all levels, and if you want to see some wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for deer, foxes, and even black bears.

The best way to enjoy the outdoors is to camp out here. There are several campsites that offer electricity and water hookups, but no showers.

To really get to some of the best seclusion, plan to head to the backcountry, but only if you come prepared.

Much of Virginia requires more of a drive, so not all of the state is accessible for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh. A few spots could be great, though, especially for long weekend options.

32. Shenandoah

Drive Time: 3 hours 45 minutes Distance: 193 miles

If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Pittsburgh, Shenandoah is a perfect place to go south.

One of the East Coast’s beautiful national parks, there are miles of hiking trails, biking, and scenic roadways through this portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

You can also take advantage of the natural beauty of the area by fishing and camping.

Shenandoah is definitely a four-season destination. Depending on the time of year, you will be treated to rushing waterfalls, fields of wildflowers, bright fall foliage, or snow-covered mountains.

All are beautiful in their own way, so plan your visit according to the type of scenery that you’d like to visit.

33. Washington D.C.

Drive Time: 4 hours 5 minutes Distance: 242 miles

Because it’s within a 5-hour drive of Pittsburgh, we can’t leave the nation’s capital off of our list of best weekend destinations from Pittsburgh.

You’ll certainly need more than a weekend to see everything that the capital city has to offer, though!

From the monuments and the National Mall to the shopping in Georgetown, there are endless things to do and places to explore. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly experience, check out the Smithsonian Museums or the National Zoo.

They’re all free to visit!

If you’d like someone else to do the route planning, check out these ELECTRIC CART GUIDED TOURS . You’ll be able to see more in less time in this small-group experience.

Plenty of sports teams call D.C. home, too, so there is a great chance that you could catch a game of some kind during your visit.

If you’ve never been to Washington D.C., you won’t know what you’re missing.

While there are so many options for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, hopefully, this list gives you some great ideas to start with. Better yet, take a spur-of-the-moment trip to one of the closer destinations we suggested. Sometimes those kinds of trips lead to some of the best memories!

Which one of these weekend getaways from Pittsburgh are you most excited about planning?

Samantha is the owner and author of PAonPause, a blog that helps travelers find the best outdoor travel experiences and highlights unique locations around the Great Lakes. When she isn't writing and creating content for the website, she's hiking and exploring with her husband and 2 rescue pups. She also enjoys a good craft beer, a summer ride in her Jeep with the top down, and discovering a new waterfall.

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13 Perfect Day Trips From Pittsburgh (within 2 hours of drive)

Day trips near pittsburgh, [short drive from pittsburgh], day trips currently.

There are a number of amazing trips within short distance from Pittsburgh that can be accomplished in one day! Here is a list of best Day Trips.

For all types of getaways near Pittsburgh CLICK HERE    

Day Trips From Pittsburgh

Amazing day trip to hartwood acres park - 30 min from pittsburgh.

• Tours of the estate require advanced reservations.

Hartwood Acres Park makes for a great day trip from Pittsburgh. Located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. It is one of the largest and most spectacular country estates! A wide range of outdoor activities, concerts, seasonal events, and the magnificent Lawrence Mansion will make an indelible impression on you!

Winter Fun Day Trip to the Boyce Park Ski Area Near Pittsburgh

• The cost range for tickets is $17 – $40.

Are you looking for a fun winter day trip from Pittsburgh? The Boyce Park Ski Slopes & Snow Tubing Area in Allegheny County will make a perfect winter getaway for the whole family, new skiers, snow tubers, and snowboarders.

Park and Beach Getaways at Raccoon Creek State Park in PA

The park is 7,572 acres in size and features the beautiful 101-acre Raccoon Lake. Take a hike at one of the many park trails (44 miles of trails to choose from). Or explore the 101-acre Raccoon Lake by kayak, canoe, rowboat, or hydro bike. Or swim and catch some sun at the beach. Or enjoy a stroll through the Wildflower Reserve with more than 700 species of plants. The park also offers a wide variety of environmental education programs.

Beach and Park Getaway to Moraine State Park near Pittsburgh PA

• Park information can be obtained at the park office near the entrance to the South Shore.

Looking for a beach and park trip for the whole family? Moraine State Park is 16,725 acres of exceptional scenery. Located in Portersville PA, it contains a beautiful 3,225-acre Lake Arthur, rolling hills, lush forests, and a large number of year-round recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone in the park. Moraine State Park has two swimming sandy beaches 1,200-foot-long Pleasant Valley Beach and 550-foot-long Lakeview Beach. ⁠

Magical Day Trip to Laurel Caverns in Laurel Highlands PA

• The cost ranges between $3 for kids and $15 for adults.

If you are looking for a unique and magical family day getaway near Pittsburgh or Cleveland, consider taking a day trip to Laurel Caverns in Farmington. It is Pennsylvania’s largest cave, with over four miles of passages. You will get unforgettable emotions, enjoy extraordinary views, and take amazingly vivid photos. This epic adventure is great for families with kids and also for adventure lovers looking for exceptional caving (spelunking) experience. ⁠⁠

Beach and Park Getaway at Laurel Hill State Park in Laurel Highland PA

Laurel Hill State Park offers 4,062 acres of mountainous terrain and beautiful 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake. The lake has a small, 1,200-foot white sand beach , with a lovely pier where you can jump into the cool and refreshing lake water⁠. It is open daily from late May until the middle of September. The beach is clean and well maintained, a nice small place to swim or rent a kayak or canoe. The reviews for this beach seem to be all positive.

The park also has some of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania. Observe the diversity of plants and wildlife, explore the two must-sees – The Jones Mill Run Dam, and Hemlock Trail Natural Area, go fishing and swimming in summer and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter months. The park is open every day of the year, and it is pet friendly.

Scenic Getaway at Cooper Rock State Forest in West Virginia

• The entrance to the forest is free. The cost depend on the accommodation you pick.

Scenic Coopers Rock State Forest with a great view of lakes, rivers, and valleys will make a perfect weekend getaway. This State Forest is great for hiking, biking, camping, and seeing the breathtaking views of nature. It is also perfect for a day out with friends or couples, and families with kids.

Amazing Winter Fun and Magic Sleigh Rides at Ma & Pa's Cabin in Burton OH

• The cost is $110 weekdays and $150 weekends for two-night stay.

Are you looking for memorable winter fun, a fabulous sleigh ride, and a unique off-the-grid cabin rental in the woods? You will get this unique experience and much more, while staying at Ma & Pa's in the village of Burton, Ohio.

Nestled in the mature woods, away from the busy city life, with a gas fireplace, fire pit, wrap-around deck, home amenities, and private hiking trails, this winter getaway will make your childhood dream come true!

Fun Family Getaway at Tygart Lake State Park & Adventures Water Park in West Virginia

• Half-day in the water park is $12 per person. Full-day is $16 per person. Free for children aged three and under.

Are you looking for a great place to have a fun family getaway? Consider vising Tygart Lake State Park with its Tygart Adventures Water Park.

Enjoy the beautiful views, numerous water activities, and breathtaking hiking trails in the park. ⁠⁠Have the thrills of sliding, climbing, jumping, and racing to the top of inflatable slides and obstacles on water. An exciting way to stay cool in summer!

Stunning Beach Getaway at Presque Isle State Park on Lake Erie in Pennsylvania

• The entrance to the park is free.

Are you looking for the best beach getaway? Presque Isle State Park is a gorgeous “seashore-like” beach, with a beautiful coastline and lake views. It is a paradise for outdoor lovers, families, couples, groups of friends, solo travelers, and those who want an unforgettable summer getaway!

Picturesque Getaway at Swallow Falls State Park near Deep Creek Lake in Maryland

• The cost is $3 for instate resident, and $5 for out-of-state resident

Swallow Falls State Park in Western Maryland is a perfect destination for families, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts any time of the year. With beautiful scenery, picturesque hiking trails, old hemlock trees, and two grand cascading waterfalls, you will fall in love with this park from the first minutes of your visit!

Picturesque Beach and Park Getaway at Geneva On The Lake OH⁠

• The Bach access is free. For accommodation suggestions see below.

Geneva-on-the-Lake , a village in Ashtabula County, Ohio, with picturesque lake views makes for a great weekend getaway for active people, nature lovers, wine buffs, couples, families, and friends! ⁠⁠Sandy Breakwater Beach, with a large beach area, is located inside Geneva State Park. The park, with 698 acres of forest, also offers hiking/biking trails, boating, and camping⁠.

Gorgeous Lake Getaway at Deep Creek Lake in Maryland

Deep Creek Lake is a quiet and relaxing four-season getaway destination, with picturesque mountain and lake views. It is a paradise for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and lovers of beautiful scenery!   Deep Creek Lake is nestled in the gorgeous mountains of western Maryland. It is the largest lake in Maryland with 69 miles of shoreline. The region has a wide range of activities all year round. In the summer months, you can go hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. During the winter months, there are opportunities for skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

For a compete list of getaways near Pittsburgh  CLICK HERE   

Getaways From Pittsburgh Page  includes fun family getaways, treehouses, cabins, romantic getaway, lake getaways, beach getaways, outdoor lovers getaways, day trips from Pittsburgh and more.

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20 Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh, PA

You'll never be bored in Pittsburgh. Whether visiting for the first time, have been a resident for years, or are returning after time away, you'll love the variety of Pittsburgh tourist attractions and sightseeing opportunities available to you. Read on for more information on 20 of the best Pittsburgh attractions for visitors of all ages.

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1. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a must-see for nature enthusiasts, families seeking things to do in Pittsburgh, and friends looking for Instagram-worthy photo-ops. A learning landscape from start to finish, you can take a self-guided tour and explore the gardens on your own of their extensive collections of flora and artwork, or embark on a one-hour tour to get an explanation of the history of the astounding plant assortments. This option is perfect for exploring the gardens with a small group.

The Shop at Phipps is a great stop after you explore the grounds. You can find glass flowers, custom jewelry, and eco-friendly toys inspired by the Conservatory. By this point, you're probably feeling hungry, so stop by Café Phipps for salads, sandwiches, or other eats. The eatery has vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.

For more information on all the exhibits, events, and other attractions, visit the Phipps Conservatory website. You'll want to buy your tickets online to secure your preferred date and time to explore this amazing destination.

2. The Duquesne Incline

Have your camera ready for fantastic photo ops of Steel City’s picturesque skyline and surrounding vistas with a delight-filled ride on the historic Duquesne Incline . Climb aboard the beautifully restored wooden cable car that has transported travelers to and from the top of Mount Washington for almost 150 years.

Be sure to stop in the museum at the incline’s top station to learn about this iconic mode of transportation. You can even see the original machinery with its wooden gear teeth and today’s machinery that propels the cable car along nearly 800 feet of rail line.

FYI: The Incline is a “cash only” operation, so be sure to have the exact amount of cash in hand because there are no ATMs on-site (although they do accept Port Authority of Allegheny County bus passes and tickets). You’ll want to stop in their gift shop to find fun and interesting mementos of your time on the incline.

3. Acrisure Stadium Tours

Immerse yourself in the world of Pittsburgh football with a behind-the-scenes tour of Acrisure Stadium , home of the Steelers and the Pitt Panthers. Considered one of the best football stadiums in the nation, they offer a variety of tour options with each providing an up-close view of stadium facilities.

You’ll get to see the Steelers locker room, the playing field, and the FedEx Great Hall showcasing some of the greatest moments of Steeler’s history on the Highlights and Ultimate tours. For a truly epic experience, book a Game Day tour where you’ll have pre-game access to the field and sidelines for amazing photo ops, along with other exclusive guided tours before game time.

Of course, you can also visit the stadium for a Steelers or Panthers game, concert, or private event, as well the annual Kickoff and Rib Festival where you can enjoy ribs from a variety of vendors, beverages, festival foods, games, and tour the FedEx Great Hall.

For more information on the tours and events, check out the Acrisure Stadium website.

4. 'Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour

Enjoy a taste of Pittsburgh’s hottest culinary scenes with a 'Burgh Bits & Bites food tour, rated the city’s best! Each tour offers generous “bites” of the latest ethnic foods and traditional fare, accompanied by a delectable “side dish” of local history.

Tours are offered for the following locations, each accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, or create your own custom tour , ideal for groups and business events.

• Strip District
• Lawrenceville,

Whether you prefer your food paired with colorful and funky, artsy and historic, quaint and charming, or a simply delicious adventure, your taste buds will be thanking you. Book your guided food tour directly online at 'Burgh Bits & Bites.

5. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

If you're intrigued or simply filled with wonder by nature and the natural world that surrounds us, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History is one Pittsburgh destination you won't want to miss. With tens of millions of objects and specimens from throughout the world and down through the ages, nature’s finest is on full display and sure to delight all ages and interests.

Below is a sample of the fascinating and breathtaking galleries and exhibits you’ll find at this iconic natural history museum, known as one of the nation’s best.

• Dinosaurs in Their Time
• From Egypt to Pittsburgh
• Hall of Botany
• Discovery Basecamp
• Alcoa Foundation Hall of American Indians
• Hall of African Wildlife
• Wertz Gallery of Gems and Jewelry
• Bird Hall and Bug Hall
• Art of the Diorama

With so much to see and experience, be sure to purchase your timed ticket (s) to guarantee entrance for your preferred date and time. Don’t worry; once in with your confirmed ticket you can stay as long as you like!

6. Carnegie Science Center

With four floors filled with interactive exhibits, there is so much to see and experience at the Carnegie Science Center . From the earth’s waters to the stars and pretty much everything in between, this science museum is designed to captivate your mind and imagination.

The museum’s roster of live demonstrations and special exhibits guarantees you’ll find something new and exciting to explore, along with the many fun and engaging permanent exhibits and attractions including:

• Mars: The Next Giant Leap
• USS Requin (SS 481) (self-guided tour of actual submarine!)
• Buhl Planetarium & Observatory
• Rangos Giant Cinema (showing popular, science-related, and holiday movies)
• Highmark SportsWorks®
• Robot Hall of Fame
• H2Oh! (interactive waterways exhibit)
• NETL Energy Zone (National Energy Technology Laboratory electricity exhibit)
• Miniature Railroad & Village®
• Little Learner Clubhouse
• Bricksburgh (perfect for little ones and those who love building blocks!)
• Fab Lab Public Workshops

You’ll want to check out their calendar of special events packed full of fun and interesting activities and topics specifically geared to children, teens, and adults only.

Before visiting the science center, be sure to purchase your tickets online . Please note that while your General Admission ticket will give you access to most of the museum, there are a few areas where an additional fee is required.

7. Andy Warhol Museum

Embrace your artistic side with a visit to the Andy Warhol Museum . Housing the largest collection of Warhol art, films, and archives in the world, including his iconic “Campbell’s Soup Cans,” the museum is among the fun things to see in Pittsburgh.

The museum’s seven floors are filled with interactive experiences and displays. Stop in the 4 th floor to view a large selection of his film and videos, including screen tests he took of the famous and non-famous. Then, make your own screen test using their digital screen test machine . You can even create your own Warhol-inspired artistic masterpiece at the museum’s hands-on art studio, The Factory . Welcoming all ages, the studio is open on select days of the week

You can purchase your tickets online or at the door. Check out their public programs and performances webpage and events calendar for the latest news on all the exciting things happening at this one-of-a-kind art museum that is as unique as the artist who inspired its creation!

8. Cathedral of Learning Tour

Soaring 535 feet into the Pittsburgh skyline, the 42-story Cathedral of Learning on the University of Pittsburgh campus is one of the city’s treasured landmarks. Housing the renowned Nationality and Heritage Rooms , the Gothic Revival-inspired skyscraper honors the many communities of people who have been instrumental in making Pittsburgh the great city it is today.

The following are just a sample of the ethnicities and heritages you can see on a guided tour of the cathedral’s 31 National and Heritage rooms.

• African Heritage Room
• Chinese Room
• Early American Room
• French Room
• German Room
• Indian Room
• Israel Heritage Room
• Italian Room
• Korean Heritage Room
• Syria-Lebanon Room
• Polish Room
• Czechoslovak Room
• Ukrainian Room

Each room is beautiful and reflects the rich ethnic history of this captivating city. The university offers both 30- and 90-minute tours, including an evening tour. Book your in-person guided tour of this iconic building. It’s almost like taking a trip around the world!

9. Bike the Burgh Tour

Experience Pittsburgh’s well-known and not-so-well gems in an entirely new way with a 6- to 9-mile Bike the Burgh Tour . Their three-hour tours will have you pedaling along low-traffic streets, designated bike lanes, and bike trails along the rivers. Best yet, it’s all along flat terrain, which means no strenuous hills to climb!

All tours are led by an experienced bike/tour guide and perfect for families, individuals, and groups of friends. You can bring your own bike, but no worries if you’re packing light. You can rent an eight-speed bike, helmet, and even a bike trailer for real little ones who aren’t big enough to pedal on their own. They offer a variety of tours, including

• the highly popular Beauty of the Burgh Tour
• the “insider” Pittsburgh's Hidden Treasures Tour
• the super scenic Bridges in the Burgh Tour
• the sports lover’s Bike to the Ballgame Tour that ends at PNC Park or Acrisure Stadium to enjoy a baseball or football game and a cold beer!

Speaking of beer… They also offer a four-hour, adults-only Bikes & Brews Tour where you’ll visit four of the area’s great craft breweries and be treated to some great brews, fantastic food truck fare, and fun souvenirs.

Choose your favorite, then book your Bike the Burgh Tour for a scenic bike ride through Pittsburgh!

10. Walk the Burgh Tour

Don your walking shoes (or sneakers) for a fun, interesting, and engaging tour of “the Burgh” with a Walk the Burgh Tour(s) . For close to a decade their intrepid guides have taken scores of visitors by and into the city’s landmarks, iconic buildings, storied neighborhoods, and adventure-filled stairways, including tours where you’ll find some of the city’s tastiest libations and eeriest venues.

Their selection of tours offered year-round includes:

• Best of the Burgh Tour , exploring the downtown’s most well-known and hidden gems
• Whiskey Tasting Tour , a delicious taste of the Burgh’s whiskey-filled past and present
• Black & Ghost Tour , an eerie downtown history lesson with a spooky twist
• Art N’AT Tour , a journey off the downtown’s beaten path to find hidden treasures of art
• Hollywood East Tour , visiting original film locations shot in and around the Burgh
• Discover Oakland Tour , an epicenter of museums, mansions, universities, and history

Hardier “soles” can experience a truly insider tour of the city with a Simply Steps: A City Steps Tour of Troy Hill & Spring Garden that takes you up and down a few of the city’s 800 or so stairways linking neighborhoods and cultures and offered May-Nov.

Each tour typically takes about two hours and most welcome all ages. With so many fantastic options, it may be hard to choose! Check out all their tours and book your favorite , including their nighttime Holiday Lights tour, for a super fun and interesting time with your friends or family.

11. Gateway Clipper Riverboat Cruise

Sail along Pittsburgh’s famed three rivers with a sightseeing cruise aboard one of the Gateway Clipper Fleet ‘s riverboats. The cruises take you on all three rivers: the Allegheny, the Ohio, and the Monongahela, as entertaining and informative guides share fun facts and captivating stories of each river’s history and landmarks you pass along the way. They operate a full-service bar and a snack bar on board.

Enhance your sailing experience with a luncheon, dinner, or 21+ specialty dining cruise. They also offer Halloween Fun and Haunted cruises on select dates in the fall, as well as a variety of seasonal themed cruises throughout the year.

Make the cruising experience extra special for the little ones with their kids themed cruises featuring some of their favorite princesses, comic book, and blockbuster movie heroes for a meet and greet and DJ dance party. Be sure to check their website to see when all these and all the extra-special cruises are being offered and availability.

Check the booking availability and secure your spot for a three rivers cruise!

12. Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar

No trip to Pittsburgh would be complete without a pilgrimage to Primanti Bros. ’ original, Strip District location. Named one of “America’s Classic Restaurants” by none other than James Beard, this classic has been serving up its “classic” Pitts-burger® sandwich since 1933.

