25 Best Things To Do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—a city once defined by steel and smokestacks—has transformed into one of America’s most captivating cultural hubs. With its signature skyline framed by bridges and rivers, Pittsburgh seamlessly blends its industrial roots with cutting-edge innovation, arts, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re drawn by history, sports, or scenic beauty, there’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with this city.
Nicknamed the “City of Bridges,” Pittsburgh boasts a skyline that dazzles at every angle, best admired from one of its historic inclines. But it’s not just about the views—it’s a city alive with creativity and character. World-class museums, iconic sports venues, quirky neighborhoods, and inventive cuisine are all part of what makes the Steel City unforgettable.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the 25 best things to do in Pittsburgh. From must-see landmarks and family-friendly outings to offbeat gems and foodie havens, this list is your all-access pass to experiencing the very best of this dynamic city.
1. Duquesne Incline
For a breathtaking introduction to Pittsburgh, start with the Duquesne Incline. This historic cable car, operating since 1877, climbs the steep slopes of Mount Washington to deliver what is arguably the most iconic view of the city. As you ascend in the beautifully restored wooden car, you’ll watch downtown Pittsburgh come into view—skyscrapers, rivers, and bridges all framed in a perfect urban panorama.
Why Visit
The Incline is more than just a ride—it’s a glimpse into Pittsburgh’s past. Originally built to carry workers up and down the hills, it now serves tourists and locals alike. At the top, a small museum offers insight into the history of Pittsburgh’s incline system and the city’s industrial era.
What to Expect
Once at the summit, head to the observation deck for postcard-worthy photos. The area is also home to several romantic restaurants with stunning views, making it a great place for a sunset dinner. It’s affordable, unique, and a must-do for first-time visitors.
2. Mount Washington
Mount Washington isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a destination in itself. This ridge offers the best panoramic views of Pittsburgh and is home to upscale restaurants, charming residential streets, and some of the city’s best sunset spots.
Scenic Overlooks
Stretching along Grandview Avenue are several overlooks that give visitors unobstructed views of the Pittsburgh skyline, especially beautiful at night when the city lights reflect on the rivers. These spots are perfect for photos, proposals, or just quiet contemplation.
Dining with a View
Mount Washington also boasts a number of high-end restaurants like Monterey Bay Fish Grotto and LeMont, which pair gourmet dining with unforgettable vistas. For something more casual, there are local cafes and bars offering great food and ambiance.
Easy Access
Visitors can reach Mount Washington via either the Duquesne Incline or the Monongahela Incline, both providing a scenic and fun ascent. For drivers, there’s ample parking and several walking paths to explore.
3. Point State Park
Located at the strategic meeting point of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, Point State Park is both a historical site and a peaceful green space in the middle of the city. It’s where the city began—and today, it’s where locals go to unwind.
Historical Significance
The park is home to the Fort Pitt Museum and outlines of the original Fort Duquesne and Fort Pitt. These exhibits detail Pittsburgh’s colonial-era roots and its pivotal role in the French and Indian War. It’s a compelling stop for history buffs and families alike.
Fountain & River Views
The park’s centerpiece is the iconic fountain that jets water 150 feet into the air. It’s surrounded by grassy lawns perfect for picnics, sunbathing, or tossing a frisbee. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail runs through the park, making it popular for biking and jogging.
Events and Activities
Throughout the year, the park hosts festivals, concerts, and fireworks displays, especially around the Fourth of July. It’s a place that blends natural beauty with civic pride, ideal for both relaxation and celebration.
4. Carnegie Museum of Art
Founded by industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie in 1895, the Carnegie Museum of Art stands as a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s cultural landscape. It’s not only one of the oldest fine arts museums in the United States, but also one of the most forward-thinking—featuring a rich mix of classical and contemporary works.
Diverse Collections
The museum is known for its impressive collection of American and European art, including pieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Winslow Homer. It also houses extensive decorative arts, photography, and architectural drawings, offering something for every art lover.
