Downtown Pittsburgh, with its sweeping views of the city skyline, charming inclines, and three rivers, serves as an exceptional home base for tourists seeking the essence of this revitalized rust-belt city. However, if you aim to navigate off the beaten path and discover a different side of the Steel City, Pittsburgh’s North Boroughs present a well-kept secret that keeps you near downtown and even closer to some of the city’s freshest attractions.
Pittsburgh is relatively small geographically, yet it features a larger metro area. The North Boroughs comprise four municipalities along the Ohio River bordering the city: Bellevue, Avalon, Ben Avon, and Emsworth. These historic early suburbs are located less than 15 minutes from must-visit attractions in the city center, with convenient public transportation access.
Brimming with Victorian charm and Craftsman beauty, the North Boroughs are anchored by the walkable main-street community of Bellevue. These four communities serve as the perfect home base for your Pittsburgh travel adventures, whether you choose to stay in the boroughs or venture further afield.
Accommodations in the North Boroughs
You can choose to stay in a traditional hotel downtown while still exploring the North Boroughs, where no large hotels have yet emerged. Alternatively, cozy guesthouses with unique accommodations and historic charm await you. For those seeking rentals through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, the North Boroughs fall under ZIP code 15202.
Explore small efficiencies such as The Fremont Suite, which is located just blocks away from bustling Lincoln Avenue, numerous restaurants, and a fresh crop of breweries (notably, Bellevue was dry until 2015). Managed by on-site homeowners Tyler Schollaert and Brant Meehan since 2016, the house also features two other one-bedroom apartments complete with full kitchens: The Bellevue Suite and The Pittsburgh Suite.
Just a 10-minute drive from Heinz Field, Highmark Stadium, and PNC Park (or 30 minutes via a direct bus line), both locals and visitors enjoy staying in Avalon and Bellevue for sporting events, with some units even having hosted a comedy series shoot.
Restaurants
Pittsburgh itself boasts a thriving restaurant scene, attracting notable chefs from larger cities like New York. The cultural district, located where Pittsburgh’s three rivers converge, features many award-winning and unique dining options just a short 10-minute drive or direct bus ride from the North Boroughs.
The North Boroughs, however, are brimming with eateries that will satisfy any appetite. Dari-Villa recalls decades past with its décor, yet serves one of the best burgers in the city. Meanwhile, Thai Tamarind is known for its authentic Thai cuisine and inviting atmosphere.
A newly refurbished eatery, Revival on Lincoln, occupies a 1902 classical revival mansion that once functioned as a funeral home, ultimately falling victim to urban decline. Co-owners Christopher Driscoll and John King reopened the space in 2018, featuring a unique menu that varies with the seasons under the guidance of executive chef Jamie Sola.
As morning arrives, opportunities abound for coffee lovers or those seeking a light lunch. Consider trying Anchor and Anvil in Ben Avon, well-known for their Smokestack Mocha, perfect for warming up following a chilly stroll. Alternatively, Arnold’s Tea in Pittsburgh’s central North Side presents an unbeatable selection of teas. Owner and head chef Claudy Pierre expertly creates a warm, cheerful community space that buzzes with activities, meetings, and catered events.
Entertainment
Pittsburgh offers a variety of entertainment options that are easily accessible from the North Boroughs. Highlights include the Cultural Trust, which presents a dazzling array of plays, arts, and music. Just a short distance from the North Boroughs lies Randyland, an interactive and colorful art space curated by the beloved local artist Randy Gilson.
During the summer and fall, don’t miss the Bellevue Farmer’s Market, which features produce, live music, and food trucks in the picturesque Bayne Park. For enthusiasts of historical architecture, the area offers home tours in Bellevue and Ben Avon, along with a wine and art crawl.
As Theresa Gallick, an organizer of the Bellevue house tour, stated, “We always investigate the histories of the homes and uncover fascinating stories behind various architectural details and even ghost stories at times.”
In summary, Pittsburgh’s North Boroughs provide a fantastic blend of accommodations, dining, and entertainment that cater to every type of traveler. Therefore, exploring this vibrant area makes for an unforgettable experience.
