travel leisure pittsburgh

Luxe Adventure Traveler

Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

The Perfect 3-Day Weekend in Pittsburgh

By Jennifer Dombrowski 41 Comments

I grew up just two hours north west of Pittsburgh in Erie, Pennsylvania. That was the ’80s and ’90s and back then there wasn’t much of a reason to make the drive to Steel City. I grew up during the time that Pittsburgh’s steel industry began to implode and the population was leaving. Aside from passing through and a school field trip to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History , I’d never properly visited during my 18 years growing up in Western Pennsylvanian. A weekend getaway in Pittsburgh wasn’t on many Erieites radar, unless you were visiting one of Pittsburgh’s colleges or universities.

When Pittsburgh’s tourism bureau invited me to come discover the city, I thought why not? High school friends wanted to know what the heck I could possibly be doing in Pittsburgh. As comments from friends that had went to college and then left Pittsburgh before the big revitalization started in 2002 began to pour in, I started to wonder myself.

But what I found is a vibrant city with a cool cultural scene. It also quickly became evident why Pittsburgh has been named the nation’s “No. 1 Food City” by Zagat . Add in that Steel City is inexpensive, has loads to see and do and is an easily walkable city, and you’ve got a completely underrated destination for perfect 3-day weekend getaway in Pittsburgh.

Day 1: Kayaks and Cocktails

Breakfast isn’t the big meal of the day in Europe, but when I travel I like to indulge. And indulge I did kicking off my trip to Pittsburgh at Waffles, INCaffeinated where an Eggo drizzled with syrup simply won’t do. No, here the waffles are over-the-top with seven signature gourmet waffles including both sweet and savory.

Never able to pass up eggs benedict, I opted for the eggs benedict savory waffle topped with Canadian bacon, crab, perfectly poached eggs and dressed with just enough hollandaise sauce.

Thankfully I was immediately working off breakfast with a little urban adventure. Kayaking the Allegheny River turned out to be my favorite way to take in Pittsburgh’s beautiful skyline. Kayak Pittsburgh actually has three locations and we started out on the North Shore under the 6th Street Bridge. A gorgeous late morning was spent paddling under just a few of Pittsburgh’s 445 bridges, while spotting some of Western Pennsylvania’s wildlife like herons and beaver.

Also located in the modern North Shore neighborhood is the Andy Warhol Museum . Though I’m definitely family with Warhol’s iconic Campbell’s tomato soup can painting, I guess I never realized he was born and grew up in Pittsburgh not far from where the museum resides today. Normally wandering an art museum wouldn’t be my cup of tea, but I do like pop art and the Andy Warhol Museum is filled with his wonderfully weird creations. Well worth the 90 minutes or so it takes to explore all seven floors.

Venture over to the Strip District  for lunch at Smallman Galley , which is a play on the famous food halls of Europe. Started by two former Navy guys turned entrepreneurs, up-and-coming chefs go through an application process to win one of four coveted kitchens located within Smallman Galley. With unique menus at the four mini restaurants, there’s sure to be something for every palate – or you can sample all four as we did.

The chefs staff their kitchens, but Smallman Galley provides the rest including the educational component of managing your own restaurant. As we tasted small plates from each of the four chefs currently in residence, two told me that they’ve rented space and are opening their own restaurants right in Pittsburgh once their 18-month program at Smallman Galley concludes.

While in the Strip District, swing by Wigle Whiskey.

I probably shouldn’t admit this as someone who writes about wine and spirits for a living, but once you’ve toured one winery or distillery it often feels like you’ve toured them all. Each might have their own special way of doing things, but the process of turning grapes into wine and grains into alcohol just doesn’t change all that much. Wigle Whiskey does it differently though.

First, the tour begins with selecting a craft whiskey cocktail from Wigle’s cantina. With a fantastic cocktail already in hand, I knew this would be a fun tour. What my grade and high school history classes never taught me is that Pittsburgh is the birthplace of American whiskey. Yes, even before there was Kentucky bourbon there was Pennsylvania rye.

We got a very animated history lesson as we toured the Wigle Whiskey distillery before a tasting of their various whiskeys and bitters. You definitely won’t want to miss a visit and though I’m not usually a whiskey drinker, I’m still craving the whiskey cocktail with rhubarb and rosemary-lavender bitters. So good!

If you can find a little more room, pop by the original and flagship location of Primanti Bros . It’s now a chain in Pennsylvania and a few other Eastern US cities, but not an unimaginative American chain. The James Beard Foundation named them an American classic and the “almost famous” sandwich is even a Pittsburgh landmark.

Opened in 1933, Primanti Bros. is famous for their grilled meat sandwiches with a heap of fries stuffed between two thick slices of Italian bread. You can’t leave Pittsburgh without trying one and if you’re unsure what to get, like I was, the pastrami is their best seller.

Day 2: Urban Exploration around Pittsburgh

It’s a good thing Pittsburgh is such a walkable city, because you won’t want to miss some of the tastiest pancakes I’ve ever had. They are Pamela’s Diner’s legendary crepe pancakes. You can get them stuffed with things like strawberries or bananas foster, but I opted for just a plain stack.

President Obama is a fan too. He even took time to tell reporters about them when he was on the campaign trail and visited back in 2008. “Before I answer this question, these really were maybe the best pancakes I’ve tasted in a very long time. Get some take-out,” Obama directed the reporters. “You don’t even need syrup on them. They’ve got these crispy edges. Yea, they are really good.”

Next, head to the Oakland neighborhood where the Gilded Age meets urban campus.

I was so anxious to escape Western Pennsylvania, that I never even considered attending a university in the state. Life sure would have been different and I may have never met Tim if I hadn’t moved to Las Vegas, but touring the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning Nationality Rooms almost made me wish I’d considered attending Pitt.

Thirty classrooms have been curated into national heritage rooms that teach students, and visitors like us, about the good things immigrants brought to America. The classrooms are actively used, but you can tour and see a variety of rooms depending on which are open during your visit. We’ve actually been to all the countries’ rooms that we visited during our tour and it was fascinating to recognize the details that have been incorporated into each of these unique classrooms. There’s truly nothing else like it anywhere else in the world.

Just a few minutes from the Cathedral of Learning is Phipps Conservatory . The rooms and gardens filled with colorful orchids and seasonal plants and flowers are sure to make you forget whatever is happening outside. The exhibits change seasonally and each of the more than 20 rooms have a theme.

My favorite was the orchid room since my favorite flower is orchids. There’s even an orchid that smells like chocolate!

Pittsburgh has 90 different neighborhoods that make up its metropolis and The Strip District is one of the most thriving of them. That’s probably why I just couldn’t stay away.

