Ultimate Pittsburgh Travel Guide: Explore Attractions and Tips

If you’re looking for a quieter experience that is as beautiful, fun, and vibrant as her more famous sister, Pittsburgh is the way to go. There’s no other city quite like it in structure — driving in through the mountains feels like you’ve passed into another world, greener and more beautiful than the one you left behind. The city sits where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers come together to form the Ohio River, crisscrossed by some of the most beautiful bridges in America.

Beyond the refreshing city design and unique geography, Pittsburgh is home to a plethora of true gems of tourism, shopping, and dining. From the Carnegie Library and Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens to the exquisite shopping and dining in Shadyside, Pittsburgh is a city worthy of your exploration.

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time

Best Time to Go

Like many eastern cities, Pittsburgh is most enjoyable in temperate seasons; spring and fall are exceptionally beautiful and provide ample activities to enjoy. However, if you desire an idyllic holiday experience, Pittsburgh’s winter happenings are worth your consideration. Additionally, Pittsburgh PrideFest makes a summer visit a strong contender. Essentially, you can’t go wrong — anytime you visit, Pittsburgh will have something happening for you to enjoy.

Things to Know

You can certainly get around Pittsburgh via public transportation, but you’ll likely enjoy your visit more if you rent a car. The neighborhoods in Pittsburgh are unique; you’ll know when you move from one to another due to changes in energy, store selection, restaurant offerings, and even home architecture. Sports are huge in Pittsburgh. While there’s no basketball team, football and hockey enjoy massive fanbases, meaning sports bars and merchandise shops are plentiful. For a fun and scenic way to get to the stadiums, consider taking the Gateway Clipper Ferry.

How to Get Around

Trains

Pittsburgh’s light rail system is known as the T. Be sure to pay before you board, or obtain a ConnectCard before your trip. You can transfer between the airport shuttle, the 28X, and the T (or any bus stop) for just $1.00, but remember to inform the operator if you’ll be paying cash instead of using a ConnectCard. Travel between Downtown and the North Shore is always free. You can find a map of the light rail system here. The T is more similar in service patterns to San Francisco or Washington DC than to New York City or London, but all major points are accessible via the T.

Buses

Pittsburgh’s bus system is quite robust, thanks to the numerous universities in the city. Bus stops are clearly marked by blue and white signs. ConnectCards also work on buses, or you can pay a flat fare of $2.75 in exact change, as bus drivers do not carry change.

Taxis

The primary taxi service in Pittsburgh is zTrip. You can use their app or call them at (412) 777-7777 to request a ride. Alternatively, taxis can be hailed similarly to other cities in the U.S., simply by standing near the curb and raising your hand.

Car Service

Services like Uber and Lyft are also great transportation options, particularly in a drive-heavy city like Pittsburgh. Rides are readily available, and you can choose to order a private car or share a ride with others.

Best Hotels

Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel

Address: 107 6th St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: (412) 562-1200

Part of the Marriott family, Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel offers luxury accommodations in close proximity to everything the city has to offer. A top-rated choice for the discerning traveler, the hotel features tasteful, modern finishes, providing a comfortable oasis to retreat to after a busy day exploring.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh

Address: 620 William Penn Pl, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Phone: (412) 471-1170

Built in 1908, Kimpton Hotel Monaco has undergone several transformations, ultimately becoming the stunning turn-of-the-century-inspired hotel it is today. It boasts whimsical, colorful design, along with original art and sculpture. For a truly indulgent experience, consider a stay in one of the Spa Rooms, featuring soaking tubs and park views.

Mansions on Fifth Hotel

Address: 5105 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Phone: (412) 381-5105

For those seeking unique experiences, a stay at Mansions on Fifth is truly memorable. This boutique hotel, formerly a residence, exudes an elegance-meets-coziness charm that’s rare in vacation accommodations. Designed to reflect the Golden Age, it’s a lavish retreat from the city bustle, located near the desirable Shadyside neighborhood and its shopping and dining options.

Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh Technology Center

Address: 329 Technology Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Phone: (412) 621-0880

Hotel Indigo is well-known for its vibrant design and comfort at an affordable price. The Pittsburgh Technology Center location is no exception. Conveniently positioned near Pittsburgh University, it’s a quick walk to Schenley Park and a short drive to the Carnegie Library and Carnegie Museum of Art.

