Ride to the Top of Mount Washington

Address: 1215 Grandview Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15211, USA

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No visit to Pittsburgh is complete without a ride on one of the restored 1800s inclines to the top of Mount Washington, just across the river from downtown Pittsburgh. There are many excellent restaurants atop this former “Coal Hill,” each featuring stunning views of the skyline, particularly beautiful at night, making it a perfect spot for photography.

Visit the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh History Center

Address: 1212 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

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Phone: +1 412-454-6000

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This former ice house has been transformed into a seven-story museum with interactive exhibits that celebrate over 250 years of Western Pennsylvania history. Encounter how immigrants shaped the region, explore the myths surrounding the Underground Railroad, or climb aboard a 1940s Pittsburgh trolley. Notably, two floors are dedicated to the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, highlighting local sports legends.

See Incredible Birds at the National Aviary

Address: 700 Arch St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

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Phone: +1 412-323-7235

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Just across the Allegheny River from the History Center is the National Aviary, where over 600 of the world’s most stunning birds are showcased in naturalistic habitats. Experience unique species, from vibrant hummingbirds to the majestic Andean Condors, at the nation’s premier bird sanctuary. The Penguin Point exhibit is particularly popular among visitors.

Stroll Through the Strip District

Join locals for a Saturday tour in Pittsburgh’s vibrant warehouse district. Enjoy a rich cup of coffee alongside a fresh biscotti before wandering through this lively farmer’s market-street fair hybrid. Vendors and shops offer a variety of goods ranging from kitchenware to Steelers merchandise, as well as fresh produce and flowers.

Check Out the Andy Warhol Museum

Address: 117 Sandusky St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

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Phone: +1 412-237-8300

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Explore the Andy Warhol Museum, a modern tribute to the pop art pioneer and a comprehensive venue dedicated to the work of this native Pittsburgh artist. Housing over 4,000 pieces, including paintings and films, the museum also features rotating exhibitions by contemporary artists who push the boundaries of artistic expression.

Learn About the World at the Carnegie Museums of Art & Natural History

Address: 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA

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Phone: +1 412-622-3131

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The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History combine two incredible facilities under one roof. With a same day admission ticket, visitors can explore each museum’s extensive collections which include hands-on activities, delightful dinosaur exhibits, and a rich array of gems and minerals.

See Unique Plants at Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

Address: 1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA

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Phone: +1 412-622-6914

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Discover one of the largest Victorian “glass houses” in the country at Phipps Conservatory. Explore an impressive array of tropical plants from historical seedlings to stunning orchids. Children can engage hands-on in the Discovery Garden, making it a fun experience for all. Seasonal exhibits such as a butterfly garden and flower shows attract visitors year-round.

Interact with Science at the Carnegie Science Center

Address: 1 Allegheny Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

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Phone: +1 412-237-3400

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This museum offers more than 250 hands-on exhibits where science and amusement intertwine for all ages. Explore a WWII submarine, enjoy a four-story Omnimax film, or take a ride aboard a miniature railroad that tours Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Visit a One-of-a-Kind “Mattress Factory”

Address: 509 Jacksonia St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

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Phone: +1 412-231-3169

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The Mattress Factory is a unique art establishment located in a converted mattress factory, renowned for its contemporary installation art created by resident artists. This avant-garde experience delights visitors and challenges traditional artistic understanding.

Learn About Pittsburgh’s Diversity

Address: 4200 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA

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Phone: +1 412-624-6000

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Located within the magnificent Cathedral of Learning at the University of Pittsburgh, this space features 24 classrooms that celebrate the culture and heritage of various ethnic groups, showcasing their contributions to the city’s history.

Test Your Sporting Mettle at Highmark SportsWorks

Highmark SportsWorks is an engaging venue adjacent to the Carnegie Science Center, where visitors explore physics, anatomy, and life sciences through interactive exhibits. Test your speed against an Olympic sprinter, measure your fastball, or try climbing a rock wall, blending education with entertainment.

Watch Hilarious Improv at Arcade Comedy Theater

Pittsburgh’s Arcade Comedy Theater, established in 2013, is a quaint venue with only 75 seats. It showcases a variety of improv performances and plays, offering not just entertainment but also comedy classes for those interested in honing their comedic talents.

See a Baseball Game at PNC Park

PNC Park is the proud home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, the city’s Major League Baseball team. Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, this iconic ballpark accommodates 38,000 fans, making it a prime prime summer destination for sports enthusiasts.

Visit the Pittsburgh Zoo

The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium is a unique facility, one of only six zoo-aquarium combinations in the U.S. It houses over 4,000 animals representing nearly 500 different species, many of which are endangered, all situated in the picturesque Highland Park.

Drink Local Beer in an Old Church

The Church Brew Works, established in 1996, is creatively housed in a church built in 1902. This popular brewery offers various core beer brands with fittingly themed names. Visitors can enjoy excellent beer and admire the architectural grandeur of the original stained glass and the building itself.

Try the “Greatest Cake in America”

Prantl’s Bakery has been a Pittsburgh staple for over 50 years. Renowned for their burnt almond torte cake, they boast an extensive selection of over 100 different sweets, ensuring every dessert lover finds something delightful.

Ride Rollercoasters at Kennywood Amusement Park

Having opened in 1899, Kennywood is one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States. The park now features six thrilling roller coasters and a dedicated children’s area with 14 rides. As of early 2019, the park is adding the Steel Curtain, which will become the state’s largest roller coaster.

Enjoy the Outdoors at Point State Park

Point State Park stretches across 36 acres in downtown Pittsburgh, famed for its iconic fountain and historic sites of Fort Pitt and Fort Duquesne. This National Historic Landmark offers breathtaking views and is an ideal place for outdoor activities.

Get a New Book at City of Asylum

Pittsburgh’s City of Asylum is a unique non-profit organization with multiple locations throughout the city. This initiative supports exiled writers and features a bookstore offering a wide selection of international literature.

Try New Foods at Federal Galley

Federal Galley, located on the North Shore, is a food hall featuring four diverse restaurant options and a bar focusing on local craft beers. Whether you’re craving Mexican cuisine at El Lugar or pizza at Michigan & Trumbull, there’s an abundant selection for every palate.