Be sure to arrive hungry because this massive sandwich starts off with two thick slices of Italian bread piled high with your choice of grilled meat, a big slice of melted Provolone, a mound of hand cut french fries, sweet yet tangy cole slaw, and topped with two slices of fresh tomato. It is a true Pittsburgh experience all its own.

Afterwards, you might want to start planning a Primanti Bros. roadtrip. They have expanded from their humble beginnings so you can find this famed restaurant at more than 40 locations, each one featuring that classic taste of Pittsburgh.

13. Passport to Pittsburgh Tours

Don’t have a lot of time but want to see as much of Pittsburgh as you can?! Enjoy a whirlwind tour of Pittsburgh’s landmarks, attractions, and neighborhoods on the Pittsburgh 101 Tour offered by Passport to Pittsburgh . This “crash course” of the city’s environs is just one of the many delightful tours they offer both in the city and the surrounding areas, along with numerous special interest tours.

Whichever tour you choose, whether it’s one of their many food-centric tours (Pass The Pierogies Tour, for example), seasonal, or specialty tours (Brews and Pews tour of churches and microbreweries), you are guaranteed to have learned and experienced something new and leave with something to remember with a smile, i.e., their “Tourism Trifecta.”

Explore their Pittsburgh tours to find something perfect for your visit! These tours sell out quickly, so plan to book your spot before arriving in the Steel CIty!

14. Bicycle Heaven

Stop by Bicycle Heaven to see the world's largest bicycle museum and bike shop. Housing 6,000 antique, rare, collectible, and new and used bikes, this little slice of (bicycle) heaven is worth the trip just to see their special exhibit featuring the Schwinn DX Cruiser featured in the 1985 film classic, “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure” that starred Pee-wee Herman, along with bikes seen in movies “A Beautiful Mind,” “Super 8,” “Fathers & Daughters,” to name but a few.

Their expansive collection of bicycles includes a 19th-century “Boneshaker,” hundreds of bikes that date back to the early 1900s, and 17 of the 30 or so of the first fiberglass bikes ever made and known as the Bowden Spacelander. Add to that, their collection extends to a wide variety of bike memorabilia and bike-related, pop star merchandise.

You can even trade, rent, or purchase a new or used bike for yourself, get your bike tuned up, or find that really hard-to-find part your bike is missing. Bicycle Heaven is open daily, and owners Craig and Mindy offer free admission!

15. All Day Hop On, Hop Off Tour Pass

Hop aboard a bright red, double-decker bus and enjoy a day of Pittsburgh sightseeing with a “hop on, hop off” tour offered by The Pittsburgh Tour Company . The tour makes 21 stops and along the way, you’ll be entertained by friendly and funny guides who’ll share engaging stories about the city’s history, landmarks, art, and iconic buildings.

Hop off and indulge your cultural side at the Andy Warhol Museum, the Heinz History Center, or the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Take in a game at Heinz Field or PNC Park, grab a bite to eat in the bustling Strip District, or scope out spectacular views from the scenic overlook on Mount Washington. Explore on your own, then hop on a later tour bus.

They even offer haunted tours on Friday and Saturday nights in the fall if you want to explore Pittsburgh’s spooky side. It’s easy to plan your Pittsburgh trip when you book your all-day tour pass for a hop-on, hop-off adventure or opt for a shorter sightseeing trip only with their Just The Tour pass for a once-around, 2.25-hour tour of Pittsburgh’s cultural, historic, architectural, and shopping gems.

16. Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour

Calling all craft beer lovers! Enjoy VIP access to some of the best and biggest breweries in Pittsburgh on The Pittsburgh Signature Brew Tour offered by City Brew Tours. You’ll visit three of the city’s stellar craft breweries, each with its own unique ambiance and beer styles on your 3.5-hour tour.

Each tour is led by a guide who knows the Steel City and knows beer. Along with a behind-the-scenes tour of each brewery, up to 12 samples of fine craft beer, and a delicious local snack, you’ll get to expand your beer knowledge from the history of this storied beverage from ancient times to today’s modern brewing methods. Contact City Brew Tours to arrange your exclusive beer tour today.

After the tour, extend the “hoppiness” by subscribing to City Brew Tours’ monthly beer box. Each box is packed with eight craft beer samples from select breweries in a particular city from throughout the U.S. When the winter holidays roll around, surprise your beer loving buddies with a “12 Days of Christmas” or “8 Days of Hanukkah” beer box.

17. Pittsburgh Outdoor Escape Game

Explore Pittsburgh in a whole new and exciting way with Questo’s Discover Pittsburgh outdoor escape game. With intriguing clues and puzzles to solve, you’ll find some of the Steel City’s hidden gems as you make your way from the Strip District’s unique food markets, restaurants, and shops to the Heinz History Center where you’ll learn about the city’s amazing past and its impact on U.S. history.

Next stop: the fun interactive activities and exhibits at the Andy Warhol Museum housing the world’s largest collection of the amazing artwork of Pittsburgh’s favorite son, Andy Warhol. The game ends on the North Shore with its spectacular views of the city’s skyline and storied bridges.

To play, download the Questo game on your mobile device and follow the city-specific instructions. There’s no need to worry about time expiring because unlike typical escape room challenges there’s no time limit to complete this escape game and one of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh!

18. Pittsburgh Scavenger Hunt

Bar crawling just got better with this twist on tradition! The Let’s Roam “Party Through Pittsburgh” Bar Crawl Scavenger Hunt will provide plenty of laughs and entertainment and fun evening out. The two-hour-long, eight-stop scavenger hunt is designed for maximum adventure, whether with a bunch of friends or groups looking for fun Pittsburgh activities with individualized roles and challenges for everyone.

The game begins when you start searching for clues as you walk to various bars on Carson Street. Discover clues found on statues, plaques, and other hidden sites as you traipse from bar to bar guided by the scavenger hunt’s interactive questions and photo challenges. Along the way, you might even learn some things about Pittsburgh you never know before!

Purchase single scavenger hunt tickets or an unlimited annual pass covering you and your entire posse for scavenger hunts at a wide variety of locations.

19. Pittsburgh Parks

Take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle and escape to the great outdoors at one of the city’s awesome parks without ever leaving the Burgh. First, get your Primanti Bros. sandwich to go (or food from one of the city’s other fantastic eateries!), spread out a blanket, and then sit back and enjoy a delicious al fresco lunch or early dinner surrounded by the sights and sounds of Mother Nature.

These are a few of our favorite parks in Pittsburgh:

• Schenley Park
• Point State Park
• Point of View Park
• West End Overlook Park
• Arsenal Park
• Highland Park
• Grandview Park

20. Local Pittsburgh Landmarks

There’s so much to see and do in Pittsburgh that we couldn’t limit the count to just 20, so below are some other of our favorite spots you might want to check out next time you’re in the Burgh!

• Water Steps and Canal Square in in the North Shore Riverfront Park
• Market Square
• Fort Pitt Block House
• The Tribute to Children, Fred Rogers Memoria l
• August Wilson Center for African American History
• Church of the Epiphany
• Inventionland
• Carnegie Museum of Art

We've highlighted some amazing things to do near Pittsburgh and in the city’s environs, but the greater Pennsylvania has so much more to offer. In-state and out-of-state travelers looking for unique overnight accommodations or day trip advice will find just what they're looking for on the VISIT PA website. From dining and wineries to events and outdoor adventures , visitpa can help you plan a Pennsylvania trip packed with excitement and help you plan the best experience in Pennsylvania.

Stay in the loop with upcoming events and the best bucket list destinations in Pennsylvania. Subscribe to our newsletter today and start planning your next trip to PA!

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Pennsylvania (PA) » 15 Best Day Trips from Pittsburgh

15 Best Day Trips from Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is an exciting and versatile city in Pennsylvania. There is a lot to explore in this city, in fact, Harper’s Bazaar named Pittsburgh on of the ‘best places to travel in 2017’ and they’re keeping up their fantastic track record.

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are surely the highlight of any visit to Pittsburgh.

Art lovers will fall head over heels for the Andy Warhol Museum and the Carnegie Museum of Art.

With so much to see and do in Pittsburgh you’ll be hard pressed to find time to venture out of the city limits. You really should though.

Lying within easy reach of Pittsburgh are dozens of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Pittsburgh :

1. Cleveland

Crossing over the state lines into Ohio, Cleveland is a wonderful city in which to spend a day.

There is plenty to see, do and explore.

Cleveland lies on the shores of Lake Erie and is one of the most historical cities in the state.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a massive attraction in Cleveland and is home to exhibits on the world’s biggest and best music superstars.

The Cleveland Museum of Art holds an impressive selection of artistic works from the last 6,000 years.

If you’re travelling with children the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a great place to spend an afternoon.

2. Penn’s Cave

Penn’s Cave is America’s only wave cave and wildlife park.

This fun and family friendly day out is one of the most easily accessible and affordable day trips from Pittsburgh.

You can opt for a steady day walking around the wildlife park and observing the animals go about their business or you can tick of everything Penn’s Cave has to offer.

You can tear around the Miner’s Maze in search of the treasure, you can take a tour of the cave complex themselves or even pan for gemstones.

Engaging and educational, Penn’s Cave is a great day out for all; no need to pack a picnic, grab lunch at Cave Cafe.

3. Fallingwater

Fallingwater is one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic homes.

Designed and constructed by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of America’s greatest ever architects, Fallingwater has been preserved as a National Historic Landmark.

Since 1964 over five million people have come from far and wide to tour this impressive architectural gem.

The team at Western Pennsylvania Conservancy run tours of Fallingwater daily from 10 am – 4 pm, except on Wednesdays.

During your tour you will learn about the quirky and innovative design features of the house and its interesting history too.

Over the weekends it is possible to team a house tour with a landscape hike for a more rounded day trip.

4. Hartwood Acres

Hartwood Acres Mansion is one of Pittsburgh’s best kept secrets, lying just outside the city limits the mansion and grounds are a joy to explore.

The mansion itself is built in 16th-Century style Tudor design and is simply majestic in its stature.

The heritage preservation teams run tours of the property and grounds on a daily basis.

The Allegheny County Park in which Hartwood Acres Mansion spans an impressive 629-acres, although you cannot cover all that ground in one day taking a stroll through the gardens and taking in the scenic vistas is a refreshing change from the traffic and city smoke in Pittsburgh.

5. Columbus

Leave Pennsylvania behind and head to Ohio and its state capital, Columbus.

Rich in history and with a wonderful selection of sights to explore Columbus is an interesting and insightful day trip from Pittsburgh.

Columbus was home to German settlers in the early 1800s and their restored village homes can still be visited today.

The Franklin Park Conservatory is a peaceful and relaxing spot to spend an afternoon.

The gardens have both plant and art exhibitions and there is something truly photogenic to snap everywhere you turn.

The COSI Columbus is a great place to head if you’re interested in science and stars.

They have a planetarium and plenty of hands on exhibits to experience.

6. Gravity Hill

A visit to Gravity Hill is a bit of a novelty nonetheless is really rather cool.

Also known as magnetic hill, gravity road and mystery hill, Gravity Hill can be found in sleepy Bedford County.

This magical spot appears to make cars roll freely uphill and soccer balls struggle to roll downhill.

You’ll know you’ve reached the spot when you see ‘GH START’ spray painted on the road before you.

Knock the car into neutral, gingerly take your foot of the brake and let the phenomenon begin.

The landscape surrounding the road only serves to intensify the optical illusion and make the feeling of movement even more bizarre.

7. Washington DC

It’s always a pleasure to visit the capital city of a nation and none so true of the United States of America.

Washington DC is a full day trip from Pittsburgh but well worth every mile.

The first port of call should, naturally, be the White House closely followed but the United States Capitol building.

It is possible to book on to guided tours of both buildings should that be of interest.

You could easily spend a day, or more, touring through the Smithsonian Institution.

Their vast collection of museums, zoo and research facilities are simply incredible.

8. Chautauqua

Should you be seeking an action packed, fun filled day out then head to Chautauqua, you will not be disappointed.

Chautauqua is home to the self proclaimed ‘World’s Vacation Learning Centre’, the Chautauqua Institution.

Hosting daily talks and seminars on every last topic you can think of; arts, sciences, sociology and more you’ll leave a more enlightened individual for sure.

Then there is Chautauqua and the aerial adventure playground at Peek ’n’ Peak Resort.

Get rushing through the forest canopy on zip lines or perhaps grace the lake on a kayak and explore the beaches and coves that are lying in wait.

9. Baltimore

Time to tick off another state on your American adventure and stray into Maryland, to visit Baltimore for the day.

A vast city home to 200 very different neighbourhoods Baltimore has a diverse culture and a welcoming array of communities.

Sitting on one of the most important and lucrative mid-Atlantic trading routes Baltimore is still a thriving port and dock today.

Great spots to visit in Baltimore include the National Aquarium, Fort McHenry and Port Discovery.

The American Visionary Art Museum is inspiring even for those who generally remain unmoved by fine art.

There are some unsual and truly unique artistic exhibits to explore.

10. Seven Springs

For all you adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers out there you will be thrilled with a visit to Seven Spring Mountain Resort.

There is a whole mile of zip line courses to explore that see you whip from treetop to treetop with the valley sprawling away beneath you.

Mountain bikers will feel like they’ve landed in paradise.

Offering a great selection of trails from beginner level all the way through to near-pro Seven Springs is adventure central.

In the winter months, once the snow has settled you can don the skis or even the snow board and hit the downhill trails in a whole other way.

11. Monongahela National Forest

Monongahela National Forest is one of West Virginia’s best kept secrets and lovers of the great outdoors will be stoked to explore this vast wilderness.

Spruce Knob is the highest peak of the Allegheny Mountains and can be accessed from Monongahela National Forest.

The Dolly Sods Wilderness is a breathtaking landscape featuring fiery red spruce trees, smooth, weathered boulders and vast expanses of forest.

There are hiking trails crisscrossing through the park and you can find route maps and information at the Visitor’s Centre.

On your way back to Pittsburgh take a pit stop at the Mountain State Brewing Co, you won’t be disappointed.

12. Lake Erie

This is a popular spot for weekend getaways and has dozens of camping spots and picnic parks.

With Lake Erie being so incredibly large you can easily forget that you’re in the heart of the USA as the gentle waves lap against the pebbledash shoreline.

If you’re travelling with children who like a little more structured fun be sure to take a trip to Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort.

It’s also a great place to keep in mind if the rain clouds appear.

13. Laurel Highlands

Lying just south of Pittsburgh is the magnificent mountainous landscapes of the Laurel Highlands.

Looked over by Mount Davis this area of Pennsylvania is the gateway to the Great Allegheny Passage.

The Laurel Highlands encompasses eight individual state parks that all offer free entry to visitors.

The route to the Mount Davis’ peak is completely paved, all the way to its 3,213 ft pinnacle, its possible to drive most of the way and hike the final ascent.

There is so much to see and do in the Laurel Highlands, from canoeing in the rapids, to pottery making sessions, there’s a number of high-end hotels with luxury spa complexes open to non-residents too.

14. Meadville

Budding brewers and self proclaimed foodies will be chuffed to discover Meadville PA. Home to an ever expanding community of craft brewing companies, it is advisable to book a driver for a day trip to Meadville.

Popular breweries include TimberCreek Tap & Table and Voodoo Brewery.

The Sprague Farm & Brew Works produces 100% keg conditioned, unfiltered lagers and ales all on their humble, family run farm.

You can get tours of their operation on Thursdays, Fridays from 4-9 pm and Saturday from 12 – 9 pm.

You can soak up your beer with a visit to Hoss’s Steak and Sea House for a phenomenal surf ’n’ turf dinner.

15. Niagara Falls

A trip to Niagara Falls is an incredible day trip from Pittsburgh and is one of the great wonders of North America.

Straddling the international border of Canada and the United States of America the Niagara Falls must be visited once in every lifetime.

This iconic collection of waterfalls can be experienced from one of the many viewing platforms or by jumping aboard the Maid of the Mist.

This boat tour takes you as close as possible to the roaring falls and you’ll feel the formidable force of the 600,000 gallons of water gushing into the river below.

15 Best Day Trips from Pittsburgh:

• Penn’s Cave
• Fallingwater
• Hartwood Acres
• Gravity Hill
• Washington DC
• Seven Springs
• Monongahela National Forest
• Laurel Highlands
• Niagara Falls

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 4, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

It turns out Philadelphia isn’t the only “P” city in Pennsylvania that’s worth visiting.

Pittsburgh is an industrious city with lots of character.

As the next-biggest city after Philly, Pittsburgh appeals to different demographics and interests.

These are 30 of the best things to do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Table of Contents

1. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

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One of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh is to go to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History .

This is among the top museums in Pennsylvania.

It provides lots of fascinating insight into humans and one’s understanding of the world.

There are many unique things to see at this museum.

The exhibitions are amazing if you’re interested in humans and/or animals.

Some of the sights at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History are “Dinosaurs in Their Time” and “Alcoa Foundation Hall of American Indians.”

When you’re looking for what to do in Pittsburgh that’s related to science and natural history, a trip to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History should definitely be on your radar.

This museum is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

2. Pittsburgh Zoo and PGG Aquarium

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If you’re hoping to come to the city this weekend, one of the top things to do in Pittsburgh is to go to the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium .

You can see lots of great animals, on land and in the water.

Attractions like this make Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania one of the best places to go on vacation with your family.

The curators of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium care about conservation and giving visitors the most pleasurable experience possible.

At the zoo, you must see the elephants, tigers, rhinos, and giraffes.

At the aquarium, there are piranhas, stingrays, and penguins.

The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium is where to go if you adore animals.

Consider making a visit with your friends or family tomorrow, especially if there any special events happening.

Hours and admission costs depend on what time of year it is.

Address:  7370 Baker St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, United States

3. Trundle Manor: House of Oddities

Trundle Manor

Anyone in Pittsburgh that’s into unique experiences has to go to Trundle Manor .

It definitely earns its name as a “House of Oddities.”

However, that title could also be “House of Fun” and it would be just as fitting.

Although it appears to be quite innocuous to passersby, Trundle Manor is a whole new world on the inside.

It’s for people who find haunted houses to be too hoo-hum.

Inside, you’ll find lots of amazing taxidermied animals.

Things kept here are like what you’d see in the spookiest horror movie imaginable.

Trundle Manor is one of the best places to go to Pittsburgh for creepy delights.

It’s a lot of fun being near all of these weird objects.

Visiting Trundle Manor requires scheduling an appointment.

Address:  7724 Juniata St, Pittsburgh, PA 15218, United States

4. Carnegie Museum of Art

HoboJones [ CC BY-SA 3.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

Going to this museum should solidify your opinion of Pittsburgh as a true arts city, even if you already leaned that way.

It’s got everything an art museum should have.

In the permanent collection at this museum are tens of thousands of beautiful pieces.

There are also stupendous temporary exhibitions, such as one focused on Los Angeles artist Margaret Honda.

More than 7,000 pages of works are available for online viewing.

If you’re looking for things to do in Pittsburgh this weekend, going to the Carnegie Museum of Art should be a priority.

This museum is open from Friday to Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Admission is $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for seniors, $11.95 for students and children age three to 18.

Planning to visit other parts of Pennsylvania? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Erie, PA and things to do in Lancaster, PA !

5. The National Aviary

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Any bird lovers looking for what to do while in Pittsburgh need to come to the National Aviary .

This is one of the best bird refuges in the country.

Should you believe birds to be our feathered friends, you’re bound to love the National Aviary.

You might have grown accustomed to seeing sparrows or pigeons, but the National Aviary offers so much more.

There are more than 150 different birds to see.

You can even enjoy encounters with ones like owls and flamingos.

Non-bird species are also here and available for encounters, including armadillos and sloths.

A trip to the National Aviary is one of the most powerful activities you can enjoy in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It opens every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission costs $17 for adults and $16 for children, age two to 12, and seniors.