The Priory Hotel

Address: 614 Pressley St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Phone: (412) 231-3338

The Priory Hotel, situated in the heart of North Shore, is close to the Children’s Museum and the National Aviary. Its prime location allows for easy access to various attractions. Originally a Benedictine monastery, the hotel has been beautifully restored, blending modern amenities with its historic character.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Pittsburgh Downtown

Address: 1 Bigelow Square, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Phone: (412) 281-5800

Every city deserves the comfort of a DoubleTree hotel, and Pittsburgh’s location offers stunning views of Mellon Park and a central setting that is tough to surpass. For budget-conscious travelers seeking a luxurious experience, the DoubleTree is an excellent option.

Best Restaurants

Pamela’s P&G Diner

Address: 5527 Walnut St, Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Phone: (412) 683-1003

Pamela’s Diner is a beloved institution in Pittsburgh, known for its delicious offerings at multiple locations. The Shadyside location is a fantastic start to a day filled with shopping, sightseeing, and adventure. Don’t miss Pamela’s iconic breakfast crepes.

Fish Nor Fowl

Address: 5523 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Phone: (412) 460-4644

Highland Park’s Fish Nor Fowl provides an upscale, contemporary American dining experience led by chef Richard DeShantz. Renowned for their house-made pasta and delectable rib-eye, reservations are recommended due to its popularity.

Sly Fox Taphouse

Address: 300 Liberty Avenue, Suite 100, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: (412) 586-7474

Sly Fox Brewery is a local gem, and their new taphouse in Pittsburgh offers an impressive beer selection alongside a fantastic pub-style menu featuring hearty and rustic options.

Bitter Ends Luncheonette

Address: 4613 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224

Bitter Ends Luncheonette is a small, locally-sourced favorite among residents. While they do not maintain a phone line, grab-and-go boxes are available at various local markets, alongside a daily full menu. All ingredients are locally sourced, with farm partners listed on their website.

2 Sisters 2 Sons

Address: 1882 Main St., Pittsburgh, PA 15215
Phone: (412) 203-5658

The go-to Caribbean and Jamaican spot in Pittsburgh, 2 Sisters 2 Sons offers mouthwatering jerk chicken and plantains for an unbeatable price. Featuring generous portions and authentic recipes, it’s a must-try for any visitor.

The Church Brew Works

Address: 3525 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Phone: (412) 688-8200

The Church Brew Works is indeed a repurposed church, now serving pizza, bratwurst, and beer. Dining here is a unique experience, offering the rare pleasure of enjoying excellent bratwurst while seated beneath beautiful stained glass.

Things to Do

Pittsburgh Fringe Festival

Pittsburgh boasts a thriving art scene with numerous options for art-loving visitors. The Fringe Festival usually spans 3 days in early May, offering a packed schedule of local, national, and international art, film, and performance installations.

Art All Night

This 22-hour marathon of multi-disciplinary art installations is a whirlwind event, showcasing creations and performances by hundreds of emerging artists.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

Address: 7370 Baker Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Phone: (412) 665-3640

As with many of the city’s attractions, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium emphasizes conservation and education. The sprawling zoo features several endangered species. If your child (or you!) falls in love with any of the animals, consider an adoption option for a year to help support the zoo’s conservation efforts.

Carnegie Museum & Library

Address: 4400 Forbes Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Phone: (412) 622-3131

Libraries are often overlooked during trips, but the main branch of the Carnegie Library is too special to miss. It features an excellent collection of art and history and frequently hosts community events. Additionally, the building includes windows between the library and the museum — allowing for a unique view of dinosaurs while browsing for books.

National Aviary

Address: 700 Arch St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

As one of only eight aviaries in the U.S., the National Aviary offers stunning habitats and showcases bird species from around the globe. They host animal encounters with birds and small animals for those wishing to get up close to their favorites.

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden

Address: 799 Pinkerton Run Road, Oakdale, PA 15071
Phone: (412) 444-4464

Set on nearly 500 acres, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden focuses on conservation through land and water revitalization. Visiting the garden is not only a delightful experience but also contributes to its mission.

Shopping

Station Square

Address: 100 West Station Square Drive, Suite 1900, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Phone: (800) 859-8959

Home to the famous Grand Concourse Restaurant, Station Square is a waterfront shopping destination featuring an indoor/outdoor mall with shops, restaurants, and a riverfront walkway offering views of the Downtown Pittsburgh skyline. It is easily accessed via ferry, making it a must-see when in Pittsburgh.