This neighborhood is full of history; it was here that mills and factories set up along the Allegheny in the 19th century. Immigrants saw an opportunity, opening wholesale shops and restaurants to feed the blue collar workers. And today, The Strip District has remained full of unique family-run businesses with the exception of one chain: McDonald’s.

The biggest problem is knowing which places are a must-try. ‘Burgh Bits and Bites Pittsburgh food tour solves that problem and lets you sample a variety of the best of The Strip District while learning the history of this unique neighborhood. Pierogis, pizza rolls and cinnamon toast were fond reminders of things I grew up with just two hours north-west in Erie, Pennsylvania. And the fun tour solidified my belief that a food tour is one of the best ways to discover a city.

Walk off the food and make your way across the city to the Duquesne Incline . The historical gauge railway dating back to 1877 sweeps you up Mount Washington to the very best view over the city. You’ll definitely want to be here for sunset and if you’re blessed with gorgeous weather as we were, Pittsburgh’s sky will most definitely put on a show for you.

This spot is a photographer’s dream with the city’s colorful bridges and towering skyscrapers serving as a backdrop for the confluence of the Allegheny, Ohio and Monongahela Rivers. As the sun begins to dip in the sky, the once blackened Steel City glistens in shades of gold. And after dark, the city lights twinkle below.

Treat yourself on this last night with a meal at one of Pittsburgh best and most upscale restaurants: Monterey Bay Fish Grotto . As the name implies, this riverside restaurant with panoramic views over the Golden Triangle is known for its elegantly plated fish and sea food, though the menu features dishes for the landlubber too.

All the fish is either from locally or is flown in fresh within 24 hours of being caught. The crab cake stuffed giant sea scallops and lobster mac and cheese are to die for.

Day 3: Brunch with the Owls

Did you know Pittsburgh is home the nation’s largest zoo dedicated to birds? We didn’t either! With open air exhibits, you can interact with a variety of birds like flamingos and finches at the National Aviary .

My favorite exhibit was the Grasslands, where tiny, colorful birds zip all around the room and in and out of their nests. There’s also a baby sloth sure to melt your heart.

The National Aviary also has special events like brunch with the owls or dinner with the penguins and we got to dine with both during our special private visit. Having Golide, an African penguin, entertain us with her cute antics while we had a catered dinner was truly a highlight of our visit.

Where to Stay in Pittsburgh

The Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh is in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh and just a 10-minute walk from the Pittsburgh Amtrak, making it an excellent and easily accessible base for your long weekend in Pittsburgh. Hotel Monaco is a boutique luxury hotel housed in a strikingly beautiful building from 1903 and it has a rooftop beer garden serving Pennsylvania craft beers and craft cocktails with lovely skyline views.

The hotel offers a happy hour with a complimentary glass of wine for guests each evening and other complimentary amenities like wifi and spa water are nice touches.

The large rooms are chic and lively with bright decor. I even got some design ideas, like the painted wardrobe, to try out at home. Best of all, Hotel Monaco is pet-friendly.

Traveling to Pittsburgh

If you’re Pennsylvania or East Coast based, Amtrak is an excellent alternative to getting to Pittsburgh. Parking and traffic can be a bit challenging in downtown Pittsburgh, but the city is easily walkable and well-connected with public transportation to get about during your long weekend. Check out GoTicket for all the train and bus transportation options getting to and around Pittsburgh.

Alternatively, Pittsburgh International Airport is just a 30-minute drive from downtown and serviced by many airlines.

Shop This Post

My trip to Pittsburgh was in partnership with Visit Pittsburgh in order to bring you this story. However, Luxe Adventure Traveler maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. As always, all thoughts, opinions, and enthusiasm for travel are entirely our own. This article contains affiliate links. When you shop on Amazon or book on Booking.com through our affiliate sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Loved this post? We love when you share our content! ~ Jen & Tim

About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

September 24, 2016 at 1:31 PM

Excellent article. Definitely convinced me to visit Pittsburgh.

Jennifer Dombrowski says

September 24, 2016 at 7:40 PM

You should plan a getaway to Pittsburgh! Maybe even go to a Steelers game before the weather gets too cold.

Elissa says

September 24, 2016 at 11:45 PM

Your visit included a whole range of different experiences, by the look of it. I really didn’t know much about Pittsburgh, to be honest, so thanks for sharing all this. And those waffles do look over the top, but yummy!

September 25, 2016 at 1:29 PM

I’m from Pennsylvania and didn’t know Pittsburgh had all this going on! It was one of the best and most surprising cities I’ve been to in quite a while.

Serina says

September 25, 2016 at 12:45 PM

Wow, that looks amazing. I wouldn’t have thought of Pittsburgh as a tourist destination, but it sounds fascinating and interesting..

September 25, 2016 at 1:57 PM

Honestly, me either Serina! So many of my friends that I grew up with wondered why in the heck I was going to Pittsburgh of all places. After following my trip on social media, everyone wants to go. It’s actually a really cool city now. I even thought I could live here some day, which really says a lot. There’s very few cities that make it in to that category! 😉

September 25, 2016 at 4:17 PM

gosh what a lot of amazing looking food. And I never knew Warhol was born in Pittsburgh either

September 25, 2016 at 11:10 PM

We had SO MUCH good food in Pittsburgh! It’s definitely a foodie city.

Rosemarie says

September 26, 2016 at 6:41 AM

I have never had chicken and waffle before but that photo of a pecan infused waffle with maple fried chicken is making me very curious to try something like that out soon!

September 26, 2016 at 12:29 PM

I actually hadn’t either, Rosemarie! Chicken and waffles is a southern dish, but it became a big thing across the US after we moved to Europe. But what’s not to like if you enjoy both waffles and fried chicken?!

Prateek says

September 26, 2016 at 8:32 AM

Love this post! I am a Penn State grad, and love the Steelers hence the city of Pittsburgh is special to me! This post brings back good memories of the steel city and football, next time I ll keep your travel and eating tips in mind!

September 26, 2016 at 12:35 PM

That’s awesome! My dad teaches some computer forensic crime classes at the Penn State Behrend campus and, of course, he’s a die hard Steelers fan. I was really hoping the Pirates would be at home and I could catch a ballgame during my trip, but I did get to peek in to PNC Park. What a gorgeous ballpark!

September 26, 2016 at 6:23 PM

I haven’t been to Pittsburgh. The food looks so yummy. I would try that chicken and waffles for sure. I have to try them out everywhere I go.

September 27, 2016 at 8:45 PM

You would definitely enjoy Waffles INCaffeinated then, Holly!

Evelyne says

September 26, 2016 at 6:38 PM

Pittsburgh has been getting a strong pulse on my radar for the last couple of years, not a place I ever considered before. Your post now makes me really want to go…and eat a lot.

You will definitely eat well and a lot when you visit Pittsburgh! There are so many good restaurants there.