Address:  700 Arch St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

6. Mount Washington

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For a Pittsburgh photo opportunity that’s worth more than a thousand words, you should come to Mount Washington .

This neighborhood on a hill has become a beloved spot in the city.

Arguably the biggest draw is how great downtown looks from here.

However, this isn’t just a place where you come up, take a photo, and then dip out.

Mount Washington has lots of awesome attractions.

You can appreciate the view even more when you’re eating at a great restaurant like Monterey Bay Fish Grotto.

Downtown Pittsburgh is a sight to behold, and sightseeing from Mount Washington is an amazing experience.

It’s truly fun to gaze upon the city like this.

The only warning is that there are so many things to see from Mount Washington that you’ll have to do your best to take your time to properly enjoy the moment.

7. Randyland

Jeremy Thompson / flickr

With a name that sounds like a beloved childhood board game, Randyland is one of the top attractions in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It’s an artistic wonderland that offers invigorating siteseeing.

Founded by Randy Gilson, a local artist who also lives there Randyland gives you everything you’d want from a colorful neighborhood.

The focus of Randyland is renewal.

There are bricks that came from houses that were being demolished.

Attractions like the Randyland Mirror Wall really help to heighten how playful and special this environment is.

Randy himself is also quite the character, a free spirit who clearly loves to give without expecting anything in return.

Going to Randyland is one of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh.

It’s what to see if you want to see just how resourceful the people of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania are.

Being near this sort of innovation might rub off on you and get your creative energy relly going.

It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to dusk.

Admission is free.

Address:  1501 Arch St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

8. Carnegie Science Center

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The Carnegie contributions to Pittsburgh continue with the fantastic Carnegie Science Center , one of the top 10 science institutions in the country.

When you’re at this Pittsburgh attraction, you can rediscover the fun of science as well as the educational aspect.

Coming here is also one of the most enjoyable activities for families.

Some of the exhibits at the Carnegie Science Center include “H2Oh!,” which is focused on water and rivers, “BodyWorks,” which is focused on the human body, and “SpacePlace,” which is focused on galactic exploration.

This is also the top place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to learn about robots thanks to the amazing “Roboworld.”

If you’re a science geek looking for places to visit in Pittsburgh, you should come to the Carnegie Science Center.

It’s open Monday and Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

General admission is $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for seniors, and $11.95 for children.

Address:  1 Allegheny Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

9. Phipps Conservatory

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For plant fanatics, going to Phipps Conservatory is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

It’s a lot of fun for anyone who enjoys a more tranquil experience.

Founded in 1893, Phipps Conservatory continues to bring people in today.

Plants that you can see at this Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania attraction include orchids, ferns, trees, and palms.

There are also many great events, such as “Fall Flower Shows.” Phipps Conservatory does a great job of getting in the holiday spirit with the inclusion of the “Holiday Magic! Winter Flower Show and Light Garden.”

Phipps Conservatory is definitely among the top points of interest in Pittsburgh for its beautiful plants and great design.

It’s open from Saturday to Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Admission costs $17.95 for adults, $16.95 for seniors, age 62 and up, and students, and $11 for children, age two to 18.

Address:  1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

10. 4121 Main

Before you “stop and smell the roses” at Phipps Conservatory, you can “wake up and smell the coffee” at 4121 Main .

This is one of the best places to get a hot brew in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Whatever drink you get here, it’s one that you’ll really want to savor.

If you’re visiting from Oregon , the coffee at 4121 Main might taste somewhat familiar.

That’s because it comes from Portland ‘s Heart Coffee Roasters.

There’s also lots of stunning artwork to give this cozy shop even more charm.

4121 Main is the perfect place to stop in between siteseeing expeditions through Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It’s also lots of fun to look around the space and admire how well-put-together it is.

4121 Main is open from Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  4121 Main St, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States

Going on a road trip around Pennsylvania? Check out our lists of things to do in Philadelphia  & things to do in Scranton, PA !

11. Frick Art & Historical Center

Leepaxton at en.wikipedia [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

Coming here is one of the most fun activities in Pittsburgh.

There are multiple buildings that make up the Frick Art & Historical Center, all of which are worth visiting.

You can spend a great day at Frick Art & Historical Center by seeing things like “The Historic Clayton Mansion,” home of Henry Clay Frick and his family.

Plus, check out vintage vehicles at the “Car and Carriage Museum” and thought-provoking pieces at “The Frick Art Museum.”

To cap off your day in a peaceful fashion by exploring the Scenic Gardens & Greenhouse.

When you care about culture, going to the Frick Art & Historical Center is a top example of what to do while in Pittsburgh.

It’s open Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Some exhibitions cost money, but many attractions are free.

Address:  7227 Reynolds St, Pittsburgh, PA 15208, United States

12. Wigle Whiskey Distillery

Wigle Whiskey

If you’re looking for things to do in Pittsburgh at night, you’ll definitely catch wind of the Strip District.

In this vibrant section is Wigle Whiskey Distillery, one of the best distilleries in the United States.

A great way to start your night in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is visiting the Wigle Whiskey Distillery.

Going to the Wigle Whiskey Distillery is one of the top activities in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for people who are really serious about their love for this liquor.

Tours take place on Saturdays.

Otherwise, Wigle Whiskey Distillery is open Monday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday to Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  2401 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, United States

13. Canton Avenue

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Visiting Canton Avenue is one of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh.

However, you need to make sure you’ve got your balance, as there’s no street steeper in the country.

Trying to conquer Canton Avenue is perfect if you love exciting activities.

One of the coolest things about this Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania street is how people will try to conquer it on bike in the yearly “Dirty Dozen” race.

This is one of 13 steep hills to mount.

Anyone who tries this needs to make sure they have a stable bike and that they’re willing to accept the risks.

Making your way up a dangerously steep hill might not seem like one of the most obvious Pittsburgh activities, but the adventure can seriously add to the fun.

As long as you’re responsible and know your limits, Canton Avenue will be good to you.

If you come back to Pittsburgh, it might be to ride in the “Dirty Dozen” race.

Address: 1601 Canton Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15216, USA

14. Three Rivers Heritage Trail

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A fun way to get exercise and enjoy the beauty of Pittsburgh is by going on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail .

You’ll see why Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is considered one of the most beautiful places in the United States after trekking down this trail.

This is also one of the best ways to experience the community character of Pittsburgh.

Walking on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail lets you see how breathtaking the Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela rivers each are.

You can also use your walk as a chance to see some really amazing areas of the city.

If you want to get on the water in a motor-less boat, take the Three Rivers Water Trail.

Should you be coming to Pittsburgh this weekend and want to do right by your body and soul, you better come to Three Rivers Heritage Trail.

It’s a key part of the undeniable loveliness that makes up Pennsylvania.

Your heart will be flowing with love just as these rivers flow with water.

15. Heinz History Center

Alex Liivet / flickr

The biggest museum in Pennsylvania, the Heinz History Center is about more than just ketchup, although that beloved condiment certainly gets some attention.

This one of the most educational Pittsburgh attractions.

At the Heinz History Center, you can get an understanding of the past that might’ve never previously occurred.

One of the best exhibits at this Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania museum is “Pittsburgh: A Tradition of Innovation,” which shows how crucial this city has been when it comes to developing great ideas that still stick with us.

The eponymous famed ketchup brand also has an exhibit.

A more serious but absolutely necessary exhibit to see is “From Slavery to Freedom.”

Visiting the Heinz History Center is what to do if you want to grow your knowledge of Pittsburgh in fun and insightful ways.

This museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission costs $18 for adults, $15 for seniors, age 62 and up, and $9 for students and children, ages six to 17.

People who serve or have served in the military receive a $2 discount.

Address:  1212 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, United States

Exploring other areas of Pennsylvania? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Hershey, PA & some of the things to see in Gettysburg ?

16. Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour

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Some of the best Pittsburgh attractions are restaurants, and the “ Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour ” helps you to find the top ones.

No matter which tour you choose to go on, you can look forward to seeing some very cool restaurants and enjoying some scrumptious meals.

As you go around Pittsburgh, you can further increase your appreciation for the city.

Tours bring you around different areas of Pittsburgh.

Ones you can choose from include Strip District Market, Allentown, and Lawrenceville.

You can also schedule a private tour with a group of 12 or more people.

Eating shouldn’t just be done out of necessity. It should also be a lot of fun.

If you’re in or near Pittsburgh and want to enjoy dining at its most smile-inducing, you need to go on a Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour.

Make sure that you purchase your tickets in advance.

17. Andy Warhol Museum

jpellgen (@1179_jp) / flickr

The art world and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania were both shaken up by the influence of Andy Warhol, who was native to the city.

Today, one of the best places to visit in Pittsburgh for understanding a complex mind is the Andy Warhol Museum .

You might consider coming to Pittsburgh this weekend and browsing the exhibitions dedicated to this amazingly creative individual.

There are five floors of exhibitions featuring Warhol’s art at this Pennsylvania museum.

These include “Campbell’s Soup Box” and “The Chelsea Girls.”

Anyone who comes here should be able to leave with a better understanding of what drove Warhol and why he’s such an influential figure in the art world.

The Andy Warhol Museum is one of the most important places to visit in Pennsylvania if you care about pop art.

It’s open from Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for students, seniors, and children.

Address:  117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

18. Center for PostNatural History

Center for PostNatural History

The Center for PostNatural History is one of the most unusual Pittsburgh attractions but also one of the best.

It stands in sharp contrast to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, as it focuses on natural-occurring species that have since been altered by humans.

This isn’t just scientists playing God for no reason, as the Center for PostNatural History illustrates how much can be gained from delving into science this way.

At the Center for PostNatural History, you can see genetically-modified specimens like BioSteel™ Goats and Triploid Atlantic Salmon.

There are also highly intriguing exhibits like “Domestication of the Dinosaur” and “Making Nature: How We See Animals.”

If you have a child who is interested in biology, this would be a great place to take them.

If you desire places to see in Pittsburgh that show how much scientific curiosity matters, you should go to the Center for PostNatural History.

It’s open on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Address:  4913 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, United States

19. Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts

Popscreenshot [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

When making plans for what to do at night in Pittsburgh, Heinz Hall immediately stands out as one of your best choices.

Heinz Hall has hosted many incredible artists since it was first dedicated in 1971.

In the last few years, Steely Dan, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, Lauryn Hill, and Ringo Starr have performed here.

There could even be something amazing happening tonight.

Should you be wondering what to do in downtown Pittsburgh that will scratch an itch for culture, you should come to Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts.

Night activities like this help you to see how special of a city Pittsburgh is.

There could even be a great show with tickets still available this week.

Address:  600 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, United States

20. Penn Brewery

Brook Ward / flickr

Enjoying a cool glass of beer can be one of the best aspects of your trip to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Penn Brewery has become known as one of the best microbreweries around thanks to its fine roster of German beer.

It’s also got quite an inspiring story to go along with the beers.

Even if beer isn’t always your drink of choice, Penn Brewery has such a varied selection, it’s hard to imagine that you won’t find at least one that works for you.

Among the brews on tap include the Nut Roll Ale, the Chocolate Meltdown, and the Tangerine Swirl.

There’s also delectable food to go with your beer, including lots of hearty sandwiches.

Coming down to Penn Brewery this weekend for a delicious pint is one of the smartest decisions you can make in Pittsburgh.

The fun of sipping on these quality beers is furthered by getting it right at its point of origin.

Penn Brewery is open from Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tours are at 1 p.m. on certain Saturdays.

Address:  800 Vinial St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

21. Monongahela Incline

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If steep heights give you a serious thrill, you’re going to love Pittsburgh.

Monongahela Incline is among the best Pittsburgh attractions for vertical adrenaline junkies.

It’s a wonderfully unique experience that only gets better the further up you go.

There’s so much stuff to do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that gets you out of your shell and shows you what fun is really all about.

The Monogahela Incline runs from Monday to Saturday from 5:30 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. and on Sunday and during holidays from 8:45 to 12 a.m.

It’s $2.50 for a one-way trip and $5 for a roundtrip experience.

Children age 11 and younger ride for half the cost, and children five and younger and seniors ride for free.

Address: 8 Grandview Ave, Port Authority of Allegheny County, Pittsburgh, PA 15211, USA

22. Pittsburgh Tours & More

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Rather than worrying about which Pittsburgh sites to see, Pittsburgh Tours & More provides lots of help with figuring out the ideal points of interest.

Through this service, you can get maximum fun from seeing the sites of the Steel City.

These tours are especially great if you’re traveling with your family or another group.

The guide gives you lots of interesting details about the city and its story.

You might be delighted to learn about all of the great movies that were filmed in this city.

The stops selected for Pittsburgh Tours & More are very cool and show how excellent this Pennsylvania city is.

Pittsburgh Tours & More provides you with an easy solution to sightseeing quandaries.

After you return home, you’ll have lots of great Pittsburgh information to share thanks to these tours.

23. Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery

Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery

The name Jean-Marc Chatellier might ring a bell if you follow the culinary industry, as he’s one of the most famed pastry chefs in the world.

His French bakery, located near Pittsburgh in Millvale, Pennsylvania, shows just how good Chatellier at his craft.

Anyone with a sweet tooth will recognize as one of the greatest tourist attractions in the area.

Some of the things you can get at this bakery include marvelous macaroons, cherishable cakes, and pristine pies.

If you’ve never had a Hungarian nut roll before, this bakery is the place to be.

Additionally, if you want something light but still filling, Jean-Marc Chatellier makes wonderful croissants.

You could come to Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery tomorrow and have your view of pastries fundamentally altered.

Anyone wanting to start their own bakery today needes to come to Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery for some inspiration.

It’s open from Tuesday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Address:  213 North Ave, Millvale, PA 15209, United States

24. The Weeping Glass

The Weeping Glass

Allentown, Pennsylvania is full of eccentric and fun tourist attractions.

The Weeping Glass , located there, is a store the likes of which you’ve never seen.

There are plenty of delightfully unsettling things to see at The Weeping Glass.

While it might seem like a place that’s been around for a very long time, The Weeping Glass actually opened in the second half of 2017.

You can buy some beautifully weird art and knick-knacks that you might not want to send to your mother.

However, that could change if you think your mother would love animal bones for a Christmas gift.

When you want to find places to visit that don’t just give you the same old thing, The Weeping Glass is the most excellent option.

You may come across things that repel and draw you in equal measures.

The Weeping Glass is open from Wednesday to Friday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Address:  817 E Warrington Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15210, United States

25. Historic Market Square

Downtown Pittsburgh feels as vivacious as it does thanks in part to Historic Market Square .

One of the most spirited points of interest in Pennsylvania, Historic Market Square comes across as absolutely timeless.

It fuses together the most awesome aspects of Pittsburgh into a terrific and diverse area.

The Historic Market Square is the home of the fabulous downtown farmers market, which operates seasonally and on Thursdays.

It’s also got the legendary Oyster House.

During the winter, a skating rink is introduced.

If you’re looking into how to plan a trip to Pittsburgh, you need to include going to Historic Market Square.

It’s great to come for specific events or just to see what’s happening during your trip.

Historic Market Square deserves to have its legacy as an essential part of Philadelphia cemented.

Address: 23 Market Place, Intersection of Forbes Avenue and Market Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

26. PNC Park

Frank Romeo / Shutterstock

Pittsburgh residents love their sports and their teams.

Anyone who loves baseball should try to see a Pittsburgh Pirates game at PNC Park .

Situated by the Allegheny River, PNC Park lets you see Downtown Pittsburgh is one of the most extraordinary ways as well as enjoy lots of great athletics and engaged fans.

On a nice day, there’s nothing better than being at a baseball game, and you must see what it’s like at PNC Park.

Tickets to see the Pirates in action are quite affordable.

Even if they’re not your home team, you can tap into the excitement of rooting alongside the diehard fans.

Address:  115 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

27. Sienna on the Square

Sienna On The Square

If you don’t want to feel like you’re stumbling around trying to find the finest places to eat in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, you should look into booking a table at Sienna on the Square .

A fantastic night on the town in Pittsburgh can definitely be going to this wonderful downtown Italian restaurant.

Sienna on the Square has a menu that takes the comfort of Italian cuisine and focuses on building great flavors, which helps you to remember your meal even months later.

Some of the things you can order include Mafalde Bolognese, Rock Shrimp & Crab Risotto, and Beef Braciole.

To help make your dining experience even better, ask your server about what wine would go best with your chosen dish.

Going to Sienna on the Square is something you must do if you love Italian food.

However, it’s not the same old dishes you could get at any Italian eatery.

Sienna on the Square is open from Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Address:  22 Market Square, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, United States

28. The Church Brew Works

Mike (Theaterwiz) Criswell / flickr

Everyone’s heard the biblical story of water being changed into wine, but how about a church being changed into a brewery?

To be fair, the Church Brew Works turned into a church out of nowhere.

Instead, this house of suds came about from people realizing the potential for the building, following its closure as a church in 1993.

Revived as a brewery, The Church Brew Works has made excellent usage of its home.

The stained-glass windows provide the perfect atmosphere.

Plus, there are the amazing beers, including the Pious Monk Dunkel, the Pipe Organ Pale Ale, and the ThunderHop, IPA.

If you’re hungry, The Church Brew Works has menus for lunch and dinner.

One of the most impressive microbreweries in Pennsylvania, the Church Brew Works is also one of the neatest places to see in Pittsburgh.

It’s open from Monday to Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 11:15 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 a.m., Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 a.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:15 p.m.

Happy hour is Monday to Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Address:  3525 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, United States

29. Primanti Brothers

Primanti Bros.

The best sandwich you’ve ever had could be one you get at Primanti Brothers .

This establishment has become the stuff of legend in Pennsylvania and beyond.

When you’re tired from site seeing and need to refuel, Primanti Brothers has some of the most delightful sandwich combinations around.

The first Primanti Brothers opened in the city’s Strip District.

Since then, it has grown throughout the area and in nearby states, including Maryland and Indiana .

Excellent sandwiches you can get here include the famous “Pitts-burger” and the “Angus Sirloin Steak and Cheese.”

There are also many great non-sandwich options, including salads and wings.

Just being near the menu at Primanti Brothers can have your stomach rumbling.

Take a look at the menu tonight and have fun deciding what you most want to order.

Primanti Brothers has six locations in Pittsburgh, including one at the Pittsburgh International Airport.

30. Schenley Park

Christian Hinkle / Shutterstock

Schenley Park is a marvelous place for fun in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It’s been a part of the city for more than a century.

Spending some time at Schenley Park is what you must do if you love the peace that nature brings.

A fine day at Schenley Park can be spent doing things like going for a hike, riding a bike, going on a picnic, or just sitting in the shade with a novel.

The world can feel like a kinder and gentler place when you’re here.

The origins of Schenley Park are also quite kind, as it was made possible by a donation of land from the wealthy Mary Schenley in 1889.

Some of your best times in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania can be had at Schenley Park.

You can make the most of both the warmer and the cooler months when you’re here.

Schenley Park is open every day from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Address:  Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Pittsburgh

A trip to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is a great way to show appreciation towards yourself and any loved ones.

You can find attractions that are moving, weird, and everything in between.

When you want to visit a city that residents have a ton of rightful pride in, Pittsburgh is one of the best places to be.

You’d have to have a heart made of literal steel to not be able to enjoy a trip to this amazing city.

40+ Best Things To Do And See In Pittsburgh, From a Local

Heading to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania for a visit or weekend getaway? Here’s my local’s guide to visiting the Steel City, with the 40+ top attractions and best things to do and see.

Rachel Carson Bridge with the Pittsburgh skyline

I also give you a rundown of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh and tips for visiting.

Pittsburgh is a town that was built on steel and the Steelers. But Pittsburgh’s reputation as a gritty city is as old as petticoats.

These days, the city thrives on culture as well. Formerly a Rust Belt baby, Pittsburgh is now a cultural and artistic hub. It’s also a foodie town.

Formerly, the go to meal in Pittsburgh was a French fry stuffed sandwich. Now, there are gourmet and international restaurants, from budget to expensive.

