Pittsburgh: The Ultimate Sports Town
The best sports town in the United States is Pittsburgh. Some would argue for Boston, where championship teams bloom like roses, while others might point to cross-state rival Philadelphia, which boasts the country’s rowdiest fans. However, they’d be mistaken. Pittsburgh, the home of the Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates, has a celebrated legacy of sporting success. Few other cities can boast six Super Bowl titles and five Stanley Cup victories, along with five World Series appearances.
Best of all, for a relatively modest $120-$200 a day, visitors to Steel City can enjoy a vibrant mix of activities, fantastic food, and unique hotels, all within walking distance of major sports fields and stadiums. Here’s what makes Pittsburgh the ultimate US city for a sports-themed getaway.
Top Attractions and Sports Royalty
Pittsburgh is home to sports legends like hockey star Mario Lemieux, NFL Hall of Famer Franco Harris, Pitt legend Dan Marino, and the late Roberto Clemente. In a city rich with sports royalty, these names shine bright among other luminaries.
Moreover, Pittsburgh is renowned for its stunning array of bridges—boasting 446, it has more than any other city in the world. The Three Sisters bridges, including the Roberto Clemente Bridge, span the Allegheny River, creating a beautiful spectacle, especially at night when they light up against the water. Visitors can get a terrific view of Pittsburgh’s bridges from the Duquesne Incline, a historic funicular that offers a fantastic ride up the steep side of Mt. Washington.
Cultural and Historic Perspectives
In the Cultural District, catch a show at the historic Byham Theater, which opened in 1904 and continues to host a variety of dance, music, and film events. Zip across the Allegheny to the Andy Warhol Museum, which showcases the artist’s most inspiring works across seven floors. Additionally, don’t miss the Carnegie Museum of Natural History to see dinosaur fossils and take a relaxing stroll through Schenley Park, featuring beautiful forest trails.
Delicious Dining Experiences
Pittsburgh’s signature dish is the Primanti sandwich, piled high with French fries and coleslaw. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s absolutely delicious. Sample another iconic local delicacy at the Original Hot Dog Shop, where hot dogs pair perfectly with one of hundreds of beers.
Sports bars are abundant in Pittsburgh. Local favorite RedBeard’s Bar and Grill offers 59-cent boneless wings on Monday, making it ideal for Monday Night Football viewing. Meanwhile, Jerome Bettis’ Grille 36, named after the former Steelers running back, features patio seating and a signature burger with bacon.
For the best pizza in the city, head to Dinette, which proudly sources ingredients sustainably, including turnips and Jonagold apples. Finish your meal with a drink at Butcher & the Rye, where whiskey enthusiasts can choose from over 600 varieties.
A Variety of Accommodations
Pittsburgh offers a range of hotels, including the Embassy Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown, Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown, and Fairmont Pittsburgh, all conveniently located in the Cultural District near the Allegheny River, making it easy to access nearby stadiums and arenas.
If you seek something more unique, consider the Priory Hotel, a former Catholic monastery in Deutschtown that provides a free shuttle to Pittsburgh hotspots. The Omni William Penn Hotel, the city’s oldest lodge, features a stunning lobby adorned with breathtaking chandeliers, along with traditional afternoon tea services. The Distrikt Hotel Pittsburgh, with its Gothic Revival architecture, offers modern rooms and was originally the Western Pennsylvania headquarters for the Salvation Army.
Easy Access to Stadiums and Arenas
Heading to Heinz Field for a Steelers game? The stadium offers 3400 parking spots, but fans can also conveniently use Light Rail Transit, known locally as the T, which provides free rides on game days. Those staying in hotels within the Cultural District can easily walk to the stadium. PNC Park, home to the Pirates, is located just a couple of blocks away from Heinz and is similarly accessible.
PPG Paints Arena, where the Penguins play, is just across the Allegheny from PNC Park, close to Duquesne University. You can take the T or use the Port Authority bus, which stops along Fifth, Forbes, or Centre Avenues. If driving, consider Utilizing SpotHero to reserve a parking space near the arena.