September 26, 2016 at 7:05 PM

Those crepe pancakes look amaaaaazing! What a fun post-it looks like it was a super fun trip!

September 27, 2016 at 8:46 PM

It was a very fun trip!

September 26, 2016 at 9:04 PM

I haven’t been to Pittsburgh in years but I would love to go back one day with my kids! I remember it being such a beautiful city with so many foodie hotspots!

September 27, 2016 at 8:53 PM

Then you would absolutely love Pittsburgh now, Liz! It’s a foodie’s dream and they’ve done so much to revitalize the city. It’s a pretty happening place these days!

Eileen says

September 27, 2016 at 12:34 PM

You had me at chicken and waffles!!!

Alina Popescu says

October 1, 2016 at 11:52 AM

Oh, wow, that sunset shot is amazing! And the food? So delicious that I am hungry now. And I’ve just eaten 😀

October 1, 2016 at 2:08 PM

I was blown away by how much good food there is to be eaten in Pittsburgh! The big western PA cities I remember leaving long ago were filled with the usual chain restaurants.

Indrani says

October 1, 2016 at 3:04 PM

Very neatly described! And if Obama has recommended those crepes then I must be REAL good! Crispy edges… yes very evident in pic too. Love the gorgeous orchids.

October 2, 2016 at 2:25 PM

The crepe pancakes were very tasty! They’re one of those things where you’re full but you keep eating because they are so good.

Christina says

October 1, 2016 at 3:17 PM

You got me with that mouthwatering photo of the pecan-infused waffle with maple friend chicken. I’m sure it’s loaded with calories but who cares, I’m having one anyway. What a great foodie scene. I grew up in Pittsburgh but haven’t been back since I was five!

October 2, 2016 at 2:27 PM

You just have to paddle it off with kayaking afterward! And it sounds like its time for trip back to your childhood roots just like it was for me. You’ll be surprised how much has changed.

October 1, 2016 at 3:13 PM

The Monterey fish grill looks pretty awesome. I’m a big fan of getting high above a city and also love fish so this would definitely be on my itinerary

October 2, 2016 at 2:26 PM

Monterey Bay Fish Grotto was delicious! It’s perfect for a special occasion or just a splurge on your trip.

Toni Broome says

October 1, 2016 at 10:39 PM

What an interesting city, I’d like to spend the morning kayaking on the river, it looks so still and the city around it is so pretty. The National aviary looks interesting too, we like to see the wildlife when we travel and it’s not always possible to see it all in the wild so parks like that are a good option for us when time is limited.

October 2, 2016 at 2:39 PM

You’d definitely like kayaking then, Toni! You can do longer trips that get you more outside of the city where you can see some of Western PA’s wildlife. We did see a lot of ducks and a heron while kayaking within the city.

Natasha Amar says

October 2, 2016 at 11:59 AM

Pittsburgh looks like it has a lot to do to keep you busy for a few days. I love the idea of an Andy Warhol Museum and the food at Primanti Bros looks delicious!

October 2, 2016 at 2:45 PM

The Warhol Museum is a lot of fun and they have a great gift shop. And that Primanti Bro sandwich was just so tasty! Those sandwiches would have made the perfect end-of-a-night-out snack when I was in college. Good thing I didn’t go to Pitt or my freshman 15 would have been more like a freshman 50.

Mar Pages says

October 3, 2016 at 7:53 AM

Great article, seems so enjoyable to be spending days out in this city. I’m a fan of walking around the city so adding this one on my to-go city list! Looks like it will be a lovely place to live in as well!

October 4, 2016 at 10:56 AM

Pennsylvania winters can be pretty harsh, so I’m not sure I could be tempted to move back. But I really did love visiting and hope to be back in Pittsburgh again.

Cristina says

October 3, 2016 at 9:16 AM

That picture of Pittsburg at night is gorgeous. Oh, and the food looks yum. I would love to get myself some of those pocket pie wonders :).

October 4, 2016 at 11:01 AM

I was really surprised at what a great foodie city Pittsburgh is! When I left Pennsylvania, it was mostly family run Italian pizza and sub type shops and chain restaurants. And my dad really appreciates good food, so we tried a lot of restaurants when I was growing up. Pittsburgh upped the ante in the last decade!

Natasha says

October 3, 2016 at 10:29 AM

I love your photos of Pittsburgh at night! I’ve only been there once on a family reunion and couple years back and we had great food and a fun night out. It’s quite the lovely city in the US!

October 4, 2016 at 11:02 AM

Thank you! I carried my tripod in hopes of having time to get a night shot and it paid off. Tim is usually the photographer, so I’m pretty proud of my night shot too.

Christopber says

October 3, 2016 at 2:42 PM

You had me at chicken and waffles ? Great post! Oh and those cocktails look so good too!!!

October 4, 2016 at 11:03 AM

The glorious cocktails we had! Yum! I had to go home and detox!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Watch CBS News

Pittsburgh ranked among top 50 best places to travel in 2023

November 18, 2022 / 1:50 AM EST / CBS Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Pittsburgh is getting accolades as one of the best places to visit.

Travel + Leisure just came out with a list of the 50 best places to travel in 2023 -- and they have Pittsburgh under the category of Big City Thrills.

They mention the Moonshot Museum on the North Side, the Carnegie Museum of Art's international exhibition, and the August Wilson Museum.

The ranking also mentions several new hotels and bars, including the Bottle Rocket Social Hall. 

Featured Local Savings

More from cbs news.

Cooler temperatures will stick around today in the Pittsburgh area, but a warmup is on the way

Pittsburgh has not turned on its public water fountains. Here's why.

Temperatures today will be cooler than normal throughout the Pittsburgh area

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson surprises kids from Boys and Girls Club of Western Pennsylvania

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

Museums to Visit

Food to Try

Top Restaurants

Best Breweries

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Pittsburgh: The Complete Guide

Pittsburgh is much more than a city with a beautiful skyline. Its friendly people have a strong sense of heritage and strong ties to their hometown. When its steel mills closed, they transformed Pittsburgh into a center for research and robotics, and that innovation has led to ongoing redevelopment that continues to attract young professionals, families, and tech companies such as Google, Uber, Amazon, and Facebook.

With its three rivers, Victorian architecture, green spaces, eco-friendly buildings, and 446 bridges connecting the neighborhoods  , Pittsburgh’s revival makes the city well worth a visit.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Summer and early fall months (June to September) are the most comfortable in Pittsburgh, when temperatures typically range from the low 60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (16 to 29 degrees C).
• Language: English
• Currency: U.S. Dollar
• Getting Around : zTrip, Uber and Lyft taxis all serve Pittsburgh International Airport; a one-way fare to Downtown is about $40. Or, take the Airport Flyer (28X) bus from the airport to Downtown, where more than 80 light rail and bus routes serve the business district. One-way Port Authority fares are $2.50 with a ConnectCard and $2.75 with cash. Protected bike lanes, riverfront trails, and a bike share program make cycling in the city easy.
• Travel Tip: Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation offers six free self-guided walking tours you can download. The free, quarterly Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District takes you to several Downtown arts and entertainment sites.