Pittsburgh is sometimes overshadowed by the much larger city of Philadelphia in the east. But Pittsburgh also has a wealth of fine art and architecture. Some of Pittsburgh’s top attractions are its world class museums and cultural centers.

To top that off, Pittsburgh is beautiful situated. This hilly city sits at the crux of three rivers — the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio. The city is a visual feast, with a rugged topography and an enviable skyline.

Pittsburgh’s not as ancient as places like Lisbon . But its natural setting –with rivers, viewpoints, and vistas — bear a resemblance. If Pittsburgh were in Europe, the city would be wildly popular.

Pittsburgh is also a city of many neighborhoods. There’s pockets of cuteness sprinkled all over the city. You need a car or Uber to explore them properly.

Hall of Sculptures in the Carnegie Museum of Art

Best Things To Do In Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Here are my picks for the 40+ best things to do and see in Pittsburgh. I take you on a tour of all the top must visit sites, attractions, museums, and landmarks in Pittsburgh.

You’ll discover all the best destinations in Pittsburgh — where to eat, stay, and play on your Pittsburgh getaway. I also give you a long list of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh by neighborhood.

It’s possible to hit the highlights of Pittsburgh in 2-3 days. A really thorough exploration could take a week.

1. Carnegie Museum of Art

You may not think the “Steel City” of Pittsburgh is an art mecca. But for a small city, the beloved Carnegie Museum of Art (“CMOA”) packs a surprisingly art punch, with international flair.

For art lovers, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

The Carnegie was founded by industrialist and philanthropist  Andrew Carnegie in 1895. This gorgeous museum is in Pittsburgh’s lively Oakland neighborhood near the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University.

There are many wings and dozens of galleries. The wide ranging collection is devoted to art from ancient times to cutting edge contemporary works.

Launched in 1974, the Scaife Galleries are CMOA’s crown jewel. Sarah Mellon Scaife was a sister of Pittsburgh tycoon Richard Mellon.

She gifted the massive Beaux Art galleries and a slew of important works to CMOA, nearly doubling its space.

The Impressionist works on display include pieces by top shelf names like Monet , Manet, Pissarro, Renoir, Degas, and Matisse.

A unique part of the Carnegie is the Hall of Architecture. As part of his effort to “bring the world to Pittsburgh,” Carnegie commissioned plaster copies of some of the world’s most iconic buildings and sculptures. 

They were created by master craftsmen. If the citizens of Pittsburgh couldn’t get to Europe, they could at least see what they were missing.

Architectural cast collections were incredibly popular in the late Victorian era. Their popularity subsequent waned. 

Now, the Carnegie has one of the world’s best collections, rivaling the Victorian & Albert Museum in London.

Here’s my complete guide to the Carnegie Museum of Art .

2. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is a top attraction in Pittsburgh for kids. The museum has an extraordinary collection of dinosaur fossils. It’s one of the best collections in the United States.

The permanent collection explores every facet of the natural world. You’ll see dinosaur skeletons, minerals, Egyptian artifacts, and sea creatures.

The premiere exhibit is the Diplodocus Carnegie . A bone digging crew financed by Carnegie dug the 84 foot skeleton out of the dirt in southwestern Wyoming.

The sauropod is nicknamed “Dippy.” The life size dinosaur sculpture in front of the museum captures Dippy as he would have looked in real life.

There are also exhibits that explore the flora and fauna of Pennsylvania and the United States.

The Museum of Natural History is housed in the same building as the Carnegie Museum of Art. There are two cafes onsite. One is quite chic. You can also lounge in the museum’s lovely sculpture garden.

3. Carnegie Science Center

The Carnegie Science Center is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh for families.

Spread over four floors, the museum has hundreds of interactive exhibits. They explain everything from natural science, to artificial intelligence, to scientific principles, to human anatomy.

Aside from the displays, you can visit a submarine, the Blue Planetarium, the OmniMax Theater, and the sports center. At the later, you can zip line, rock climb, or take a virtual roller coaster ride.

One thing to keep in mind when you purchase your ticket is that there are separate charges for certain attractions. For example, a visit to the submarine is included in your ticket.

But you still have to book a time slot when you check in. Or, you’ll have to wait in line.

The planetarium and OmniMax are also separate charges. Check the schedule to see what’s playing every half hour to hour. Tailor your visit around those time slots.

4. Andy Warhol Museum

The Warhol Museum is my favorite museum in Pittsburgh. It’s a fabulous single artist museum that celebrates Pittsburgh’s hippest native son, Andy Warhol.

As the Prince of Pop, Warhol made himself a world famous artist. Warhol was a true iconoclast and performance artist. He was a hugely significant artist of the second half of the 20th century.

Warhol challenged traditional norms of what constituted art. He cannily merged superficial commerce and fine art.

Warhol was unashamedly obsessed with beauty and fame, how they were linked, and how to capture the duo in a shocking way.

Pittsburgh’s Warhol museum is the only one of its kind in the United States. It’s housed in a chic urban venue. It boasts a veritable treasure trove of Warhol art and archives.

Opened in 1994, the Warhol Museum is an immersive and well curated museum. If you’re a Warholic, you may think you’ve fallen into a fancified version of the factory.

The museum has 7 floors, with the art work displayed in chronological order. Four of them showcase a decade of Warhol art per floor. You start from the top and work your way down. You can see the entire evolution of Warhol’s oeuvre.

You’ll see seminal works from the 1940s to Warhol’s death in 1987, with explanations of Warhol’s creative process. The museum also has a permanent room on the 4th floor for viewing Warho’s films.

There’s gallery after gallery of paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings, and Warhol’s personal knickknacks.

Some of the drawings are by Warhol’s talented mother, Julia. The Warhol archives document his life with scrapbooks, newspaper articles, photographs, and Warhol’s time capsules (with 300,000 of Warhol’s possesions).

Click here for my complete guide to the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh .

For rabid Warhol fans, Warhol’s grave is also in Pittsburgh in the suburb of Bethel Park.

It’s an active shrine. People are constantly leaving soup cans, Coke bottles, and wigs. A local artist collects the notes people leave in languages from all over the world. 

5. The Mattress Factory

The Mattress Factory is a unique museum. It’s Pittsburgh’s premiere alternative art space and an unusual thing to do in Pittsburgh.

The museum is housed in a former industrial building. It’s become a mecca for wacked out installation art.

The Mattress Factory doesn’t even call itself a museum. Instead, it uses the phrase “Laboratory.”

The space provides an immersive experience, with engaging displays of modern and contemporary art. The museum aims to plunge you into “the creative vision of artists from around the world.” There are both temporary and permanent installations.

The light-bending Infinity Room (shown above) is wildly popular. To see it, you’ll need to don booties or socks because the floors need to be protected.

6. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Need some flower power? Set in beautiful Schenley Park, Phipps Conservatory is a beautiful and tranquil botanical garden. The glass, stone, and steel building is dubbed the “crystal palace.”

Phipps is definitely one of Pittsburgh’s most beautiful must visit attractions. The conservatory has staggeringly lush floral collections, glass art, and themed exhibits.

Phipps Conservatory is one of the few remaining public gardens that still produces full scale season flower shows year round.

The beautiful Outdoor Gardens are free to the public. Inside, the Victorian greenhouse has a wide ranging collection of 14 indoor gardens.

The well manicured exhibits range from rare miniature orchids to massive palm trees. There’s astonishing attention to detail in each room.

In addition to the permanent displays, Phipps has temporary exhibits celebrating each season. This makes Phipps a great place for repeat visits.

Phipps is especially twinkly and beautiful during the winter holidays when it hosts its annual Winter Flower and Garden Light Show .

Phipps also has a beautiful collection of glass art from renowned Seattle glass artist Dale Chihuly.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Phipps Conservatory .

Address : 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh PA 15213

7. First Presbyterian Church

The beautiful First Presbyterian Church is in downtown Pittsburgh. It was built in 1773. There’s still an active congregation.

The church’s claim to fame is its Tiffany stained glass windows. Tiffany Studios designed 13 of the church’s 26 foot x 7 foot stained glass windows (now insured for $2 million). The windows were hand-painted, making them unique among Tiffany windows.

The Tiffany windows, however, are just a few of the 253 stained and leaded glass windows throughout the sandstone church.

You’ll also find two 80 foot ceiling beams and a pair of 2 ton, 30 foot oak doors in the sanctuary. 

8. Cathedral of Learning

The Cathedral of Learning is one of Pittsburgh’s most iconic landmarks. It was built in a Gothic Revival style. The exterior was polished up in 2007.

The Neo-Gothic cathedral is over 42 stories high. It’s a lone skyscraper in the area that houses many of the University of Pittsburgh’s classes. And, in fact, it’s the second tallest university building in the world.

You enter into the stunning Commons Room. It’s a beautiful church-like three story foyer. The cathedral houses classrooms, administrative offices, and libraries.

The best part of the cathedral is the Nationality Rooms . They are themed class rooms from different time periods around the world. Each room is decorated to honor a specific ethnicity that contributed to Pittsburgh’s development. 

You can’t visit the classrooms when they’re in use. It’s best to visit on the weekend or during summer break. During the holidays, the rooms are dressed up in holiday finery.

9. Heinz Memorial Chapel

Heinz Memorial Chapel is right next to the Cathedral of Learning. It’s a tiny gem. But still one of the most striking churches in Pennsylvania.

The chapel was built between 1933-38. It’s an impressive ode to the Flamboyant Gothic style from the Middle Ages.

The chapel was built with funds donated by Henry John Heinz, the founder of the H.J. Heinz Company.

The chapel honors Heinz and his mother, Anna Margaretta Heinz. Today, it is used by the University of Pittsburgh for a variety of functions, both university related and religious.

The chapel was designed by the same architect responsible for the Cathedral of Learning. Inside are some of the world’s tallest stained glass windows. They’re simply breathtaking, reminiscent of Sainte-Chapelle in Paris .

Because it’s so beautiful, the chapel is a popular place for weddings.

The chapel is only open to the University of Pittsburgh community and not the general public. But you can book a small group tour by emailing the university.

Click here for a virtual tour of Heinz Chapel.

10. Frick Art & Historical Center

Another wonderful Pittsburgh attraction for art lovers is the Frick Pittsburgh . The Frick is a small free museum in the Point Breeze neighborhood.

It’s housed in a lovely Italian Renaissance style building. The museum was built by Helen Clay Frick to house her fine and decorative art collection.

The museum houses a collection of old masters. There’s a special emphasis on the early Renaissance and 18th century French painting. There are some masterpieces by luminaries such as Fragonard and Rubens.

There’s an extremely rare painting by Cimabue, a proto-Renaissance painter from Florence called The Flagellation of Christ . And a sweet nativity scene attributed to the Master of the Scrovegni Chapel Presbytery.

The Frick also hosts some great temporary exhibitions. I recently went to one on Frieda Kahlo and the Victorian Radicals.

11. Clayton Mansion

Along with his swanky NYC digs, Henry Clay Frick had a place in Pittsburgh. It’s an Italianate house called the Clayton Mansion . The house is on the corner of Penn and South Homewood avenues.

The Clayton House is not a grand Italian palazzo like you might find in Venice . But presidents have been entertained in this house-museum.

The museum consists of 23 meticulously restored rooms. There are more than 90% of the original period furnishings.

The only way to visit the museum is via a docent led tour. To take a virtual tour of the Frick, click here .

The Clayton House is undergoing restoration. At the moment, only the first floor is open to the the public.

12. Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall

Soldiers & Sailors is a museum in Oakland. Opened in 1910, it was originally conceived to honor the soldiers and sailors from Allegheny County who served in the Civil War.

The museum has since broadened its scope to include everyone who has served in the US military.

There are four exhibit-filled galleries. You’ll find a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and memorabilia that highlight the military history of the region — military uniforms, weapons, flags, medals, and photographs.

The Slave to Soldier exhibit in the Gettysburg Room is a highlight. It explores the experiences of African Americans in the military.

13. Saint Paul Cathedral

St. Paul Cathedral was established in 1834. It’s the principle Catholic church in Pittsburgh, home to over 600,000 Catholics. St. Paul is one of Pittsburgh’s architectural landmarks.

The pile of a church is located on Fifth Avenue between the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. It’s a popular wedding venue.

The limestone cathedral was built over 3 years, completed in 1906. St. Paul’s was built in a Gothic Revival style. It has a frilly triple portal like you would find in a cathedral in France .

Inside, there are 186 stained glass windows, double side aisles, and vaulted arches. The cathedral underwent an $8 million restoration in 2005.

14. Saint Anthony Chapel

Saint Anthony Chapel holds the world’s most extensive collection of publicly revered Christian relics outside the Vatican Museums .

The fantastic collection is displayed in handcrafted solid walnut reliquaries, arranged in altars and side areas.

The chapel has been designated by the Pittsburgh culture and foundation of monuments as a historic site. Except for Friday, visitors to Saint Anthony’s may take a one hour guided tour of the chapel each day.

15. PPG Place

The PPG Place Plaza is a one acre space in downtown Pittsburgh. It’s a year round attraction that’s akin to a mini Rockefeller Center.

The plaza is home to the PPG Building, the most interesting modern architecture in Pittsburgh. The beautiful Modern meets Gothic building is a veritable castle of shimmering glass.

During the winter months, there’s an ice rink during the winter months. The plaza is decked out for the holidays.

In summer, there’s a unique water fountain. Water pulses from the surface up to a height of over fifteen feet, with no barrier between the fountain and the rest of the plaza. The water disappears into the plaza surface and is recycled. 

16. Senator John Heinz History Center

The John Heinz History Center is housed in a former icehouse in the Strip District. The history museum is dedicated to telling Pittsburgh’s history from the pre-revolutionary era to the present day.

The museum is packed with kid friendly exhibits. It houses the original set from the TV show Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood .

Another permanent exhibit is dedicated to the H.J. Heinz Company. It shows the company’s evolution from a horseradish manufacturer to one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies.

17. Roberto Clemente Museum

I don’t know about my readers. But, in my life, I’ve been a rabid baseball fan. I spent years in fantasy baseball leagues.

During that time, I had a mad crush on Roberto Clemente. Roberto is Pittsburgh’s favorite baseball player.

Deservedly, Clemente has his own museum. The Roberto Clemente Museum showcases the world’s largest exhibited collection of baseball artifacts. Naturally, there’s a focus on the great right fielder.

Clemente came to the Pirates in 1954. He was a great baseball player who was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. But his story goes beyond his vaunted stats.

Clemente was a humanitarian. He lost his life en route to help earthquake victims in Nicaragua.

18. Randyland

This quirky Pittsburgh neighborhood is a psychedelic street art dream. Randyland is a recycled art kingdom. It’s a child-like world created by local artist and neighborhood renovator Randy Gilson.

It’s one of the most flamboyant — and free — spectacles in Pittsburgh. Gilson called it his “house of junk and joy.”

Essentially, every square inch of Gilson’s candy colored building is brightly painted and decorated with found objects — flamingos, mannequins, lawn furniture, banana plants, etc. The found object space functions as the home, garden, and artist space for Gilson and fellow creators.

But Randyland isn’t just confined to Gilson’s crazy house. Gilson has spread his artistic influence to all surrounding areas. Gilson’s “streetscapes” have transformed vacant lots into anti-depressant public parks and community gardens.

19. Benedum Center

The Benedum Center is your go to spot for Broadway shows or plays. It’s the centerpiece of Pittsburgh’s cultural district.

The Benedum Center was built in 1928. It was intended to be a “movie palace version of Versailles.”

The theater seats almost 3,000 people. It’s been perfectly restored.

The signature piece is the massive chandelier in the center of the theater. It’s 10 feet high and 12 feet wide.

As befitting a Versailles-wannabe, the Grand Lobby is also a pretty sparkler. There’s original marble and woodwork. The mirrors at the staircase landing are 18 feet high.

20. Heinz Hall

Heinz Hall is a stunning concert hall and showplace. The world class venue is home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

Like the Benedum Center, Heinz Hall is an architectural beauty.

Heinz Hall began life as a movie theater in 1927. Then, it was completely renovated and turned into performing arts venue in 1971.

Heinz Hall is designed and decorated in a French Court style. You’ll see marble, crystal, chandeliers, and gold leaf detailing everywhere.

21. Hike in Fall Run Park

Fall Run Park is a beautiful park north of the city. It’s an uncrowded hiking space.

The out and back trail is a mere one mile long. But the trail leads to a 25 foot drop waterfall.

The trail has been restored. Now, there are wide paths and bridges to help you along.

Not far from the park is the Aspinwall Riverfront Park. I’ve had some great food from a food truck there, Farmer X Baker .

22. Wander in the Strip District

Just shy of the city center is the Strip District. It runs from 11th to 33rd street. The Strip is a must visit attraction in Pittsburgh.

The Strip District was historically a wholesale produce district. Today, it’a a quirky and treasured market and food spot.

You’ll find meat purveyors, specialty shops, and popular bars and restaurants. You’ll also find the odd antique or crafts shop.

The Strip District has some of the same vibes you’d expect in Shoreditch in London . The shops and restaurant are a ragtag assemblage strung down Small Street and Penn Avenue.

The Strip District is a great place to go grocery shopping, especially if you like Italian or specialty ethnic ingredients.

Pennsylvania Macaroni Company is practically an institution. It’s a family run grocery with thousands of items, including a legendary selection of cheeses.

Enrico Biscotti Company is another good spot. If you have a sweet tooth, I love Peace, Love and Little Donuts .

Finally, for the best nightcaps, hop over to Bar Marco . It’s one of the best places to go in Pittsburgh for cocktails.

23. Explore Lawrenceville

Lawrence is a hipster mecca. It’s a gentrifying area of Pittsburgh.

Whenever I go, there’s something new. There’s a constant arts-driven urban revitalization. That makes the neighborhood one of the best places to visit in Pittsburgh.

Lawrenceville is an eminently walkable neighborhood. The main drag is Butler Street. You’ll find loads of vintage and one-of-a-kind shops, along with plenty of restaurants.

Lawrenceville is probably my favorite neighborhood to go for drinks and dinner, as you’ll see in my restaurant listings below.

24. Explore Shadyside

Shadyside is another must visit neighborhood in Pittsburgh. It’s a combination of restored Victorian mansions and student apartments in historic buildings. My daughter lives there right now in an apartment in a colorful Victorian complex.

Shadyside is one of the trendier neighborhoods in Pittsburgh. There are some beautiful places to stroll.

Walnut Street and Ellsworth Avenue offer up yoga studios, bookstores, boutiques, local eateries, and some galleries.

There are recognizable names like Apple, Lululemon, Banana Republic, and Athleta. But there are also independent local boutiques. Toadflax is an utterly adorable store with plants and cool gifts.

Be sure to check out Roslyn Place. It’s a short street off of Ellsworth Avenue.

Roslyn Place is one of the country’s only remaining wooden streets. The tiny cul-de-sac is “paved” using 26,000 oak blocks.

25. Explore South Side

The South Side is one of Pittsburgh’s cool neighborhoods. Not as hip as Lawrenceville, but still cool.

East Carson is the main drag and a designated historic landmark. But there are four micro-neighborhoods in this part of Pittsburgh.

The shopping options are endless. The South Side Works is a large open air complex with a move theater, the Cheesecake Factory, and the Hofbrau House.

You’ll also find class shops like Urban Outfitters, cocktail bars like Acacia , good eateries, and great music venues like The Smiling Moose .

Nine Mile Run, a stream in Frick Park

26. Hike in Frick Park

Frick Park is one of my favorite green spaces and a top attraction in Pittsburgh. It’s the perfect bucolic escape from the city. You can hike and bike to your heart’s content in this sanctuary.

The park has hundreds of acres. 644 to be exact. It stretches from the Pointe Breeze neighborhood down to the Monongahela River.

The park has miles of hiking trails, the famous “blue slide” playground, red clay tennis courts, etc. There are several entrances. There’s a parking lot by the tennis courts.

After you’ve got your nature fix, head to Pointe Brugge for a delicious brunch or lunch.