Contemporary Focus
Unlike many traditional museums, the Carnegie places a strong emphasis on contemporary artists, regularly hosting rotating exhibitions that highlight global issues and emerging talents. The museum also organizes the Carnegie International, one of the oldest and most prestigious surveys of contemporary art in the world.
A Cultural Day Out
Located in the Oakland neighborhood and connected to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, visitors can enjoy a two-for-one experience. The surrounding area is walkable, filled with cafés, gardens, and university landmarks—perfect for a cultured day in the city.
5. Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Sharing space with the art museum, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History is one of the premier institutions of its kind in the country. From towering dinosaur skeletons to Native American artifacts and mineral collections, this museum sparks awe and curiosity in visitors of all ages.
Dinosaurs and Paleontology
The museum’s crowning jewel is its Dinosaurs in Their Time exhibit—featuring fully assembled skeletons in scientifically accurate poses. It’s one of the only places in the world where you can walk through a Mesozoic landscape and see fossils placed in the context of their environments.
Cultural and Environmental Exhibits
Beyond dinosaurs, the museum offers deep dives into ancient Egypt, wildlife dioramas, geology, and the history of indigenous cultures in North America. Each exhibit is immersive, educational, and designed to appeal to both children and adults.
Educational Programs
Frequent workshops, discovery rooms, and guided tours make it a dynamic place to learn. Whether you’re a parent with young kids or a lifelong learner, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History offers both entertainment and enrichment.
6. Andy Warhol Museum
No visit to Pittsburgh is complete without exploring the legacy of one of its most famous sons—Andy Warhol. The Andy Warhol Museum is the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist and a vibrant tribute to the father of pop art.
Spanning a Life in Art
Spread across seven floors, the museum chronicles Warhol’s journey from his childhood in Pittsburgh to his rise as a global art icon. It features thousands of works including paintings, prints, films, and rarely seen photographs.
More Than Art
Warhol was a cultural force, and the museum explores not just his art, but his influence on fashion, celebrity, and media. Interactive exhibits and video installations immerse visitors in the eccentric and creative world he helped shape.
Creative Programs
The museum frequently hosts special events, screenings, and workshops that keep Warhol’s spirit alive. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just curious about his impact, the museum offers a captivating and accessible experience.
7. Senator John Heinz History Center
Named after the late U.S. Senator and ketchup heir, the Senator John Heinz History Center is Pittsburgh’s largest history museum and an essential stop for anyone interested in Western Pennsylvania’s past. Located in the Strip District, this Smithsonian-affiliated institution brilliantly weaves local history with national significance.
Immersive Exhibits
The museum spans six floors and features exhibits on everything from the region’s industrial past to its role in pop culture, politics, and innovation. Highlights include Western Pennsylvania sports memorabilia, antique vehicles, and detailed dioramas of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods through the decades.
Special Focus Areas
Unique sections such as the Heinz exhibit detail the global legacy of the H.J. Heinz Company. The “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” display, featuring original set pieces and props, is especially nostalgic for fans of the beloved children’s show, which was filmed in Pittsburgh.
Perfect for Families and History Buffs
With plenty of interactive displays, multimedia elements, and kid-friendly exhibits, it’s a great place for multigenerational visits. The museum’s storytelling approach ensures every visitor walks away with a deeper appreciation of Pittsburgh’s role in shaping America.
8. Frick Art & Historical Center
Nestled in the East End’s Point Breeze neighborhood, the Frick Art & Historical Center offers a graceful mix of art, architecture, and history. Once the estate of industrialist Henry Clay Frick, this complex includes an art museum, a historic mansion, gardens, and a vintage car and carriage museum.
A Stately Setting
The Frick Mansion, known as Clayton, is preserved to reflect the lifestyle of a Gilded Age family. Guided tours offer a glimpse into the opulence of 19th-century Pittsburgh, complete with period furnishings and family artifacts.
Artistic Treasures
The Frick Art Museum showcases Frick’s personal collection of European paintings and decorative arts, including works by Boucher, Gainsborough, and Bellini. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year.