Things to Do

With public parks, cool events and festivals, and a varied music scene, Pittsburgh is more than a foodie destination (though the restaurants are fantastic). And then there are the championship sports teams: the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. The rivers and hills provide beautiful views, starting with the sight of the city as you come through the Fort Pitt Tunnel. Downtown’s Market Square has outdoor tables and sometimes live music while the unparalleled Strip District has shops, restaurants, breweries, and “Robotics Row,” where tech companies have settled. Pick a neighborhood to walk through and visit a bar or diner to feel Pittsburgh’s charm.

• From April to October, Schenley Park has $2 rides on the PNC Carousel , a Victorian-style merry-go-round with pipe organ music. The 456-acre park is also home to Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens , and welcomes the Vintage Grand Prix in July.
• Learn about the industry that gave Pittsburgh its nickname “Steel City” by touring the Carrie Blast Furnaces . In September, the site hosts Thrival , a three-day music festival.
• Gateway Clipper Fleet riverboats provide great views of the city while transporting you to PNC Park or Heinz Field . Or take a longer dining or sightseeing cruise and really enjoy the views. 

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the top 10 museums in Pittsburgh , the best things to do , and 12 great day trips to take from the city.

What to Eat and Drink 

Pittsburgh is a shot and a beer town. It's a place where people put French fries on their sandwiches and salads, and loudly cheer on the Steelers and Penguins in front of big-screen TVs at bars. But it also has farm-to-table restaurants started by chefs such as Kevin Sousa’s Superior Motors , eateries with seasonal dishes like Bitter Ends Garden Luncheonette , and fine dining establishments such as Whitfield at Ace Hotel. In fact, seven Pittsburgh restaurants and chefs were 2019 James Beard Awards finalists.   Looking for a plant-based menu? Try Apteka for 100 percent vegan European cuisine.

The city has a lot of bars, from neighborhood joints to cocktail lounges to nightclubs where you can dress up and dance. If you'd rather learn about what you're drinking, visit one of the city's craft breweries with the help of Pittsburgh Brewers Guild . This region played an important role in the Whiskey Rebellion, so if you drink spirits pay a visit Wigle Whiskey , Maggie’s Farm Rum , or Kingfly Spirits .

Explore our articles on the best restaurants , the best breweries , and 10 foods you must try in Pittsburgh.

Where to Stay 

Pittsburgh’s comeback brought bed and breakfasts and boutique hotels, some in mansions that give you a real feel for the city’s history. Several hotels in the East End neighborhoods of Shadyside, Squirrel Hill and East Liberty are in restored buildings like the Mansions on Fifth —a historic building that was home to powerful Pittsburghers—or Ace Hotel , a former YMCA.

The North Side of the city is home to two stadiums, plenty of restaurants, and neighborhoods with restored rowhouses. It also hosts the free, three-day Deutschtown Music Festival in July. There are plenty of hotels in the area to choose from that keeps you close to the athletic and culinary action. Downtown has plenty of hotels to choose from and keeps you close to Point State Park, museums, art galleries, and bike lanes make it easy to explore on two wheels.

Explore the top Pittsburgh neighborhoods you can stay in and our picks for hotels.

Getting There 

Pittsburgh International Airport has nonstop flights on 14 airlines to many U.S. cities and a few international destinations and more than 9.7 million people passed through the airport in 2020.   You can rent a car, take a shuttle to Downtown, or book a cab, Uber, or Lyft. The Greyhound station is located Downtown, at the edge of the Strip District, as is the Amtrak station .

Money-Saving Tips 

• Check your email on your smartphone or open your laptop anywhere Downtown and you’ll be connected to the internet for two hours via free WiFi. Many establishments around the city also offer free connections.
• Parking is free Downtown on Sundays and during the holiday shopping season. Public transportation on the T light rail is free in the Downtown-North Shore loop.
• Free walking tours let you admire public art and architecture in Downtown and in Oakland.
• Pittsburgh’s well-kept parks have many riverfront trails where you can enjoy the outdoors for little or no cost. There is also Frick Environmental Center , and Allegheny Observatory , which are also free to visit.
• If you visit during November and December, visit the Peoples Gas Holiday Market in Market Square. It's modeled after the German Christkindlmarkts, with vendors in chalets.

Senator John Heinz History Center. "Pittsburgh: The City of Bridges." May 5, 2017.

James Beard Foundation. "The 2019 James Beard Award Semifinalists." February 27, 2019

Allegheny County Airport Authority. "Pittsburgh International Airport Summary of Airline Traffic December 2019." December 2019.

Getting Around Pittsburgh: Guide to Public Transportation

Your Trip to Denver: The Complete Guide

Point State Park: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Columbus: The Complete Guide

Charlotte Guide: Planning Your Trip

Trips to Chicago: A Complete Guide

Your Trip to Richmond: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit Pittsburgh

Your Trip to San Diego: The Complete Guide

Your Guide to Pittsburgh Neighborhoods

Getting Around Seattle: Guide to Public Transportation

Your Trip to Memphis: The Complete Guide

San Antonio Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to Boston: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to St. Louis: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Savannah: The Complete Guide

• GET EMAIL ALERTS
•   Weather

Search location by ZIP code

Travel + leisure names pittsburgh in its top 50 international travel destinations.

"Forget the notion that Steel City is just a town for football and factories," the site said about Pittsburgh.

• Copy Link Copy {copyShortcut} to copy Link copied!

GET LOCAL BREAKING NEWS ALERTS

The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

We've always known that Pittsburgh is a special place to visit. Yet another major publication agrees.

Travel + Leisure has recently listed Pittsburgh among its "50 Best Places to Travel in 2023."

"The metropolis is working on new cultural destinations that can’t be missed," wrote Tim Latterner for the site.

The article mentioned the recently opened Moonshot Museum , the Carnegie Museum of Art 's 58th Carnegie International Exhibition, and the August Wilson House among the sites and events to see in Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh was listed among Travel + Leisure's "For Big-City Thrills" destinations, which included Copenhagen, Madrid, and Seoul.

The site has previously listed the Steel City in its top travel destinations rankings, including in 2015 .

The article explained that this year's list was based on where editors said: " they want to go in the months ahead."

We're glad someone is keeping their eye on Pittsburgh.