27. Duquesne Incline

Riding the Duquesne Incline is easily one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh. Especially if you want to experience a slice of the city’s long history. And enjoy one of the world’s best urban vistas.

The wooden cable cars were first used to transport workers back in the 1800s. They’ve now been renovated and are open to the public.

Once you arrive at Duquesne, there’s a small onsite museum. You can learn about the history of incline and many details about how the incline operates.

But the best part is the ride up. At the top, you’re treated to gorgeous views of the city from Grandview Overlook in the Mount Washington neighborhood.

Grandview Park probably has the best view Pittsburgh. During the summer, the park hosts movies and music festivals. But no matter what the view is worth it!

If you don’t want to take the incline, just drive up.

Directly across from the Monterey Bay restaurant is a life size bronze statue of George Washington and the Indian leader Guyasuta. The Point of View statue was unveiled in 2006.

28. Monongahela Incline

The other 19th century incline in Pittsburgh is the Monongahela Incline . It’s the oldest and steepest incline in the United States. The incline is three years older than its more famous counterparts in San Francisco.

The incline began operating in 1870. The incline creaks and groans like a wooden rollercoaster.

You hop on board at the lower station near the Smithfield Street Bridge and across the street from Station Square.

Like the Duquesne Incline, customers are deposited on Grandview Avenue.

29. Pittsburgh Bridges

One of the best things about Pittsburgh is that it’s set on three rivers. The city is known as the “City of Bridges.”

There’s over 446 bridges in Pittsburgh. That’s more than any city in the world including Venice .

The most famous golden bridges are an identical trio — the Andy Warhol Bridge, Roberto Clement Bridge, and the Rachel Carson Bridge.

Honestly, my least favorite bridge is the Fort Pitt Bridge. There’s a rapid merging of four lanes of traffic in a few hundred feet.

30. Canton Avenue

Canton Avenue is in Pittsburgh’s Beechview neighborhood. In a city full of hills, Canton is the United States’ steepest street. If a heart pumping hike is what you’re after, you can test your mettle here.

But, be forewarned, Canton Avenue takes no prisoners. This cobblestone beast has a 37 percent grade.

Bikers seem to like the challenge. At least my husband does. He says you need strong legs and a light bike.

Canton Avenue is part of the Dirty Dozen, a grueling bike race in Pittsburgh for hard core climbers.

31. Market Square

Market Square is the center of downtown Pittsburgh.

I think it’s most beautiful during the holidays. There are Christmas markets set up for shopping, just as in Paris or Vienna in the winter.

During the rest of the year, there’s plenty to do at this Pittsburgh attraction. There are art installations, pop-up events, and chairs for lounging and people-watching in the summer.

There are plenty of restaurants on Market Square too. Pizzaiolo Primo is a good Italian spot. Then, there are the classics like Morton’s Steak House and McCormick and Schmicks Seafood.

32. Brew Pubs in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh isn’t Bavaria Germany . By any stretch, having been there. But it still has quite a few craft breweries.

The top spot is the Hofbrauhaus in the South Side. It was designed to emulate the original brewhouse concept launched in Munich Germany .

You’ll be served German beer amids live entertainment from lederhosen-clad performers.

Another popular spot is the Church Brew Works . It’s a microbrewery and restaurant housed in a restored 1902 church. The setting is sublime. But it can be very noisy and crowded.

Click here for a guide to all of Pittsburgh’s craft breweries.

33. Kennywood

No Pittsburgh post would be complete without a mention of Kennywood . Kennywood is a large amusement park. It’s a favorite attraction in Pittsburgh for kids and teens.

Kennywood has been a Pittsburgh thrill for decades. Its classic rides were built in the early 20th century. A popular throwback is Thunderbolt, a wooden roller coaster. 

The other rides which you can enjoy here include the Pittsburgh plunge water, the Phantom’s Revenge roller coaster, carousels, water rides, a 3D experience, and a 4D theatre and paddle boats. 

You would need to spend at least an entire day here in order to truly enjoy this adventurous Park.

34. Point State Park

The “Point” is where the Monanghela and Allegheny rivers converge. Point State Park is known for its refreshing lush green gardens. It’s also a lovely place to watch the sunset.

The Point is also a historic site. It was a landmark during the French and Indian war of the late 18th century. 

The park contains beautiful riverfront promenades and a 150 tall fountain, which is a great photo opportunity. The park is home to festivals, picnics, and concerts.

The Fort Pitt Museum is situated within the vicinity. Its exhibits tell the story of the early history of Pittsburgh.

35. Schenly Park

Schenley Park is a pretty municipal park in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood. In 2011, the park was named as one of the “America’s Coolest City Parks” by the popular travel magazine, Travel + Leisure. 

Schenley was created in 1889 with land donated by heiress Mary Schenley. She was a Pittsburgh-based heiress and philanthropist. 

The park has 456 acres of trails, woods, a lake, and a golf course. It’s surrounded by University of Pittsburgh campus and Carnegie Mellon University campuses. But it’s an oasis of quietude.

The park has many attractions. Those include a plaza, a large pond, a conservatory, tennis courts, soccer field, playgrounds, a public swimming pool, and a golf course.

In the winter, the action shifts to the Schenley Park Skating Rink . The rink is generally open from early November to late March.

36. Sports Venues

Are you a sport fan? Pittsburgh wears its sporting pride proudly with three centrally located arenas. On game days, the populace is clad in the trademark black and gold color scheme used by the Pittsburgh sporting teams.

Heinz Field stadium is the home of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team. Founded in 1933 by Art Rooney, the Steelers are the fifth oldest team in the NFL.

PNC Park is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates, a team which dates to the late 1800s. The arena also hosts a variety of concerts and events.

Art Rooney had a lot of clout in the sports word. In the mid 1960s, he successfully made a bid for a National Hockey League franchise. The team was named the “Penguins” to match its PPG Paints Arena called the “Igloo.”

37. Mexican War District

The Mexican War Str e et s  is a beautiful and historic neighborhood with plenty to offer. It’s kind of a gentrified bohemian row house neighborhood with many writers, artists, eclectic personalities and interesting people.

The surrounding streets were named from people and places of the  Mexican-American War , hence the current name, the Mexican War Streets.

From the architecture to the artistic attractions, a whole day can be spent exploring this North Side neighborhood.

Attractions in this district include the Mattress Factory, Randyland, the beautiful architecture, and the popular Commonplace Coffee .

38. City of Asylum

City of Asylum is an organization that gives sanctuary to writers persecuted in their home countries.

A dissident poet from China, Huang Xiang, lived in one of the organization’s houses on Sampsonia Way. Now it’s called “House Poem,” because he painted his anthology on it in Chinese characters.

But the City of Asylum is more than just a writer’s sanctuary. It’s a thriving community that participates with the poetry, art, or music that’s being created in its living spaces.

The organization now has a neighborhood literary center. There, you can enjoy free performances, a cafe, a book store.

39. Canonsburg

Just southwest of the city lies the suburb of Canonsburg. The town is a small quaint borough with plenty to do.

Canonsburg is most well known for its Old Fashioned Christmas event . The state pitches it as “Holiday Hallmark Move-esque location.”

It’s a two day event. Festivities include a tree lighting ceremony, Christmas parade, food truck court, and live entertainment. Naturally, you can meet Santa at the North Pole.

40. Fallingwater

Fallingwater is UNESCO site in Pennsylvania. It was designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright . Fallingwater is likely the most significant building of the 20th century. 

Fallingwater is nestled in a bucolic setting. It sits atop a cascading waterfall.

Fallingwater is eye-grabbing and visually stunning. It’s a marriage of modern architecture and a wild landscape that blurs the line between the indoor and outdoor.

The house is the apotheosis of Wright’s long lasting obsession with nature and a must visit architectural site in the US.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Fallingwater . Fallingwater is about 1.5 hours from Pittsburgh. You need to make a reservation in advance.

>>> Click here to book a guided tour from Pittsburgh

41. Polymath Park: Wright Overnight

If you really want to live the Wright way, head 23 miles down the road to another Wright-designed house, Polymath Park . There, you’ll find four houses designed by Wright.

These homes reflect Wright’s Usonian ethos. The term “Usonian” refers to Wright’s concept of building planned communities of affordable homes.

Wright wanted the small homes to have the same design benefits as a grand mansion. The homes feature native stone, clerestory windows, and Wright’s trademark Arts & Crafts style.

You can stay overnight, go for dinner, or book a guided tour.

42. Boating

Naturally, as a city on three rivers, boating is a popular thing to do in Pittsburgh. There are approximately 30 marinas in Pittsburgh.

The city boasts the second largest number of registered pleasure boats in the country. There are mooring spots in the South Side and North Shore. The water is a great place to watch July 4th fireworks.

If you don’t have your own boat, take a ride on the Gateway Clipper Fleet . It’s based in Station Square. Gateway has five riverboats and an array of sightseeing cruise options.

43. Best Restaurants In Pittsburgh

I’ve lived in Pittsburgh nine years now. And I’m a real foodie.

Years ago, the coolest thing you could do in Pittsburgh was put French fries on your salad or sandwich. Those days are long gone.

Pittsburgh now has serious culinary cred, with a farm to table vibe moving in. In 2019, the city earned the title Food City of the Year.

You can eat your way through Pittsburgh like a herd of goats, the food scene’s that good. The restaurants alone are reasons to visit Pittsburgh.

Here’s a breakdown of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh by neighborhood. I also include some of the fun wine and cocktail bars around town.

You’ll find fine dining as well as hole-in-the-wall spots.

1. South Hills :

• Wild Rosemary (farm to table food in a cozy bistro setting)
• Cafe Io (casual sandwiches & comfort food)
• Pamela’s Diner (classic breakfast food at a Pittsburgh institution)

2. Shadyside :

• Senyai Thai (Thai)
• Soba (modern Asian)
• Mercurio’s (wood-fired Italian pizza and artisanal gelato)
• Noddlehead (Thai street food)
• Acacia (amazing cocktails)

3. North Side

• Siempre Algo (Spanish)
• Fig & Ash (wood-fired cuisine)

3. Strip District

• Bar Marco (Italian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients)
• DiAnoia’s Eatery (the “it” Italian place)
• Wigle Whiskey (whisky tasting spot)
• Kaya (Caribbean fare)
• Chicken Latino (Peruvian food)

4. Lawrenceville

• The Forge (craft cocktails and Mediterranean small plates)
• Pusadee’s Garden (Thai cuisine)
• Banh Mi & Ti (Vietnamese)
• Refucilo (Argentinian wine bar)
• Leo (ultra hip custom cocktail bar)
• Apteka (Eastern European, technically in Bloomfield)
• Chengdu Gourmet (Northern Chinese cuisine)
• Grapperia (Italian cocktail bar)

5. Downtown:

• Oaklander Hotel (glassed in sky bar with views)
• Eddie V’s (seafood and oysters)
• Tako (Mexican)
• Butcher & Rye (for carnivores)
• Meat & Potatoes (gastropub)
• Pizzaiolo Primo (Italian)
• Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse (steak & seafood)
• Speckled Egg (brunch food)

6. Mount Washington

• Atria’s (seafood with views)
• Monterey Bay Fish Grotto (seafood with views)
• Coughlin’s Law (bar food and tacos)

Tips For Visiting Pittsburgh

Here are some must know tips for discovering all the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

1. How To Get To Pittsburgh

If you’re coming from far afield, Pittsburgh has an international airport. From there, you can take a taxi or Uber into the city center. You can also book a one way private transfer or a round trip private transfer , for a quick and efficient trip.

2. Where To Stay in Pittsburgh

I’m a fan of the Kimpton boutique chain. So, I would recommend the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh . It’s a trademark Klimpton with some whimsy and a bold color scheme.

The Distrikt Hotel is another great option. At the District, historic meet modern and posh meet minimalism.

My previous favorite hotel was the Ace Hotel, a place I regularly went for brunch. But the hotelier closed during the pandemic.

The hotel has recently reopened with new management and a new name. It’s now called  Kasa at the Maverick . Of course, you’ll also find a Hilton Garden Inn and a Marriott .

If you want to stay in Oakland near the colleges, check out the Oaklander Hotel .

3. When To Visit Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has all four seasons to enjoy. So you can pick whichever one best suits you.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Pittsburgh is fall. The weather is perfect, sometimes even surprisingly mild. This year, we had fall colors and 70 degree temperatures in October.

Fall is also fairly dry too, without much rain. It doesn’t really turn chilly until mid November.

As you might expect, the summers are hot and sunny in Pittsburgh. You’ll have long days to get the most out of your sightseeing.

Winter isn’t actually a bad time to visit Pittsburgh either. Pittsburgh doesn’t get frigidly cold like other popular cities.

But you can expect gray skies in winter. Pittsburgh isn’t known for its winter sunshine.

On the upside, there are plenty of holiday activities and fun Christmas things to do in Pittsburgh in winter.

Late spring is a great time to see Pittsburgh’s many attractions. May is the best month. March and April can sometimes be rainy.

4. Getting Around Pittsburgh

I’m not going to lie … Pittsburgh can be a challenging city to get around in. There are hills, uncommon street grids, and loads of one way streets.

The myriad bridges can be insane to traverse. They seem to go everywhere except where you’re headed. If you get in the wrong lane or can’t instantly move four lanes over, you may well be detoured.

Use your phone GPS to get the most accurate directions.

Pittsburgh has limited public transportation. The subway, such as it is, is called the T.

But it doesn’t go to that many places. And the buses are slow. Another option is the hop on hop off tourist bus .

Don’t just hang out in the downtown area, no matter how convenient it is. Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods are what make the city’s “gritty but quirky” vibe shine the brightest.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best things to do and see in Pittsburgh. You may enjoy these other United States travel guides and resources:

• 2 day itinerary for Philadelphia
• 3 day itinerary for Boston
• 2 days in Washington D.C. itinerary
• 2 day itinerary for Cleveland Ohio
• 1 day in Denver itinerary
• 25 most beautiful towns in New England
• 45 amazing destinations in the United States
• Best places to visit in Massachusetts
• Hidden Gem Towns on the East Coast
• One week itinerary for southern New England
• Fall foliage road trip in New England

If you’d like to visit the top attractions in Pittsburgh, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “40+ Best Things To Do And See In Pittsburgh, From a Local”

Apteka is in Bloomfield, not Lawrenceville. We are trying hard to keep that neighborhood contained.

Thanks Sam. The neighborhoods are so close together, I lopped Apteka into my Lawrenceville list. I obviously need to do more research on Bloomfield! Any suggestions?

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Last Updated on July 7, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pittsburgh, PA

Written by Lana Law and Lura Seavey Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Pittsburgh sits on the northwestern Allegheny Plateau , surrounding the point where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers join to form the Ohio. Once a gritty center of industry, Pittsburgh is no longer the soot-encrusted coal and steel town of the past.

The rivers define the city's layout and character, a picturesque metropolis that seems to rise up directly from the water. The city center is known as the Golden Triangle, named for its position on the point where the rivers meet. Here, you will find the historic Point State Park and the lively Strip District with its numerous markets, boutiques, eateries, and other attractions.

The Golden Triangle is also home to Pittsburgh's downtown, as well as the Cultural District , where you will find a mixture of theaters and performance venues. The rivers are lined with parks and gardens, and river tours provide a lovely way to see the skyline from many angles.

A legacy of the city's industrial wealth, the Carnegie museums are some of the best in the country, including the Museum of Natural History, the Carnegie Science Center, and the Carnegie Museum of Art. Find more great places to visit with our list of things to do in Philadelphia.

See also: Where to Stay in Pittsburgh

1. Phipps Conservatory

2. carnegie museum of natural history, 3. andy warhol museum, 4. pittsburgh zoo & ppg aquarium, 5. carnegie museum of art, 6. carnegie science center, 7. national aviary, 8. children's museum of pittsburgh, 9. point state park, 10. frick art and historical center, 11. senator john heinz history center, 12. duquesne incline, 13. cathedral of learning, 14. strip district, where to stay in pittsburgh for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in pittsburgh, pa, pittsburgh, pa - climate chart.

Real estate baron Henry Phipps donated these botanical gardens to the city in 1893. Set in Schenley Park, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers visitors a variety of things to see and do.

Be sure to see the extensive outdoor gardens that surround the central building, a 13-room Victorian glasshouse with rotating seasonal exhibits, including orchids, bonsai, and other delicate plants. Dedicated to the environment and sustainability, the gardens also include a Tropical Forest Conservatory and the Center for Sustainable Landscapes, which explore topics like water conservation and energy use, as well as an educational film about urban farming. Even kids will enjoy a visit.

The Discovery Garden offers free, hands-on children's activities and in the Garden Railroad, they can explore and interact with the tropical Treasure Island as a visiting pirate.

Address: 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.phipps.conservatory.org

One of four Carnegie Foundation museums in Pittsburgh, the Museum of Natural History is dedicated to educating and entertaining visitors, so they can gain a deeper understanding of our natural world. Exhibits explore the science behind the discovery and understanding of the earth and its inhabitants, both past and present.

The museum's central exhibit is a collection of authentic dinosaur fossils and some reproductions, including a Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops. The Cretaceous Seaway exhibit shows the life of dinosaurs who lived under water. The museum's extensive galleries also include exhibits about earth sciences like geology and gems, animal life in various parts of the world, and cultural history including Native American and Ancient Egypt.

Kids will find plenty of things to do at Discovery Basecamp, an interactive exhibit that encourages kids to get hands-on, and also at the Bone Hunter's Quarry, where they can dig and uncover their own replica fossils.

Official site: www.carnegiemnh.org

The museum contains the largest collection of work by Andy Warhol, the city's most famous artist and American pop-art pioneer. Exhibits cover all facets of Warhol's prolific career as a painter, filmmaker, record producer, stage designer, author, magazine publisher, and celebrity-gazer.

Opened in 1994, the museum is housed in a restored warehouse, and displays many of Warhol's drawings, paintings, prints, and multimedia installations, as well as presents several of his films and video clips. This large space is also used to host events and classes, and the museum is committed to promoting contemporary art by sponsoring research and scholarships.

Address: 117 Sandusky Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.warhol.org

The Pittsburgh Zoo has five unique habitats and an aquarium that house its wide variety of animal residents. The PPG Aquarium is home to water dwellers, from seahorses to sharks, including a flock of penguins that play in the snow during winter.

The Water's Edge area is dedicated to education about coastal wildlife and environmental concerns, and is home to sea otters and polar bears.

The Tropical Forest area is full of fascinating animals, including two-toed sloths, lemurs, poison dart frogs, and capuchin monkeys among many primate species.

The Islands exhibit focuses on endangered species of tropical climates, including Galapagos turtles and clouded leopards. The African Savanna section houses some of the zoo's most popular residents, including Masai giraffes, lions, rhinoceroses, African elephants, and zebras.

Address: 7370 Baker Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.pittsburghzoo.org

The Carnegie Museum, one of Pittsburgh's most internationally recognized institutions, houses extensive collections of Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings, American and European paintings over the past two centuries, sculpture, decorative art, and architecture.

Wander past the other exhibits dedicated to Japanese prints, Pittsburgh area artists, and contemporary glass work, as well as extensive photography collections, including an archive of negatives by renowned photographer Charles "Teenie" Harris.

The museum also has several rotating exhibits that showcase specific artists, media, and themes. The museum is named for its founder Andrew Carnegie, who embarked on his vision for an art center in the late 1800s.

Address: 4400 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.cmoa.org

On the north bank of the Allegheny River is the huge Carnegie Science Center, which offers more than 250 hands-on exhibits. While visitors are exploring, they will learn about the ways that science and technology influence every aspect of our lives, from energy use, food production, and industrial processing to space exploration.

The museum also offers plenty of things to do, like the Ropes Challenge indoor climbing and zipline course, with its sibling SkyTykes ropes course for little ones; the four-story Rangos Omnimax Theater; and the Henry Buhl Jr. Planetarium and Observatory.

Meanwhile, the Miniature Railroad and Village document the state's history and culture with tiny horse-drawn carriages, cars and trucks, trees, and airplanes complete with animation. Also on site is the USS Requin, a World War II submarine that held a crew of 80. Guided tours are given by former submariners.