A Tranquil Escape
Surrounding the buildings are manicured gardens and shaded walkways, making the Frick an ideal place for a peaceful afternoon. The on-site café and gift shop complete the experience, offering light refreshments and souvenirs in a serene setting.
9. Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
Located on the city’s North Side, the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh is a wonderland of creativity, learning, and hands-on exploration. Designed to engage kids of all ages, it’s consistently ranked as one of the best children’s museums in the country.
Interactive Learning Zones
The museum features interactive zones like “Waterplay,” “The Studio,” and “Makeshop,” where kids can build, paint, and tinker with real tools and materials. Each exhibit encourages creative thinking and problem-solving through play.
Outdoor and Seasonal Fun
The museum’s adjacent Buhl Community Park and seasonal outdoor exhibits like “Backyard” allow for fresh-air fun. There’s also the MuseumLab, a space for older kids and teens to engage in more complex projects and technologies.
Fun for All Ages
While it’s geared toward children, the museum’s emphasis on design and innovation makes it enjoyable for parents, educators, and caregivers as well. It’s the perfect destination for rainy days, birthday parties, or just a fun family outing.
10. Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
Nestled in the Highland Park neighborhood, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is a year-round destination that delights visitors of all ages. Covering 77 acres, the zoo is home to over 4,000 animals representing more than 400 species, many of which are endangered.
Animal Habitats
The zoo is divided into distinct areas such as the African Savanna, Asian Forest, and Tropical Forest, each designed to replicate the animals’ natural environments. Visitors can see elephants, lions, red pandas, and more—up close and often in action during feeding or enrichment times.
PPG Aquarium
Included with zoo admission, the PPG Aquarium features a wide array of marine life, from sea otters and penguins to jellyfish and sharks. The immersive coral reef tunnel gives visitors a 360-degree underwater view, making it a favorite photo stop.
Family-Friendly Facilities
With interactive exhibits, shaded paths, picnic areas, and a children’s petting zoo, it’s a great destination for families looking to spend an entire day learning and having fun in the outdoors.
11. Carnegie Science Center
Located on the North Shore, the Carnegie Science Center combines education and excitement in a hands-on environment that caters to science lovers of all ages. Whether you’re into robotics, space, physics, or health, there’s an exhibit here to spark your curiosity.
Engaging Exhibits
The Science Center houses the famous “RoboWorld,” the world’s largest permanent robotics exhibition, where visitors can interact with humanoid robots and even play robot soccer. “BodyWorks” teaches health and biology in fun, accessible ways.
Buhl Planetarium and Highmark SportsWorks®
The onsite planetarium offers dazzling shows about space, while the Highmark SportsWorks complex combines physical activity with science concepts like motion, velocity, and gravity. You can ride a zip line, try rock climbing, and experiment with biomechanics.
USS Requin Submarine
Docked outside the museum is the USS Requin, a real WWII submarine open for tours. This hands-on exhibit lets you explore the tight quarters and learn about life beneath the ocean’s surface during wartime.
12. National Aviary
The National Aviary, located in Allegheny Commons Park on the North Side, is unlike any other zoo or museum in the country. It’s the largest aviary in the United States and the only one with accreditation as a standalone nonprofit dedicated entirely to birds.
Exotic and Endangered Species
Home to more than 500 birds representing over 150 species, the Aviary features everything from African penguins and bald eagles to tropical parrots and rare Andean condors. Many of the birds are housed in expansive free-flight habitats where visitors can walk among them.
Interactive Experiences
Guests can hand-feed birds, attend flight demonstrations, or even schedule private encounters with owls, sloths, or penguins. These experiences make each visit personal and unforgettable, especially for young visitors or bird enthusiasts.
Conservation and Education
The Aviary also plays a major role in global bird conservation and rehabilitation, with educational programs, research initiatives, and behind-the-scenes tours that highlight its mission-driven work.
13. Kennywood Park
Kennywood is a cherished Pittsburgh tradition and one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States. Located just outside the city in West Mifflin, this National Historic Landmark blends classic rides with modern thrills, offering fun for all generations.
A Mix of Old and New
Kennywood is famous for its trio of wooden roller coasters—Jack Rabbit, Racer, and Thunderbolt—all beloved for their nostalgic charm and surprising excitement. More recent additions like the Steel Curtain, themed around the Pittsburgh Steelers, deliver world-class thrills and cutting-edge coaster technology.
Family Attractions
In addition to coasters, the park offers a wide variety of family-friendly rides, a Kiddieland area for younger visitors, and water rides like the Log Jammer. Entertainment shows, games, and food stands round out the classic amusement park experience.
Seasonal Events
Kennywood’s charm extends into the fall and winter seasons with events like Phantom Fright Nights and Holiday Lights. These events transform the park into spooky or festive wonderlands, attracting repeat visitors year after year.
14. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
A jewel of green architecture and horticultural design, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is one of Pittsburgh’s most beautiful attractions. Located in Schenley Park, it offers a tranquil escape into a world of vibrant flora and innovative sustainability.
Stunning Glasshouse Displays
The Victorian-style glasshouse features themed gardens and seasonal flower shows. From tropical forests and desert plants to orchids and bonsais, Phipps offers a constantly changing feast for the senses. The seasonal exhibits—especially the Spring Flower Show and Winter Light Garden—are highlights on Pittsburgh’s event calendar.
Sustainability in Action
Phipps is a global leader in green building design, with multiple LEED-certified structures including the Center for Sustainable Landscapes. Visitors can learn about composting, water reuse, and energy-efficient gardening through interactive exhibits and tours.
Perfect for All Ages
With educational programs, a café featuring locally sourced ingredients, and hands-on children’s activities, Phipps appeals to nature lovers, families, and casual visitors alike.
15. Strip District
Once a gritty industrial area, Pittsburgh’s Strip District has reinvented itself as one of the city’s liveliest neighborhoods. This narrow stretch of land along the Allegheny River is a sensory feast—filled with aromas, colors, and sounds that reflect its cultural diversity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Food, Markets, and More
The Strip is home to fresh produce stands, ethnic grocers, specialty coffee shops, and some of the city’s best eateries. Don’t miss famous stops like Pamela’s Diner for pancakes, Pennsylvania Macaroni Co. for Italian goods, or Reyna Foods for authentic Mexican ingredients.
Unique Shopping and Local Finds
From Steelers memorabilia and vintage shops to gourmet oils, cigars, and handmade jewelry, the Strip District is perfect for one-of-a-kind shopping. It’s also a hub for street vendors, pop-up events, and seasonal markets.
Energetic Atmosphere
Whether you’re there on a quiet weekday morning or a bustling Saturday afternoon, the Strip buzzes with life. It’s a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience Pittsburgh’s culture at street level.
16. Lawrenceville
Once a gritty industrial neighborhood, Lawrenceville has emerged as one of Pittsburgh’s trendiest and most dynamic areas. Just northeast of downtown, this revitalized community is now a hotspot for art, dining, and independent retail.
Artistic Energy
Lawrenceville thrives on creativity. From galleries and artist studios to murals and live music venues, the neighborhood embraces the arts. The monthly “Unblurred: First Fridays” gallery crawl brings in locals and tourists alike for a celebration of visual and performance art.
Dining and Nightlife
Lawrenceville’s food scene is a standout, offering a blend of rustic pubs, gourmet restaurants, and quirky cafés. Popular spots include The Vandal for seasonal dishes and Morcilla for acclaimed Spanish cuisine. After dark, you’ll find cozy cocktail lounges, craft breweries, and late-night eats along Butler Street.
Independent Shops
This walkable neighborhood is perfect for boutique shopping. Stores range from vintage clothing and vinyl records to home goods and locally made products. It’s a great place to spend a few hours discovering something unexpected.
17. North Shore
Pittsburgh’s North Shore is a scenic, walkable waterfront district that serves as the city’s sports and entertainment corridor. Lined with parks, stadiums, museums, and public art, it’s one of the most vibrant and photogenic areas in town.