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?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on July 7, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

• Free Things to Do
• Tours & Sightseeing
• Outdoor Adventure
• Arts & Culture
• Health & Wellness
• Pittsburgh Sports Teams
• Casinos & Gaming
• Film Festivals
• Submit Your Event
• This Week in Pittsburgh
• Annual Events
• Holiday Events
• Halloween Events
• Food Festivals
• Marathons, Runs & Walks
• Pittsburgh Celebrates Juneteenth Freedom Day
• Pittsburgh Black Music Festival
• Hotels & Resorts
• Bars & Nightlife
• Pittsburgh Craft Breweries
• Wineries & Distilleries
• Farms & Farmers Markets
• Pittsburgh Insiders Guide
• Multi-lingual Brochures
• Beyond Pittsburgh
• Transportation
• Explore Black Culture & Heritage
• LGBTQIA+ Travel in Pittsburgh
• Pet-friendly Travel
• College Visits
• Senior Travel
• Medical Travel
• Accessibility Guide
• Welcome Centers
• Downtown Pittsburgh
• Strip District
• Mount Washington
• North Shore & North Side
• Lawrenceville
• East Liberty
• Squirrel Hill
• Monroeville
• Meet in Pittsburgh
• Event Services
• Marketing Toolkit
• Show Your Badge
• About SportsPITTSBURGH
• Sports Event Planner
• Sports Facilities
• Calendar of Events
• Sports Event Attendee
• Power of Sports Economy
• Weddings & Reunions

VisitPITTSBURGH Unveils 2024 Insider’s Guide

Official visitors guide rebranded to celebrate and promote authentic local experiences

(PITTSBURGH, PA) – VisitPITTSBURGH today unveiled its new 2024 Insider’s Guide , a free travel inspiration magazine designed to promote Allegheny County as a convenient, affordable and diverse travel destination.

The Insider’s Guide issues in a new era of travel publications for VisitPITTSBURGH, showcasing the organization’s global consumer brand through elevated design and a refined content strategy that surprises readers with a mix of must-see attractions and hidden gems.

The Insider’s Guide leverages the growing travel trend of localism, as more visitors look to expand travel beyond traditional sights and experience destinations first-hand like a local resident. In fact, a recent booking.com report noted 75 percent of travelers want authentic experiences that represent the local culture.

“The days of traditional sightseeing are gone,” said Bachar. “Instead, more and more travelers are heading off the beaten path to explore less traveled neighborhoods brimming with local culture, authentic flavors and boutique shops with handcrafted goods. Fortunately, Pittsburgh’s 90 neighborhoods make us a prime destination for this type of local-inspired travel.”

This year's guide is organized based on key visitor interest areas to Pittsburgh—from arts and culture and family-friendly activities to food and beverage, outdoor recreation and sports. Within each section, visitors will find a variety of narrative articles, suggested travel itineraries and featured listicles that highlight the best Pittsburgh has to offer from an insider’s perspective.

Use of visitor guides—both in print and online—continues to drive leisure visitation. According to a Destinations Analytics survey, 65 percent of consumers request visitor guides to learn more about a destination. Of those that request, nearly 75 percent deem visitor guides important when deciding where to visit. Most notably, nearly 25 percent of consumers complete a trip after receiving a visitor guide from a destination.

According to a recent visitor survey conducted by VisitPITTSBURGH, 97 percent of respondents deemed the Pittsburgh visitor guide useful or very useful when planning their trip.

“Visitor guides are common across Destination Marketing Organizations, so their use and effectiveness are often studied industry-wide,” said Bachar. “And the research is clear—these travel publications help generate awareness and drive visitation.”

The Insider’s Guide was made possible thanks to the advertising support of nearly 50 VisitPITTSBURGH partner destinations, events, attractions, hotels and more.

More than 70,000 copies of the Insider’s Guide will be distributed across VisitPITTSBURGH welcome centers, events, festivals and via online requests.

“The guide is designed to show travelers that whether it's your first time visiting or your fiftieth, Pittsburgh will continue to surprise you,” said Bachar.

To request a copy of the free 2024 Insider’s Guide, click here . For more on travel to Pittsburgh, visit VisitPITTSBURGH.com .

This site uses cookies to enhance your experience.

Quick Search

Location map.

NEXTpittsburgh

Celebrating 10 years of NEXT

Travel + Leisure magazine dubs Pittsburgh “Cool Town, U.S.A.”

For her article, The Mysteries of Pittsburgh , writer Jody Rosen begins by stating:

Jennifer Baron Events & Jobs Editor

Jennifer has worked at the Mattress Factory, Brooklyn Museum of Art and SLB Radio Productions. She is co-author of the award-winning book, "Pittsburgh Signs Project: 250 Signs of Western Pennsylvania." For 15-plus years, she was co-coordinator and marketing director with Handmade Arcade, Pittsburgh's first and largest independent craft fair. She makes music as The Garment District and is a founding member of Brooklyn's The Ladybug Transistor.

We've recently sent you an authentication link. Please, check your inbox!

Sign in with a password below, or sign in using your email .

Get a code sent to your email to sign in, or sign in using a password .

Enter the code you received via email to sign in, or sign in using a password .

Subscribe to our newsletters:

• The Best of NEXT All of our top stories of the week. Delivered every Sunday.
• The NEXTletter The latest news about what’s happening in Pittsburgh. Delivered every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.

Sign in with your email

Lost your password?

Try a different email

Send another code

Sign in with a password

Read our terms & conditions

2024 Best Hotels in Pittsburgh, PA

Hotels ranked on industry awards, guest reviews and hotel class ratings

Unbiased content created by U.S. News editors

Photo tours of select hotels by local experts

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Discover the best hotel for you:

Fairmont Pittsburgh

Business Center

Fitness Center

Pets Allowed

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh

Omni William Penn Hotel

Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel

Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton

The Oaklander Hotel, Autograph Collection

The Westin Pittsburgh, a Marriott Hotel

Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Pittsburgh Downtown

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pittsburgh - Green Tree

Embassy Suites by Hilton Pittsburgh Downtown

Mansions on Fifth Hotel

Free Breakfast

Free Parking

The Maverick by Kasa

Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh University-Oakland, an IHG Hotel

Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty, an IHG Hotel

Wyndham Pittsburgh University Center

Pittsburgh Marriott City Center

Crowne Plaza Suites Pittsburgh South, an IHG Hotel

Pittsburgh Plaza Hotel

Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square

Ac hotel pittsburgh downtown.

Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown

Town Place by BridgeStreet

Shadyside Inn All Suites Hotel

The Priory Hotel

Travel Guide

• # 3 in Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

Steel City is still grounded by its industrial roots, but Pittsburgh is finally breaking down its blue collar image. A cluster of universities — like Carnegie Mellon and the University of Pittsburgh — inject a refreshing energy into the city. And many artists hail from Pittsburgh, including Broadway star Patti Lupone, the late Pop Art master Andy Warhol and the kid television host "Mister" Fred Rogers. Yes, Pittsburgh is known as the steel industry's main hub, but there's a fresh vibe bubbling to the surface. There are new (and quite tasty) restaurants opening across the city; the museums are bursting with world-class art and regional history; Heinz Field hosts some of the best football games in the country; and there are plenty of outdoor activities along the city's three rivers year-round.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

I Live in Italy — and These Are the Best Beach Towns in the Country

Fun in the sun awaits at these picturesque Italian beach towns.