Address: One Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.carnegiesciencecenter.org

Visitors to the National Aviary are immersed in the habitats of birds from around the world, from bright tropical beauties to imposing birds of prey. There are also exhibits throughout the museum that educate visitors about avian biology, their environments, and how these animals are vital to understanding our own human environments.

Larger birds like bald eagles, Steller's sea eagles, and Toco toucans among other species can be found at Eagle Hall, and a large outdoor habitat is home to Andean condors, which can have a wingspan of 10 feet across.

Flamingos can be found in the wetlands habitat, and visitors can spot snowy egrets and macaws in the rainforest habitat. There is also a grassland habitat that is home to a wide variety of smaller birds, as well as a colony of endangered African penguins.

The aviary also offers bird-watching classes, as well as a variety of animal encounters with some of its favorite residents, including falcons, owls, and penguins, with the opportunity to have a private penguin feeding session.

The aviary is also home to two special residents who aren't birds: a pair of Linnaeus's two-toed sloths named Vivien and Valentino. Guests can book special up-close experiences and even watch the sloths create paintings.

Address: 700 Arch Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.aviary.org

Located near the National Aviary, the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh is the perfect place for families to bring younger children while visiting Pittsburgh. One of the most popular areas of the museum is its multimedia art studio, a well-equipped space that allows kids of all ages to experiment with paint, drawing, sculpture, fiber arts, photography, and even various methods of printing.

Another top exhibit is the "makeshop," where kids can, with the help of staff, use tools to create and investigate. Here, they can experiment with woodworking, inspect the inner workings of toys, try out sewing, and much more. Kids can do even more creating in the Garage, where there is the opportunity to build a race car, fix a clock, build, and play with a Rube Goldberg machine.

Other favorites are the water-play area, with plenty of interactive stations that teach kids about water's properties, a seasonal outdoor learning garden, and an outdoor play space with musical swings, a sandbox, and even a clubhouse.

Kids who need to get some energy out of their systems will find plenty of opportunities to climb and explore, and there is also a dedicated nursery area where the youngest visitors can play, and parents can take a well-deserved rest.

Address: 10 Children's Way, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: https://pittsburghkids.org

The heart of Pittsburgh is the "Golden Triangle" at the junction of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers. At the tip of the triangle is Point State Park, with one of the country's largest fountains, symbolizing the birth of the Ohio.

This was the site of Fort Pitt, of which there now remains only a blockhouse. The fort's original appearance is shown in dioramas in the Fort Pitt Museum, a re-created eighteenth-century bastion of the famous British fort. The 36-acre park commemorates the British settlement of the frontier outpost in 1754 until the French seized the area. Later, the British regained supremacy and erected a new fort.

Address: 101 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/findapark/point/

The Frick Art and Historical Center is a complex of museums and historical buildings located across five acres of lawns and gardens in Pittsburgh's residential East End. The highlight is the Frick Art Museum, which displays the art collection of Helen Clay Frick.

It is located in the Clayton, which was Henry Frick's mansion and the only surviving one on Millionaire's row. On display are pictures ranging in date from the early Renaissance to the end of the 18th century. The collection contains Italian, French, and Flemish paintings through the eighteenth-century; sixteenth-century tapestries; and Chinese porcelains.

Also on-site is the Car & Carriage Museum, including a 1914 Rolls Royce and 1931 Pierce Arrow 43 Club Sedan.

Address: 7227 Reynolds Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.thefrickpittsburgh.org

After spending time on the Strip, wander over to the Senator John Heinz History Center, and brush up on your Pittsburgh history. Spread over six floors is everything you could ever want to know about this great American city.

Over 370,000 square feet of exhibits will keep you and your family entertained and educated. Be sure to check out the beautifully preserved street car, giant ketchup bottles, Mister Roger's Neighborhood, and the innovation and glass exhibits. Of course, the Heinz Ketchup Company is not to be missed.

Two entire floors of the museum are dedicated to the sports franchises of Pittsburgh. Exhibits and important memorabilia from the heroes of football, ice hockey, and baseball all figure prominently. Teams featured include the local favorites: Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Address: 1212 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.heinzhistorycenter.org

Since 1877, this funicular railway has served the residents and businesses of the Duquesne Heights and Mount Washington sections of Pittsburgh. From the cars there are great views out over the city. Using two original 1877 cable cars, the Duquesne Incline is a working museum, with the upper station providing photos and displays on the history of the incline. You can also see the inner workings of the incline.

The Mount Washington neighborhood is one of the city's most popular areas for its grand homes and excellent fine restaurants and can also be accessed by the Monongahela Incline, which departs from Station Square.

Address: 1220 Grandview Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Official site: www.duquesneincline.org

At the University of Pittsburgh, the Gothic Revival skyscraper known as the Cathedral of Learning towers above the campus at 535 feet tall. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 42-story building is the world's second-tallest university building.

Construction began in 1926, and classes were held inside as early as 1931 while the exterior was still being completed - a task that was not finished until 1934. Home to many of the university's current educational facilities, it also has a food court where visitors can grab a bite while exploring the impressive building's interior.

Location: University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The Strip District, on the Allegheny River at the north-east corner of the Golden Triangle, was formerly occupied by warehouses and railroad installations but is now one of the city's main tourist attractions and a scene of lively activity throughout the day.

The area is home to shopping, art, dining, and all kinds of markets to buy produce, meat, and a variety of other foods. Visitors may want to come down here to simply enjoy a meal or spend a whole day wandering in and out of the small boutiques lining the Strip. Saturdays are particularly busy but also a fun time to visit.

Downtown Pittsburgh is relatively compact with many of the top attractions, as well as restaurants and shops, all within easy walking distance of each other. The most convenient option for travelers is to stay right in the city center. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations .

Luxury Hotels :

• In the heart of the city center is the historic and elegant Omni William Penn Hotel , first opened in 1916. This grand landmark hotel, which still offers a traditional afternoon tea service, has hosted many famous people over the years.
• The Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel is a boutique hotel, also housed in a beautiful historic building in the downtown area, but complemented with contemporary décor.
• The Fairmont is another good luxury option, with a prime location and 185 bright rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, many with a view of PNC Park. This is a pet-friendly hotel, although an additional fee is charged for your four-legged friend.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A good mid-range option in the city center is the Courtyard Pittsburgh Downtown , in a renovated historic building in the Cultural District and near the Strip District.
• Just a few minutes outside the downtown core on the North Shore, but still in a good location, is the historic boutique hotel, The Priory . A former monastery, this is a hotel with character and charm, and a variety of room sizes and rates.
• A good option in the trendy Strip District is the Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown . The hotel is conveniently located close to the Senator John Heinz History Center.

Budget Hotels :

• The best budget options are just outside the city center. The Comfort Inn & Suites is a short drive north of the city center and offers comfy rooms.
• A little further afield is the Econo Lodge Pittsburg I-79 , with basic rooms but usually good prices.
• The Red Roof Plus+ is also well outside the city center but offers decent rooms at reasonable rates.

More on Pennsylvania

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Beth Price-Williams

A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.

More by this Author

Pittsburgh’s often been called a big city with a small town feel. We, Pittsburghers , have the best of both worlds because we’re also within easy driving distance of a plethora of charming small towns. Here are 14 small towns near Pittsburgh that offer a glimpse into yesteryear. So, next time you’re looking for a unique way to spend the day, head to one of these friendly small towns.

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What are your favorite small towns near Pittsburgh? Join the conversation below. Then, click here to read about Meadville, the perfect destination for a day trip.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Exploring in and around pittsburgh.

What are some abandoned places in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh is a pretty old city and has several historic places that are still standing, yet abandoned . There's a wooden house that was built in 1795 called the Neill Log House and it can be found in Schenley Park. It's considered the oldest log house in Pittsburgh. Being a steel town, it's no surprise to find there are abandoned steel furnaces. The Carrie Furnaces can be explored on a tour and they're an intriguing way to learn about industrial history.

What are the most beautiful parks in Pittsburgh?

This old city is an industrial hotspot, yet there are many gorgeous parks where one can get away from the noise of the city. Schenley Park is a local favorite and its 456 acres of lush trees are a serene respite from all the hustle and bustle. It's a great place to take a swim to cool off during the hot summer months. Birders often bring their binoculars to Frick Park where over 100 species of birds frolic in the branches. If you'd like a mellow stroll through exquisite gardens, Highland Park has that and more. Flower gardens surround a fountain and the scene may make you think you're in France.

Where can one see the strange and unusual in Pittsburgh?

A city that's gone through as many changes as Pittsburgh is bound to contain more than a few oddities to explore . The Living Dead Museum has everything you can imagine about zombies, and Dawn of the Dead was filmed in Pittsburgh's own Monroeville Mall. If you'd like to be tripped out by taxidermy, Trundle Manor has some of the weirdest examples around. The strangely stuffed creatures are displayed in whimsical arrangements with other objects like doll heads, bones, hats, pipes, and all sorts of odd accoutrements.

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The best 12 things to do in Pittsburgh

Jul 7, 2021 • 5 min read

Pittsburgh's underrated wonders will astound © Mandritoiu / Shutterstock

The Steel City may be known for its trifecta of professional sports teams, but this historic hub of Pennsylvania offers much more. From incredible outdoor opportunities to world-class museums and tours, these are the best things to do in Pittsburgh . 

1. Ride the inclines 

Funiculars were all the rage in the late 1800s, when two incline railways were constructed on Pittsburgh’s Mount Washington. Now, these remain two of the last operation inclines in America – the lingering remnants of a system that once contained 17 of these tiny railcars. Pittsburgh's twin funiculars, the  Monongahela  and  Duquesne , offer beautiful views of downtown Pittsburgh and the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny Rivers. Located about a mile apart, visitors can ascend on one line and descend on another if they so choose.  

2. Wander the West End Overlook 

Pittsburgh has no shortage of serendipitous skyline views, but the best views likely come from West End Overlook. This vantage point atop Elliott’s Bluff offers a wide view of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers and downtown. Once a humble turnaround with a commanding view, the city renovated the location into a park with benches, gardens and a pavilion in 2003. 

13 free things to do in Pittsburgh  

3. The Strip District 

Avenues of converted warehouses and gourmet eateries line the Strip District. This former industrial area now houses some of the city’s best international food and grocery spots, like  S&D Polish Deli ,  Salem’s Market  and the  Pennsylvania Macaroni Co . The Strip District allows offers diverse educational opportunities. For example, you can visit the  Senator John Heinz History Center  to learn about the fascinating history of ketchup and then hit up the  Carnegie Museum of Art  for one of North America’s premiere contemporary art collections. 

4. Carnegie museums 

The Carnegie Museum of Art is just one of three Pittsburgh Carnegie Museums, each with its own all-star attractions. The  Carnegie Museum of Natural History  is home to a complete tyrannosaurus rex skeleton. The  Carnegie Science Center  houses an otherworldly planetarium. 

5. Andy Warhol Museum 

Pop art icon Andy Warhol was born and raised in Pittsburgh, and it's here that you’ll find an incredible museum dedicated to his life and art. This museum—located in an 88,000 square-foot facility— is the largest in North America dedicated to a single artist. The Andy Warhol Museum operates an annex in New York’s Lower East Side, but the main attraction is in Pittsburgh, where Warhol’s path toward international celebrity began. 

Warhol in the US: Where to see the iconic pop artist's work

6. Mattress Factory 

Speaking of contemporary art, there’s perhaps no equivalent to the spectacle at  The Mattress Factory . Founded by Barbara Luderowski in 1975, this sprawling complex of the avant-garde houses 17 permanent installations and a rotating rogue’s gallery of exhibits that bewilder and bedazzle visitors. The Mattress Factory is historic, too. It’s often credited as one of the early catalysts for Pittsburgh’s modern revitalization.  

7. Peruse Point State Park 

Located at the tip of Pittsburgh’s “golden triangle,”  Point State Park  is a time capsule of Pittsburgh’s early history. Learn about the French and Indian War, the American Revolution and the city's early beginnings at the Fort Pitt Museum. This 12,000-square-foot museum is built on the bones of historic Fort Pitt, once the largest fortification in North America. 

The state park also houses the Fort Pitt Block House, a structure predating the American Revolution.  

8. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens 

Home to flower shows that change with the seasons,  Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens  is a wonderland for lovers of botany and foliage. The stunning steel-and-glass architecture of the conservatory harkens to the height of the industrial age when its greenhouses brought orchids, cacti and tropical fruits to crowds of Pennsylvania locals. Today, you can see some of the same rooms for yourself.

Pittsburgh's best neighborhoods   

9. Take a Furnace Tour 

Rivers of Steel  offers an incredible tour of Pittsburgh’s industrial history at Carrie Blast Furnaces National Landmark. This remnant of the former U.S. Steel Homestead Steel Works offers insight into a bygone era of American manufacturing. During the two-hour tour, visitors hear stories about steel-making technology, steel workers and the incredible supply chain required to build the bones of 20th-century America. 

10. Cruise on a Gateway Clipper 

Sightseeing, dinner and even ghost cruises are available on the  Gateway Clipper  fleet. Gateway Clipper operates five riverboats ranging from 55 feet to more than 200 feet in length. Each week, they peruse the waters of the three rivers area, providing spectacular views, meals and libations for those who want to see the city from the water. 

Best day trips from Pittsburgh  

11. Bicycle Haven 

The world’s largest bicycle museum and shop is located on Preble Avenue. The museum began life as a bicycle repair shop in 1996 before adding a massive museum collection in 2011.  Bicycle Heaven  houses nearly 4,000 bicycles – from space-age fiberglass concepts to movie bicycles and more. Once more, cycle lovers can rent a bike at the museum and see Pittsburgh from two wheels. 

12. Pittsburgh sports

The NFL’s Steelers, NHL’s Penguins and MLB’s Pirates give Pittsburgh a grand slam of professional sports franchises. Each has a loyal, local following and all share the city’s iconic colors of black and gold. Whether you’re a sports fanatic or not, catching a home game is sure to put you in the midst of fervent locals eager to share their own secrets about the Steel City. 

Why Pittsburgh is the best sports city in the US

You might also like:  How to get around Pittsburgh  Best things to do in Pittsburgh with kids   Essential eats in Pittsburgh  

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9 Fun Things to Do Near Pittsburgh, PA: Best Places to Visit Nearby!

Pittsburgh is an exciting and versatile city, so you can imagine there are plenty of things to do there.

However, those looking for an adventure will be delighted to discover there are countless fun things to do near Pittsburgh, PA.

These hand-picked locations are great for spontaneous travelers looking to add more thrill to their vacation!

From nature trips to amazing river adventures, these must-visit places will give you unforgettable memories.

1. Ohiopyle White Water Adventure

124 Main Street Ohiopyle, PA 15470-0105 (724) 329-8591

Ohiopyle State Park is located just one hour south of Pittsburgh.

The park is home to the beautiful Youghiogheny River, the perfect spot for rafting.

Why We Recommend Going Here

What better way to spend the day than on the river?

Whether this is your first rafting experience or you are an experienced rafter, Lower Yough will definitely be a blast!

This family-friendly activity is a great way to spend some quality time together and have a day full of adventure surrounded by nature!

Distance from Pittsburgh

Ohiopyle State Park is 70 miles away from Pittsburgh.

It takes approximately one hour to get there. I suggest you take I-76 E for a faster and easier route.

Recommended Hotel Near Ohiopyle White Water Adventure: Holiday Inn Morgantown-University Area

Related: Top Pittsburgh Attractions

2. Fallingwater House Tour

1491 Mill Run Road Mill Run, PA 15464 (724) 329-8501

No trip to Pennsylvania is complete without a visit to this American architectural masterpiece: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater.

The house was built in 1935 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966.

Fallingwater is a great place for a day trip, as it is located in the beautiful Laurel Highlands.

The house is built partly over a waterfall and has a unique design.

It was included on the Smithsonian Magazine’s “Life List of 28 Places to See Before You Die.”

There is also a museum and a café where you can enjoy regional flavors, delicious coffee, and fresh house-made sweets.

Fallingwater is located in Laurel Highlands, about 90 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh.

The shortest distance is 60 miles via I-76 E and US-119 S.

Recommended Hotel Near Fallingwater House Tour: Comfort Suites Uniontown

Related: Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh

3. Cleveland Brew Tour

1111 Lakeside Ave E, Cleveland, OH 44114 (702) 648-5873

If you are looking for a weekend getaway, Cleveland is a perfect choice.

There are plenty of hip and trendy breweries throughout the city.

What better way to spend the day than on an all-inclusive craft beer tour of Cleveland?

The tour will take you to 4 revered breweries, each with a unique history.

You will sample more than 16 different craft beers and learn about the brewing process.

This tour will get you up to date with the latest beer knowledge and beer facts told by an experienced guide.

Cleveland is located 130 miles away from Pittsburgh.

It takes approximately 2 hours to drive there via I-76 W.

Recommended Hotel Near Cleveland Brew Tour: Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection

Related: Best Family Resorts Near Pittsburgh

4. Moraine State Park

225 Pleasant Valley Rd, Portersville, PA 16051-2031 (724) 368-8811

Moraine State Park is a great place for those looking for cheap activities.

The park gets more than 2 million visitors each year and is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and boaters.

The beautiful Moraine State Park is the perfect place to spend the day with your loved ones.

It has more than 71 miles of trails and 42 miles of coastline to explore.

Moreover, there is a sailing club on Lake Arthur and they host a regatta every August.

Other fun activities you can enjoy at the park include windsurfing, fishing, horseback riding, and winter activities.

Although camping is prohibited, you can spend the night in one of their modern cabins.

Moraine State Park is located within driving distance from Pittsburgh.

It takes approximately 40 minutes to get there via I-279 and I-79 N.

Recommended Hotel Near Moraine State Park: Hyatt Place Pittsburgh Cranberry

Related: Fun Things to Do in Pittsburgh with Kids

5. Rivers of Steel: Carrie Blast Furnaces

Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Rankin, PA 15104. (412) 464.4020

Carrie Blast Furnaces are one of the most interesting attractions near Pittsburgh.

Considered a National Landmark of outstanding historical significance, the massive furnaces are a remnant of the city’s 20th-century steel industry.

The Carrie Blast Furnaces are an extremely rare example of iron-making technology before World War II.

You can take a tour of the furnaces and learn about their fascinating history.

Moreover, Rivers of Steel hosts many family-friendly workshops, festivals, hand-on programs, and special events.

You can have loads of fun participating in one of their metal casting or interactive aerosol art workshops.

The Carrie Blast Furnaces are just outside Pittsburgh, only 9 miles away from downtown.

It takes around 15 minutes to get there via I-376 E.

Recommended Hotel Near Rivers of Steel: Carrie Blast Furnaces: Courtyard Pittsburgh West Homestead Waterfront

Related: Best Restaurants in Pittsburgh

6. Pittsburgh Botanic Garden

799 Pinkerton Run Rd, Oakdale, PA 15071 (412) 444-4464

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is one of the top 10 largest botanical gardens in America.

Spread across 452 acres, it features woodlands, trails, and thousands of native trees and plants.

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is one of the most romantic places to visit together with your significant other.

The mesmerizing Japanese Garden with blossoming cherry trees and a lotus pond will take your sweetheart’s breath away.

Families and wanderers can explore one of its many gardens and trails or participate in an educational program or event. Children under 3 can enter for free.

The Botanic Garden is 12 miles away from Pittsburgh via I-376 W.

It takes 20 minutes to get there with normal traffic.

Recommended Hotel Near Pittsburgh Botanic Garden: Hyatt Place Pittsburgh Airport

Related: Best Beaches Near Pittsburgh, PA

7. Mr. Smalls Theatre

400 Lincoln Ave Millvale, PA (412) 821-4447

If you are looking for fun things to do and see near Pittsburgh , pay a visit to Mr. Smalls Theatre.

Located in a re-purposed 19th-century church, the theater has a capacity of 800 people.

Although the theater is small, it provides tons of high-quality entertainment.