Fifth Avenue Place

Address: 120 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: (412) 456-7800

Located in Downtown Pittsburgh, Fifth Avenue Place is designed as an indoor/outdoor plaza reminiscent of a European arcade. It includes a Food Court and various thoughtful amenities, providing a lovely shopping experience close to many hotels and transport points.

Walnut Street in Shadyside

Take a leisurely stroll down Walnut Street, recognized as the crown jewel of Shadyside. This charming neighborhood features a diverse array of boutique shops and well-known chains, offering everything from clothing to unique gifts and art galleries.

SouthSide Works

Address: 424 S 27th St #300, Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Phone: (412) 710-7220

SouthSide Works is an engaging riverfront “lifestyle center” located in the historic Southside district. In addition to a vibrant residential community, this area features a cinema and several restaurants, making it a great spot for top-tier shopping. After shopping, take a relaxing walk along South Shore Riverside Park, which is conveniently nearby.

South Hills Village

Address: 301 S Hills Vlg, Pittsburgh, PA 15241

This chic mall is a testament to modern shopping and pays homage to the height of mall culture. With a wide variety of shops, you can find anything from books and clothing to unique gifts — catering to both big chain stores and local venues.

White Whale Bookstore

Address: 4754 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224
Phone: (412) 224-2847

This community-oriented independent bookstore hosts events for all ages while offering a carefully curated selection of books, making it easy to get lost in their stacks. Purchasing books here supports local artists and writers, with part of their proceeds going towards community events and online writing workshops.

Neighborhoods to Know

Shadyside: One of Pittsburgh’s most sought-after neighborhoods, Shadyside is renowned for its shopping and vibrant nightlife. You could feasibly spend an entire weekend exploring its offerings without visiting the same shop twice. The mix of industrial-era rustic charm with modern flair creates a pleasant and enjoyable neighborhood experience.

Mount Washington: For breathtaking views, Mount Washington is a must-visit. Enjoy a delectable meal along Restaurant Row and then head to the Grand Overlook for a panoramic vista of the city. The area also features several parks, ideal for those seeking a leisurely hike along the trails of Emerald View Park.

South Side: Pittsburgh’s South Side features two distinctive areas: the South Side Flats and the South Side Slopes. The residential slopes are home to scenic steep streets with public staircases, while the flats boast one of the largest Victorian main streets in the U.S. The SouthSide Works district offers excellent shopping opportunities.

Squirrel Hill North: Home to Carnegie Mellon and Chatham Universities, Squirrel Hill North is characterized by its lively environment filled with college students. It boasts affordable dining options, independent clothing boutiques, and diverse bookstores. Explore the Murray Hill Historic District for stunning, centuries-old Victorian homes or enjoy a peaceful hike in Frick Park.

Squirrel Hill South: Nestled between Schenley and Frick Parks, Squirrel Hill South is a multicultural community with a rich selection of Asian foods and markets. In winter, explore Schenley Park’s ice skating rink, while at any time of year, visitors can enjoy the parks and delicious offerings from Indian, Turkish, and Asian eateries.

Strip District: This eclectic neighborhood along the Allegheny River is filled with gourmet markets, upscale dining, casual sandwich shops, the Pittsburgh Opera, and a sports museum. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and numerous hidden gem shops, it’s a favored stop for tourists.

Weather

Pittsburgh generally enjoys pleasant weather with few extremes. The city’s mountains and rivers protect it from strong winds and storms, leading to relatively mild climate conditions. Although snow and rain are common, as with any northern city, you won’t find yourself snowed in or facing flooding troubles.

Spring in Pittsburgh is delightful but slightly cool, with average temperatures ranging from 33-72°F.

Summer is typically the rainy season, yet it remains comfortable, with average temperatures from 60-83°F.

Fall is beautiful, with average temperatures from 37-75°F, showcasing the city’s stunning colors.

While winter can bring rain and occasional freezing temperatures, Pittsburgh’s overall climate is more temperate than other nearby cities, with average winter temperatures ranging from 20-51°F.

Apps to Download

Go Mobile PGH: Pay for parking from your vehicle, a restaurant, or an activity.

zTrip: Easily hail cabs from anywhere and track your ride’s arrival.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium: Enjoy an interactive map, exclusive games, and educational opportunities as you explore the Zoo and Aquarium.

OpenTable: Make restaurant reservations and preview menus.