Sittings at the crossroads of the Northeast and the Midwest, Pittsburgh has a unique culture that blends these two regions of the U.S! This Pennsylvanian city is known as both “the Steel City” for its more than 300 steel-related businesses and as the “City of Bridges” for its 446 bridges! Plus, if you’re a sports fan, you will love this city as it is home to 3 professional sports teams. There are plenty of fun things to do in Pittsburgh, PA! Check out these top 10 fun things to do in Pittsburgh.
1. Explore downtown Pittsburgh by foot
I’ve always believed that the best way to get to know a city is to explore it on foot, and Pittsburgh is no exception. Walkthrough downtown Pittsburgh which features over 30 skyscrapers to get a feel for the identity of the city. Downtown is also very walkable and safe, and you can walk from end to end within 25 minutes. There’s also plenty of shopping and dining opportunities in the district! While you’re exploring, be sure to stop by Market Square, which is located in the heart of downtown and serves as a central meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
2. Admire the view from Point State Park
Point State Park is a massive green space on the waterfront of downtown Pittsburgh! It features an impressive fountain and the Fort Pitt Museum, which allows you to take a step back in time to learn about the history of the area. It is a great place to do a variety of outdoor activities such as walking, biking, and hiking. Plus, the views are beautiful as the park is at the point where 3 rivers (Ohio, the Allegheny, and the Monongahela) converge.
Point State Park is a lot of fun for all ages and one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh!
3. Take a ride up the historic Duquesne Incline
Riding up the Duquesne Incline was probably one of my favorite things I did in Pittsburgh! Take a seat in the 19th-century cable car for a panoramic view of the Pittsburgh skyline. There’s also a museum up top to learn more about Pittsburgh’s history. I had so much fun taking the cable car up and exploring the neighborhood at the top as well.
4. Cross the iconic Roberto Clemente Bridge
With Pittsburgh being a city with over 446 bridges, you’re bound to find yourself on one at some point! If you’re wanting to cross a bridge, it might as well be one of the most iconic ones in the city. The Roberto Clemente Bridge (aka the Sixth Street Bridge) is a bright yellow suspension bridge named after the Puerto Rican professional baseball and humanitarian who played for the Pittsburgh Pirates. On game days, the bridge is closed for foot traffic only!
5. Take in the architecture at the Pennsylvanian
If you love history and architecture, you’re going to love the Pennsylvanian! The Pennsylvanian serves as a luxury apartment complex today, however, it was originally constructed in 1900 as Pittsburgh’s Union Station. It features a stunning rotunda and the Beaux-Arts architecture is quite the sight to see.
6. Try a sandwich at the famous Primanti Bros
A visit to Pittsburgh is incomplete without eating at Primanti Bros! Order their famous sandwich with fries and you’ll understand what the hype is about. That sandwich is as iconic to Pittsburgh as the Philly Cheesesteak is to Philadelphia. Be sure to bring an appetite as the sandwich is enormous.
7. Eat and shop to your heart’s content in the Strip District
The Strip District was my favorite area of Pittsburgh as there is so much to do and see. This is such a fun area to explore as there are a variety of different types of unique shops, markets, restaurants, cafes, and bakeries surrounded by old converted warehouses. You’ll find all types of places as walk through this district from Italian eateries and ethnic food stands to souvenir vendors and fresh produce markets. It is as gritty and authentic as it gets! Certainly one of the most fun things you could do in Pittsburgh!
8. Visit Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Visit the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for a stroll through world-class gardens! Opened in 1893, this huge conservatory encompasses a 14-room glasshouse and 23 distinct gardens. Plus, this historic landmark is just a few miles from downtown Pittsburgh in Schenley Park.
9. Get lost in the Cathedral of Learning
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first laid them upon the Cathedral of Learning! Located on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh, the Cathedral of Learning serves as the centerpiece of the main campus. It is a gothic masterpiece containing dozens of themed rooms. I felt like I was transported to Hogwarts when I stepped inside the building! You have to visit the impressive tower and take the elevator up to the highest floor while you’re in Pittsburgh.
10. Strike some poses and snap photos at Randyland
Lastly, one of the most fun things to do in Pittsburgh is visit Randyland. It is one of the most unique places I’ve ever been to! The story behind Randyland is even more awe-inspiring. Randyland was created by folk artist Randy Gilson when he had the vision to turn a dilapidated building surrounded by crime into a place of happiness and picked up a brush and paint. He saw an opportunity to create a place of cheerfulness for generations of people to enjoy. Colorful and random objects and murals fill Randyland! You can tell how much love and care was put in by Randy. A visit to Randyland is sure to brighten your day!
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