This multi-purpose entertainment venue hosts a wide variety of shows from national and international performers.

There is also a club, a restaurant, and a stage for up-and-coming artists.

Mr. Smalls Theatre is just 10 minutes away from Pittsburgh.

The fastest route is 3.8 miles via PA-28 N.

Recommended Hotel Near Mr. Smalls Theatre: Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty

8. Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park

North Park 991 Tennis Ct Rd, PA 15101 (800) 971-8271

If you are looking for cool places to go to, check out Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park.

This hidden gem provides tons of entertainment for the entire family.

The 3,000-acre park is the perfect location for an epic adventure.

Go Ape has the most exhilarating ziplines, Tarzan swings, and canopy obstacles up to 40 feet high.

There is also a Go Ape Axe Throwing activity that is great for parties and group events.

Keep in mind that the minimum age for park admission is 10.

Kids under 15 must be supervised by an adult.

The park is located 12 miles outside Pittsburgh.

It takes approximately 23 minutes to get there via US-19 Truck N/McKnight Rd.

Recommended Hotel Near Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Pittsburgh-South Side

9. Critter Country Animal Farm

914 State Route 981 Smithton, Pennsylvania (724) 872-5988

Critter Country Animal Farm is one of the best places to see near Pittsburgh for children and adults who love animals.

The farm is also a wildlife rescue and most of the animals are free-roaming on green pastures.

Critter Country Animal Farm has more than 250 animals from all around the world.

You can see alpacas, zebras, leopards, monkeys, and many others.

Children will love feeding the animals and learning about their habits.

The farm is located 27 miles away from Pittsburgh.

It takes 45 minutes to get via PA-51 S with normal traffic.

Recommended Hotel Near Critter Country Animal Farm: Holiday Inn Express Pittsburgh West – Greentree

9 Fun Things to Do that Are Near Pittsburgh, PA for 2024

• Ohiopyle White Water Adventure
• Fallingwater House Tour
• Cleveland Brew Tour
• Moraine State Park
• Rivers of Steel: Carrie Blast Furnaces
• Pittsburgh Botanic Garden
• Mr. Smalls Theatre
• Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park
• Critter Country Animal Farm

Museums to Visit

Food to Try

Top Restaurants

Best Breweries

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Pittsburgh International Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Pittsburgh

Top Things to Do

20 Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh is a beautiful, dynamic city full of sights and attractions sure to please the avid sports fan, history enthusiast, and culture maven. Whether you're in town for a visit, or just looking for something new to try, these must-see Pittsburgh spots offer something for everyone.

Ride to the Top of Mount Washington

No visit to Pittsburgh is complete without a ride on one of the restored 1800s inclines to the top of Mount Washington, just across the river from downtown Pittsburgh. There are plenty of great restaurants to choose from on top of this former "Coal Hill" and each has stunning views of downtown (especially beautiful at night). It's one of the best places to snap photos of the skyline.

Visit the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh History Center

This former ice house has been reborn as a seven-story museum, with interactive exhibits that bring more than 250 years of Western Pennsylvania history to life. Discover how immigrants shaped the region, uncover the myths of the Underground Railroad, or climb aboard a 1940s Pittsburgh trolley. Two floors are dedicated to the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum. After all, what's the history of Pittsburgh without Franco Harris, Mario Lemieux, Roberto Clemente, Arnold Palmer, and the gang?

See Incredible Birds at the National Aviary

Just across the Allegheny River from the History Center is the National Aviary, where over 600 of the world's most incredible birds are displayed in naturalistic exhibits and walk-through habitats. Marvel at hummingbirds the size of a thumb or Andean Condors with giant 10-foot wingspans at the nation's premier bird zoo! Penguin Point is among the most popular exhibits.

Stroll Through the Strip District

Join locals for a Saturday tour in Pittsburgh's popular warehouse district. Grab a great cup of coffee and a fresh biscotti before taking a stroll through this combination farmer's market/street fair. Vendors, shops, and exotic grocery stores offer everything from kitchenware to costumes and Steelers merchandise to fresh flowers and fish.

Check Out the Andy Warhol Museum

Campbell's soup cans anyone? Continue your exploration of Pittsburgh at the Andy Warhol Museum, an ultramodern tribute to the founder of pop art. The most comprehensive single-artist museum in the world houses more than 4,000 works of art, including paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, films, and videos, from this native Pittsburgh artist. While dedicated to Andy Warhol, the museum also hosts rotating exhibits by artists who push the boundaries of art, just as Warhol did.

Learn About the World at the Carnegie Museums of Art & Natural History

The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History combine two world-renowned museums in one unforgettable visit. Same day admission to both museums provides a wide variety of things to explore, and many sections include hands-on activities where children are encouraged to touch as well as look. Enjoy one of the best dinosaur exhibits in the world, breathtaking gems and minerals, and an extensive Native American gallery.

See Unique Plants at Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Zolashine / Getty Images

Stroll through one of the largest Victorian "glass houses" in the country to see towering tropical plants that were the original seedlings at the 1890 Exposition, including beautiful orchids, indoor and outdoor gardens, and a fabulous bonsai collection. Children will revel in the Discovery Garden, where they are invited to exercise their green thumbs and explore the world of plants and flowers, worms and all. Seasonal exhibits include a butterfly garden, flower shows, and a miniature railroad display.​

Interact with Science at the Carnegie Science Center

It's an "amusement park for the mind" at this large science museum, where more than 250 hands-on, interactive exhibits bring together science and fun for all ages. Explore a WWII submarine, marvel at a four-story Omnimax film, or tour Southwestern Pennsylvania via miniature railroad.

Visit a One-of-a-Kind "Mattress Factory"

Popscreenshot/WikiCommons

The beds are gone, and this former mattress factory is now home to a one-of-a-kind art experience. The Mattress Factory museum of contemporary art features some of the best installation art in the United States, all created by in-residence artists. The avant-garde art is sometimes a bit bewildering, but always interesting.

Learn About Pittsburgh's Diversity

Located in the inspiring Cathedral of Learning on the University of Pittsburgh campus, each of the 24 classrooms reflects the culture and heritage of one of the area's diverse ethnic groups and represents that nationality's contribution to the fabric of Pittsburgh.

Test Your Sporting Mettle at Highmark SportsWorks

Photojunkie/WikiCommons

Highmark SportsWorks is a unique space next to the Carnegia Science Center. Here, you can learn about physics, anatomy, and the life sciences through a series of interactive exhibits—race against an Olympic sprinter, try out your fastball, or climb a rock wall, all at the place where science and sports come together.

Watch Hilarious Improv at Arcade Comedy Theater

Pittsburgh's Arcade Comedy Theater was founded in 2013 and offers an intimate performance space (just 75 seats!) that showcases improv performances and plays. The venue even offers comedy classes if you want to try your hand at making the masses laugh.

See a Baseball Game at PNC Park

Justin Berl /Getty Images 

PNC Park is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates, the city's Major League Baseball team. The classic ballpark seats 38,000 and is located right on the banks of the Ohio River. The season runs from early spring through fall, making for a great summertime activity.

Visit the Pittsburgh Zoo

seele/Getty Images

The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium is one of only six zoo-aquarium combinations in the U.S. Housing more than 4,000 animals, the zoo represents nearly 500 different species, many of which are endangered. It's located in Highland Park.

Drink Local Beer in an Old Church

ctj71081/Flickr

Church Brew Works was founded in 1996, but the building dates back much further. Housed in a church built in 1902, the popular brewpub has four core beer brands, all with fitting names like Celestial Gold and Pious Monk Dunkel. Come for the beer and stay to admire the space's incredible architecture—including original stained glass.

Try the "Greatest Cake in America"

Prantl's Bakery is a Pittsburgh tradition for more than 50 years. While they're famed for their burnt almond torte cake, Prantl's also offers more than 100 other sweets, sure to satisfy any dessert lover.

Ride Rollercoasters at Kennywood Amusement Park

Richard T. Nowitz/Getty Images 

Kennywood is among the oldest amusement parks in the United States, having opened in 1899. This popular attraction now has six roller coasters and a kid's area with 14 different rides. As of early 2019, the park is building the Steel Curtain, which will be the state's largest roller coaster.

Enjoy the Outdoors at Point State Park

npage/Getty Images 

Point State Park sprawls across 36 acres in downtown Pittsburgh. It opened in 1974. The park is well-known for its iconic fountain, in addition to remains of Pittsburgh's two oldest buildings, Fort Pitt and Fort Duquesne. The National Historic Landmark has stunning views and is a great way to spend time outdoors.

Get a New Book at City of Asylum

Pittsburgh's City of Asylum is a unique non-profit with multiple venues throughout the city. As its name suggests, the organization supports exiled writers in residence and also sells an assortment of international literature at its North Side bookstore.

Try New Foods at Federal Galley

This North Shore food hall has four different restaurant concepts, plus a full bar that focuses on local brews. Whether you're interested in Mexican food at El Lugar or pizza at Michigan & Trumbull, there's something for everyone at Federal Galley.

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Best places to visit in pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania features cities large and small, foodie spots, sports hubs, scenic state parks and more. Plus, the Keystone State experiences all four seasons, meaning you can pick your favorite time to visit. U.S. News considered sights, culture, adventurous pursuits and accessibility, in addition to expert and user feedback, to decide the best places to visit in Pennsylvania. Have a favorite spot? Vote for your top Pennsylvania destination below to help us determine next year's list.

The Poconos

Philadelphia, ricketts glen state park, lehigh valley, valley forge, delaware water gap, lake wallenpaupack.

Hershey is known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth" – and for good reason. Here, you'll find Hershey's Chocolate World, where you can take a free tour of the facility to see how Hershey's chocolate and candy are made. Once you've satisfied your sweet tooth, head next door to Hersheypark to enjoy more than 70 chocolate-themed attractions designed for thrill-seekers of all ages. For a more laid-back vacation, visit ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park to see the 200-plus animals or Hershey Gardens to stroll through its 23 flower-filled acres (don't miss the rose garden's 3,000 roses if you're visiting during the summer months).

History buffs will love Gettysburg. Travelers can tour the roughly 6,000-acre Gettysburg National Military Park (the site of the Civil War's bloodiest battle) and check out other historical attractions, such as the Jennie Wade House (where the only civilian casualty from the Battle of Gettysburg died) and the Eisenhower National Historic Site (a farm that once belonged to former President Dwight D. Eisenhower). Those who prefer a spookier glimpse of Gettysburg's past can sign up for a ghost tour. After sightseeing, visit an antiques store to find a piece of war memorabilia to take home as a souvenir.

An up-and-coming foodie destination, Pittsburgh woos travelers with restaurants that serve everything from Polish staples to mouthwatering burgers. In addition to eating your way through the Steel City, you'll want to visit the Andy Warhol Museum to see its extensive collection of the late pop art legend's work or head to the Senator John Heinz History Center for a wide array of Pittsburgh-related exhibits. Also save time for a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game (or a tour) at PNC Park and a ride on the Duquesne Incline, which takes passengers to the top of Mount Washington.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway with your significant other, a vacation full of nonstop adventure or something in between, the Poconos have you covered. This mountain range in northeastern Pennsylvania is home to several state parks featuring forests, waterfalls, lakes and streams, making it an ideal place to hike, ride horses, swim, hunt and camp in summer. Plus, the Pocono Mountains draw skiers and snowboarders in droves in winter thanks to their more than 185 slopes and trails. Whenever you choose to visit, plan on staying at one of the Poconos' luxurious resorts , all-inclusive lodgings or charming inns.

Philly is one of America's most notable historical destinations thanks to top sights like the Liberty Bell (which abolitionists, women's suffrage supporters and other groups have used in their causes as a symbol of liberty) and Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed). What's more, the city offers something for travelers of all ages: Kids will enjoy the Please Touch Museum and the Philadelphia Zoo (one of the best zoos in the country ), while adults can stroll through the Reading Terminal Market and admire Rittenhouse Square. Don't forget to try a classic Philly cheesesteak before you go.

Bordered by the Delaware River to the east, New Hope exudes both scenic beauty and small-town charm. Nature lovers can stroll through the meadows, forests and ponds at Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve, or follow a historical canal towpath in Delaware Canal State Park. Meanwhile, the town's quaint Main Street is home to architectural treasures like the Parry Mansion Museum, as well as a variety of boutiques. And don't let its small size fool you; New Hope punches above its weight when it comes to top-notch riverside dining options and irresistible accommodations, which range from picture-perfect inns to luxurious carriage houses.

Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the state's most picturesque locales. Featuring more than 13,000 acres, this impressive state park in Pennsylvania's Columbia, Luzerne and Sullivan counties is home to the Glens Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark. It also offers 26 miles of hiking trails that take you through centuries-old forests and around stunning rock formations. If you only have time to trek one of the park's 11 trails, travelers recommend choosing the Falls Trail. This 7.2-mile loop travels past 21 of the park's 22 free-falling waterfalls, including Ganoga Falls (Ricketts Glen's tallest waterfall).

This valley in eastern Pennsylvania – which comprises larger cities like Allentown and Bethlehem, plus smaller towns like Easton – is packed with things to do. History buffs can learn about Lehigh Valley's Colonial days at historical sights like the 1750 Smithy and the Bachmann Publick House. Outdoor enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing and white-water rafting. Families will love visiting Easton's Crayola Experience and Allentown's Dorney Park. And for adults, there are dozens of breweries, distilleries and wineries to check out. For even more ambiance, arrive in fall to go leaf peeping and apple picking.

Lancaster is home to the nation's oldest Amish communities, making it an ideal place to disconnect and discover this unique way of life. Lancaster's Amish buggy rides and impressive farmers markets are popular with travelers of all ages, and visitors can learn more about the Amish lifestyle at the Amish Experience and The Amish Farm and House. Other must-dos in the area include the family-friendly Dutch Wonderland theme park, which wins praise for its variety of rides for younger kids. And don't miss shopping at the area's outlets and taking a tour of a local brewery.

Visit Valley Forge National Historical Park to spend your next vacation learning about American history. The village served as the winter encampment for former President George Washington and the Continental Army from 1777 to 1778. You can tour the encampment to see sights like the United States National Memorial Arch, Artillery Park and Washington's Headquarters. The park also offers ranger programs during the warmer months, plus 35 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. When you need a break from the village's rich history, enjoy some retail therapy at the nearby King of Prussia Mall, which features more than 450 stores.

Lovers of the great outdoors flock to the Delaware Water Gap each summer to hike and admire the area's green forests and waterfalls. Travelers can also rent canoes or kayaks and take to the water, fish at numerous lakes and streams or swim at Milford and Smithfield beaches. For those who'd rather stay on land, the roughly 70,000-acre Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers ample opportunities to bike, hunt and go rock climbing. Visit in winter to take advantage of cold-weather activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice climbing.

If you're eager to spend some time in and on water, choose Lake Wallenpaupack as your next vacation destination. This man-made lake in the Poconos is one of the largest in the state, occupying 5,700 acres. Popular summer pursuits here include swimming, water skiing, boating and kayaking, while winter activities range from ice skating to snowshoeing to ice fishing. Lake Wallenpaupack also features six recreation areas, so if you need a break from the water, head ashore to enjoy land-based activities like hiking, camping and snowmobiling.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Allegheny National Forest

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• 11 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a reputation for being beautiful. This is in part because of its many state parks full of hiking trails, great camping, and fishing. In fact, Pennsylvania contains well over 100 state parks, with a total of over 300,000 acres of woodland just waiting for you to explore.

But Pennsylvania is beautiful for another reason, and that is its great variety of charming small towns scattered all over the state. And since it was one of the thirteen original American colonies, many of these towns have rich and deep histories you can spot right on main street. From colonial architecture to preserved forts to Civil War battlefields, history is right at hand.

The quaint and quirky small towns on this list have more than natural beauty and American history to offer, however. From fun and funky college towns to “the Switzerland of Pennsylvania,” these charming small towns will have you packing your bags and hitting the road for a long weekend retreat.

First up is the charmingly named Ohiopyle, located in the gorgeous Laurel Highlands of southwestern Pennsylvania. It's well known for nearby Ohiopyle State Park, with its numerous stunning waterfalls, as well as some prime local whitewater rapids. Adrenaline junkies and more casual day trip hikers alike love adventuring through Ohiopyle and its surrounding beauty.

But you don’t have to love roaming through the great outdoors to enjoy a visit to Ohiopyle. Architecture buffs come to visit the not one but two local Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes.

History buffs tour the Fort Necessity Battlefield, the site of the very first battle of the 18th century French and Indian War. Christian W. Klay Winery has some excellent vintages just waiting for you to try them, and Ohiopyle Candy Co. has handmade chocolates and frozen yogurts aplenty.

Tiny as charming Ohiopyle may be, with a population of less than one hundred year round residents, it’s an incredibly popular weekend and vacation retreat. From the state park with its nearly 20,000 acres of wilderness to incredible architecture and historical sites, adding a visit to Ohiopyle to your next vacation or road trip is a no brainer.

Any list of must-see towns in Pennsylvania would be incomplete without Gettysburg. For one thing, it’s about as famous as a town can be, surrounded as it is by Civil War battlefields , museums, historic buildings and monuments, battle reenactments, and much more. Any Civil War history nerd is bound to have Gettysburg on their list of places to visit.

But the historical landmarks and guided tours are just one of the reasons Gettysburg is a popular weekend or vacation spot. Downtown features tons of cute and unique boutiques, and plenty of cafes and restaurants to keep you going while you shop till you drop.

Outside of town you’ll find Mr. Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium, an utterly unique experience for the entire family. Gettysburg is awash in history, and surrounded by rolling farmland and orchards. Take a day or two or even a week to explore everything this lovely small town has to offer.

Located in the famed Pocono Mountain region of northeast Pennsylvania, where the natural landscape is simply breathtaking, Jim Thorpe is the ideal destination for anyone looking for a little time away.

This delightful small town was once second only to Niagara Falls as a popular getaway location, and for good reason. Tucked up like a secret against the foothills of the mountains, Jim Thorpe has an old world vibe that feels miles away from the hectic pace of daily life.

Often referred to as “little Switzerland” or “the Switzerland of Pennsylvania,” the historic architecture makes you feel like you’ve taken a trip not only to another place, but another time as well. In fact, many buildings are actually listed on the National Historic Register.

Get your ticket to ride the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for a tour of the area, and enjoy the amazing scenic overlooks and gorgeous landscape. Or dive into Lehigh Gorge State Park itself, where you’ll find ample opportunity for biking, hiking, camping, fishing, and more.

If you’re planning a trip to the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, a nearly fifty mile long landmark also known as the Pine Creek Gorge, then you simply must make time to visit the charming and unique town of Wellsboro .

This historic small town proudly holds onto its architectural heritage. Victorian homes and businesses line the downtown area, as do the quaint old fashioned gas street lamps that lend their antique glow to every evening.

Downtown also features numerous locally owned small businesses, including one of a kind boutiques, cool cafes, and unique restaurants like the Frog Hut and Timeless Destination. The Arcadia Theatre right on Main Street is an absolute gem, dating back to the 1920’s.

There are plenty of adventures in and around the scenic Wellsboro area. From guided tours on horseback to train rides to Grand Canyon expeditions on foot, bike, or kayak, this pretty slice of Pennsylvania is definitely worth checking out.

Lovely little Lititz prides itself on its small town charm, along with all the warmth and welcome visitors have come to expect of this cozy corner of Pennsylvania.

An incredibly popular spot with tourists, Lititz isn’t far from the thriving and growing town of Lancaster, which is known for its vibrant arts and music scenes. A visit to this area, then, gives you a chance to partake of some high energy nightlife, while also tuning into the slower pace of small town life.

Founded by Moravians, early Protestant settlers, the town itself retains the influence of those townsfolk. Historic homes and buildings are often built in a more notably Germanic style, though there’s plenty of Victorian-era architecture on display as well. This mix of styles and time periods is part of what gives Lititz its distinctive look and feel.

Another element of Lititiz’s individual style is its downtown area, full of boutiques, museums, and eateries. Nearby Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery was actually the first hard pretzel company ever, and even today these make a perfect pairing with any of the brews on tap at Appalachian Brewing Company’s downtown brewpub.

Around Lititz you’ll find a number of antique covered bridges, a few state parks to explore, and the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania.

Located in northwest Pennsylvania, Ridgway sits just along the Allegheny National Forest. Known as “Trail Central,” there are literally hundreds of miles of hiking, biking, ATV, and horseback trails for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself or simple amble, there are a number of different trails perfect for your needs.

Ridgway itself offers plenty to do once you come in off the trails. Its fun and funky feel is thanks in part to the number of artists who call this small town home. Art galleries thrive as a result of this community, and personality and flair abound throughout the rest of town as well. South Street Botanical Designs and Mudslide Pottery are just a few examples of some of the unique businesses you'll find. There are a number of cool little antique shops as well.

Paper City Cafe and Tablespoons Cafe & Deli are two of a number of excellent cafes and eateries. A number of breweries and distilleries, like Chicken Hill Distillery, give discerning drinks enthusiasts plenty of locally made goodness to sip and savor.

Whether you come to explore the great outdoors or are planning an antiquing trip, Ridgway has something to offer everyone.

Just north of Philadelphia sits New Hope , a small town with big city energy. With the Old World meets New World charm of Philadelphia right next door, why wouldn’t they? New Hope takes a page out of its big sister city’s book and offers both visitors and locals an almost endless array of art and culture.

Still going strong, the famed Bucks County Playhouse continues to offer stellar live performances throughout the year, as it has been for nearly a century now. And the many artists and artisans that call this area home keep local galleries and gift shops filled with amazing local artwork.

Like so many other small towns in Pennsylvania, history buffs can geek out at their leisure at the many historical sites, museums, and guided tours. New Hope stands out for offering a few more supernatural tours that focus on popular haunts and tales of ghostly activities. You can also visit the site of Washington’s cross over the Delaware River, which may or may not include a ghostly presence of its own.

Harmony was founded by the Harmonist Society, a religious group first started in Germany who later emigrated to the United States in the early 19th century.

The entire downtown area of this unique small town was granted a National Historic Landmark District designation fifty years ago. With dozens of historic buildings, homes, and businesses, it’s easy to see why. Coming to Harmony is like stepping back through time.

Just north of Pittsburgh, Harmony offers a major gear change from the fast pace of urban living. Small and quaints, it’s the perfect getaway for anyone looking for some peace and quiet.

If you’re looking for some time in nature, McConnells Mill State Park, a National Natural Landmark, is just a few minutes away. Or you can explore the historic downtown on a self guided walking tour, or visit the shops, cafes, and restaurants that call main street Harmony home.

In fact, between its numerous art galleries, golf courses, and outdoor adventures, the hardest part of your visit here may just be choosing what to do first.

Tiny Benezette is a wildlife lover’s retreat. Why? Because where else are you going to get a chance to see a herd of wild roaming elk? You can even rent a cabin from Antler Shed Cabins, if you want to plan your visit entirely around catching glimpses of these majestic animals.

Elsewhere around Benezette you’ll find Table Falls, a popular spot with waterfalls lovers, as well as Elk State Forest and Parker Dam State Park. There are quite a number of state and local parks in this area, each with its own unique trails, vistas, and more.

Benezette’s Horse Drawn Wagon & Sleigh Rides is a popular attraction all year round, and the Bennett Branch Sinnemahoning Creek area is a happy little fishing spot where you can pass a sleepy summer afternoon dropping a line and daydreaming.

Cap a day spent out of doors with dinner at the Benezette Hotel, and maybe a walk to Benezette Winery as well. Benezette has that old fashioned after-dinner-stroll kind of feel, a real getaway from it all.

Eagles Mere

Just a few minutes from Worlds End State Park, a summer road trip staple, Eagles Mere is a cute little town tucked neatly within the Loyalsock State Forest. Which means, of course, that the entire area is chock full of amazing natural sights. These include amazing waterfalls like Rusty Falls, Dry Run Falls, and many more.

If you want to camp in an area with nearly endless hiking and biking trails, near a town that’s as friendly as it is beautiful, Eagles Mere is the place for you.

A little town of less than one hundred year round residents, that population more than triples during busy seasons. And with cute independent shops, tennis and recreation clubs, winter festivals, and even an annual toboggan run, it’s easy to understand why so many people love to take a little time away at Eagles Mere.

Whether you’re looking for a quintessential lazy summer vacation spent exploring the woods, a long autumn weekend enjoying scenic overlooks of fall foliage, or a winter retreat full of festivals and celebration, Eagles Mere might just be exactly what you’re looking for.

Located close to the middle of the state, the quaint little college town of Lewisburg is incredibly walkable, with plenty to offer visitors all year round.

The downtown area is on the National Register of Historic Places, and a walk downtown yields dozens of examples of historic architecture from the Victorian period and other eras. There are regular guided walking tours through town, which incorporate both Market Street buildings and more residential buildings as well.

Built on the banks of the Susquehanna River, this wide waterway is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, or even some inner tubing. You can also book a ride on the nearby Hiawatha River Boat, a recreation of a classic river paddle boat.

Downtown you’ll find a quaint shopping district with independently owned boutiques, bookstores, and art stores. There are also cafes, restaurants, ice cream shops, and more. The Campus Movie Theatre, nearly one hundred years old, is not only still open for business but also a popular date night spot as well.

Parting Notes

It’s no secret that Pennsylvania is beautiful, full of scenic highways and byways, with outstanding national, state, and local parks. And what better way to immerse yourself in all this natural beauty than by booking a stay in and around one of its many, many charming small towns?

From historic battlefields to thriving arts scenes, there’s a small town in Pennsylvania that’s perfect for just about every interest. Want to tour an apple orchard and pick yourself a bushel? You can do that.

Interested in hiking up to a waterfall, or taking a train ride to enjoy some jaw-dropping fall foliage? You can do that too. And if you want to stroll down an old-fashioned and welcoming downtown, buying cool handmade jewelry or eating at locally-sourced restaurants? Yep, you can do that as well.

No matter what kind of trip you want to have, if a small town feel is what you’re seeking, then these eleven charming small Pennsylvania towns are right up your alley.

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Discover the Burgh

10 Pittsburgh Festivals and Events Not to Miss Each Year

Published by Jeremy . Last Updated on June 6, 2024.

Disclaimer : Our site uses demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links. Please check out our Terms and Conditions . Pricing, operating hours, or menus may have changed since our initial visit and may not be reflected in subsequent updates. Please confirm these directly with any business or attraction prior to visiting.

Who doesn't love a good event or festival? In Pittsburgh, we sure have a lot of them covering our local history, traditions, and, of course, just for great fun!

While there is seemingly an event or festival going on most every week of the year, we wanted to share a few that we love and make Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh. This means that the following is not a collection of every Pittsburgh festival or event out there (we share even more on our event calendar ), and only just a starting point of a few annual festivities we love the most!

Picklesburgh

Pittsburgh may be known as the home of Heinz ketchup, but the city also has a love affair of all things pickles.

Some of the earliest pickle marketing from the city came when H J Heinz introduced the pickle pin as a marketing tactic and gave them away at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893. Since then, the popularity of the humble pickle has exploded, and today the city celebrates all things pickles at the annual Picklesburgh festival!

Head downtown each summer, typically late July, to enjoy all forms of pickle creations here be it pickles from a barrel, other pickled vegetables, pickle flavored beer, pickle ice cream, pickle themed clothing and other novelties, and so much more. Be sure to check out the pickle juice drinking competition as well, and if you're feeling brave enough sign up to compete for the title of Mayor of Picklesburgh with the fastest chug time!

Three Rivers Arts Festival

The arts scene in Pittsburgh is truly world class, and we celebrate all things arts, music, and more during the 10-day Three Rivers Arts Festival taking place in early June.

During this festival, the Cultural District of downtown Pittsburgh is home to a lot of fun including a large artist market full of local and visiting artisans, several stages of live music, other themed events, and a whole lot more- all for free!

While the headline performers for the festival generally take place on the final Saturday and Sunday night, be sure to take a look at the schedule as there is a lot of great music and experiences to check out at this one over its entire 10-day run.

Barrel & Flow

Barrel & Flow is consistently ranked as the best beer festival in America, and focuses on inclusivity to promote Black breweries, business owners, artists, musicians, and so much more in a single event.

Typically taking place each August in the Strip District, attendees of Barrel & Flow fest can sample loads of beer made from visiting Black owned breweries, collabs between local breweries and Black artisans (with some incredibly inventive flavors being created!), shop from local creators, listen to music, and so much more.

Building community over a beer? It doesn't get much better than that!

Open Streets

Open Streets is a series of three fun events put on by BikePGH each year over one select weekend date in May, June, and July.

During each event, select neighborhoods in Pittsburgh have their primary business district streets shut down to vehicles to be pedestrian only for walking, running, strolling, biking, unicycling, or whatever form of non-motorized transport you prefer. In the past there have been loops connecting the North Side to the Strip District, Downtown to South Side, loops around the East End, the North Side to the West End, and many, many more.

Along the route, local businesses tend to set up shop outside with fun events, music, and more taking place throughout the day. So hit the Open Streets and check out the fun in the neighborhoods each year!

Light Up Night

The start of the holiday season in Pittsburgh is defined fairly well in Pittsburgh. It isn't Black Friday. It isn't December 1st. It is Light Up Night , taking place the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

During this event, the city kicks off the holiday festivities with lighting ceremonies at the city and county government buildings, the opening of the Christmas Market in Market Square, live music, a ton of food, and of course several fireworks displays for good measure- with a large performance capping off the celebrations at the end of the evening..

Get into the holiday spirit by heading downtown for this annual tradition!

Carnegie Mellon's Carnival and Buggy Races

Most every university has a dedicated reunion weekend with a ton of fun events scheduled. But Carnegie Mellon University goes one step further as they typically time their reunion weekend with their Spring Carnival in April!

While this event has fun carnival festivities that you would likely expect, it is the Buggy Races that stand out as being a unique highlight. This race around the campus has taken place since 1920 where students create an unmotorized buggy cart and race around campus. Over the years, the buggy has evolved from the cart form you may be imagining to aerodynamic machines designed for maximum speed and aerodynamics!

The fun thing about the buggy race is that this one involves not only a team of pushers (they're unmotorized, after all), but a driver, too. Yes, there is a student inside the vehicle, and the teams often try to recruit the smallest students on campus to be a driver in this iconic event! So go cheer on the teams during the races, with finals typically on Saturday morning of Carnival weekend, then head into campus to enjoy all the festivities!

Washington & Greene Counties' Covered Bridge Festival

You likely know that Pennsylvania is home to numerous covered bridges, just over 200 for those who are curious, with a large quantity being found in nearby Washington and Green counties. Naturally, there is a festival to celebrate them!

Go on a road trip around the two counties to explore nine covered bridges over the two-day Covered Bridge Festival each September. Participating boroughs often host fun vendors, crafts, food, and music at the covered bridge sites and can make for a lot of fun checking out the historical bridges in our area.

But for the biggest celebration, you'll want to head to Mingo Creek County Park near Finleyville as it is home to not one, but two covered bridges, and brings in dozens upon dozens of vendors featuring handmade goods. But be warned, this one is quite popular and traffic can back up quite a bit trying to enter the park- so arrive early for the best experience here (other covered bridge sites are much more accessible)!

Beers of the Burgh

We love good beer in Pittsburgh, so it should be no surprise that not one, but two beer festivals make our list of favorite events. Our second is the annual Beers of the Burgh event which celebrates all things beer made in western Pennsylvania.

Not only does this beer festival have one of the largest number of local breweries taking part (typically 50+ each year), it also takes place at the iconic Carrie Furnace in Rankin. Delicious beer plus the historic backdrop of a former steel mill? It really doesn't get more Pittsburgh than that!

Doors Open Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is known for having stellar architecture all over the city, and the local group Doors Open Pittsburgh helps showcase these with frequent events allowing you to get inside buildings that may otherwise not be accessible to the general public.

Their flagship event, Doors Open Downtown, features access to dozens of historic buildings in the Central Business District, including some skyscrapers, and offers a fascinating look into some of the buildings you see every day from the outside but may never have had a chance to go in!

Beyond this one, Doors Open hosts numerous neighborhood tours throughout the year, so be on the lookout for more fun tours beyond the flagship, too!

Vintage Grand Prix

Love a classic car? Who doesn't! At the Vintage Grand Prix , spanning roughly 10 days in late July and/or early August, you have numerous opportunities to check out classic cars at many events all over the city including a kick-off rally, a car cruise at the Waterfront, a car display downtown, and a culminating race weekend at Schenley Park that is a must-see event!

The final race weekend at Schenley Park truly is the capstone of this one, because beyond seeing dozens of cars parked on the field, watching the timed race around the roads of Schenley Park is truly a lot of fun. But whether you take in just a single event or hit several during the festivities, you won't be wanting for more vintage car fun here!

The Vintage Grand Prix runs for roughly 10 days each summer, typically at the end of July but sometimes culminates in the first weekend of August. Most events are free to attend; however, some receptions and parties may require tickets.

Do you have a favorite Pittsburgh festival or event? Comment below to share!

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Watch CBS News

Giant venomous flying spiders with 4-inch legs heading to New York area as they spread across East Coast, experts say

By Li Cohen

Updated on: June 5, 2024 / 6:25 PM EDT / CBS News

First came the spotted lanternflies , then the cicadas  — and now, the spiders ? The Northeast U.S. is bracing for an invasion of giant venomous spiders with 4-inch-long legs that can parachute through the air. 

Earlier this year, New Jersey Pest Control warned of the incoming spiders, saying Joro spiders will be "hard to miss" as females have a leg span of up to 4 inches and are known for their vibrant yellow and grey bodies. 

"What sets them apart, however, is their ability to fly, a trait uncommon among spiders," the company said. "While not accurate flight in the avian sense, Joro spiders utilize a technique known as ballooning, where they release silk threads into the air, allowing them to be carried by the wind."  

José R. Ramírez-Garofalo, an ecologist at Rutgers University's Lockwood Lab and the president of Protectors of Pine Oak Woods on Staten Island, told SI Live that "it is a matter of when, not if" the spiders arrive in New York and New Jersey. 

A peer-reviewed study published last October by invasive species expert David Coyle found that the invasive species is "here to stay." The arachnids are native to Asia, but were introduced to north Georgia around 2010, the study said, and are continuing to spread. Experts have warned that the spiders could spread to New York since 2022, but none have been detected – yet. 

"Anyone that doesn't sort of like all the creepy crawly things, this has all of the characteristics that makes them squeamish," Coyle previously told CBS News, saying a  press release  that "data show that this spider is going to be able to inhabit most of the eastern U.S.."

"It shows that their comfort area in their native range matches up very well with much of North America."

People have reported seeing Joro spiders across much of the eastern U.S., including in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Kentucky Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Ohio. New York happens to be "right in the middle of where they like to be," University of Georgia researcher Andy Davis told The New York Times in December. He believes the spiders could pop up across New York and neighboring states this summer – aka any day now. 

"They seem to be OK with living in a city," Davis added, saying he has seen Joro spiders on street lamps and telephone poles, where "regular spiders wouldn't be caught dead in." 

The arachnids are venomous, but Coyle says that they do not pose a danger to humans . That venom, he said, is reserved for the critters that get caught up in their webs, including butterflies, wasps and cockroaches. They could also pose a threat to native spiders. 

"We have no evidence that they've done any damage to a person or a pet," he said.

Li Cohen is a senior social media producer at CBS News. She previously wrote for amNewYork and The Seminole Tribune. She mainly covers climate, environmental and weather news.

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USA TODAY 10Best

10 best places to see fireworks: 2024 guide to summer's dazzling displays

Best Place to See Fireworks (2024) May 22, 2024

Fireworks may not have originated in the United States, but they're certainly a longstanding American tradition. The first 4th of July fireworks display dates back nearly 250 years, and fireworks have long been a mainstay for a wide variety of other holidays and festivities as well.

Beyond being such a feast for the eyes, public fireworks displays are a shared experience that can bring a community together. An expert panel has selected their top picks for the country's most eye-popping fireworks displays, and readers have voted for their favorites. Here are the 10 best places to see fireworks in the U.S. this summer.

No. 10: America's Freedom Festival at Provo - Provo, Utah

A Grand Parade in downtown Provo, complete with floats, bands, balloons, and equestrian groups, precedes the Freedom Festival's annual Stadium of Fire, with live performances at LaVell Edwards Stadium on the campus of Brigham Young University. The finale is the largest stadium fireworks show in the United States.

No. 9: Fair Saint Louis - St. Louis, Missouri

Stars like Elton John, Martina McBride, and Nelly have taken the stage at St. Louis' annual 4th of July weekend party, which is free of charge to attend. The climactic fireworks display takes place above the Mississippi River, framed by the Gateway Arch, in a show that can last as long as 30 minutes.

No. 8: Big Bay Boom - San Diego, California

Billed as a salute to military members and their families in a city that hosts the U.S. Navy's second-largest surface ship base, Big Bay Boom is an 18-minute fireworks display. The spectacle can be seen from anywhere in San Diego's North Bay, including the Embarcadero, the Marina District, Shelter Island, and Harbor Island.  

No. 7: Let Freedom Sing! - Nashville, Tennessee

You'd expect 4th of July fireworks in Nashville to be accompanied by country music, and Music City does not disappoint. Nashville's annual Let Freedom Sing! celebration not only pairs a patriotic party with downtown concerts by established and rising country stars, but also synchronizes its climactic fireworks display with a live performance by the Nashville Symphony.

No. 6: Wawa Welcome America - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

What better place to celebrate the 4th of July than the city where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776? The free Wawa Welcome America festival runs for more than two weeks, starting on Juneteenth and culminating in a free concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The fireworks are best viewed from the parkway between Eakins Oval and Logan Circle.

No. 5: Addison Kaboom Town! - Addison, Texas

Every Independence Day weekend, the Dallas suburb of Addison, Texas, is transformed into "Kaboom Town," with up to half a million visitors arriving to enjoy an air show at the Addison Airport followed by an impressive fireworks display. Visible from anywhere in town, the air show and fireworks can also be enjoyed at a variety of locally organized "watch parties" as well as Addison Circle Park.

No. 4: Minneapolis Aquatennial - Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Minneapolis Aquatennial always takes place the third full week of July. Popular attractions include the Torchlight Parade and the huge Target Fireworks show along the Mississippi riverfront. The display features more than 10,000 pounds of fireworks choreographed to a soundtrack.

No. 3: Concert in the Sky at the Amelia Earhart Festival - Atchison, Kansas

Amelia Earhart's hometown of Atchison, Kansas, honors the aviator during their Amelia Earhart Festival in July. One of the most popular attractions at this weekend fest is the Concert in the Sky fireworks show. Be sure to arrive early to enjoy the entertainment before the big event, which includes live music and stunt pilots flying above the Missouri River. 

No. 2: Ford Fireworks - Detroit, Michigan

The Ford Fireworks show in Detroit is so big that it takes not one, not two, but a total three barges to hold the pyrotechnics. In addition to the colorful display exploding above the Detroit River, spectators can enjoy live music and plenty of food and drinks.

No. 1: Navy Pier - Chicago, Illinois

One of Chicago's secret pleasures is that you can enjoy fireworks at the iconic Navy Pier almost any time of year, including shows twice a week during the summer and when welcoming in the new year with a blast every December 31. In addition to viewing from the pier itself, pyrotechnic lovers can watch the show from charter boats on Lake Michigan, hotel rooftops, Maggie Daley Park, or along Chicago's Lakefront Trail.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chez chesak.

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards...   Read More

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards Production Manager and Social Media Director for USA TODAY 10Best, has a special interest in unique culinary experiences and  off-the-beaten-path adventures. Catherine is the founder of  Her Bags Were Packed  where she focuses on helping  women release emotional baggage through solo travel and self-discovery.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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