Sports Central
Two of Pittsburgh’s major sports venues—PNC Park (home of the Pirates) and Acrisure Stadium (home of the Steelers and Pitt Panthers)—anchor the North Shore. Whether you’re catching a game or just exploring, the energy here is electric on game days.
Waterfront Attractions
The North Shore Trail offers stunning views of the city skyline and river confluences, ideal for biking or strolling. Along the trail, visitors will find monuments, playgrounds, and the iconic Mr. Rogers statue, which pays tribute to the beloved TV host.
Cultural Highlights
In addition to sports, the North Shore is home to the Andy Warhol Museum and Stage AE, a hybrid indoor-outdoor concert venue. It’s an area where culture, recreation, and urban design come together beautifully.
18. Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill is one of Pittsburgh’s most historic and culturally diverse neighborhoods. Known for its strong Jewish heritage, international cuisine, and laid-back residential charm, it offers a quieter but enriching experience away from the city’s hustle.
Culinary Diversity
This neighborhood is a food lover’s paradise. Sample bagels from Pigeon Bagels, savor noodle bowls at Everyday Noodles, or enjoy kosher fare at one of the area’s delis and bakeries. The culinary options span Chinese, Thai, Israeli, and classic American diner fare.
Nature and Recreation
Squirrel Hill borders the massive Frick Park, offering access to wooded trails, playgrounds, and bird-watching areas. The neighborhood itself features tree-lined streets, cozy cafés, and several indie bookstores and record shops.
Community and Culture
With historic synagogues, community centers, and Carnegie Library branches, Squirrel Hill is a hub of learning and culture. It’s also the site of meaningful public art and memorials that reflect its deep community values and resilience.
19. South Side
The South Side is one of Pittsburgh’s liveliest neighborhoods, offering a blend of historic architecture, trendy bars, eclectic shops, and a thriving nightlife scene. Situated along the Monongahela River, this area is a favorite among locals, students, and visitors seeking both energy and charm.
East Carson Street
This main thoroughfare is the heart of the South Side. It boasts one of the longest stretches of Victorian architecture in the U.S., now home to restaurants, pubs, art spaces, and independent retailers. Whether you’re shopping for vintage finds or bar-hopping late into the night, East Carson Street is always buzzing.
Dining and Craft Beer
South Side’s food scene is as diverse as its patrons. Enjoy everything from gourmet burgers to Korean BBQ and vegan tacos. The neighborhood is also home to several craft breweries and distilleries like The Vault and South Side Works Brewery.
Outdoor Access
For those looking to balance nightlife with nature, the nearby Three Rivers Heritage Trail and South Side Riverfront Park offer scenic paths for walking, jogging, and biking along the river. It’s a great spot to relax during the day before diving into the area’s evening festivities.
20. Randyland
One of the most colorful and uplifting places in Pittsburgh, Randyland is an open-air art installation and community landmark created by local artist Randy Gilson. Located in the North Side, this vibrant space is a celebration of joy, imagination, and public art.
A Visual Feast
Every wall, fence, and corner of Randyland is covered in murals, found-object sculptures, and splashes of neon color. Visitors are encouraged to explore, photograph, and interact with the space, which radiates positivity and creativity.
Story and Mission
Randyland isn’t just visually striking—it has a heartfelt story. Randy Gilson built it using discarded materials and a vision for spreading happiness. He transformed a neglected building into a neighborhood treasure that now attracts visitors from around the world.
Free and Open to All
Admission to Randyland is free, and it’s open daily with no reservations required. It’s a fantastic spot for artists, photographers, families, and anyone looking for a uniquely Pittsburgh experience that embodies the city’s spirit of reinvention and community.
21. Trundle Manor
For a different kind of quirky, head to Trundle Manor—a one-of-a-kind “house of oddities” in Swissvale. This private museum, curated by artists Anton and Rachel Miriello, is part Victorian parlor, part taxidermy den, and entirely unforgettable.
Bizarre Collections
The Manor’s exhibits include preserved animal specimens, antique medical equipment, steampunk inventions, and obscure artwork. Think Victorian horror meets eccentric curiosity shop. It’s creepy, whimsical, and weird in all the right ways.