Laura Itzkowitz is a freelance writer and editor based in Rome. She has been contributing to Travel + Leisure since 2014, when she started as a fact checker before becoming a contributing digital editor in 2015 and going freelance in 2016. She has also held positions as a contributing editor at The Points Guy and the NYC cities editor at DuJour Magazine. In addition to Travel + Leisure , her writing has appeared in Architectural Digest , Surface Magazine , Brooklyn Magazine , T Magazine , The Wall Street Journal , Vogue, GQ, Departures, Afar, Fodor's, Town & Country , Condé Nast Traveler , Robb Report , Hemispheres, and others. When she's not jetsetting around Italy and beyond, she can be found in Rome, enjoying some cacio e pepe or relaxing at home with her husband and two dogs. Originally from the Boston area, Laura moved to New York City in 2011 to pursue a master's degree in creative writing and translation at Columbia University. She also holds a bachelor's degree in French from Smith College. * 10+ years of experience writing and editing * Co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars & Restaurants," an award-winning guide to New York City's speakeasy scene published by Jonglez Editions in 2015 * Contributed to "Fodor's Brooklyn," published by Penguin Random House in 2015, which won silver in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism competition * Contributed an essay to "Epic Hikes of Europe," published by Lonely Planet in 2021 * Updated the 2022 edition of "Fodor's Essential Italy"

Ivan Romano/Getty Images

Italians have mastered the art of the beach vacation. And it’s no wonder why — the country has more than 4,000 miles of coastline and more than 2,500 years of history. Italy’s Mediterranean climate is ideal for the umbrella pines, bougainvillea, and jasmine that bloom all summer long in the country’s loveliest beach towns. And during the sweltering summers, the sea provides a refreshing respite. Beach clubs up and down the coast rent lounge chairs and umbrellas for the day or the season. Most have facilities like bathrooms, showers, and changing rooms, as well as dining options ranging from no-frills beachfront shacks slinging sandwiches to elegant restaurants serving seaside classics like spaghetti with clams and fritto misto .

As an American living in Rome for nearly five years (and having visited for more than 10 years before that), I’ve made it my personal mission to scope out Italy’s best beach towns. On hot summer weekends, there’s nothing I enjoy more than escaping to the beach with a book and indulging in a lazy lunch by the sea. I’ve traveled up and down the coast and to many of the islands searching for the country’s best beach towns. These are some of my favorites.

Otto Stadler/Getty Images

Located in Calabria, the toe of the boot, Tropea is nicknamed the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian. Legend has it this town on the Coast of the Gods was founded by Hercules. Designated one of the Borghi Più Belli d’Italia (most beautiful towns in Italy), it has a charming historic center that’s perched on a cliff above the beach. You can join the beachgoers by day and then head up to the town in the evening, when it comes alive with people shopping, sipping Aperol spritzes at the bars on the main square, dining alfresco, and enjoying a gelato.

maudanros/Getty Images

One of Sicily’s most beautiful Baroque towns, Noto had a cameo in the second season of White Lotus . The town’s honey-colored historic center is about a 15-minute drive from the beach, which is lined with beach clubs featuring umbrellas in neat rows, including the swanky one run by Il San Corrado di Noto , a Relais & Châteaux resort in the countryside outside the town center. No visit to Noto would be complete without a granita at Caffè Sicilia , the famous cafe featured on Chef’s Table .

fabiano caddeo/Getty Images

The only town on the small Isola di San Pietro off the southwestern coast of Sardinia, Carloforte isn’t exactly easy to reach — but that’s what keeps it from getting overrun by crowds. Ligurian sailors settled here in the 1700s and brought a bit of the Italian Riviera to this little island by painting the town’s buildings pastel colors and introducing their recipe for pesto, which often appears on menus in the restaurants. The island’s beaches are mostly small coves where lounge chairs and umbrellas are haphazardly set up upon request and little beach shacks like La Tana on Spiaggia Punta Nera serve cold beer, Aperol spritzes, sandwiches, and ice cream.

Polignano a Mare

Flavia Morlachetti/Getty Images

This whitewashed town on Puglia’s Adriatic coast has a picture-perfect bay surrounded by cliffs. You could spend hours wandering the town’s narrow streets lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and gelaterias. There’s something for everyone here, whether you want to splurge on a gourmet meal at the Instagram-famous Grotta Palazzese (the restaurant built into the cliffs) or try the creative seafood sandwiches at Pescaria . The secret is out, though, so if you go in the summer, expect crowds, especially at the tiny beach. A good way to escape them is to do a boat tour of the caves and grottos with Pugliamare .

Fantomas70/Getty Images

About a 75-minute train ride south of Rome, Sperlonga is a seaside town on the Pontine Coast that has been a haven for Romans since the days of the emperor Tiberius. (You can still see the ruins of his villa.) This area — between Rome and Naples — is particularly beloved by Romans for its clean, sandy beaches, calm sea, and charming towns. With its whitewashed buildings, Sperlonga looks almost like a village in Puglia or the Greek islands. The historic part of town rises above the beach below, offering breathtaking views of the coast.

Xantana/Getty Images

The next town over from Sperlonga is Gaeta, which is a bit larger. Gaeta’s historic center feels a bit raw and gritty, with weathered buildings where you might see laundry hanging and potted plants decorating the entrance of homes. The beaches unfurl below the town, with golden sand and aquamarine water. Beach clubs like the no-frills Bagno Arenauta have neat rows of lounge chairs and umbrellas and serve local dishes like tiella , a savory pie filled with octopus and tomato, zucchini, or other vegetables.

Forte dei Marmi

leonori/Getty Images

Tuscany’s most upscale beach town, Forte dei Marmi doesn’t strike you with its overwhelming beauty like Capri, but it has long been a haven for quiet luxury. This is the kind of place where the sidewalks are paved in marble. Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Armani all have shops on the streets off the main square, and at the big outdoor market, which takes place on Wednesday and Sunday mornings, you can buy cashmere sweaters and bejeweled dog collars. The long stretch of sand is lined with beach clubs where cabanas provide shade and beachgoers polish off plates of spaghetti con le arselle (tiny clams native to this part of Italy) and fritto misto with local vermentino wine.

© Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

Positano may be the most emblematic town on the famed Amalfi Coast , but there’s a larger beach in Amalfi. Once a powerful maritime republic, Amalfi is still a hub for visitors, who often arrive at the marina on ferries from Naples, Sorrento, or elsewhere on the coast. Everything centers around Piazza Duomo, where the town’s imposing Gothic cathedral looms over the shops and cafes. To escape the crowds, choose a hotel above the town, like Hotel Santa Caterina (a family-run member of Leading Hotels of the World and a World’s Best Awards winner ) or Anantara Convento di Amalfi, featured on T+L’s 2024 It List .

San Vito Lo Capo

Massimo Calmonte/Getty Images

All the way up in the northwestern corner of Sicily , this popular beach town bears a striking resemblance to Rio de Janeiro, thanks to the tall, green mountain that looms over the wide, sandy beach. Don’t expect to find luxury resorts here, but rather simple beachfront hotels that sometimes have their own beach club. What you’ll find instead is fantastic food, including regional recipes like pesto alla trapanese (a Sicilian pesto made with tomatoes, almonds, garlic, and basil) and couscous with seafood. San Vito Lo Capo is the gateway to the Zingaro Nature Reserve, where you can join boating excursions that let you swim and snorkel in the sparkling turquoise sea.

La Maddalena

Ellen van Bodegom/Getty Images

La Maddalena is the largest island in the eponymous archipelago just off Sardinia’s swanky Costa Smeralda. The island is part of Sardinia ’s first national park, so the whole archipelago is a natural paradise protected from further development. Giuseppe Garibaldi (a key figure in Italy’s unification movement in the 1860s) lived on the nearby island of Caprera and there’s a statue of him in La Maddalena. In the island’s eponymous town, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars. It’s often a stop on boat tours that depart from Costa Smeralda or Palau.

Andrea Pucci/Getty Images

The most famous town on the Italian Riviera may be Portofino, but Portofino has a harbor, not a beach. Located about a 30-minute drive away, picturesque Camogli has a large, crescent-shaped pebble beach with a church at the tip. Along the waterfront are shops, bars, and restaurants like the historic La Camogliese , which has been serving fresh seafood since 1912. From here, you can catch a boat to San Fruttuoso, where an abbey stands right on a small but beautiful bay.

Maremagnum/Getty Images

The largest town on the island of Ischia , Forio was featured in Elena Ferrante’s "Neapolitan Novels" and parts of it still look like it would have back in the 1960s, when the books take place. Ischia has been drawing travelers since the ancient Greeks first arrived on its shores and bathed in the natural thermal hot springs. There are some beaches on the island where people actually boil eggs in the hot springs.

San Vito Chietino

ermess/Getty Images

In the rugged region of Abruzzo , on Italy’s Adriatic side, the Trabocchi Coast is known for rustic wooden fishing huts called trabocchi , which hover above the sea on stilts. Many of them have been converted into restaurants serving fresh seafood. One of the towns on the Trabocchi Coast, San Vito Chietino has a long bike path overlooking the sea and pebble beaches where people relax in the summer. Locals love to go to Al Murè for sunset cocktails and international street food-inspired bites before having a gelato at Pasticceria Rossana Iezzi .

Santa Severa

Marco Scataglini/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

About an hour and 20 minutes north of Rome lies the little town of Santa Severa, where Romans go to sunbathe on the beach in the shadow of a 14th-century castle. There’s a large section of free beach right next to the castle, where anyone can plop a towel down on the sand. Otherwise, you can rent a lounge chair and umbrella from one of the beach clubs, like L’isola del Pescatore , which also has a charming restaurant with blue-and-white painted wooden tables and chairs. Just be sure to make a reservation if you want to dine there, especially on summer weekends.

Vietri sul Mare

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

The last town on the Amalfi Coast , Vietri sul Mare doesn’t draw the tourist crowds of Positano and Amalfi, but it actually has larger beaches. Vietri is also known for its production of hand-painted ceramics, which decorate the public benches and fountains around town. The largest ceramic-producing workshop is Solimene, but there are dozens of smaller workshops and stores selling beautiful plates, bowls, and all kinds of decorative items.

Related Articles

20 Cheapest Places to Travel Around the World in 2024

Find your budget-friendly vacation in the U.S. or beyond.

The travel bug continues to bite in 2024, and data indicates growth in both domestic and international trips, along with a cost increase for hotels and transportation. But don't worry as it’s still possible to take an economical vacation whether you want to travel near or far.

Kayak , one of the world’s leading travel search engines, shared with Travel + Leisure a list of domestic and international destinations for low-cost trips. To determine the most wallet-friendly locations, the company analyzed flight searches from July 2023 through December 2023 for travel during 2024. The top 250 most-clicked destinations with the lowest average combined flight and hotel price were considered, excluding outliers based on certain criteria such as travel restrictions and security concerns. Prices and percentages are on average and subject to change.

With that in mind, here are some of the most affordable places to travel in the U.S. and around the world in 2024.

Denver, Colorado

With an average price of $486 for flight and hotel, the Mile High City features a walkable downtown with restaurants, museums, entertainment, and shopping. Low-cost rail service from Denver International Airport to Union Station is not only convenient, but it also takes travelers to the historic Beaux-Arts terminal, where there’s an array of restaurants, stores, and a hotel. Visitors can catch a major league baseball game in town or a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre .

Chicago, Illinois

In addition to its excellent restaurants, stunning architecture cruise on the Chicago River, and Navy Pier amusement area, Chicago offers museums like the Art Institute and the Museum of Science and Industry . For an average price of $493 for hotel and flight, visitors can enjoy low-cost fun on Lake Michigan’s beaches, the Riverwalk , and Grant Park . Another favorite is Millennium Park, where the gleaming Cloud Gate sculpture — nicknamed “The Bean” — provides a popular photo op. 

Atlanta, Georgia

For an average of $495 for hotel and flight, vacationers can land in Atlanta, home of world-class restaurants and a lively cultural scene that includes concert venues, theaters, museums, and galleries. For a low-cost way to get to know the city, stroll among its murals and street art. You can also explore Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park , Centennial Olympic Park (which commemorates the 1996 Summer Olympics), the Georgia Aquarium , or Zoo Atlanta .

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Kayak’s average of $503 for flight and hotel can be the start of an enjoyable affordable vacation in Minneapolis. A stroll through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden at the Walker Art Center takes you through 11 acres of outdoor exhibits. Browse the 500-plus stores in America’s largest shopping mall, the Mall of America , or on a smaller scale, there’s the Midtown Global Market with food, crafts, and cultural events. Bike, boat, or jog at the Chain of Lakes Regional Park , or walk the enclosed elevated pathways of the 9.5-mile Skyway .

Portland, Oregon

Plan around Kayak's average of $509 for hotel and flight, and you can enjoy Portland’s culinary offerings without breaking the bank when you head for the food carts . When in the Rose City, explore the free International Rose Test Garden , home to more than 10,000 roses as well as great views of downtown and Mount Hood. If you visit between March and December, browse the Portland Saturday Market for art, crafts, and food. Book fans will want to check out Powell’s City of Books , the largest used and new bookstore in the world.