Guided Tours Only
Visits to Trundle Manor are by appointment only and led by the curators themselves. Their storytelling brings the collection to life, with tales that are equal parts strange and funny. They also host themed events, art shows, and small group experiences.
A Niche Gem
Trundle Manor won’t be for everyone—but for fans of the bizarre and unusual, it’s a hidden gem that challenges conventional museum experiences in the best way possible.
22. The Church Brew Works
Housed in a restored Roman Catholic church in the Lawrenceville neighborhood, The Church Brew Works is one of Pittsburgh’s most visually unique dining and drinking experiences. It masterfully blends sacred architecture with craft brewing, creating a space that’s both reverent and rebellious.
A Stunning Setting
The interior retains much of the original church design, including stained glass windows, high vaulted ceilings, and the former altar—now repurposed as the brewery’s main brewing station. The result is a gothic-meets-gastro atmosphere that stuns new visitors.
Craft Beers and Pub Fare
On tap are award-winning brews like the Celestial Gold lager and Pipe Organ Pale Ale, along with rotating seasonal specialties. The food menu complements the beer with elevated pub classics, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty entrées like pierogies and bratwurst.
Popular with Locals and Tourists
Whether you’re there for the architecture, the beer, or both, The Church Brew Works is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Pittsburgh’s knack for reinventing the past with style.
23. Canton Avenue
For a true offbeat Pittsburgh experience, visit Canton Avenue—officially recognized as the steepest street in the United States. Tucked away in the Beechview neighborhood, this 37% grade slope is a bucket-list item for cyclists, runners, and urban explorers.
A Challenge Worth Climbing
Many attempt to walk or ride up Canton Avenue just to say they’ve done it. It’s particularly popular during the Dirty Dozen bicycle race, where brave riders tackle Pittsburgh’s steepest hills in a grueling endurance event.
Quick Visit, Lasting Impression
While it’s not a traditional attraction, Canton Avenue’s uniqueness and Instagrammable challenge make it a fun and memorable stop—especially for those who enjoy the unusual and athletic feats.
24. The Weeping Glass
Located in the Allentown neighborhood, The Weeping Glass is a boutique shop and micro-museum dedicated to the macabre and mysterious. It specializes in oddities, curiosities, and dark art pieces that you won’t find in any typical souvenir shop.
Curated Curiosities
Shoppers will find everything from preserved specimens and antique medical devices to handcrafted jewelry and taxidermy. The store’s aesthetic is Victorian gothic with a touch of witchy elegance—perfect for fans of the occult or the offbeat.
Small but Immersive
Despite its modest size, The Weeping Glass offers an immersive atmosphere. The store also hosts events like storytelling nights, seances, and gallery openings that highlight Pittsburgh’s niche art scene.
25. Three Rivers Heritage Trail
No visit to Pittsburgh is complete without exploring the Three Rivers Heritage Trail. This 33-mile network of urban trails winds along the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, offering scenic routes for biking, jogging, or walking.
City Views and Green Escapes
The trail offers unmatched views of Pittsburgh’s skyline, bridges, and riverfronts. It passes through key neighborhoods like the North Shore, South Side, and Strip District, making it both a recreational path and a practical way to explore the city.
Ideal for All Activity Levels
With flat, well-maintained paths and connections to public parks and historic sites, the trail is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Bike rentals and guided tours are also available for visitors looking to explore more easily.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh is a city that defies expectations—one where historic charm meets modern innovation, and industrial grit gives way to colorful art, green spaces, and dynamic neighborhoods. Whether you’re exploring world-class museums, enjoying local brews in unique venues, walking through scenic trails, or discovering hidden oddities, the Steel City promises an unforgettable experience.
With these 25 incredible things to do, you’re not just seeing Pittsburgh—you’re feeling its pulse, tasting its culture, and connecting with its character. So grab your walking shoes, charge your camera, and get ready to explore a city that’s proud of its past and excited for its future.