Charlotte, North Carolina

You don’t have to be a car fan to enjoy the Nascar Hall of Fame , where interactive exhibits and racing simulators entertain and educate. Your $512 average cost for flight and hotel will go far with meals at The Market at 7th Street , an indoor food court. At Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden , spend a relaxing day among flowers, fountains, and walking paths. There’s more action at Whitewater Center , which has more than 30 land and water activities, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and more.

Orlando, Florida

For an average of $516 for flight and hotel, you can get to Orlando, where you’ll find there’s more to enjoy than the famous theme parks. Get to know the historic Winter Park area on a cruise among lakes, canals, opulent homes, and wildlife. Rent a pedal-powered swan boat at Lake Eola in downtown Orlando or stroll through Lake Nona Sculpture Garden , an outdoor art gallery set among lush landscaping. When you get hungry, browse and nosh on fresh fruit and local specialties at one of Orlando’s farmers markets .

Tampa, Florida

Walk along Tampa’s 2.6-mile Riverwalk , visit the Tampa Museum of Art , hop on the Pirate Water Taxi , or tour the American Victory Ship . Save on these attractions and more with a Riverwalk Pass , making the most of the average flight and hotel cost of $534. At Armature Works on the river, you can grab a snack, shop, or enjoy the view. Take a walking tour of historic Ybor City, once the Cigar Capital of the World. Today, it's home to vintage buildings and Cuban restaurants.

Dallas, Texas

For an average flight and hotel cost of $553, you'll touch down in Dallas, where you can get a bird’s-eye view of the city from Reunion Tower . Then, head to the Arts District , which is home to museums and Klyde Warren Park . Hungry? Food trucks are there every day, and you might catch some live music or a fitness class. Visit one of the many Dallas parks or experience Trinity Groves for dining, entertainment, and views of the Trinity River.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The historic City of Brotherly Love offers museums, Independence National Historical Park , and public art such as the Rocky statue and Love sculpture for free and entertaining ways to get to know the city. For an average of $564 for flight and hotel, a trip to Philadelphia is also a delight for foodies. At Reading Terminal Market , there’s food from around the world along with vendors selling handicrafts. The open-air South 9th Street Italian Market ’s gourmet selection includes cheeses, meats, and chocolates — fun for both browsing and dining.

Mexico City, Mexico

For an average cost of $673 for flight and hotel, Mexico City offers an exciting getaway with museums, parks, restaurants, and history. You can spend a day in Bosque de Chapultepec , Mexico City’s largest park featuring a zoo, monuments, a lake with pedal boats, restaurants, and museums, including the Museo Nacional de Antropología . One of the city’s most popular museums is La Casa Azul , once the home of Frida Kahlo and now the place to see work from the artist and her husband, artist Diego Rivera.

Toronto, Canada

Both locals and visitors enjoy St. Lawrence Market in the historic Old Town, where there’s fresh produce, handcrafts, and gourmet specialties. But for an average flight and hotel cost of $692, Toronto offers even more to see and do, from lively nightlife and sports events. Browse the street art in the Kensington Market neighborhood, explore the Queen Street West area, and check out the shops, galleries, and dining spots in the popular Distillery District . You'll also want to visit Casa Loma , a 1914 castle in the heart of Toronto.

Montreal, Canada

For an average flight and hotel cost of $705, your trip to Montreal might start with one of the city’s famous bagels. Still hungry? Head to the open-air Jean-Talon Market in Little Italy, which sells fresh produce, spices, chocolates, cheeses, and more. At the (free) Barbie Expo , more than 1,000 dolls in designer outfits are on display. Parc du Mont-Royal is a year-round attraction with row boats on the lake during the summer and stunning city views from the top of the hill.

Panama City, Panama

You can arrive in Panama City for an average flight and hotel cost of $745. First-time visitors will want to see the Panama Canal, and the Miraflores Visitor Center houses a museum and viewing platform. Browse or tour Panama City’s historic Casco Antiguo neighborhood, dating to 1673, with colorful buildings, restaurants, and nightlife. The Amador Causeway features views of the sea and city skyline, restaurants, an artisan market, and places to walk or bike.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

For $836 for a flight and hotel, you can enjoy a sunny escape to Puerto Vallarta. This vacation destination has plenty of free and low-cost entertainment, plus you can manage your budget with an all-inclusive hotel . Stroll along the Malecón bordering Banderas Bay to see sculptures, music performances, and street vendors. Visit the Zona Romántica for restaurants, shops, and the popular Los Muertos Beach. Los Arcos National Marine Park offers swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, gorgeous scenery, and marine life.

Cozumel, Mexico

You can get to Cozumel, off Mexico's east coast, for an average of $846 for flight and hotel, and once there, the beaches are perfect for kayaking, sailing, and water sports. Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park’s marine life and coral reef make it a favorite among divers and snorkelers. The Celarain Lighthouse at Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is popular with hikers who come for the view and visitors who enjoy the museum.

Vancouver, Canada

Arrive in Vancouver for an average flight and hotel price of $863. One of your first stops in the city should be Stanley Park , an urban oasis with a nearly 20-mile seawall, views of the waterfront, walking paths, forest trails, and more — all for free. Granville Island , popular with locals and visitors, features boutiques, entertainment, restaurants, and an indoor public market . For skiing, ice skating, and year-round dining and entertainment, head to Grouse Mountain , which also has a zip line, a cinema, a wildlife refuge, and spectacular views.

San José, Costa Rica

At an average of $904 for a flight and hotel, San José, Costa Rica’s capital, is an exciting destination with incredible architecture, history, parks, and museums. The National Theater of Costa Rica offers tours of its opulent building with marble statues and plush decor, and La Paz Waterfall Gardens , about 1.5 hours outside the city, includes a butterfly garden, bird sanctuary, rain forest hiking trails, waterfalls, and the largest animal sanctuary in Costa Rica.

Cancun, Mexico

Located on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Cancun is popular for its beaches, downtown, restaurants, hotels, and all-inclusive resorts . For an average of $935 for hotel and flight, you can arrive at Cancun International Airport for a sunny getaway. Explore Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá , take the ferry to Isla Mujeres, or find a secluded beach at Playa Delfines. Look for street food and live music at El Parque de las Palapas, a small downtown plaza.

Reykjavik, Iceland

For an average of $943 for flight and hotel, you can be in the land of the northern lights and Blue Lagoon . Iceland is home to the nearly 200-mile Golden Circle , where visitors can see waterfalls, geysers, volcanic craters, hot springs, and Thingvellir National Park . In downtown Reykjavik, there’s shopping and dining along Laugavegur, and the must-see Sun Voyager steel sculpture has gorgeous waterfront views.

For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .