best places to visit near pittsburgh

33 Driveable Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh to Get Out of the City (+ A Map!)

Pittsburgh is a great city with so many things to do all year. But, sometimes, you want to get out and explore some other places. It’s okay. We understand!

Where should you venture when you want a getaway from Pittsburgh?

There are SO MANY options, all within just a few hours’ drive from the city.

What makes us experts? Well, we both grew up in western Pennsylvania, just outside of Pittsburgh. We’ve explored most of these locations more times than we can count over the years, so we feel great about sharing each of these recommendations with you.

What type of destination or weekend trip are you looking for? There is something in this list that could be tailored to just about any desire. Here are some great ideas for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh .

➡️Just Want The Highlights? Our Top Recommendations:

• Best for Exploring the Outdoors: Pine Creek Gorge ; Cuyahoga Valley National Park ; Dolly Sods ; Hocking Hills
• Small Town Getaways: Lancaster, PA ; Jamestown, NY
• Explore Another City: Buffalo, NY ; Baltimore, MD
• A Girls’ Weekend in Wine Country: Geneva, OH ; Finger Lakes, NY
• History Buff’s Getaway: Gettysburg ; Washington DC
• Best Relaxing Weekend Getaway: Bedford Springs

What Makes a Good Weekend Trip from Pittsburgh?

We think that a good weekend trip requires no more than 4-5 hours of driving . Typically, with those on the longer end of this range, we’d even recommend a long weekend of at least 3 days.

Anything shorter than 1.5 hours could be explored in a day trip , but this list includes a wide variety of locations and distances. Hopefully, it will at least inspire a starting point for your next weekend getaway.

One thing we really like about many of these places to visit near Pittsburgh is that they can be enjoyed any time of the year.

These destinations are all driveable, and for most of them, having a car to get around once you’re there is a good idea.

Compiling this list was seriously tough! It became overwhelming when we sat down to think of all the great places within only a few hours’ drive from the city. Basically, we could have had 50+ spots here with great reasons to visit each one.

Best Weekend Trips from Pittsburgh

Stay in the State of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is full of places to see and things to do. Check out some of these spots, some very well-known and some more off the beaten path.

1. The Laurel Highlands

Drive Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Distance: 70 miles

The Laurel Highlands is a scenic, mountainous region in Western Pennsylvania that’s perfect for a weekend getaway from Pittsburgh.  The drive time is only about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the area offers plenty of things to do.

The star of the show in the Laurel Highlands is definitely Ohiopyle State Park . Discover beautiful waterfalls , and hike great trails like Jonathan Run and the Ferncliff Loop.

In addition to Ohiopyle, other great state parks nearby include Laurel Hill and Laurel Ridge.

Ohiopyle is also a popular whitewater rafting destination close to Pittsburgh.

Book an adventurous Whitewater Rafting Trip in Ohiopyle!

The tallest point in the state of Pennsylvania is located nearby in the Laurel Highlands: Mount Davis. If you’re trying to visit the tallest point in this or every state, this is a must-visit.

During the winter months, we think Seven Springs is a great place to satisfy your winter sports adventures on the mountain. You can ski, snowboard, or tube your way down the mountain.

Drive Time: 2 hours Distance: 128 miles

Erie is a great place to visit for a getaway weekend.  It’s located in the very northwestern corner of Pennsylvania, and it’s only about 2 hours from Pittsburgh! Erie has plenty of things to do and see during every season.

The city has a rich history with ties to Lake Erie that dates back centuries. Enjoy the historic tall ships or millionaires’ row of mansions right downtown.

Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and boating are great ways to enjoy Presque Isle State Park and nearby Erie Bluffs State Park .

Stay for the sunset at Presque Isle and watch from one of the park’s beaches. We think it’s easily one of the best places to watch a sunset in the Great Lakes region .

If you’re looking for some indoor fun, enjoy the Erie Art Museum, shop at the Millcreek Mall, or catch a show at Kellar’s comedy club and magic bar. Some pretty big names have performed on the small stage at Kellar’s.

Have you Pittsburghers heard of Billy Gardell? We’ve seen him at Kellar’s.

After spending the day exploring, visit one of the many great local restaurants. There are so many options that it’s hard to go wrong. Some of our favorite spots include The Cork, BrewErie, and Pineapple Eddie’s, among others. These are just a few!

3. Pine Creek Gorge

Drive Time: 4 hours Distance: 228 miles

The Pine Creek Gorge is the jewel of the northern part of the state. It’s an amazingly scenic and diverse destination. It’s an under-the-radar weekend trip from Pittsburgh!

The star attraction in this region is sandwiched between Colton Point and Leonard Harrison State Parks. It’s the gorge with the river below, known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon .

Hiking, biking, boating, and backpacking are all popular things to do in the area. You’ll want to spend all day exploring and enjoying the many trails and views. The West Rim Trail in the PA Grand Canyon is one of our favorite weekend backpacking trails in Pennsylvania at about 30 miles long.

The area is also filled with small towns, great places to eat, spots for shopping, and outdoor activities like kayaking.

Visit nearby Hills Creek State Park for more hiking and water adventures in the park’s lake. In the winter, you’ll see plenty of ice fishing happening out on the lake.

4. Gettysburg

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 185 miles

Located only about 3 hours and 30 minutes away from Pittsburgh, Gettysburg has a lot to offer, and it’s worth the drive. You’ll find all sorts of things to do in Gettysburg, and it’s a perfect destination for history buffs.

Check out sites like the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and the History Center. Then go out and explore the battlefields for a window into the events that occurred during the Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War.

We learned so much by playing the virtual tour videos from the NPS at each stop through the battlefields drive.

There are also plenty of places to go hiking nearby, including Pine Grove Furnace and Caledonia State Parks. Take a nighttime ghost tour if you’re into the paranormal.

Other things to do in Gettysburg include shopping and visiting wineries! So many quaint little shops with unique items are scattered throughout the streets of the town.

Gettysburg is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a weekend getaway, although you can certainly spend more than just a weekend exploring!

5. State College

Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 136 miles

State College is a great driveable spot near Pittsburgh with a more small-town feel. This university town still offers all sorts of fun for both visitors and locals.

Whether it’s exploring the historic sites or grabbing some grub at one of the many restaurants, there is something to do in State College every day of the week. We always make sure to stop at the Berkey Creamery for some delicious ice cream when we’re in town.

Outdoor activities are popular, too. Wander through the arboretum at Penn State or hike up Mount Nittany . Play a round of golf at one of the beautiful courses. Take a tour through Penn’s Cave . There are even a few spots nearby for afternoon wine tasting.

Visit during particular fall weekends, and you’ll see the town transform. Football games are a big deal in these parts, and people come from far and wide to cheer on their Nittany Lions. So much so, that on these weekends, State College turns into one of the largest cities in Pennsylvania. It’s definitely a sports experience you should have at some point in your life.

On top of that, this small town has a lot to offer when it comes to shopping and entertainment. For those who love culture and art, don’t miss out on visiting any museums or galleries.

6. Benezette & Elk County

Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 129 miles

Benezette is a small town about 2.5 hours from Pittsburgh, and there are plenty of things to do for visitors. This is certainly a more laid-back escape than some of the others on this list.

One of the best attractions in Benezette is seeing elk! Elk roam free on the hillsides surrounding the town, and it’s a great opportunity to see these large animals in a natural setting on the east coast.

Plan this as a fall getaway when the leaves are changing and the elk are in the rut. You’ll be in for a real treat.

Hike the nearby state forest trails, and you might get even closer to them, but not too close! Always maintain 100 yards between you and the elk for yours and the animals’ safety.

You can also enjoy some fishing or take a scenic drive through the area if that’s what you prefer!

7. Lancaster

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 238 miles

Lancaster, PA is a historic and charming area located about three hours and fifty minutes from Pittsburgh. Lancaster offers plenty of things to do for visitors and locals alike, but life’s pace is much slower than that in the city.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities like hiking or fishing, or indoor fun at the museums, there is something for everyone in Lancaster!

In addition to all these wonderful attractions, the area also has a lot of restaurants where you can taste the local flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. You’ll never go hungry here with this delicious home cooking.

Take an Amish Immersion Tour to Learn More About the Pennsylvania Dutch Culture in Lancaster!

Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine is a mixture of German and Dutch elements. These foods emphasize meat, potatoes, cornbreads/biscuits, cabbage dishes with pork or beef sausages; fresh loaves of bread; apple pies; pretzels; and scrapple.

8. The Poconos

Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes Distance: 279 miles

If you’re looking for a more adventurous weekend getaway, the Poconos are a great option! This area is located about four hours and thirty minutes from Pittsburgh.

It’s quite a large area, so you could easily spend a long weekend exploring the Poconos and still not do everything you want.

Outdoor activities include hiking, biking, watersports, and golfing during the summer. Check out the nearby Ricketts Glen State Park Waterfall Trail for a real treat! There are over 20 waterfalls along the trail.

You can also enjoy some time at the casino or take a trip to one of the area’s many water parks. Indoor fun includes visiting the various museums and theaters or simply relaxing at the spa. In the winter, it is a ski and snowboard destination.

A trip to the Poconos is truly an adventure, whether you prefer relaxing or being active. While it is a little further drive, it is well worth the time and effort.

Drive Time: 50 minutes Distance: 33 miles

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Butler County may be just what you need to explore. Although it’s one of the closest destinations on this list, and you might be wondering why it made the cut, there are plenty of hidden gems here.

About fifty minutes or so from Pittsburgh to the north, there are plenty of outdoor activities as well as indoor fun. Hiking is plentiful in nearby McConnells Mill and Moraine State Parks . Sections of the North Country Trail travel right through both parks.

Shopping and dining options give you some variety that is different from the city. A few craft breweries, wineries, and local restaurants serve up delicious treats.

Numerous festivals are held in Butler every year, too. The Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival attracts Jeep enthusiasts from all over the country to the area for a weekend of on and off-road fun. I love my ’97 TJ and make it a point to attend every year.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that doesn’t require a lot of time, driving, or effort to reach, heading just north to Butler County is an easy trip.

10. Philadelphia

Drive Time: 4 hours 50 minutes Distance: 304 miles

Philadelphia is such a historic city with plenty to do, whether you plan to spend a week or one day in Philadelphia . It’s also the place where American independence was first declared, so history has a big influence on the city’s culture.

Museums, dedicated to different varieties of art, history, or oddities are scattered throughout the city! The Mütter Museum is one of the strangest museums we’ve ever been to, but those fascinated by the human body may also find it interesting.

Stop by Independence Hall where the founding fathers debated and signed some of the most important documents in US history, the Constitution and Declaration of Independence. After, take a short walk to the famous Liberty Bell.

Take a Walking Tour of the historic Old City with a guide to be sure that you don’t miss any of the most notable sites during your visit!

Those interested in crime will enjoy a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary. Wander the eerie passageways on a self-guided tour where notorious criminals like Al Capone were once locked away. We found the audio tour that comes with your entrance ticket really interesting!

In addition to all these wonderful attractions, the area also has a lot of restaurants where you can taste local flavors. The Philly Cheesesteak war is alive and well. While Geno’s and Pat’s are the most famous, they’re not the only places to grab these sandwich staples.

Before leaving the City of Brotherly Love, visit the Museum of Art and run up the stairs made famous in “Rocky.”

➡️ Pro Tip: If you’re able to plan a visit on Independence Day weekend like we have, you may be lucky enough to sit on the museum stairs and catch the movie being played under the stars.

11. Delaware Water Gap

Drive Time: 4 hours 50 minutes Distance: 299 miles

The Delaware Water Gap is an ideal destination if you are looking to explore the outdoors. The area features caves, waterfalls, hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and many other outdoor attractions.

The Delaware River forms a natural border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey at this location, which also makes it a great spot for fishing or canoeing on the river.

The area is so beautiful that many are hoping that the national recreation area will soon be upgraded to national park status, becoming Pennsylvania’s first.

We had a fantastic time sipping on a drink at the Glass Wine Bar in the Ledges Hotel. Make sure you request a table with a view of the waterfall!

We had an early reservation for a drink and appetizers and then drove the 30 minutes back to Raymondskill Falls. The restaurant wasn’t as busy, and we had Raymondskill to ourselves.

12. Cherry Spring State Park

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 182 miles

Cherry Spring State Park is a perfect destination for visitors who want to enjoy some relaxing time outdoors. It’s a great space to get “off the grid.”

This park is a true destination for stargazers. It’s known as the darkest spot on the eastern seaboard. The park is situated far away from any big cities, light pollution, and traffic; all of which make it the perfect place for seeing the Milky Way, among other things.

Cherry Springs also offers educational programs throughout the summer to help visitors learn more about astronomy and the night sky.

You’ll need to book a campsite far in advance for any big events such as eclipses or meteor showers. There aren’t a ton of campsites, and they can book up quickly, and they’re definitely rustic.

Trails in the surrounding state forest are great for mountain biking and hiking. Although the only overnight options within the park are rustic tenting options, check out Airbnb or VRBO for private cabin and home rentals near the park.

13. Hershey

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 215 miles

Hershey, Pennsylvania is a small town near the heart of Amish country. For those who are thrill-seekers, there is plenty to do. The amusement park is a main attraction for tourists.

Next door, the Hershey Story Museum & Chocolate World offers visitors a glimpse into the history of Milton S. Hershey’s chocolate empire and how it has grown to include popular brands like Reese’s, Twizzlers, Almond Joy, Mr. Goodbar, and many more.

Five-pound Hershey chocolate bars exist and are sold here. I know. I got one!

You can also take a guided tour, which is more of an experience through the Chocolate World with animations and songs.

Enjoy some shopping or play a round of golf if the weather permits. There are several hotels and motels close to the Hershey area, including one right next to Hersheypark.

14. Bedford Springs

Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes Distance: 108 miles

The Bedford Springs Resort is a historic property that was established in 1806. The resort is centered around healing mineral springs that were discovered in 1796. In those times, it was a destination for city dwellers who would vacation to get away from the pollution and hustle and bustle of city life.

It was completely renovated and restored, then opened back to the public in 2007. Let me tell you, this property is a hidden gem in south-central Pennsylvania. We were pleasantly surprised with what we discovered staying at the resort.

The 300-acre property features a spa, fed by a mineral spring, which pays homage to the original purpose of the property. Indulge in a “Bedford Bath” which is the signature treatment here, alternating hot and cold baths with steam from the springs, too.

This is a great weekend getaway where you can indulge in relaxation, but there are also onsite hiking trails, bike rentals, and golf. An outfitter on site can help book fishing trips in the area.

Getaways from Pittsburgh in the Neighboring States

Pittsburgh is within just a couple hours’ drive to multiple other states. There are plenty of options when considering weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, so don’t be afraid to get outside the city and the state.

Access to many spots in Ohio is just a short drive away. Although some rivalry exists between residents of the two states, that shouldn’t deter you from considering a visit!

15. Cleveland

Drive Time: 2 hours 15 minutes Distance: 133 miles

While some Pittsburghers may roll their eyes or shake their head any time Cleveland is mentioned, it’s an enjoyable spot to visit for a weekend. At just over 2 hours from Pittsburgh, it’s an easily accessible drive for just a short visit.

Cleveland’s downtown features an impressive skyline of high-rises, fun restaurants, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. For music lovers, this place is a must-visit!

Cleveland also has the closest NBA professional basketball team in the Cavaliers, if you’re looking for a different sport to watch that isn’t offered in Pittsburgh.

There are so many great restaurants, bars, and breweries to visit, too, scattered all over town. Don’t just head down East 4th Street. Check out Tremont or Ohio City, The Flats, and other hotspots around town.

And, if you’re a beer lover, Cleveland has an impressive list of breweries to visit, many of which offer samples or tours. We love Noble Beast, Masthead, Terrestrial… We could go on!

16. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Drive Time: 1 hour 50 minutes Distance: 112 miles

Who knew a national park was so close and accessible? Even if the Delaware Water Gap becomes a national park, this one is closer! Cuyahoga Valley is a newer and lesser-known national park, but there are some beautiful spots to check out.

Brandywine Falls should be one of your first stops, and then hike along some of the fantastic trails, including a section of the Buckeye Trail. Take a ride on the train, especially if you’re visiting during the fall when the leaves are at their peak.

The Towpath Trail is a popular spot for bicyclists. The trail, which follows the Ohio & Erie Canal currently for 87 miles, is mostly flat and makes for an easy ride. It will be 101 miles long when it’s all finished!

The trail offers great views of the Cuyahoga River and the surrounding landscape, as well as some information about the historical significance of the canal way.

All of these sites certainly make Cuyahoga Valley National Park worth visiting on a weekend from Pittsburgh.

17. Nelson Ledges

Drive Time: 1 hour 35 minutes Distance: 92 miles

Nelson Ledges is a great place to explore the natural rock formations that make up the park. Hike, swim, bike, snorkel, camp, or find another activity that gets you excited to be outdoors. The possibilities here are nearly endless!

Check event schedules. The park is sometimes home to arts festivals and musical events on its 250 acres of land.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, take a walk along one of the nature trails or enjoy a picnic lunch.

There are also two fishing lakes in the park if you’d like to relax by the water. Just be sure to check with the park staff about fishing regulations before you start casting your line.

18. Put-in-Bay

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 202 miles

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway with both a party atmosphere and spots to find some solitude, Put-in-Bay is the perfect spot. Just a few hours from Pittsburgh, this island offers plenty to do and see.

The town is situated on South Bass Island in Lake Erie. You’ll have to take a ferry to get to the island.

There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore in town. Rent a golf cart for a fun way to get around town. You can also visit some of the historical sites or take a boat tour of the area.

If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of bike trails or golf courses to check out. And don’t forget about the beaches! Put-in-Bay has some of the best beaches around for swimming and enjoying Lake Erie.

19. Hocking Hills

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 193 miles

Hocking Hills is a favorite destination in the region for a number of reasons. It’s one of the most popular state parks in Ohio. Things to do in Hocking Hills include canyoneering, rafting, and hiking through the scenic landscape of rock formations, cliffs, and waterfalls.

The area can get quite busy during the summer, so consider visiting the Hocking Hills hiking trails during the winter for a different experience. Just make sure that you have the appropriate gear.

The trails can get really icy and dangerous! We definitely needed our Kahtoola microspikes , especially on the Old Man’s Cave and Rock House trails.

In addition to the great outdoors, the town has a number of places worth checking out. Take a ride around the area, visit some of the antique stores, or stop at the winery for an afternoon of tasting.

For overnight stays, there are soooo many cabins throughout the area with great amenities like game rooms, hot tubs, and beautiful fireplaces. Many pet-friendly cabins and hiking trails allow dogs in Hocking Hills , making this a great place to get away with your pups.

Pro Tip: Cell phone service can be extremely limited in many spots, even at some of the cabins that we’ve stayed at. Make sure you have paper maps and plan your trip ahead of time. You don’t want to risk missing things you’d like to do because you don’t have wifi or cell service.

Drive Time: 2 hours 20 minutes Distance: 138 miles

Geneva, Ohio is a small town with a big heart. The wine country of northeast Ohio has been growing and thriving. It’s home to beautiful scenery, delicious food & drink, outdoor adventure opportunities…the list goes on!

Geneva is home to more than just vineyards. It’s also the perfect place to visit if you want the best of both worlds: a weekend spent exploring or relaxing- all without having to travel too far from Pittsburgh.

Check out some of the beautiful covered bridges of Ashtabula County. There are 19 of them around the county.

Spend your time wandering “the Strip” for a carnival-like atmosphere during the summer months or get out and get active at the state park. Then, enjoy the wine! One of my personal favorites is Laurello’s.

Stay at the Lakehouse Inn in Geneva-on-the-Lake to be within walking distance of the Strip and enjoy epic lakefront views.

21. Sandusky

Drive Time: 3 hours Distance: 182 miles

Cedar Point Amusement Park is a world-famous amusement park located in Sandusky, Ohio. It’s home to some of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world, as well as a variety of other rides and attractions.

You could absolutely spend an entire weekend in Sandusky visiting the beach on Lake Erie, checking out Cedar Point, and exploring the shopping and restaurants in town. There’s so much to see and do in the region.

This would be a great weekend getaway for families, especially with older children. Park entrance fees can be on the pricey side, but buying multi-day passes does give some discount.

Sharing a lot of the southern border of Pennsylvania, Maryland is home to a couple of weekend getaway destinations from Pittsburgh.

22. Deep Creek Lake

Drive Time: 2 hours 10 minutes Distance: 103 miles

Just over two hours away, this lake offers plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. You can go fishing, boating, swimming, or hiking on the trails around the lake during the summer.

Wisp Resort in the area is a great winter destination for skiers and snowboarders. The resort is on the smaller side but offers slopes for all levels of skiers and a terrain park for the more adventurous.

There are also restaurants and shops in and around the town of McHenry if you need to take a break from all the outdoor activities, or stay in and just spend a weekend relaxing in one of the lakeside cottages.

23. Baltimore

Drive Time: 4 hours 5 minutes Distance: 248 miles

Baltimore is a city with a rich history, both as an industrial port and as the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner. But today, Baltimore’s many charms extend to its diverse restaurants and neighborhoods, world-class museums and art galleries, beautiful parks, and waterfront promenade. It’s also home to world-class universities like Johns Hopkins.

Some must-sees include The National Aquarium, which showcases millions of gallons of water-filled tanks with thousands of different species of aquatic life from around the world. You can explore the Atlantic coral reef or get up close with sharks in Shark Alley.

Baltimore is also home to the famous Inner Harbor, with its beautiful skyline views.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, stop by the Johns Hopkins University campus or check out the museums and art galleries around town. Stop by the Westminster Presbyterian Church, where you can see Edgar Allen Poe’s gravesite.

New York is such a large state that much of it is not accessible within a reasonable amount of time to be considered a weekend trip, even a long weekend trip from Pittsburgh. There are a few options, though, all of which have something fun to offer.

24. The Finger Lakes

Drive Time: 5 hours Distance: 284 miles

The Finger Lakes wine country in upstate New York is a beautiful destination for a weekend getaway. The region is home to stunning landscapes, delicious food and drink, and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities.

The Finger Lakes region is one of the furthest destinations included in this list, and you’ll want to take a long weekend vacation (or maybe more) to explore everything the region has to offer.

Spend the mornings exploring the many waterfalls scattered throughout the area or one of the stunning state parks near the lakes. The afternoons can be saved for wine tasting. Relax by one of the beautiful lakes in the evenings. What could make a better weekend getaway?

Make sure you check out Watkins Glen , Taughannock Falls , and Letchworth State Parks. These are just a few hiking options that have beautiful things to see around the Finger Lakes, but each one has great waterfalls and hiking trails.

25. Jamestown

Drive Time: 2 hours 40 minutes Distance: 171 miles

Did you know that Jamestown, NY is the birthplace of Lucille Ball? She was born there in 1911 and spent her childhood there. It is also her final resting place, along with some members of her other family members.

After a successful career in Hollywood, she retired to her hometown and opened the Lucy-Desi Museum. The museum celebrates her life and career and is home to many artifacts from her time on I Love Lucy.

Jamestown is also home to the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival each year. The festival features stand-up comedians, sketch comedy groups, and performances from both up-and-comers and well-known comedians.

For outdoor lovers, nearby Chautauqua Lake has plenty to do from boating and watersports to hiking trails and parks. Visit Southern Tier Brewing’s original location, and during the summer, you might be able to catch a musical act on the small outdoor stage while you grab a drink and bite to eat.

26. Niagara Falls

Drive Time: 3 hours 40 minutes Distance: 238 miles

Niagara Falls is quite a famous destination, being one of the most visited tourist attractions in North America. It’s no wonder why; Niagara Falls is truly spectacular. It’s the largest waterfall in North America by volume.

There are so many things to do at Niagara Falls, including taking a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat tour , visiting the Cave of the Winds, and even hiking along the Gorge Trail.

You can take out the planning and book a day-long tour of the highlights of Niagara Falls .

Discover Niagara Falls through a Guided Tour, Including Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds.

There are also many hotels located near the falls, making it easy to stay overnight while enjoying the beauty of the falls. Some even overlook the falls, but you’ll have to head over to the Canadian side for most of them.

While the area is very built-up and touristy, the magnitude of these falls should not be missed. In our experience, visits during the colder months were less crowded.

27. Ellicottville

Drive Time: 3 hours 15 minutes Distance: 203 miles

Ellicottville is a small town in Western New York, south of Buffalo. This quaint little town provides a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities.

The town is home to 2 ski slopes, which offer even more than just winter fun.  During the summer, trails are open for exploration and mountain biking at Holiday Valley. Just south of town, there are more trails and outdoor areas to visit in the state forests.

After a day of exploring, you can spend the evening wandering through the shops in town or grab dinner and a drink at Ellicottville Brewing.

If you’re looking for a quiet weekend escape in a small town, this is the perfect spot.

28. Buffalo

Drive Time: 3 hours 20 minutes Distance: 219 miles

The city of Buffalo gives off very similar vibes to that of Pittsburgh with the locals and things to do.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, as well as museums and art galleries, and a waterfront with activities in all seasons. 

Ever wanted to try your luck at curling after watching it on TV during the Olympics? There are lanes at the waterfront area, known as Canalside, where you can try it out and learn the sport. There are also skating rinks and plenty of winter fun. 

During the summer, the waterfront becomes a popular location for concerts and festivals, such as the annual Taste of Buffalo food festival. You could also combine a trip to Buffalo and Niagara Falls, as they’re only about 20 miles apart.

West Virginia

Wild and wonderful, West Virginia has plenty of outdoor adventure waiting in its mountains.

29. New River Gorge

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 217 miles

Just over 200 miles to the south, you can visit the US’s newest national park the New River Gorge .

The area in and around the gorge is popular with thrill-seekers, as there is fantastic whitewater rafting in both the New and Gauley Rivers. While we haven’t tackled the Gauley, the New River trip is fun in the spring.

Rock climbing and hiking are also other popular activities in the park, and you’ll find lots of camping options to stay the night in the area. Whether you’d like to spend the night in a primitive cabin or one with lots of amenities, there is a suitable choice. Plenty of tent camping sites are available, too.

Cell phone reception can be a problem in parts of the park, so plan ahead by downloading maps, just in case you find yourself off the grid. It is one of many great areas in West Virginia to get off the grid.

30. Charleston

Drive Time: 3 hours 35 minutes Distance: 228 miles

This historic city is the capital of West Virginia. With its beautiful architecture and charming downtown, Charleston is an absolute must-see when visiting West Virginia.

Although it is the capital of the state, Charleston has kept much of its small-town charm throughout, making this a relaxing weekend getaway from Pittsburgh.

Shop in the Capitol Market or attend an event at the Haddad Riverfront Park amphitheater. Grab a bite at one of the many downtown restaurants serving dishes like Italian or Mexican favorites. 

For a long weekend option, combine a visit to Charleston and the New River Gorge. The one-hour drive between the two destinations on Route 60 is scenic and beautiful. It’ll give you a good taste of those West Virginia country roads.

31. Dolly Sods Wilderness

Drive Time: 3 hours 25 minutes Distance: 152 miles

Another beautiful off-the-grid destination in West Virginia, Dolly Sods is a hiking paradise. As part of the larger Monongahela National Forest, there are over 17,000 acres of outdoor areas to explore.

This is a destination for those who are more adventurous outdoor lovers. 

There are trails for hikers of all levels, and if you want to see some wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for deer, foxes, and even black bears.

The best way to enjoy the outdoors is to camp out here. There are several campsites that offer electricity and water hookups, but no showers.

To really get to some of the best seclusion, plan to head to the backcountry, but only if you come prepared.

Much of Virginia requires more of a drive, so not all of the state is accessible for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh. A few spots could be great, though, especially for long weekend options.

32. Shenandoah

Drive Time: 3 hours 45 minutes Distance: 193 miles

If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Pittsburgh, Shenandoah is a perfect place to go south.

One of the East Coast’s beautiful national parks, there are miles of hiking trails, biking, and scenic roadways through this portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

You can also take advantage of the natural beauty of the area by fishing and camping.

Shenandoah is definitely a four-season destination. Depending on the time of year, you will be treated to rushing waterfalls, fields of wildflowers, bright fall foliage, or snow-covered mountains.

All are beautiful in their own way, so plan your visit according to the type of scenery that you’d like to visit.

33. Washington D.C.

Drive Time: 4 hours 5 minutes Distance: 242 miles

Because it’s within a 5-hour drive of Pittsburgh, we can’t leave the nation’s capital off of our list of best weekend destinations from Pittsburgh.

You’ll certainly need more than a weekend to see everything that the capital city has to offer, though!

From the monuments and the National Mall to the shopping in Georgetown, there are endless things to do and places to explore. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly experience, check out the Smithsonian Museums or the National Zoo.

They’re all free to visit!

If you’d like someone else to do the route planning, check out these ELECTRIC CART GUIDED TOURS . You’ll be able to see more in less time in this small-group experience.

Plenty of sports teams call D.C. home, too, so there is a great chance that you could catch a game of some kind during your visit.

If you’ve never been to Washington D.C., you won’t know what you’re missing.

While there are so many options for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, hopefully, this list gives you some great ideas to start with. Better yet, take a spur-of-the-moment trip to one of the closer destinations we suggested. Sometimes those kinds of trips lead to some of the best memories!

Which one of these weekend getaways from Pittsburgh are you most excited about planning?

Samantha is the owner and author of PAonPause, a blog that helps travelers find the best outdoor travel experiences and highlights unique locations around the Great Lakes. When she isn't writing and creating content for the website, she's hiking and exploring with her husband and 2 rescue pups. She also enjoys a good craft beer, a summer ride in her Jeep with the top down, and discovering a new waterfall.

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Pennsylvania (PA) » 15 Best Day Trips from Pittsburgh

15 Best Day Trips from Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is an exciting and versatile city in Pennsylvania. There is a lot to explore in this city, in fact, Harper’s Bazaar named Pittsburgh on of the ‘best places to travel in 2017’ and they’re keeping up their fantastic track record.

The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens are surely the highlight of any visit to Pittsburgh.

Art lovers will fall head over heels for the Andy Warhol Museum and the Carnegie Museum of Art.

With so much to see and do in Pittsburgh you’ll be hard pressed to find time to venture out of the city limits. You really should though.

Lying within easy reach of Pittsburgh are dozens of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Pittsburgh :

1. Cleveland

Crossing over the state lines into Ohio, Cleveland is a wonderful city in which to spend a day.

There is plenty to see, do and explore.

Cleveland lies on the shores of Lake Erie and is one of the most historical cities in the state.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a massive attraction in Cleveland and is home to exhibits on the world’s biggest and best music superstars.

The Cleveland Museum of Art holds an impressive selection of artistic works from the last 6,000 years.

If you’re travelling with children the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a great place to spend an afternoon.

2. Penn’s Cave

Penn’s Cave is America’s only wave cave and wildlife park.

This fun and family friendly day out is one of the most easily accessible and affordable day trips from Pittsburgh.

You can opt for a steady day walking around the wildlife park and observing the animals go about their business or you can tick of everything Penn’s Cave has to offer.

You can tear around the Miner’s Maze in search of the treasure, you can take a tour of the cave complex themselves or even pan for gemstones.

Engaging and educational, Penn’s Cave is a great day out for all; no need to pack a picnic, grab lunch at Cave Cafe.

3. Fallingwater

Fallingwater is one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic homes.

Designed and constructed by Frank Lloyd Wright, one of America’s greatest ever architects, Fallingwater has been preserved as a National Historic Landmark.

Since 1964 over five million people have come from far and wide to tour this impressive architectural gem.

The team at Western Pennsylvania Conservancy run tours of Fallingwater daily from 10 am – 4 pm, except on Wednesdays.

During your tour you will learn about the quirky and innovative design features of the house and its interesting history too.

Over the weekends it is possible to team a house tour with a landscape hike for a more rounded day trip.

4. Hartwood Acres

Hartwood Acres Mansion is one of Pittsburgh’s best kept secrets, lying just outside the city limits the mansion and grounds are a joy to explore.

The mansion itself is built in 16th-Century style Tudor design and is simply majestic in its stature.

The heritage preservation teams run tours of the property and grounds on a daily basis.

The Allegheny County Park in which Hartwood Acres Mansion spans an impressive 629-acres, although you cannot cover all that ground in one day taking a stroll through the gardens and taking in the scenic vistas is a refreshing change from the traffic and city smoke in Pittsburgh.

5. Columbus

Leave Pennsylvania behind and head to Ohio and its state capital, Columbus.

Rich in history and with a wonderful selection of sights to explore Columbus is an interesting and insightful day trip from Pittsburgh.

Columbus was home to German settlers in the early 1800s and their restored village homes can still be visited today.

The Franklin Park Conservatory is a peaceful and relaxing spot to spend an afternoon.

The gardens have both plant and art exhibitions and there is something truly photogenic to snap everywhere you turn.

The COSI Columbus is a great place to head if you’re interested in science and stars.

They have a planetarium and plenty of hands on exhibits to experience.

6. Gravity Hill

A visit to Gravity Hill is a bit of a novelty nonetheless is really rather cool.

Also known as magnetic hill, gravity road and mystery hill, Gravity Hill can be found in sleepy Bedford County.

This magical spot appears to make cars roll freely uphill and soccer balls struggle to roll downhill.

You’ll know you’ve reached the spot when you see ‘GH START’ spray painted on the road before you.

Knock the car into neutral, gingerly take your foot of the brake and let the phenomenon begin.

The landscape surrounding the road only serves to intensify the optical illusion and make the feeling of movement even more bizarre.

7. Washington DC

It’s always a pleasure to visit the capital city of a nation and none so true of the United States of America.

Washington DC is a full day trip from Pittsburgh but well worth every mile.

The first port of call should, naturally, be the White House closely followed but the United States Capitol building.

It is possible to book on to guided tours of both buildings should that be of interest.

You could easily spend a day, or more, touring through the Smithsonian Institution.

Their vast collection of museums, zoo and research facilities are simply incredible.

8. Chautauqua

Should you be seeking an action packed, fun filled day out then head to Chautauqua, you will not be disappointed.

Chautauqua is home to the self proclaimed ‘World’s Vacation Learning Centre’, the Chautauqua Institution.

Hosting daily talks and seminars on every last topic you can think of; arts, sciences, sociology and more you’ll leave a more enlightened individual for sure.

Then there is Chautauqua and the aerial adventure playground at Peek ’n’ Peak Resort.

Get rushing through the forest canopy on zip lines or perhaps grace the lake on a kayak and explore the beaches and coves that are lying in wait.

9. Baltimore

Time to tick off another state on your American adventure and stray into Maryland, to visit Baltimore for the day.

A vast city home to 200 very different neighbourhoods Baltimore has a diverse culture and a welcoming array of communities.

Sitting on one of the most important and lucrative mid-Atlantic trading routes Baltimore is still a thriving port and dock today.

Great spots to visit in Baltimore include the National Aquarium, Fort McHenry and Port Discovery.

The American Visionary Art Museum is inspiring even for those who generally remain unmoved by fine art.

There are some unsual and truly unique artistic exhibits to explore.

10. Seven Springs

For all you adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers out there you will be thrilled with a visit to Seven Spring Mountain Resort.

There is a whole mile of zip line courses to explore that see you whip from treetop to treetop with the valley sprawling away beneath you.

Mountain bikers will feel like they’ve landed in paradise.

Offering a great selection of trails from beginner level all the way through to near-pro Seven Springs is adventure central.

In the winter months, once the snow has settled you can don the skis or even the snow board and hit the downhill trails in a whole other way.

11. Monongahela National Forest

Monongahela National Forest is one of West Virginia’s best kept secrets and lovers of the great outdoors will be stoked to explore this vast wilderness.

Spruce Knob is the highest peak of the Allegheny Mountains and can be accessed from Monongahela National Forest.

The Dolly Sods Wilderness is a breathtaking landscape featuring fiery red spruce trees, smooth, weathered boulders and vast expanses of forest.

There are hiking trails crisscrossing through the park and you can find route maps and information at the Visitor’s Centre.

On your way back to Pittsburgh take a pit stop at the Mountain State Brewing Co, you won’t be disappointed.

12. Lake Erie

This is a popular spot for weekend getaways and has dozens of camping spots and picnic parks.

With Lake Erie being so incredibly large you can easily forget that you’re in the heart of the USA as the gentle waves lap against the pebbledash shoreline.

If you’re travelling with children who like a little more structured fun be sure to take a trip to Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort.

It’s also a great place to keep in mind if the rain clouds appear.

13. Laurel Highlands

Lying just south of Pittsburgh is the magnificent mountainous landscapes of the Laurel Highlands.

Looked over by Mount Davis this area of Pennsylvania is the gateway to the Great Allegheny Passage.

The Laurel Highlands encompasses eight individual state parks that all offer free entry to visitors.

The route to the Mount Davis’ peak is completely paved, all the way to its 3,213 ft pinnacle, its possible to drive most of the way and hike the final ascent.

There is so much to see and do in the Laurel Highlands, from canoeing in the rapids, to pottery making sessions, there’s a number of high-end hotels with luxury spa complexes open to non-residents too.

14. Meadville

Budding brewers and self proclaimed foodies will be chuffed to discover Meadville PA. Home to an ever expanding community of craft brewing companies, it is advisable to book a driver for a day trip to Meadville.

Popular breweries include TimberCreek Tap & Table and Voodoo Brewery.

The Sprague Farm & Brew Works produces 100% keg conditioned, unfiltered lagers and ales all on their humble, family run farm.

You can get tours of their operation on Thursdays, Fridays from 4-9 pm and Saturday from 12 – 9 pm.

You can soak up your beer with a visit to Hoss’s Steak and Sea House for a phenomenal surf ’n’ turf dinner.

15. Niagara Falls

A trip to Niagara Falls is an incredible day trip from Pittsburgh and is one of the great wonders of North America.

Straddling the international border of Canada and the United States of America the Niagara Falls must be visited once in every lifetime.

This iconic collection of waterfalls can be experienced from one of the many viewing platforms or by jumping aboard the Maid of the Mist.

This boat tour takes you as close as possible to the roaring falls and you’ll feel the formidable force of the 600,000 gallons of water gushing into the river below.

15 Best Day Trips from Pittsburgh:

• Penn’s Cave
• Fallingwater
• Hartwood Acres
• Gravity Hill
• Washington DC
• Seven Springs
• Monongahela National Forest
• Laurel Highlands
• Niagara Falls

Weekend Getaways Near You

Find Getaways Just for You

150 Best Weekend Getaways and Day Trips Near Pittsburgh (with full details)

Over 150 best getaways near pittsburgh.

Are you looking to get out of the city for the weekend? We have compiled the most complete list of the best weekend getaways near Pittsburgh PA. 

We are based in Pittsburgh and have been living here for over 15 years.

Pittsburgh is located close to some gorgeous regions such as Allegheny National Forest, Laurel Highlands, Pine Creek Gorge, Hocking Hills, Deep Creek Lake, Lake Erie, Chautauqua County, Finger Lakes, and much more.  

We have included getaways of all types: romantic retreats, cabins, treehouses, winter trips, gorgeous resorts, relaxing spa retreats, lake getaways, and more!

Each getaway includes driving distance from Pittsburgh, cost range, detailed description, and suggestions for nearby attractions.

Over 150 Getaways

(explore by type).

• ● Getaways Within 3 Hours of Me
• ● Romantic Getaways Near Pittsburgh
• ● Romantic Hotel Stays Right In Pittsburgh (staycation)
• ● Family Getaways Near Pittsburgh
• ● Resort Getaways Near Pittsburgh
• ● Winter Getaways Near Pittsburgh
• ● Treehouse Getaways Near Pittsburgh
• ● Day Trips From Pittsburgh

Getaways Within 3 hours from Pittsburgh

Looking for a trip less than 3 hours drive from Pittsburgh? Consider the following getaways.

Fun Family Getaway at Tygart Lake State Park & Adventures Water Park in West Virginia

• Half-day in the water park is $12 per person. Full-day is $16 per person. Free for children aged three and under.

Are you looking for a great place to have a fun family getaway? Consider vising Tygart Lake State Park with its Tygart Adventures Water Park.

Enjoy the beautiful views, numerous water activities, and breathtaking hiking trails in the park. ⁠⁠Have the thrills of sliding, climbing, jumping, and racing to the top of inflatable slides and obstacles on water. An exciting way to stay cool in summer!

Stunning Beach Getaway at Presque Isle State Park on Lake Erie in Pennsylvania

• The entrance to the park is free.

Are you looking for the best beach getaway? Presque Isle State Park is a gorgeous “seashore-like” beach, with a beautiful coastline and lake views. It is a paradise for outdoor lovers, families, couples, groups of friends, solo travelers, and those who want an unforgettable summer getaway!

Picturesque Getaway at Swallow Falls State Park near Deep Creek Lake in Maryland

• The cost is $3 for instate resident, and $5 for out-of-state resident

Swallow Falls State Park in Western Maryland is a perfect destination for families, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts any time of the year. With beautiful scenery, picturesque hiking trails, old hemlock trees, and two grand cascading waterfalls, you will fall in love with this park from the first minutes of your visit!

Picturesque Beach and Park Getaway at Geneva On The Lake OH⁠

• The Bach access is free. For accommodation suggestions see below.

Geneva-on-the-Lake , a village in Ashtabula County, Ohio, with picturesque lake views makes for a great weekend getaway for active people, nature lovers, wine buffs, couples, families, and friends! ⁠⁠Sandy Breakwater Beach, with a large beach area, is located inside Geneva State Park. The park, with 698 acres of forest, also offers hiking/biking trails, boating, and camping⁠.

Signup To Receive Exclusive Weekend Getaways Near You

Why signup, we will email you great weekend getaway ideas and deals near you., weekend getaways include: - hotel/treehouse/vacation-rental details - link for easy booking - suggestions of activities in the area, what we do: - we research and find great weekend trips near you. - we also monitor all local deals by local hotel, vacation rentals, and b&bs. - as soon as we discover a deal near your city, we will email it to you, gorgeous lake getaway at deep creek lake in maryland.

Deep Creek Lake is a quiet and relaxing four-season getaway destination, with picturesque mountain and lake views. It is a paradise for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and lovers of beautiful scenery!   Deep Creek Lake is nestled in the gorgeous mountains of western Maryland. It is the largest lake in Maryland with 69 miles of shoreline. The region has a wide range of activities all year round. In the summer months, you can go hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. During the winter months, there are opportunities for skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

Breathtakingly Beautiful Getaway on Summersville Lake in West Virginia

Are you looking for a breathtaking getaway on the lake? Summersville Lake in West Virginia, with its magnificent cliffs, quiet coves, and white water on the Gauley River, will make a perfect getaway for families, outdoor fans, and water sports lovers.

Mountain Family Getaway at Blackwater Falls State Park in West Virginia

Looking for an unforgettable family getaway in the mountains? Blackwater Falls State Park in the Allegheny Mountains, West Virginia, will bring you a unique experience! Amazing waterfalls, woodland areas, picturesque hiking trails, and the longest sledding magic carpet will make your getaway special!

Awesome Adventure Getaway to Harpers Ferry Adventure Center in Virginia

• Cost depends on activities you pick

Are you looking for an unforgettable adventure getaway? Then, you should definitely visit Harpers Ferry Adventure Center in Loudoun County, Virginia, near Harpers Ferry in West Virginia. It is just a paradise for outdoor lovers of all ages! Tubing, whitewater rafting, ziplining, high ropes, segway tours, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, team building, camping, combo packages… Indescribable emotions are guaranteed!

Getaway to Gorgeous Pine Creek Gorge – "The Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania"

Pine Creek Gorge (or the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania) is one of the most popular attractions in PA. With astonishing views, cliff walls, waterfalls, picturesque hiking trails, and recreational activities all year round, the gorge makes an unforgettable getaway for couples, families, and all outdoor lovers.

Fun Family and Beach Getaway at Cedar Point Ohio

• Cost varies based on accommodation you pick

Cedar Point in Ohio is a great family destination with an amusement park, restaurants⁠, and a mile-long sandy beach. Beach activities include parasailing, jet skis, and lake cruises⁠. In addition visit Cedar Point Amusement Park and Cedar Point Shores Water park. Or enjoy a wine tour on the Boardwalk Cruisers. To access the beach, you need to either have admission to one of the above parks or to one of the Cedar point hotels (as a result the beach is not as crowded). 

Thrilling Adventure Getaway to NROCKS Outdoor Adventures near Circleville in West Virginia

Are you looking for an incredible adventure getaway? NROCKS Outdoor Adventures near Circleville, WV, will make an absolutely thrilling getaway experience for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Via Ferrata, zip lines, rock-climbing, wild caving, adventure packages… You will definitely remember this challenging experience for the rest of your life!

Fantastic Weekend Getaway to Hocking Hills State Park⁠ in Ohio

• The entrance to the park is free. A wide range of accommodations available.

If you are looking for a great place to spend a weekend getaway in nature, consider Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio. It is one of the most scenic parks in Ohio. Here, you will find amazing caves, natural rock formations, beautiful waterfalls, and picturesque hiking trails. This state park is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or a family.

Stunning Getaway to Hawks Nest State Park in WV

• The cost for tram rides starts at $6.

If you are looking for a scenic getaway, consider Hawks Nest State Park in West Virginia. What makes the park special is the scenic overlook of the beautiful New River Gorge National Park and Preserve below.

Couples, families, groups of friends and outdoor lovers will be excited to explore great hiking trails, nature museums, aerial tramways, and jetboat rides. Also, whitewater rafting experiences here are really special!

Breathtaking Getaway to Niagara Falls and Niagara Falls State Park in New York

If you are dreaming of an astonishing getaway and spectacular views, visit Niagara Falls and Niagara Falls State Park. Miles of immaculate hiking trails and scenic landscapes, exciting attractions, outdoor adventures, delicious wines, and, of course, the magnificent Niagara Falls itself… This is a must-see for all Americans!

Island Getaway at Put-in-Bay and South Bass Island in Ohio

• Cast varies based on destination you stay in

Put-in-Bay , a village on South Bass Island Ohio, makes for a very exciting island weekend getaway for families, nature lovers, geology and history fans, artists, lovers of good food and drinks, people who like camping. South Bass Island can only be accessed by ferry located in Port Clinton. There are few public beaches on the island. The best ones are the public beach at South Bass Island State Park or the beach that you can hike to at East Point Preserve. Both places offer small but nice beaches with beautiful scenery. Some of the island hotels have their own private beaches.

You are reading " Over 150 Best Weekend Getaways & Day Trips from Pittsburgh, PA "

Back to top, romantic weekend getaways near pittsburgh.

If you want to see all romantic getaways near Pittsburgh in one place, you will love this guide. We researched and wrote description for large number of such romantic getaways.  We include secluded romantic escapes, romantic getaways with spa, romantic getaways with jacuzzi in room, lakeside hideaways, spa resorts and costal escapes for couples.

Romantic, Adult Only Pine Cove Lodging Treehouses and Suites (with Jacuzzi) in Ohio Amish Country

• The cost ranges between $120 and $500 per night depending on dates and accommodation.

Looking for a serene romantic getaway in Ohio? Then, consider checking Pine Cove Lodging, located minutes from Berlin, Ohio, in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country. Relax in a private jacuzzi, and enjoy gentle sounds and views of the wood, pond, and wildlife. You can stay in the unique Farmhouse suites, private Evergreen Cabin, and Treehouses. This experience is one never to forget!

Unforgettable Romantic Getaway at a Luxurious Reynolds Mansion B&B in Bellefonte PA

• The cost range is $150 and $350 mid-week and $200 to $450 on weekends (per night + taxes and fees.).

Looking for a gorgeous romantic getaway with a Jacuzzi tub?  Reynolds Mansion Bed and Breakfast is simply gorgeous. It is a completely renovated 19th-century home with 13-foot ceilings, original woodwork, and 13 working fireplaces.  Located in Bellefonte, PA it offers private jacuzzis in the room, fresh rose petals around, romantic packages, relaxing massages, and other luxury amenities.

Tiny Secluded Cabin Rental at Getaway House in Lisbon, Ohio

• The cost ranges from $119 to $250 per night + taxes and fees.

Do you want to have an amazing nature break to fully disconnect from the busy world? Consider cabin rental at Getaway House Tiny Cabins in historic Lisbon, OH. Nestled in nature, with huge windows to admire the views, picturesque walking trails, majestic pine trees, and cozy amenities inside each cabin, this experience will bring you peace of mind! And, you'd better put your phone in a lockbox!

Adult-Only Romantic Lake Point Inn B&B on Deep Creek Lake

• The cost range is $190 - $348 for a standard room.

Are you in need of a romantic getaway? Lake Pointe Inn Bed And Breakfast is an adult-oriented luxurious romantic resort located on Deep Creek Lake in Western Maryland. With beautiful lake and mountain views, waterside breakfast, spa tubs, rose petals on the bed, and wine in your room, it is perfect for weekend getaways for couples all year round.

Wonderful Getaway with Pools and Spa at the Grand Resort in Ohio

• The cost range is $148 – $297 for a standard room.

Are you dreaming of a luxury resort getaway in Ohio? The Grand Resort is an ideal place for couples, families, ⁠⁠groups of friends, business partners, golf players, and wine lovers. Numerous packages, a variety of indoor and outdoor recreational activities, swimming pools, excellent spa services, fine dining, and delicious wine… There is something for everyone!

Family Weekend Getaways Near Pittsburgh

If you are looking for a fun family getaways near Pittsburgh, you will love this guide. It includes resorts, lodges, adventure centers, water, amusement, and state parks that are great to visit with families. You will find year-round family fun in the resorts with pools, slides, and playgrounds; lodges on the water with hammocks, fire pits, and ponds for fishing and swimming. There is everything for everyone!

Fun Family Getaway at Hotel Breakers at Cedar Point in Ohio

• The cost range is $200 – $350 (plus tax) for a standard room.

For a memorable family getaway, visit a classic beachfront resort hotel, Hotel Breakers at Cedar Point ⁠⁠in Sandusky, Ohio. Located steps from Cedar Point Amusement Park, and Cedar Point Shores Water park, the hotel is great for a fun weekend getaway!

Great views of Lake Erie, multiple restaurants, a large beach, pools, outdoor water playground, hot tub, fire pits, beach games, and activities… The hotel has it all!

Magical Resort Getaway at Oglebay Resort in West Virginia

• The cost starts at $119 per night.

Searching for your next family getaway destination? Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, West Virginia, is a perfect place for every age, interest, and energy level. Great for your special occasions like weddings, anniversaries, or honeymoons. A large array of activities and places to eat, a spa, a huge outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a jacuzzi, skiing, and ice skating in winter, and the gorgeous scenery will make your stay special!

Unplugged Mountain Resort Getaway at Capon Springs in West Virginia

• The cost ranges from $119 to $179 a night per adult, depending on the time of the year and day of the week. Kids are only $39 to $59 a night.

Are you looking for a really relaxing mountain resort getaway? Capon Springs and Farms in West Virginia is an unusual “all-inclusive” resort for people who want to run away from all the modern technologies, at least for some time. There is no TV, Wi-Fi, or phones in guest rooms. Great for a low-key, unplugged family, couple, or solo getaway. Just free your mind and enjoy nature!

Serenity Log House Getaway with Hot Tub and Hiking Trails in the Heart of Laurel Highlands

• The cost starts at $450 anight + taxes and fees

Are you in search of the ideal location for family or friend reunions? Serenity Log House is a luxurious, contemporary log cabin nestled in the serene Laurel Highlands. Featuring 6 bedrooms, it comfortably accommodates up to 17 people. Situated on an expansive 32-acre property, it offers complete privacy and tranquility while remaining conveniently close to a wide range of nearby activities, including rafting, hiking, biking, caving, historical landmarks, skiing, tubing, and more. The amenities at your disposal include a private hot tub, a game room, hiking trails, breathtaking views, both indoor and outdoor fireplaces for added coziness, luxurious features, and an exceptional location that guarantees an unforgettable stay.

Thrilling ACE Adventure Resort Getaway in West Virginia

• The cost range is $150 – $600 per night.

In search of an adventure resort getaway in West Virginia, consider checking ACE Adventure Resort , located in Oak Hill. It will make a perfect getaway experience for families, outdoor lovers, and thrill-seekers of all levels.

Whitewater rafting, zip line canopy tours, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, mountain biking, paintball, ATV tours, a mud obstacle course, an alpine tower… All these adventures and much more await you at this North America's largest outdoor vacation resort!

Resorts Near Pittsburgh

Have you ever been dreaming of a family or romantic resort getaway? These gorgeous Resorts make for a perfect getaway for every age, interest, and energy level.  

Luxurious Resort Getaway at Gorgeous Nemacolin Resort in the Laurel Highlands PA

• The cost range is $264 – $933 for a standard room.

Nemacolin Luxury Resort in the Laurel Highlands Pennsylvania is one of the most gorgeous resorts in Pennsylvania. Created in 1987, this magnificent resort is great for both a romantic getaway and a family fun weekend. Picturesque mountain area, Sweetheart Packages, remarkable dining experiences, wine tasting, relaxing spa services, a large array of activities, multiple pools, whirlpool, skiing, tubing, kids club, zoo, and so much more… What else do you need for great escape?

Premier Lakeside Resort Getaway at Stonewall Resort in West Virginia

• The cost range is $135 – $606, depending on the type of accommodation.

Are you looking for a serene resort getaway with immaculate views of mountains and lake waters? Then, consider staying at Stonewall Resort in Roanoke, West Virginia. This unique resort is a perfect destination for a special occasion, romantic getaway, family vacation, or friends gathering close to nature. Outdoor lovers and golf players will also enjoy this beautiful resort!

Luxurious Getaway at Omni Bedford Springs Resort in PA

• The cost range is $230 - $550 + taxes and fees (depending on dates).

Looking for a great weekend getaway? Spending your stay in luxurious accommodation with tons of things to do? Opt for a holiday in Omni Bedford Springs Resort in Pennsylvania.

Relaxing and Fun Getaway at Salamander Resort & Spa in Virginia

• The cost range is $550 - $790 for a standard room.

Salamander Resort & Spa, nestled in the heart of Virginia’s horse & wine country, will make an amazingly luxurious romantic getaway for couples or an action-packed fun getaway for families. Couples will enjoy impressive spa services, couples massage, hot tub, delicious local wine, romantic packages, country estate design, private balconies, and numerous outdoor activities.  Families can participate in an array of family-friendly activities such as horseback riding,  s'mores by the Firepit, pools, Sunday Family Style Brunch at Harrimans, and much more. These are just a few things awaiting you in this elegant resort.

Winter Weekend Getaways Near Pittsburgh

Winter is a great time to get out of city. Here is  a list of the best places for weekend getaways this winter — for every type of traveler.

• The cost range is $181 - $241 for a standard room.

Dreaming of an active winter getaway in the mountains? Then, you will definitely love Allegheny Springs in Snowshoe Mountain, West Virginia. Heated outdoor pool (open in winter), hot tub, fire pit, gorgeous hearth room, ski-in and ski-out, and amazing views of the mountain are calling your name!

Perfect ski holiday for solo travelers, couples, and families with kids.

Continue reading here

• The cost range is $505 – $1,002 for a standard room.

If you are looking for a memorable, fun-filled family winter getaway, Woodloch Pine Resort in Poconos is a great choice! This all-inclusive family resort has so much to offer! Located right on the lake, it provides lots of four-season activities and entertainment for adults and kids of all ages.

Winter activities include snow tubing, ice asking on the lake, and winter Olympics. Indoor Forest Playground offers indoor games, scavenger hunts, bumper cars, and much more. Or warm up in one of the jacuzzis, saunas, or a 12-person outdoor hot tub. There are several pool facilities available. For downhill skiing, Ski Big Bear Resort is located less than 15min away.

• The cost starts at $200 per night.

In search of a memorable weekend getaway, check out Seven Springs Mountain Resort in Allegheny Mountains, PA. This all-year-round resort has so much to offer! From the finest skiing, snow tubing, and snowboarding in the winter months to golf, canopy tours, ziplining, fishing, and hiking in summer – Seven Springs has it all!

Looking for winter getaways for a special occasion? Consider checking out Nemacolin Luxury Resort in the Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania. Picturesque mountain area, Sweetheart Packages, remarkable dining experiences, wine tasting, relaxing spa services, year-round outdoor heated pool, indoor pool, skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and much more.

Winter can be a great season to book a weekend getaway at Omni Bedford Springs Resort in South Pennsylvania. Imagine snow covering the surrounding trees and hotel roof, a fairytale-like setting. A setting that would get an extra touch during the holiday season when the resort is adorned with holiday decorations. Be sure to book a carriage ride for the extra experience.

During your winter stay, you can enjoy the heated outdoor pools or have a relaxing treatment in the spa with a wide variety of massages. Or play a board game, make a haunted history tour, join a yoga class or spend the afternoon with a Duchess tea experience. At the premises, you can drink a cocktail and have a chat with friends or other guests at the firepit.

If you prefer an even more active day activity, why not go out in the mountains and test your skiing or snowboarding skills in the nearby mountains. The snowy surroundings are also great for other winter sports activities such as tubing, skating, etc. Two closest ski resorts are Blue Knob Ski Resort (25 miles away) and Seven Springs Ski Resort (40 miles away).

Treehouse Rentals Near Pittsburgh

This guide includes treehouses near  Pittsburgh with basic to luxurious amenities with hot tubs, indoor fireplaces, wrap-around decks, hanging swings, and fire pits. Enjoy magnificent treetop views from the windows in wonderful secluded locations. Listen to the sounds of nature together with the people you love. Let your childhood dream come true!

Tree House Getaway with Hot Tub at Fernstone Retreat in Laurel Highlands PA

• The price ranges from $275 to $400 per night + taxes and fees.

Are you looking for a unique secluded treehouse getaway? Look no further! The Treehouse at Fernstone Retreat , Farmington, Pennsylvania, will make a perfect romantic tree house getaway for couples who want to de-stress and relax in nature. This is a peaceful rustic setting with all the necessary amenities. You can enjoy the birds singing and the pines whispering, relax in the hot tub on a porch with sweeping views of the trees… What else do you need to become happier?

Incredible Tree House Getaway at Ella's Enchanted Treehouses in Maryland

• The cost range is $295 – $315 per night.

Are you dreaming of a magical treehouse getaway? Ella’s Enchanted Treehouses, located 15 minutes away from Deep Creek Lake, will make a perfect relaxing getaway for couples, families, small groups of friends, and city dwellers who want total disconnection from the entire world for a few days. Wonderfully secluded location, wildlife, cozy outdoor area with a hanging swing, firepits, picturesque trails for morning walks… This stay will bring out the kid in you!

Download Printable List of 27 Treehouses Near Pittsburgh

We created a list of all treehouses  side-by-side ( within driving distance from Pittsburgh), so you can easily compare them. 

See which treehouses allow pets, have a hot tub or jacuzzi and how many people they can sleep.

We also included price ranges for each treehouse.

Magical Tree House Getaway with Hot tub at Ohiopyle Luxury Treehouse in the Woods of Pennsylvania

• The cost is $350 per night + $80 cleaning fees + taxes and fees

Are you looking for a unique and private treehouse getaway in the woods? Consider staying at Ohiopyle Luxury Treehouse in Pennsylvania.

The treehouse is a great choice for a romantic getaway, special occasion, or a family vacation with kids.

Peaceful location, amazing nature trails, a cozy balcony with forest views, an outdoor hot tub, and a comfortable bed swing in front of a fire pit… There, you will find so many beautiful reasons to be happy!

Holly Rock Treehouse Getaway with Hot Tub near Beckley in West Virginia

• The cost is between $265 and $295 a night⁠⁠ + taxes and fees.

Have you ever been dreaming of a romantic treehouse getaway? The Stunning Holly Rock Treehouse in the forest near Beckley, West Virginia, will make perfect weekend getaways for couples. Breathtaking treetop views, a private hot tub on the deck, and wonderful wildlife will make your stay special!

Day Trips From Pittsburgh

There are a number of amazing trips within short distance from Pittsburgh that can be accomplished in one day! Here is a list of best Day Trips.

Amazing Day Trip to Hartwood Acres Park - 30 min from Pittsburgh

• Tours of the estate require advanced reservations.

Hartwood Acres Park makes for a great day trip from Pittsburgh. Located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. It is one of the largest and most spectacular country estates! A wide range of outdoor activities, concerts, seasonal events, and the magnificent Lawrence Mansion will make an indelible impression on you!

Winter Fun Day Trip to the Boyce Park Ski Area Near Pittsburgh

• The cost range for tickets is $17 – $40.

Are you looking for a fun winter day trip from Pittsburgh? The Boyce Park Ski Slopes & Snow Tubing Area in Allegheny County will make a perfect winter getaway for the whole family, new skiers, snow tubers, and snowboarders.

Park and Beach Getaways at Raccoon Creek State Park in PA

The park is 7,572 acres in size and features the beautiful 101-acre Raccoon Lake. Take a hike at one of the many park trails (44 miles of trails to choose from). Or explore the 101-acre Raccoon Lake by kayak, canoe, rowboat, or hydro bike. Or swim and catch some sun at the beach. Or enjoy a stroll through the Wildflower Reserve with more than 700 species of plants. The park also offers a wide variety of environmental education programs.

Beach and Park Getaway to Moraine State Park near Pittsburgh PA

• Park information can be obtained at the park office near the entrance to the South Shore.

Looking for a beach and park trip for the whole family? Moraine State Park is 16,725 acres of exceptional scenery. Located in Portersville PA, it contains a beautiful 3,225-acre Lake Arthur, rolling hills, lush forests, and a large number of year-round recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone in the park. Moraine State Park has two swimming sandy beaches 1,200-foot-long Pleasant Valley Beach and 550-foot-long Lakeview Beach. ⁠

Magical Day Trip to Laurel Caverns in Laurel Highlands PA

• The cost ranges between $3 for kids and $15 for adults.

If you are looking for a unique and magical family day getaway near Pittsburgh or Cleveland, consider taking a day trip to Laurel Caverns in Farmington. It is Pennsylvania’s largest cave, with over four miles of passages. You will get unforgettable emotions, enjoy extraordinary views, and take amazingly vivid photos. This epic adventure is great for families with kids and also for adventure lovers looking for exceptional caving (spelunking) experience. ⁠⁠

Beach and Park Getaway at Laurel Hill State Park in Laurel Highland PA

Laurel Hill State Park offers 4,062 acres of mountainous terrain and beautiful 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake. The lake has a small, 1,200-foot white sand beach , with a lovely pier where you can jump into the cool and refreshing lake water⁠. It is open daily from late May until the middle of September. The beach is clean and well maintained, a nice small place to swim or rent a kayak or canoe. The reviews for this beach seem to be all positive.

The park also has some of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania. Observe the diversity of plants and wildlife, explore the two must-sees – The Jones Mill Run Dam, and Hemlock Trail Natural Area, go fishing and swimming in summer and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter months. The park is open every day of the year, and it is pet friendly.

Scenic Getaway at Cooper Rock State Forest in West Virginia

• The entrance to the forest is free. The cost depend on the accommodation you pick.

Scenic Coopers Rock State Forest with a great view of lakes, rivers, and valleys will make a perfect weekend getaway. This State Forest is great for hiking, biking, camping, and seeing the breathtaking views of nature. It is also perfect for a day out with friends or couples, and families with kids.

Amazing Winter Fun and Magic Sleigh Rides at Ma & Pa's Cabin in Burton OH

• The cost is $110 weekdays and $150 weekends for two-night stay.

Are you looking for memorable winter fun, a fabulous sleigh ride, and a unique off-the-grid cabin rental in the woods? You will get this unique experience and much more, while staying at Ma & Pa's in the village of Burton, Ohio.

Nestled in the mature woods, away from the busy city life, with a gas fireplace, fire pit, wrap-around deck, home amenities, and private hiking trails, this winter getaway will make your childhood dream come true!

Getaway Guides

Romantic getaways near pittsburgh, cabin getaways near pittsburgh.

This guide includes the cabins near Pittsburgh with rustic to luxury amenities, with hot tubs, fireplaces, fire pits, cozy porches, breathtaking nature views, and gentle sounds. All the cabins are unique and private. They will make perfect relaxing cabin getaways for couples, families, small groups of friends, and city dwellers who want a total escape from the entire world for a few days.

Treehouse Getaways Near Pittsburgh

This guide includes treehouses near  Pittsburgh with basic to luxurious amenities with hot tubs, indoor fireplaces, wrap-around decks, hanging swings, and fire pits. Enjoy magnificent treetop views from the windows in wonderful secluded locations. Listen to the sounds of nature together with the people you love. Let your childhood dream come true!

Winter Fun Getaways Near Pittsburgh

Pet friendly getaways near pittsburgh.

Want to go a fun weekend getaway from Pittsburgh and don't want to leave your furry best friend behind? Consider these pet friendly getaways!

Family Fun Getaways Near Pittsburgh

If you are looking for a fun family getaways near Pittsburgh, you will love this guide. It includes resorts, lodges, adventure centers, water, amusement, and state parks that are great to visit with families. You will find year-round family fun in the resorts with pools, slides, and playgrounds; lodges on the water with hammocks, fire pits, and ponds for fishing and swimming. 

Explore Latest Getaways

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11 Top-Rated Day Trips from Pittsburgh, PA

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 24, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Western Pennsylvania is a landscape of beautiful rolling hills and the mountains of the Appalachian Plateau, so it's not surprising that a number of natural attractions are found in its parks and wild lands. Winding country roads and miles of hiking and cycling trails lead to lakes, ponds, rushing streams, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints, many of which can be easily reached on a day trip from Pittsburgh.

This is one of the best places in the Mid-Atlantic area to view fall foliage. Historic sites span the centuries, from the French and Indian Wars to the 21st century, and five masterpieces of modernist architecture are open to tourists. And for kids, there's one of the nation's best-loved amusement park complexes.

Learn more about the best places to visit near the city with our list of the best day trips from Pittsburgh.

1. Ohiopyle State Park and Cucumber Falls

2. frank lloyd wright's fallingwater, 3. laurel caverns, 4. old economy village, 5. idlewild & soakzone, 6. fort necessity national battlefield, 7. johnstown inclined plane and flood memorial, 8. quecreek mine rescue site historical landmark, 9. mystic mountain skiing and nemacolin woodlands golf, 10. hartwood acres, 11. seven springs mountain, map of day trips from pittsburgh, pa.

Less than two hours south of Pittsburgh , the mountainous Laurel Highlands region includes the state's highest elevation, Mount Davis, with a paved road to its 3,213-foot summit. Ohiopyle State Park surrounds the 14-mile-long Youghiogheny River Gorge, a legendary destination for whitewater kayaking and rafting. The Yough (pronounced Yawk, and the river yawk-i-gay-nee) is not just for experts, though: the Middle Yough is gentle enough for beginners and families with young children.

The 30-foot Cucumber Falls is another highlight of Ohiopyle State Park. One of the most photographed waterfalls in Pennsylvania, it is easy to reach via a short walking path. A smaller cascade over low ledges, Meadow Run forms a natural water slide, with gentle chutes kids can ride through.

Running through this terrain of rivers, lakes, and forested mountains is the Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile rail trail for hiking and biking that includes some of the region's finest vistas and never exceeds a gradient of two percent.

The park also offers camping, rock climbing lessons, a zipline, nature trails, and other things to do, which you can learn about in the Laurel Highlands Falls Area Visitor Center.

To get to Ohiopyle State Park , take I-76 to New Stanton, then take exit 75 to US-119 south toward Connellsville. After 13.5 miles, bear left onto Crawford Ave and after 1.3 miles, another left onto Snyder Street. Continue south about 16 miles on PA-711 and PA-381, which becomes Main Street in Ohiopyle; the park will be on your right shortly after crossing the Youghiogheny River.

Deep in the Bear Run Nature Reserve, 43 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, Fallingwater was designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935 and is recognized as a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture.

Designed to complement and become a part of the dramatic site above a waterfall, Fallingwater incorporates the falls both visually and with the sound of water throughout the house. Steps from the living room lead directly into the water below. Wright designed the furniture and decorations, which are still in the house today.

Not far from Fallingwater are four other Wright houses that are open to visitors. On a bluff above the Youghiogheny River Gorge, Kentuck Knob is a mountain home built in the 1950s, and the 1957 Duncan House, which was disassembled and moved from Illinois, is now available for overnight rentals. Close to Duncan House are the 1952 Mäntylä and the Balter House; you can visit all three on a single tour.

Take I-76 to New Stanton, then take exit 75 to US-119 south toward Connellsville. After 13.5 miles, bear left onto Crawford Ave and after 1.3 miles, another left onto Snyder Street. Continue south about 15 miles on PA-711 and PA-381, which become Mill Run Road, and Fallingwater Road will be on the right.

Address: 1491 Mill Run Road, Mill Run, Pennsylvania

The deepest cave in the northeastern United States and the largest in volume, Laurel Caverns is at the top of Chestnut Ridge, about 50 miles southeast of Pittsburgh. Its three miles of interconnected passages have ceilings as high as 50 feet, with most between 10 and 20, and average 12 feet in width, so they are comfortable to tour.

Three different tours are offered: a one-hour tour for families, a more rigorous two-hour tour of the upper caves, and a longer even more strenuous tour that takes you to the very bottom of the cave system.

Lauren Caverns are the largest natural bat hibernation area in the northeast, so to protect the bats the caves are closed in the winter during their hibernation season. Visitors are not allowed into the caves until the bats have left in the spring.

You can get to Laurel Caverns in about an hour and 20 minutes via PA-43 South . Take the US-40 exit to Skyline Drive.

Address: 1065 Skyline Drive, Farmington, Pennsylvania

Old Economy Village is the central feature in the Ambridge Historic District , covering six of the district's 32 acres. Founded in 1825, the village of Economy was designed as a haven for a German religious group named the Harmonist Society, led by George Rapp. This village was intended to be a self-sufficient commune, incorporating both agricultural and industrial areas to maximize productivity.

Today, many of the original buildings remain, including George Rapp's 1826 home, Feast Hall, the Carriage House, Mechanics Building, Store and Post Office, Granary, Cabinet Shop, and Blacksmith Shop. Other points of interest include the large communal Bake Oven, the Community Kitchen, and several residences. Feast Hall not only hosted communal meals and events but also had a Natural History Museum, which was free for village residents.

The Carriage House displays several original vehicles, including two fire trucks, and the Granary includes an exhibit about wool processing. The Blacksmith and Cabinet Shops display tools of the trade. The visitor center houses a variety of changing exhibits and a museum store, and shows a short film about the village's history.

The property is also known for its garden, a beautifully landscaped space with a pavilion. This centerpiece is named the Grotto, known for an ornate neoclassical interior within a rustic, plain exterior. The village also hosts special events and ghost tours in the evenings.

Old Economy Village is 30 minutes north of Pittsburgh via PA-65 .

Address: 270 16th Street, Ambridge, Pennsylvania

A popular day trip from Pittsburgh for families, the award-winning kids' park includes seven separate themed areas with two roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, whip ride, historic carousel, and a water park with 11 more attractions. Kids can get and stay wet in the hydro racers; the Pipeline Plunge; Wowabunga Family Wave Pool; or on Float Away Bay, a 200-yard tubing river.

Younger children love the Little Squirts pool and Captain Kidd's Adventure Galley with six water slides and plenty of spray and splash features. Nursery rhymes and fairy tales come to life at the Enchanted Castle, where would-be King Arthurs can try to pull the sword, Excalibur, from the stone.

It takes just over an hour to reach Idlewild ; take I-376 east to PA-981 (30 miles), then turn left onto US-30 (Lincoln Highway) after 11 miles. Idlewild is about 4.5 miles on the right.

Address: 2574 US-30, Ligonier, Pennsylvania

Cited as the opening encounter of the French and Indian Wars, the Battle of Fort Necessity on July 3, 1754 wasn't one of George Washington's better moments. Although the war finally resulted in the British colonial army driving the French out of the northern colonies, the young Colonel Washington was forced to surrender here to the far stronger French forces who had established themselves at Fort Duquesne, in what is now Pittsburgh.

The simple palisaded wooden fort Washington's men built here has been replicated in the Great Meadow, and the visitor center offers talks, tours, and demonstrations of historic weapons in the summer.

Also part of the park, Mount Washington Tavern, built in 1827, was one of the inns for travelers on the National Road and displays artifacts from that era. Five miles of hiking trails are here, and another half-mile loop with interpretive signs is at Jumonville Glen, about seven miles from the battlefield where Washington had his first encounter with the French troops.

Fort Necessity National Battlefield is located about 1.5 hours from Pittsburgh , a straight shot down PA-51 south to Washington Parkway.

Address: 1 Washington Parkway, Farmington, Pennsylvania

Built following the disastrous Johnstown flood of 1889, the Inclined Plane connected the downtown area with the far higher Westmont, which was being developed into a residential neighborhood. But during later floods, in 1936 and 1977, it proved an invaluable escape route for people in the lower town and a means of getting help and supplies to the flooded area.

At the height of Johnstown's steel mill production, the lift carried as many as a million passengers annually. It is the world's steepest incline carrying a vehicle , supporting 30-foot cars capable of holding 30 passengers.

When South Fork Dam gave way on May 31, 1889, the 20 million tons of water it released devastated the city and took 2,209 lives. It also brought out the largest outpouring of public support to that date, with people from all over the world rallying to help the homeless survivors.

Rangers at the Johnstown Flood National Memorial lead guided van tours and hikes to sites connected with the flood, following the path of the flood waters.

You can reach Johnstown in about an hour and 20 minutes via US-22 and PA-403 , which becomes Johns St. in Johnstown.

Address: 206 Johns Street, Johnstown, Pennsylvania

A story with a happy ending captivated the world's attention in 2002, when nine miners were trapped 240 feet below the surface in a coal mine for 77 hours. The story of their five-day ordeal in cold and darkness, and the tireless work to rescue them when success seemed hopeless, is told at the site of the rescue.

Quecreek Mine Rescue Site Historical Landmark is a work in progress as funds are raised to create a permanent home here for memorabilia, first-hand accounts, equipment, and the rescue capsule that finally brought them to safety.

Near the shaft, which you can also see, is a seven-foot bronze statue of a coal miner. The site is often staffed by family members of the trapped miners and those who took part in the rescue.

The historic site is about an hour and a quarter from the city via I-76; take exit 110 to PA-601, which becomes Haupt Road in Somerset.

Address: 151 Haupt Road, Somerset, Pennsylvania

Set on 2,000 wooded acres in the Laurel Highlands, the four-season Nemacolin Woodlands Resort offers skiing and snow sports in the winter and two championship golf courses when the snow melts.

Mystic Mountain's seven downhill skiing and snowboarding slopes are served by a quad chair lift and a beginner tow and are all lit for night skiing. Along with a tubing park, winter sports include dog sledding with Alaskan huskies, sleigh rides, cross-country skiing, and snowshoe trails.

The resort is an hour and a half south of Pittsburgh , a straight shot down PA-51/US-40 E.

Address: 1001 Lafayette Drive, Farmington, Pennsylvania

An easy day trip from Pittsburg, the stone Tudor-style mansion is the focal point of a 629-acre park 10 miles from the city center. Built in 1929 as a private country estate, the house and stables are now open to the public, as are the extensive gardens.

The rest of the park offers free access to miles of hiking trails and bridle paths through the woods. Horseback riding is available, and an amphitheater hosts concerts and stage performances in the summer. On winter evenings, there are candlelight tours of the mansion.

Hartwood Acres is about 25 minutes from the city via PA-28 North and Saxonburg Blvd.

Address: 200 Hartwood Acres, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

In the winter, a popular day trip from Pittsburgh is skiing at Seven Springs Mountain Resort , about an hour away from the city via I-76 .

Its 3000-foot elevation is relatively high for Pennsylvania skiing , helping assure a good snow cover; the average annual snowfall of 135 inches is supplemented by advanced snowmaking equipment.

Thirty-three trails cover the 285 acres of skiable terrain , one-third rated for beginners, nearly half for intermediates and 22% for experts.

Seven terrain parks, known for their dialed jumps and jibs, mean plenty of options for boarders and freestyle skiers. Seven Springs has the only 22-foot Superpipe in the East .

The 14 lifts include 10 chairlifts, one surface lift, and three carpet conveyors. The Bubly Tube Park, the largest snow tubing park in the region, carries tubers back to the top on a Magic Carpet ride.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Where to Go Next: If you enjoyed the trails and outdoor activities of the Laurel Highlands, you'll find more top-rated hiking trails in Pennsylvania , and other outdoor activities among the attractions in West Virginia , which borders the Pittsburgh region on the south and west.

More on Pennsylvania

25 Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh

Disclaimer: This post might contain affiliate links, which means we get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you).

Sometimes, a weekend getaway from Pittsburgh is needed! While Pittsburgh is a lively city with plenty of fun and exciting things to do , you may want to spend the weekend away as a city escape or explore somewhere new and cool! Surprisingly, there are TONS of interesting cities and destinations to explore that are close to Pittsburgh, making them great, drivable weekend getaways from Pittsburgh!

Since we’re from southwestern Pennsylvania and have lived in West Virginia for over five years, we’ve explored most of Pittsburgh and its surrounding regions! For this list of weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, we decided to select places that were within easy driving distance from Pittsburgh, and destinations that offer activities for solo travelers, families, couples, and friends! Our list also includes destinations for those who are looking to explore anything from new cities to getting lost with no phone service in forests to off-the-beaten-path destinations near Pittsburgh.

Here are our favorite weekend getaways from Pittsburgh that are within 5 hours of the city!

Best Weekend Trips from Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania weekend getaways from pittsburgh, laurel highlands, pennsylvania: 1.5 hours.

Ah, the Laurel Highlands! We were born and raised in Latrobe, so we know the Laurel Highlands inside and out! The Laurel Highlands makes for a great weekend trip from Pittsburgh for someone looking to sit back and relax away from the city..

The Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania encompasses Fayette County, Somerset County, and Westmoreland County in the southwestern region of the state. This area has become a premier tourism region for Pennsylvania because of its outdoor recreation, historic sites, charm, and growing communities. There is truly something fun and exciting in the Laurel Highlands for everyone! From breweries to wineries to resorts to hikes to whitewater rafting to museums to small towns to camping, the Laurel Highlands has it all! And it’s not far from Pittsburgh, making it an easy weekend getaway!

Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania: 1 hour

Even though Ohiopyle is located within the Laurel Highlands, Ohiopyle deserved its own spot on this list! If you love hiking or camping, Ohiopyle State Park makes for a great outdoor day trip or weekend away from the city ! Ohiopyle State Park is nestled in the rolling hills of the Laurel Highlands and offers miles of hiking trails, white-water rafting tours, waterfalls, and two Frank Lloyd Wright Houses that you can tour!

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-rushing adventure, consider white water rafting with Laurel Highlands River Tours. Depending on your adventure level, you can ride up to class 5 rapids! For those who enjoy hiking, Ohiopyle is full of hiking trails with various difficulties. And don’t forget to visit Cucumber Falls and the natural water slides to cool off after hiking!

If you happen to visit Ohiopyle on a rainy weekend, tour the Frank Lloyd Wright Houses: Kentuck Knob and Fallingwater! Fallingwater is famed for being built over a waterfall, while Kentuck Knob has no right angles in the house! Fallingwater was just designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Plan Your Trip to Ohiopyle!

• Getting to Ohiopyle from Pittsburgh: 1-hour drive southeast of Pittsburgh
• Everything you need to know about Ohiopyle

Erie, Pennsylvania: 2 Hours

Need a beach fix? Just drive two hours north of Pittsburgh, and you’ll arrive at Pennsylvania’s only beach at Lake Erie!

Erie is a much smaller city than Pittsburgh, but there are lots of things to do in Erie , including minor league sporting events , Presque Isle State Park, and the Lake Erie Wine Trail. The Lake Erie wine country is known for its unique and sweet wine flavors and picturesque wineries, so it makes for a great couples’ weekend getaway near Pittsburgh .

Plan your trip to Erie

• Getting to Erie: 2-hour drive north of Pittsburgh on I-79N
• Where to stay in Erie
• Top Things to do in Erie : Erie Wineries, outdoor activities, and sightseeing

The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon: 4 hours

Did you know that Pennsylvania has its own “Grand Canyon?” Pine Creek Gorge, or the PA Grand Canyon , is carved into the Allegheny Plateau in north-central Pennsylvania.

The PA Grand Canyon is centrally located near some of the most remote and beautiful state parks in Pennsylvania for outdoor activities. It’s no wonder this region of Pennsylvania is known as the “Pennsylvania Wilds.” Some of these parks include Cherry Springs for stargazers, Lyman Run for fishing and hiking, and Ole Bowl for swimming and picnicking! You can also tour the PA Lumber Museum, tour an ice mine, and explore Wellsboro, one of the few larger towns in the region.

If you’re looking for an outdoorsy weekend trip from Pittsburgh, consider the PA Grand Canyon!

Hershey, Pennsylvania: 3 Hours

If you’re looking for something fun to do with family and kids, consider visiting Hershey Park and Chocolate World for a weekend trip from Pittsburgh! At Hershey Chocolate World , you can experience the world of making chocolate. Here, you can shop for giant candy bars, take a tour of the factory, see a 4D movie, and much more!

During the summers, Hershey Park, Hershey’s theme Park, is a sweet destination for families. The park is also open during Halloween and Christmas for themed fun! Also, in Hershey, you can go to a Hershey Bears hockey game, the minor league hockey team affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania: 3 Hours

For the history buff, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is an exciting destination to visit! Gettysburg National Historic Park is a great place to learn about American Civil War history. Here, you can tour the museum, visit the preserved battlefields, and visit countless monuments and memorials. Throughout the year, you can take guided battlefield tours, experience living history, and go on spooky ghost tours.

Downtown Gettysburg also attracts visitors for its charming dining, shopping, and craft beer scene. Located in the “middle of nowhere” Pennsylvania, a weekend trip to Gettysburg offers a slice of the countryside.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: 5 hours

Philadelphia is a great weekend trip from Pittsburgh if you want to explore historic sites and museums! Since Philly was the birthplace of the United States, there is no shortage of historical activities. Spend a day exploring the historic sites and museums and enjoy a few Philly cheesesteaks! Another fun option is to consider seeing your favorite Pittsburgh sports team play in an away game!

Ohio Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh

Sugar creek, ohio: 2 hours.

If you want to get away from the city and experience country life, consider taking a weekend trip to Sugar Creek, Ohio! This small town in the Amish Country of Ohio has quaint markets, shops, and local cuisine. Sugar Creek, Ohio, is also known as the “Little Switzerland of Ohio” because of its historical Swiss heritage! Here, you can see the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock!

Canton, Ohio: 2 Hours

We know Pittsburgh locals love their Steelers, so if you’re looking for more football, visit Canton. Canton is home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and there are several other interesting history-related activities in Canton. View a sample two-day Canton itinerary here !

Plan your trip to Canton Ohio

• Getting to Canton: 2-hour drive west of Pittsburgh
• Where to stay in Canton Ohio
• Top Things to do in Canton itinerary

Cleveland, Ohio: 2 Hours

Cleveland is a great city to visit, museum-goers, and sports lovers! And it’s only a two-hour drive from Pittsburgh! Cleveland has the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, an awesome science center, art museums, the Christmas Story House (yes, the movie was filmed here), and some good (and not-so-good) sports teams. Cleveland also has a great good and drinking scene!

Like Pittsburgh, Cleveland has its interesting neighborhoods, so it’s one of those cities that you can go back to multiple times and still have new things to do each time. There are so many things to do in Cleveland that you can easily spend an entire weekend here.

Plan your weekend getaway trip to Cleveland!

• Getting to Cleveland: 2-hour drive northwest of Pittsburgh
• Where to stay in Cleveland
• 10 Best Things to do in Cleveland

Plan your perfect weekend getaway with our step-by-step guide!

Columbus, Ohio: 3 Hours

I know people from Pennsylvania don’t really like Ohio, especially Columbus … but college football teams aside, Columbus is a city very reminiscent of Pittsburgh. Columbus has many museums, a great beer and bar scene, and quirky local neighborhoods that Pittsburghers would appreciate. Columbus is a great weekend getaway from Pittsburgh if you want to explore a new city!

Plan Your Trip to Columbus Ohio

• Getting to Columbus: 3-hour drive west of Pittsburgh
• Top Things to do in Columbus
• Where to Stay in Columbus

Cedar Point, Ohio

Cedar Point is a great destination if you want to take your family on a thrilling weekend getaway! Cedar Point is the second-oldest operating amusement park in the US and is home to some of the wildest roller coasters!

Cincinnati, Ohio: 5 hours

If you want to try and hit every major city in Ohio, consider adding Cincinnati to your weekend getaway from Pittsburgh! Visiting Cincinnati also means that on Monday, when you go back to work, you can tell people you visited Kentucky, too! Cincinnati is located right on the border of Ohio and Kentucky (with a pedestrian bridge that connects the two!), so why not visit both?

Cincinnati is home to one of the top zoos in the country (Hello Fionia), unique cuisines like Cincinnati chili, sports teams, and tons of fun museums! Like Cleveland, Cincinnati reminds us of Pittsburgh. It’s an older city with revitalized communities, so there are tons of interesting things to explore.

Plan Your Weekend Getaway from Pittsburgh to Cincinnati

• Getting to Cincinnati: 5-hour drive from Pittsburgh
• Best things to do in Cincinnati
• Where to Stay in Cincinnati

Book a Getaway Cabin in Lisbon, Ohio: 1.5 hours

You might have seen photos like the one below on social media and wondered where they are. Well, these cute cabins with a big picturesque window are Getaway Cabins ! Located just a short hop over the Ohio border, these aesthetic Getaway Cabins will take you into nature for a weekend getaway of relaxation! You can rent either a one-bed or two-bed unit. The cabins are spaced out enough that you have full privacy at your site!

Each cabin has chairs, a picnic table, a firepit, AC + heat, electricity, running water, and a private bathroom.

Things to Do Nears Lisbon, Ohio

• Scenic Vista Park
• Lisbon Historical Society

Maryland Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh

Deep creek, maryland: 2 hours.

If you haven’t had enough of the outdoors by visiting West Virginia for a weekend getaway from Pittsburgh, spend a weekend in Deep Creek, Maryland . Deep Creek has a large, lively lake with surrounding hiking trails, boating, camping, and fishing. So if you have a boat that you want to take somewhere else besides the three rivers, take it down to Deep Creek! Even if you’re not a boating person, Deep Creek Lake makes for a beautiful and refreshing weekend away from the city!

Plan your weekend getaway to Deep Creek

• Where to Stay in Deep Creek: Blue Moon Rising Cabins
• Where to Stay in Deep Creek: Inn at Deep Creek
• Things to do in Deep Creek

Baltimore, Maryland: 4 hours

Baltimore is a vibrant city with a rich history and a range of attractions. Visitors to Baltimore can explore the historic Inner Harbor, home to the National Aquarium and numerous shops and restaurants. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the iconic Fort McHenry, or immerse yourself in the city’s thriving arts and culture scene at the Baltimore Museum of Art or the Walters Art Museum. With its charming neighborhoods, delicious seafood, and lively nightlife, Baltimore offers something for everyone and is definitely worth a visit as a weekend getaway from Pittsburgh!

Washington D.C.: 4 Hours

Want to have a jam-packed itinerary for your weekend trip from Pittsburgh? Take a trip to the nation’s capital! Washington, D.C., is full of so many things to do, from visiting monuments to touring museums to visiting the National Zoo. Hit up the must-see sights along the National Mall and venture into D.C.’s neighborhoods to find smaller museums, fun walking tours, and ethnic food. Whether you’re doing a weekend getaway with your friends or partner or a trip with the entire family, Washington, D.C., has plenty to do for everyone!

Plan your trip to Washington DC

• Top things to do in Washington DC
• Where to stay in Washington DC

Virginia Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh

Luray, virginia and shenandoah national park.

Luray is most famous for Luray Caverns, the largest caverns in the eastern United States! This magnificent geological wonder is totally worth it for a weekend getaway from Pittsburgh. Travel underground and view the massive stalactites and stalagmites, mirrored pools, and The Great Stalacpipe Organ. In addition to Luray Caverns, you can explore Shenandoah National Park, museums, wineries, and more!

West Virginia Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh

Morgantown, west virginia: 1.5 hours.

Whether you’re a fan of Pitt’s former rival, visiting Mountaineer Country is a lot of fun as a city escape! Football aside, Morgantown has a lot of great outdoor activities in case you need a city break from Pittsburgh!

We both lived in Morgantown for grad school, so needless to say, we’re experts in the area! Morgantown is a college town, so if you’re looking for cheap happy hours, good food, breweries, and an energetic vibe, take a weekend and visit Morgantown. Morgantown is a great trip from Pittsburgh because it’s a very easy drive and close to the city. If you’re not up for doing an entire weekend in Morgantown, it’s a great day trip from Pittsburgh as well!

Plan your weekend getaway to Morgantown

• Getting to Morgantown: 1.5-hour drive south of Pittsburgh on I-79S
• Outdoor things to do in Morgantown
• Places to stay in Morgantown

Wheeling, West Virginia: 1.5 Hours

Wheeling , West Virginia, is a historic industrial city only an hour and a half west of Pittsburgh in the strange part of the state between Pennsylvania and Ohio, or as West Virginians call it, the western panhandle.

Wheeling was once a hub for rail transportation and the glass industry; however, with industrial decline, Wheeling has become a picture of what used to be. So you’re a fan of history, taking a weekend trip to Wheeling is for you!

Today, you can visit historic sites, museums, a casino, and the Oglebay Resort and Museums . The Oglebay Resort has multiple museums on site, golf courses, a spa, and a zoo to explore! Oglebay is a great destination for a weekend getaway from Pittsburgh because you don’t have to leave the resort if you don’t want to! Oglebay’s claim to fame is their annual Christmas Light Display, which, if you’re from the Pittsburgh area, I’m sure you’ve been the advertisement! Read more about how to spend a weekend in Wheeling here!

Plan Your Weekend Trip to Wheeling

• Getting to Wheeling WV: 1.5-hour drive west of Pittsburgh
• Oglebay Resort: best year-round resort in Wheeling
• Weekend getaway to Wheeling Tips

Davis, West Virginia: 3 hours

For those looking to escape deep into the forest and mountains, Davis, West Virginia , is for you. Davis, West Virginia, is located in the heart of the Potomac Highlands. Here, you won’t find phone service or much Wifi, so you can easily disconnect from the world and connect with nature.

While visiting Davis, you can explore one of West Virginia’s most sought waterfalls: Blackwater Falls. Around Davis, you can hike, bike, backpack, and enjoy summer and winter sports. Also, venture to the surrounding areas to explore unique landscapes like the Dolly Sods plateau and Seneca Rocks . There is so much to do near Davis, so we would recommend making it a 3-day weekend getaway from Pittsburgh!

Plan your Trip to Davis, West Virginia

• Getting to Davis West Virginia: 3-hour drive, the drive will be a lot of back roads!
• Canaan Valley Travel Guide
• Three Days in Davis Itinerary

New River Gorge, West Virginia: 3.5 hours

New River Gorge National Park is West Virginia’s newest National Park! And it makes for an awesome weekend getaway from Pittsburgh because there is so much to do! If you’re interested in some of the best whitewater rafting on the East Coast, you have to experience the rapids on the New River and the Gauley River. New River Gorge National Park is also home to a number of interesting historical sites, including an abandoned mining site and a ghost town! And you can’t miss seeing the New River Gorge Bridge or experiencing the New River Bridge walk (You walk literally under the bridge along a catwalk). There are countless hiking trails, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and more throughout the park, so you can easily spend an entire weekend here and still need to come back for more!

New River Gorge is a must if you’re visiting West Virginia and want to experience true adventure!

Plan Your Trip to New River Gorge

• Getting to New River Gorge: 3.5-hour drive south of Pittsburgh

New York Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh

Buffalo and niagara falls, new york: 4 hours.

For those who want to venture a little further north, consider visiting Buffalo and Niagara Falls. It’s also only 30 minutes from Niagara Falls, so you can easily couple both into a weekend trip. Compared to Niagara Falls on both the Canadian and American sides, Buffalo is much more affordable and isn’t as tourist-trappy.

If you love chicken wings, you need to go to Buffalo. Buffalo is the birthplace of the buffalo chicken wing! The name “Buffalo Wing” makes sense now, right? So if you’re taking a weekend trip from Pittsburgh to Buffalo, you have to try the wings! In addition to the wing scene, Buffalo has lots of things to do, including a zoo, museums, and sports teams.

Plan Your Trip to Niagara Falls and Buffalo

• Getting to Buffalo: 4-hour drive north
• Guide to the American side of Niagara Falls
• Winter Weekend Getaway to Buffalo Guide
• Where to Stay in Buffalo

Jamestown, New York: 2.5 Hours

Jamestown , New York, is an underrated city on the western side of the state. Located just 40 minutes from Erie, it is right between the Lake Erie Wine Counties and Chautauqua Lake.

Jamestown’s claim to fame is that it’s the birthplace of Lucille Ball, so it’s only appropriate that this city be the “capital of comedy!” Jamestown is home to the National Comedy Center and Lucy-Desi Museum, so during a visit to Jamestown, get ready to laugh! During summer, nearby Chautauqua Lake becomes full of lake-goers and summer fun. Surrounding Jamestown, you can also find walking and hiking trails.

Plan Your Weekend Trip to Jamestown

• Weekend getaway itinerary to Jamestown
• Where to Stay in Jamestown: Chautauqua Harbor Hotel

The Finger Lakes, New York: 5 hours

For those looking to experience the East Coast’s version of Sonoma, you have to visit the Finger Lakes! The Finger Lakes are a series of lakes located near the border of New York and Pennsylvania. Because of the lakes’ effect on the local climate, this region is perfect for growing grapes and making wine!

The Finger Lakes make for a perfect weekend getaway from Pittsburgh if you’re looking for a different wine experience from Erie. It’s also a perfect weekend getaway for all times of the year; we visited during Valentine’s Day and loved it. The Finger Lakes are most expensive and busy in the summertime, so consider visiting in the off-season!

Plan Your Weekend Getaway to the Finger Lakes!

• Romantic Weekend Getaway Itinerary to the Finger Lakes

Plan Your Weekend Getaway from Pittsburgh

When picking where to go for your weekend trip from Pittsburgh, consider whether your trip has a purpose. Are you traveling with your family? Is this a couples’ weekend getaway? Are you looking to go off the grid for the weekend? The weekend trips suggested in this post are very diverse, so weigh your options and consider what kind of things you want to do on your weekend away!

If you’re taking a weekend trip from Pittsburgh, it is much easier to drive than fly. All of these destinations are within an easy five-hour drive of Pittsburgh, so you can easily drive on a Friday night or Saturday morning to arrive at your destinations.

When we take weekend trips from Pittsburgh, we try to maximize our time so we can spend the most amount of time exploring a new place! Typically, we plan to leave Pittsburgh on a Friday night or Saturday morning, and then return Sunday evening in Pittsburgh. This way, we are only booking a hotel for one or two nights, and we have two full days to explore! If your schedule allows, consider making your weekend trip a three-day weekend! This will give you more time to explore and allow you to travel to a destination that is a little further away!

Start Planning Your Next Trip!

• Plan the best weekend getaway ever !
• How to perfectly pack everything for your next trip
• How to prepare for any trip
• Book your accommodation : For booking hotels, we like to use Hotels , Booking , and Agoda . For more unique stays, we like to use Airbnb .
• Book your flights : For booking flights, we like to use Kiwi or Student Universe to check for deals.
• Activities and tours : Our go-to resources for booking activities and tours are: Groupon , GetYourGuide , and Viator . Also, check if your city is available on CityPass for extra discounts.
• Luggage : When we travel, we love using our SwissGear Energie series luggage set . This hardshell luggage is lightweight, spacious, and affordable! We love how much of our stuff can fit in this luggage .

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14 Small Towns Around Pittsburgh Where Everyone Knows Your Name

Beth Price-Williams

A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.

More by this Author

Pittsburgh’s often been called a big city with a small town feel. We, Pittsburghers , have the best of both worlds because we’re also within easy driving distance of a plethora of charming small towns. Here are 14 small towns near Pittsburgh that offer a glimpse into yesteryear. So, next time you’re looking for a unique way to spend the day, head to one of these friendly small towns.

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What are your favorite small towns near Pittsburgh? Join the conversation below. Then, click here to read about Meadville, the perfect destination for a day trip.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Exploring in and around pittsburgh.

What are some abandoned places in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh is a pretty old city and has several historic places that are still standing, yet abandoned . There's a wooden house that was built in 1795 called the Neill Log House and it can be found in Schenley Park. It's considered the oldest log house in Pittsburgh. Being a steel town, it's no surprise to find there are abandoned steel furnaces. The Carrie Furnaces can be explored on a tour and they're an intriguing way to learn about industrial history.

What are the most beautiful parks in Pittsburgh?

This old city is an industrial hotspot, yet there are many gorgeous parks where one can get away from the noise of the city. Schenley Park is a local favorite and its 456 acres of lush trees are a serene respite from all the hustle and bustle. It's a great place to take a swim to cool off during the hot summer months. Birders often bring their binoculars to Frick Park where over 100 species of birds frolic in the branches. If you'd like a mellow stroll through exquisite gardens, Highland Park has that and more. Flower gardens surround a fountain and the scene may make you think you're in France.

Where can one see the strange and unusual in Pittsburgh?

A city that's gone through as many changes as Pittsburgh is bound to contain more than a few oddities to explore . The Living Dead Museum has everything you can imagine about zombies, and Dawn of the Dead was filmed in Pittsburgh's own Monroeville Mall. If you'd like to be tripped out by taxidermy, Trundle Manor has some of the weirdest examples around. The strangely stuffed creatures are displayed in whimsical arrangements with other objects like doll heads, bones, hats, pipes, and all sorts of odd accoutrements.

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Discover the Burgh

A Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh

Published by Jeremy . Last Updated on July 12, 2024.

Disclaimer : Our site uses demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links. Please check out our Terms and Conditions . Pricing, operating hours, or menus may have changed since our initial visit and may not be reflected in subsequent updates. Please confirm these directly with any business or attraction prior to visiting.

We've been doing our best here at Discover the Burgh to help you find new things to do in Pittsburgh, and since founding our site in 2015 we've published hundreds of articles of our experiences about what to see, do, and eat in southwest Pennsylvania.

Before starting our personal goal of doing everything in the region, we really weren't sure how much was out there. Now that we've been exploring for several years, we realized that there is truly an extraordinary amount of things to do- with enough to keep you busy from January 1st to December 31st and quite literally every day in between.

So whether you're looking for what to do in Pittsburgh today, things to do this weekend, events taking place three months from now, or a combination of everything, this guide to our great city will truly keep you busy 365 days of the year.

This guide features attractions, parks, nature, public spots, events, libations, and select food experiences like cafes, ice cream shops, and bakeries within Pittsburgh and the greater metro area (up to about 60-90 minutes away from downtown). We do not feature the best restaurants in Pittsburgh in this guide and recommend checking out our full restaurant feature at the previous link for more options!

Navigate Things to Do in Pittsburgh

This guide is broken up into multiple sections based off of your interests. To jump between each section, click the following links:

• Top 10 Pittsburgh Attractions

Attractions, Museums, and Experiences

Parks & nature, libations (bars, breweries, distilleries), cafes, ice cream, and bakeries.

• Music Venues

Seasonal and Annual Events

Notes: While Discover the Burgh features our quest to visit every spot in southwest PA, we are still working our way through doing them all. We have enjoyed the vast majority of the list below personally, and when available we link to full reviews of each spot so you can read more. Some of these are through dedicated articles for each attraction, others are via broader guides and will be noted accordingly. If we have not visited a spot yet, we'll link directly to the relevant website when available in some cases as well.

While this guide may not feature everything there is to do in Pittsburgh, we are focusing on highlighting some of the very best. No matter what you do, if you experience most of what is featured in this guide you'll end up with a wonderful appreciation for all things Pittsburgh!

The Top 10 Pittsburgh Attractions

Are you planning to visit Pittsburgh or want to make sure you've seen the very best the city has to offer? Our Top 10 list is where to start.

Out of hundreds upon hundreds of attractions visited, we think of these as our very favorites. These are the best places in Pittsburgh that should be ranked highly on anyone's list when exploring the city. Whether you live here or are simply visiting, our Top 10 will give a wonderful introduction to what Pittsburgh is all about. So if you haven't done these yet, now is the time.

Please note that the top 10 is presented in no particular order.

1. Duquesne Incline

Before cars became commonplace in Pittsburgh, workers needed a way to traverse the hillsides to get from their houses (typically on top) to the mills and factories (typically oriented along the river). During that time many funicular inclines opened to move people up and down the hills. But as cars became commonplace, many of the inclines closed and were dismantled. Today, two remain (both on Mount Washington ), and one, the Duquesne Incline , is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike- not just because it is over 140 years old, but also because the ride features one of the most breathtaking skyline views of Pittsburgh you'll ever see!

2. Phipps Conservatory

Phipps Conservatory is the premier conservatory and botanical gardens in the area and is one of our favorite spots in the city. Why is that? Apart from the fact that the conservatory offers beautiful flowers any time of year, they also put on many seasonal flower shows that are must-sees. While the shows are always excellent, we highly recommend the Spring Flower Show (March to Early April) and Winter Flower Show (late November to early January) for their vibrancy, themes, and overall ambiance. Truly a must see in Oakland!

3. Point State Park

Point State Park is an interesting spot for its geographical features and history. On the geographical side, the park is located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh at the confluence of Pittsburgh's three rivers- the Allegheny, the Monongahela, and the Ohio. And on the history side was the site of several forts due to the strategic advantage of the location (of which only outlines of the forts, historical markers, and a blockhouse remain). Now the park is a great place to walk through as a reprieve from the bustle downtown, enjoy the beauty of the confluence and the fountain (seasonal), and learn a bit more about Pittsburgh's early history.

4. The Strip District

The Strip District is one of Pittsburgh's most vibrant neighborhoods. This section of the city was once home to heavy industry and produce terminals/markets, making for an interesting dichotomy. The mills ultimately left and the produce vendors and markets remained. Since then, many international markets, restaurants, and boutique shops have moved in which makes this neighborhood a great place to walk around and shop, eat, and drink. When visiting, keep in mind that many of the non-restaurant vendors close early (~3pm) even on weekends, so this one is definitely a spot to hit in the morning or early afternoon!

5. Warhol Museum

Many artists have come out of Pittsburgh, but none have works more prolific than Andy Warhol. To honor this iconic artist, the Andy Warhol Museum was opened in the North Side . This seven floor museum is the largest in North America dedicated to a single artist, and offers a glimpse into many different styles from Warhol's career- well beyond the iconic soup can. You may not like everything you see (you probably won't as his art is often unusual), but the museum does a great job highlighting this native artist's vast portfolio.

6. Heinz History Center

We can't have a Top 10 list about Pittsburgh attractions without featuring a museum all about the region, and the Heinz History Center will teach you everything you've ever wanted to learn about the area! This six-floor museum features nearly every aspect of Pittsburgh's history including its early settlements, modernization, industries that called the region home (such as glass, iron, and steel), sports history, local inventions, and so much more.

7. Randyland

Randyland is often considered to be Pittsburgh's most colorful spot, and once you arrive you'll quickly understand why that is. This attraction has been the passion project of Randy, a local artist who decided to bring color and happiness to the North Side in the mid-90s. He bought two houses on credit card and turned them to the wonderful work of art we know and love today. This one you really need to see to believe.

8. Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History

You may not think of Pittsburgh being home to one of the country's top art museums, but the Carnegie Museum of Art and Carnegie Museum of Natural History are just that. While we treat this museum as two when talking about it, the museums are actually in the same building and able to be viewed with one single ticket! Visitors are treated to dozens of room with some of the world's best art exhibits and natual history collections.

Don't miss Dinosaurs in Their Time , Hillman Hall of Gems and Minerals , and Hall of Architecture – three of our favorites!

9. Fallingwater

Frank Lloyd Wright is not a native Pittsburgher, but one of his most acclaimed works, Fallingwater , was built in the 1930s for a notable department store owner from the city. This house, located in the Laurel Highlands about an hour southeast of the city, is famous for its distinctive perch overtop a waterfall, with all of Wright's famed intricacies on display for all to see. A bit of a drive, but truly a must see. Be sure to book tickets to this one several weeks in advance if visiting!

10. Carrie Furnaces

We offer a number of great museums and attractions in this guide, and many focus on Pittsburgh's great history. But sometimes going to a museum is not enough and you need to see the history for yourself. The seasonal (late spring to early fall) tour of the Carrie Furnaces in Rankin is one of those places. Here you can see some of the last remaining blast furnaces in the city and learn more about how Pittsburgh became the epicenter of all things steel in the late 1800s and early 1900s- thus giving the city its nickname of The Steel City. Advanced reservations required.

Looking for more things to do in Pittsburgh? Scroll down to read the best spots by category. If you wish to learn more, be sure to click the link to be taken to our review or the official website!

If you are looking for an attraction, museum, or unique experience in southwest Pennsylvania, we have a number of options for you.

The following is organized loosely by location and attraction type. We start with well-known attractions in Pittsburgh proper, then branch out to sub-categories like sports, lesser-known/unusual museums, and regional attractions.

• Cathedral of Learning – Oakland – A skyscraper on Pitt's campus that features the Nationality Rooms- dozens of themed classrooms from around the world.
• Children's Museum – North Side – Pittsburgh's museum dedicated to children's activities.
• Carnegie Science Center – North Side – A science focused museum with multiple wings, special exhibits (extra ticket), and more.
• Rangos Giant Cinema at the Science Center – North Side – IMAX screen at the Science Center showing Hollywood movies and documentaries.
• USS Requin – North Side – A submarine open for tours at the Science Center. Included with Science Center ticket or available a la carte for visitors.
• Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium – Highland Park – Combination zoo and aquarium on a single ticket.
• Rivers of Steel PGH 101 – North Side – A ~90 minute river cruise by the Rivers of Steel Heritage Foundation.
• Gateway Clipper – South Side – A popular 60 minute river cruise for sightseeing.
• Free Pittsburgh Walking Tours – Downtown – Free walking tours of the city to learn its history, quirks, and charm. Neighborhood tours available as well!
• Discover the Burgh's Walking Tour – Many Neighborhoods – Take our five-mile, self-guided walking tour through Downtown, Station Square, Mount Washington, and the North Side!
• Primanti Brothers  – Strip District – The only restaurant featured in this guide as it is a local institution for fries and coleslaw on a sandwich. Best in the Strip District. Better when drinking.
• Explore the 90 Neighborhoods – Exploring a new neighborhood is one of our favorite activities, and Pittsburgh has 90 of them to choose from!
• Bicycle Heaven – North Side – The world's largest bicycle store and museum. Don't miss the 2nd floor showroom!
• Johnny Angel's Ginchy Stuff – North Side – A music store all about local musician Johnny Angel and his long career (right next to Bicycle Heaven).
• Moonshot Museum – North Side – This unique museum focuses on Astrobotic's work to take man back to the moon and beyond!
• Frick House – Point Breeze – Mansion tour for steel magnate Henry Clay Frick. Great to learn local steel history.
• National Aviary – North Side – All things birds at the Aviary with a few non-winged creatures as well!
• Roberto Clemente Museum – Lawrenceville – A small museum dedicated to the Pittsburgh Pirates legend.
• Fort Pitt Museum – Downtown – A modest museum at Point State Park dedicated to the history of the early settlements in the area.
• Wood Street Galleries – Downtown – A small two-floor gallery by the Cultural Trust in the T Station of the same name.
• Mattress Factory – North Side – A contemporary art museum that truly has something for everyone.
• Penguins Game – Downtown – Cheer on the Penguins for some hockey!
• Penguins Practice at the Lemieux Complex – Cranberry – Watch the Penguins at their public practices.
• Steelers Game – North Side – Find out why we're called Steeler nation at a football game.
• Steelers Training Camp – Latrobe – Pre-season training camp in July and August.
• Sunflower Festivals – Various Locations – Sunflower festivals, mazes, and other events in July and August.
• Pitt Panthers Game – North Side – Cheer on the Panthers during a college game at Acrisure Stadium.
• Pirates Game – North Side – Check out the Pirates while enjoying one of the most beautiful ballparks in the country.
• Riverhounds Game – South Side – Root for our local soccer team with some stunning city views in the background.
• PNC Park Tour – North Side – Take a tour of PNC Park and visit on a non-game, non-travel day to get into the Club House!
• Acrisure Stadium Tour – North Side – Take a behind the scenes tour of Acrisure Stadium.
• PPG Paints Arena Tour – Downtown – Take a behind the scenes tour of PPG Paints Arena
• Mario Lemieux Sports Complex Tour – Cranberry – Check out the practice rinks at the Lemieux complex for a behind the scenes tour or to simply watch the Pens practice during the season.
• Lumberjaxes Ax Throwing – Multiple Locations – Take some steam off by throwing sharp objects at a wooden target.
• Sliders Curling (Seasonal) – Millvale – Hit the ice for a variant of curling at this pop-up complex at Lumberjaxes Millvale.
• Kennywood – West Mifflin – Enjoy the rides at Pittsburgh's own amusement park.
• Sandcastle – West Homestead – A popular waterpark located just outside of the city.
• Idlewild & Soakzone – Laurel Highlands – A children's theme park and large waterpark located an hour southeast of Pittsburgh.
• The Big Mac Museum – North Huntingdon – A small museum inside a McDonald's to celebrate the Big Mac (which was invented nearby).
• Burgh Bits and Bites Food Tour – Multiple locations – A popular food tour with many options in southwest PA.
• Ascend – South Side – A bouldering and rock climbing gym with stellar city views.
• Trader Jacks – Bridgeville – A popular flea market during the weekend with dozens upon dozens of vendors.
• Allegheny Observatory – North Side – An operational observatory with limited tours in the summer months with advanced reservation.
• Historical Allegheny Jail Museum – Downtown – A tour of the old jail cells at the historical Allegheny Jail. Only open Mondays with limited hours.
• Maxo Vanka Murals – Millvale – Historical artwork at the St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Millvale.
• Kelso Museum of Near Eastern Archaeology – East Liberty- A small museum at the Pittsburgh seminary about their excavations in the Holy Land as well as exhibits on the history of written language.
• Soldiers and Sailors – Oakland – A modest museum dedicated to those who fought for the USA in the many wars.
• Pittsburgh Glass Center – Garfield – Take a class to learn some glass working skills!
• Chop, Wok & Talk – Friendship – A popular cooking class program in Pittsburgh.
• CRAFT Chatham – Gibsonia – In-depth cooking classes at Chatham's Eden Hall campus.
• Sweetwater Center for the Arts – Sewickley – International and themed cooking classes west of Pittsburgh.
• Cooking Class at Market District – Robinson Township – Take a cooking class in the large kitchen at the Market District.
• Saint Anthony Chapel – Troy Hill – Check out the largest collection of Catholic relics outside of the Vatican at this chapel.
• Bayernhof Museum – O'Hara Township – Explore the unusual house of Charles Brown and hear one of the dozens upon dozens of self-playing musical instruments found inside!
• Photo Antiquities Museum – North Side – A museum dedicated to the history of photography. Be sure to get an extra ticket for the rotating show as well.
• PostNatural History Museum – Garfield – A small museum dedicated to all things genetically modified by man. Typically only open Sundays.
• Pittsburgh Tattoo Art Museum – Shadyside – A small museum focusing on the early history of traditional American tattooing.
• Steel City Jet Ski Rentals – Sharpsburg – Take a jet ski for a spin on the rivers!
• Trundle Manor – Swissvale – The private residence of two local artisans who have a collection that is, well, rather odd.
• Escape Room Pittsburgh – Greenfield and Homestead – Escape rooms in Pittsburgh with various themes.
• Zone28 – Harmarville – An entertainment complex with arcade games, laser tag, bowling, and more.
• Living Dead Museum – Monroeville – A small museum in the Monroeville Mall dedicated to all things zombie lore, inspired by the Night of the Living Dead movie.
• Troy Hill Art Houses – Troy Hill – Three private residences turned into art exhibits. What is inside each house? We're not allowed to tell you. Just book a tour for each respective property and go!
• Kunzhaus – Troy Hill – A second art house by the folks behind La Hutte Royal.
• Gallery Closed – Troy Hill – A 24/7 closed, 24/7 open art exhibit in Troy Hill that you can enjoy from the outside.
• Museum of Illusions – North Side – An international chain museum focusing on all things optical illusions.
• Arsenal Bowl – Lawrenceville – A popular bowling alley in Lawrenceville for playing, drinking, music, and more.
• Topgolf Pittsburgh – Bridgeville – A driving range with an added game element added in via sensor-tagged golf balls.
• Cornhole Golf – Mars – A space themed mini golf and cornhole hybrid at Mars-Bethel Golf Course in Mars, PA!
• Meadowcroft Rockshelter – Avella – An archaeological site that features nearly 20,000 of continuous human habitation found on-site.
• Sporting Clays at Nemacolin – Laurel Highlands – Go clay pigeon shooting in Ohiopyle!
• Kentuck Knob – Laurel Highlands – Tour a second popular Frank Lloyd Wright house near Fallingwater (in our top 10)
• Polymath Park – Laurel Highlands – A complex featuring two Wright homes and two homes from a former student open for tours and rentals.
• Buffalo Bill's House – Laurel Highlands – Restored house where Buffalo Bill scenes were filmed for The Silence of the Lambs . Open for periodic tours and as a house rental.
• Braddock's Battlefield History Center – North Braddock – Battle of the Monongahela site with a modest museum.
• Bushy Run Battlefield – Laurel Highlands – The site of Pontiac's Rebellion in southwest PA.
• Fort Ligonier – Laurel Highlands – A fort involved in the Forbes Campaign to retake what is now Pittsburgh in Ligonier.
• Fort Necessity – Laurel Highlands – The site of George Washington's famous battle that started the Seven Years War.
• Compass Inn Museum – Laurel Highlands – A historical 200+ year old inn that was once a stagecoach stop in the region.
• Ligonier Valley Railroad Museum – Laurel Highlands – A restored rail road station that preserves the history of rail in the region.
• The Lincoln Highway Experience – Laurel Highlands – A museum dedicated to the Lincoln Highway- the first coast-to-coast highway in the USA (1913).
• Playthings Etc – Butler – A popular toy store where the employees will play with you with almost every toy!
• Pinball PA – Aliquippa – A huge arcade with hundreds of classic games and pinball machines set to free play (charged by the hour).
• Western Pennsylvania Model Railroad Museum – Gibsonia – A seasonal (Christmas) museum featuring model train cars showing Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, in the 1950s.
• Harmony Museum – Harmony – A local heritage museum and log cabins in the historic town of Harmony.
• Carnegie Historical Society – Carnegie – A heritage museum in Carnegie featuring a Honus Wagner exhibit.
• Donora Smog Museum – Donora – A local heritage museum with exhibits for the Donora Smog disaster.
• Westmoreland Museum of American Art – Greensburg – A free art museum in downtown Greensburgh with many themed galleries.
• Saxonburg Museum – Saxonburg – A local heritage museum in Saxonburg with exhibits for John Roebling, inventor of a wire that was used in many famous bridges.
• Latrobe Heritage Museum – Latrobe – A local heritage museum focusing on history of the city with exhibits for Mr. Rogers and Arnold Palmer- two natives.
• Pennsylvania Trolley Museum – Washington – A museum focused on maintaining streetcars and trolleys.
• Tour-Ed Mine & Museum – Tarentum – An educational coal mine featuring exhibits on how mining was done from the 1800s to present.
• Kerr Museum – Oakmont – A mansion styled in the 1800s.
• Hartwood Manor – Hampton Township – A mansion on the Hartwood Acres estate open for tours with prior appointment.
• Large Scale Systems Museum – New Kensington – A museum dedicated to collecting and restoring antique computers.
• Maridon Museum – Butler – A museum dedicated to East Asian art.
• Rachel Carson Homestead – Springdale – The childhood home of Rachel Carson, a famed environmentalist from the region.
• Depreciation Lands – Allison Park – A colonial park showcasing what life was like in early settlement days.

One of the things we love about Pittsburgh is that it is a very green spot. Pittsburgh parks are plentiful, the county parks are huge, and if you drive just 10-20 minutes in any direction odds are good you'll find yourself out in nature.

This section of our guide features cool places to experience nature and the great outdoors, including notable spots in the city, trails, outdoor activities, and city and county parks, and state parks / other nature areas to name a few.

Notable Outdoor Spaces

The following are some of our favorite outdoor spots in the Pittsburgh area. Many of these are not necessarily parks, but they're interesting spots to visit all the same.

• Canton Avenue – Beechview – The steepest public street in the USA, and by some measurements, the world.
• Roslyn Place – Shadyside – A historic street made entirely out of wood blocks.
• Color Park – South Side – A small parklet on the river trail in South Side full of colorful graffiti.
• Fineview Lookout – Fineview – One of the more popular public lookouts in Pittsburgh.
• Chatham Village – Mount Washington – A historic neighborhood nestled away from the bustle of Mount Washington. Great for a walk around.
• South Side Slopes – South Side – Staircase streets good for an urban hike and city views.
• West End Overlook – Elliott – The second most popular overlook in Pittsburgh.
• Point of View Statue – Mount Washington – A gorgeous statue of George Washington and Guyasuta meeting in the region, with a great skyline view (just steps from the Duquesne Incline).
• Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens – Oakdale – A paid, outdoor botanical garden with many themed zones to walk around.
• Rodef Shalom Biblical Garden – Shadyside – A small garden in Shadyside with Biblical verses and plants.
• Flight 93 Memorial – Somerset – Visit the memorial for the Flight 93 crash in Somerset County from September 11th.

Nature Activities

Looking to be active while in nature? The following activities are for you!

• Ride the Great Allegheny Passage – A bike trail that goes from Pittsburgh to Maryland, and connects onto another trail all the way to Washington DC!
• Washington County Covered Bridges – The county just to our south has one of the largest collections of covered bridges in the state, so go find them!
• Biking on the River Trails – North/South Side – Take your own bike or rent one at a POGOH station for a stroll on one of our great river trails.
• Kayak North Park and Rivers – Enjoy a ride on the rivers or lakes in the area by kayak.
• White Water Raft Ohiopyle – Laurel Highlands – Check out Class I/II or III/IV rapids with an excursion from Ohiopyle (go for the III/IV in the Lower Yough !).
• Stand Up Paddleboard at Moraine State Park – Portersville – Jump on a stand up paddleboarding (SUP) tour of Moraine State Park with SurfSUP Adventures.
• Laurel Caverns – Laurel Highlands – Explore this natural cave at the southern end of Laurel Highlands.
• Butler-Freeport Community Trail – Hike or bike a bit (or all) of the large trail that connects Butler to Freeport, PA!
• Ghost Town Trail – Take a ride out on the stunning Ghost Town Trail just outside Indiana, PA (one of our favorites)!
• Pittsburgh Bike Trails – Check out even more converted rail trails in southwest Pennsylvania.
• Laurel Highlands Trail – Complete some or all of the 70+ mile hiking trail in the Laurel Highlands.
• North Country Trail – Butler – Hike a portion of the trail that goes all the way from New York state to North Dakota!

Pittsburgh and Allegheny County Parks

Looking to get out an explore the popular city and Allegheny County Parks ? The following are some of the most visited nearby.

• Frick Park – Squirrel Hill / Regent Square
• Schenley Park – Oakland
• Riverview Park – North Side
• Deer Lakes Park – Tarentum
• Mellon Park – Shadyside
• Harrison Hills Park – Natrona Heights
• Settlers Cabin Park – Collier
• South Park – Bethel Park
• North Park – Allison Park
• Boyce Park – Plum
• Hartwood Acres – Hampton Township
• Highland Park – Highland Park
• Round Hill Park – Elizabeth
• White Oak Park – White Oak

Regional Parks, State Parks, and Conservation Areas

Looking to get out further to see state parks, lesser visited places, and/or nature reserves? Check out the following nature spots in southwest Pennsylvania!

• McConnells Mill State Park – Portersville
• Moraine State Park – Portersville
• Ohiopyle State Park – Laurel Highlands
• Laurel Hill State Park – Laurel Highlands
• Laurel Ridge State Park – Laurel Highlands
• Raccoon Creek State Park – Hookstown
• Fall Run Park – Glenshaw
• Dead Man's Hollow – McKeesport
• Braddock's Trail Park – Irwin
• Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve – Latrobe
• Cedar Creek Park – Belle Vernon
• Buttermilk Falls – Beaver Falls
• Todd Nature Reserve – Sarver
• Mingo Creek County Park – Finleyville
• Boyce Mayview Park – Upper St Clair
• Thornburg Conservation Area – Thornburg
• Trillium Trail – Fox Chapel
• Beechwood Farms – Fox Chapel
• Montour Trail – West of the City
• Beechview Seldom Seen Greenway – Beechview
• Panhandle Trail – West of the City
• Robin Hill Park – Coraopolis
• Hillman State Park – Burgettstown
• Crooked Creek Horse Park – Armstrong Township
• Loyalhanna Lake – Saltsburg
• Keystone State Park – Derry
• Glade Run Lake Conservancy – Valencia
• Succop Nature Park – Butler
• Bear Run Nature Reserve – Laurel Highlands
• Roaring Run Natural Area – Laurel Highlands
• Laurel Summit State Park – Laurel Highlands
• Linn Run State Park – Laurel Highlands
• Powdermill Nature Reserve – Laurel Highlands
• Barking Slopes Conservation Area – New Kensington
• Montour Woods Conservation Area – Moon Township
• Jennings Environmental Education Center – Slippery Rock
• Kane Woods Nature Area – Scott Township

If libations are your thing, Pittsburgh and southwest Pennsylvania will have something for you. Our grains make fantastic beers and spirits, and our grapes make some surprisingly delicious (albeit quite sweet) wine. Throw in some stellar cocktail bars into the mix, and those looking for a beverage will not have to go far to try something new!

The following is split up into sections based on libations type (breweries, distilleries, wineries, and unique cocktail bars). Organization within each category is arbitrary. For these, we recommend reading our larger guides linked at the start of each section versus individual articles (those are linked when available, but we do not do dedicated features for some categories). 

There are more than 70 Pittsburgh breweries all within an hour of downtown, which means that if beer is what you seek, craft beer isn't too far away no matter where you live. The following is a list of all of the breweries we know about in the region and their location (plus others coming soon). To read more about each we've visited so far, click the above link to read our brewery guide.

• Sly Fox Brewing
• Penn Brewery
• Southern Tier
• Allegheny City
• 412 Brewery
• War Streets Brewing
• Fat Head's Saloon
• Cinderlands Brewery
• Spring Hill Brewing
• Burgh'ers Brewing
• Eleventh Hour Brewing
• Trace Brewing
• Church Brewworks
• Hop Farm Brewing
• Arboretum Trail Brewing
• East End Brewing
• Hofbrauhaus
• Strange Roots
• Grist House
• Dancing Gnome
• Hitchhiker Brewing
• Headley's Brewing
• Mindful Brewing
• Spoonwood Brewing
• Voodoo Brewing
• Brew Gentlemen
• Pittsburgh Bottleshop
• Mastic Trail Brewing
• Inner Groove
• The Leaning Cask
• Invisible Man Brewing
• Cellar Works Brewing
• Unity Brewing
• Allusion Brewing
• Back Alley Brewing
• North Country
• Union Brothers Brewing
• Big Rail Brewing
• Butler Brew Works
• Missing Links Brewery
• Recon Brewing
• Fermata Brewing
• Full Pint Brewing
• Quinn Brewing
• Yellow Bridge Brewing
• All Saints Brewing
• On the Point Brewing
• Four Seasons Brewing
• Levity Brewing
• Noble Stein Brewing
• New Crescent
• Rivertowne Brewing
• Inner Groove Brewery
• Mondays Brewing
• Old Thunder Brewing
• Devout Brewing Company
• Conny Creek Brewing
• Helltown Brewing
• Firewhistle Brewing
• White Horse Brewing
• Washington Brewing Company
• Four Points Brewing
• Lincoln Avenue Brewing
• Acrospire Brewing
• Acclimation Brewing
• Abjuration Brewing
• Cobblehaus Brewing
• Helicon Brewing
• Coal Tipple Brewing
• Petrucci Brothers
• Beaver Brewing Company

Want to visit a brewery but do not want to drink and drive? Check out the brewery tours at City Brew Tours !

Distilleries

In the early days of America, Pennsylvania was well known for its alcohol. First, there was the Whiskey Rebellion, where farmers revolted against the government for enacting a tax on whiskey. The second was for Monongahela Rye, one of the whiskeys the region was famous for due to our great grains. That spirit fell out of favor and was only recently revived by many of our area distilleries (and is a real treat to try).

Now Pittsburgh's distillery scene is growing at a rapid pace, with some of the following that should be on your radar. Click each Pittsburgh distillery name to read more.

• Wigle Whiskey – Multiple Locations – The first craft distillery in Pittsburgh with multiple spirits and locations to enjoy.
• Boyd & Blair Vodka – Glenshaw – A vodka distillery growing into other spirits with classes and events.
• Maggie's Farm Rum – Strip District – A rum distillery with stellar products and cocktails.
• Liberty Pole Spirits – Washington – A distillery south of the city with a focus on local grains and great cocktails.
• Kingfly Spirits – Strip District – A distillery with a cool space in the Strip and live jazz weekly.
• McLaughlin Distillery – Sewickley – A moonshine and whiskey distillery in Sewickley with roughly 30 flavors!
• Lawrenceville Distilling – Lawrenceville – A distillery in Lawrenceville with limited options.
• 4Four6 Distillery – Sharpsburg – A distillery located in the heart of Sharpsburg.
• Lucky Sign Spirits – Millvale – A distillery located in Millvale.
• Ridge Runner Distillery – Laurel Highlands – A distillery in the Laurel Highlands with an array of flavored products.
• Bella Bambini Cello – Coraopolis – Not technically a distillery, but a spot that focuses on housemade infusions like limoncello and more.
• Big Springs Spirits – Seven Fields – Expansion tasting room and bar for Big Springs Spirits in Butler County.

Wineries, Meaderies, and Cider Houses

The greater Pittsburgh area is known for its grains and products for spirits, but we also have a modest wine region as well. It is true that most of the grapes in the area are on the sweet side (very sweet, to be honest), but if this is the kind of wine you like, you'll be in heaven in southwest Pennsylvania!

If sweet wine is not your thing, don't worry. We've also got a number of wineries that make exceptional dry wines using imported grapes and a few that work magic in their soil for 100% homegrown wine as well!

In this category, we not only feature Pittsburgh wineries , but also cider houses and meaderies too! So if wine or alternative libations are what you seek, click the previous guide to learn more as only a selection of our favorites are outlined below:

• Pittsburgh Winery
• Refucilo Winery
• Arsenal Cider
• Papa Joe's Wine Cellar
• Threadbare Cider
• EngineHouse 25
• Courtyard Winery
• Casa Narcisi
• Vinoski Winery
• Wooden Door Winery
• Kavic Winery
• Greendance Winery
• Greenhouse Winery
• Winfield Winery
• Raccoon Creek Winery
• Christian Klay Winery

Looking for Pittsburgh wine bars instead? Click the previous link to check out some of our favorites! These don't necessarily make their own products like those above, but they still serve up some stellar glasses all the same.

Craft Cocktail Bars

While we do not feature every bar under the sun in this guide, we do want to also highlight some craft cocktail bars as well. They may not make their own spirits, but the craft of making a good cocktail is enough of an art form on its own. So if trying a new cocktail is your idea of something to do in Pittsburgh, check out one of the following!

• Emerson's Bar
• The Speakeasy
• Leo. A Public House
• Bridges & Bourbon
• Ollie's Gastropub
• Bar Botanico
• Commerce Bar
• Hidden Harbor

Looking for a pick-me-up or something to satisfy your sweet tooth while out and about? This section of our guide features some great cafes, ice cream shops, and bakeries you really should visit!

Much like our libations section above, the following are broken up into their individual category types as per the above headline and the organization is arbitrary. We recommend reading our larger guide to each as listed at the start of each section for further reading as we do not feature individual articles for these spots at this time.

When it comes to ice cream in Pittsburgh , we have a number of options. For our full list of all the ice cream spots we've visited to date, click the previous link to check out our guide. A selection of some of our favorites are outlined below:

• Glen's Custard
• Page Dairy Mart
• Gus & Yia Yia's
• Milkshake Factory
• Sugar and Spice
• The Snowman

Much like ice cream above, the bakeries in Pittsburgh are also exploding at a rapid pace. A selection of some of our favorites are outlined below. To read more about each, click the previous link for our full guide!

• Madeleine Bakery
• Five Points
• La Gourmandine
• Grandview Bakery
• Allegro Hearth
• Butterwood Bake Consortium
• Priory Pastries
• Prohibition Pastries
• Jean-Marc Chetallier's French Bakery
• Bethel Bakery
• Potomac Bakery
• Lincoln Bakery

No matter which neighborhood or suburb you visit, odds are good you're going to find a Pittsburgh coffee shop . We're well underway in visiting them all, and a selection of popular spots outlined below. For our complete list, click the previous link to check out our cafe guide!

• Commonplace Coffee
• Redhawk Coffee
• Gasoline St Coffee
• Kaibur Coffee
• Orbis Caffe
• Biddle's Escape
• Espresso a Mano
• Colombino Farmers
• Anchor and Anvil
• Ineffable Ca Phe
• Black Forge
• California Coffee Bar
• White Rabbit

Music Venues and Theaters

Pittsburgh's music, theater, and performing arts scene has been exploding in recent years, and not a day goes by without several shows going on at our local theaters. In this section of our guide, we highlight some of the best spots to take in a show, be it at a small comedy club or all the way to the grand symphony at Heinz Hall downtown.

• Pittsburgh Symphony
• Pittsburgh Ballet
• Pittsburgh Opera
• Pittsburgh CLO
• Concerts at Acrisure Stadium (formerly Heinz Field)
• Concerts at PNC Park
• Concerts at PPG Paints Arena
• Carnegie Music Hall of Homestead
• Thunderbird Cafe
• City of Asylum
• August Wilson Center
• Texture Ballet
• Arcade Comedy Club
• Banjo Night
• Rex Theater
• Quantum Theater
• Kelly Strayhorn Theater
• Palace Theater
• Mr. Small's
• Liberty Magic
• Roxian Theatre

Looking to take in one of the many an annual events in Pittsburgh ? The following are some of the largest and most popular- with an expressed focus on the unique ones to the region!

Events are organized by the months they normally occur. Note that this list does not feature the exact dates for each event, which often varies from year to year, so we recommend confirming dates in advance.

• MessFest – January – A New Year celebration at the Science Center celebrating all things messy!
• Food Truck-a-Palooza – January – One of the largest food truck rallies of the year at the Monroeville Convention Center.
• Downtown Gallery Crawls – Quarterly – Late night gallery crawl at the many galleries and hotspots in downtown Pittsburgh.
• Unblurred Gallery Crawl – Monthly – Late night gallery crawl in Garfield on the First Friday of each month. Galleries, food trucks, music, and more.
• 21+ Nights – Periodically – Enjoy local museums like the Science Center , Children's Museum , and Carnegie Museums at their periodic 21+ events- no kids allowed!
• Skiing in the Laurel Highlands – Winter – Hit the slopes at Hidden Valley (beginner), Seven Springs (intermediate), or Laurel Mountain (advanced)!
• Tubing at Boyce Park – Plum – Looking to try high speed tubing instead? Head over to Boyce Park during winter to get into the fun!
• Imbibe North Side – Winter/Summer – A twice a year libations festival at the Mattress Factory with all North Side producers.
• Restaurant Week – Winter/Summer – Restaurant specials throughout the city.
• Pittsburgh Beerfest – Winter/Sunner – A twice a year beer festival featuring many local, national, and international producers.
• Good Wood Festival – February – Warm up with barrel aged beers at this intimate beer festival, hosted at Threadbare Cider.
• St Patrick's Day Parade – March – Celebrate with one of the largest St Patrick's Day parades and parties in the country.
• CMU Carnival – April – Reunion weekend and Carnival games at CMU. Go for the buggy races to marvel at engineering and athleticism combined.
• Banff Mountain Film Festival – April – An international touring film festival for adventure activities (a personal favorite of ours).
• Art All Night – April – A 22-hour art show where anyone can submit a piece without judging, censorship, or limitations.
• Fireworks Nights – Seasonal – Check out a fireworks show be it for Fourth of July, Light Up Night, First Night, or simply at one of the many Pirates fireworks nights!
• Pittsburgh Wine Festival – May – A popular wine festival typically taking place at Acrisure Stadium.
• Maifest – May – Celebrate spring at Teutonia Mannerchor German club in the North Side with German food, beer, and music.
• Pittsburgh Marathon – May – Run or cheer on the runners in the biggest race in Pittsburgh.
• Millvale Music Festival – May – A large music festival in Millvale with 300+ bands.
• North Side Sandwich Sampler – May – North Side restaurants competing to see who can create the best sandwich!
• Open Streets – May, June, July – An event where select neighborhoods shut down the main streets for walkers, bikers, and getting outside. Location changes per event.
• Kayafest – May – A street party in the Strip District put on by Kaya featuring Caribbean fare, music, and more.
• Mars Exploration Days – May/June – A celebration for the planet Mars in the town of Mars. Featuring speakers and exhibits from NASA to name a few.
• Pittsburgh Pride – June – A big party in the Cultural District to celebrate Pride.
• Three Rivers Arts Festival – June – A nearly two week arts show in and around Point State Park with performances, art sales, and more.
• Jazz Fest – A three day jazz festival in the Cultural District with many shows morning through night.
• Beers of the Burgh – Summer/Winter- The premier beer event in Pittsburgh showcasing only western Pennsylvania breweries. We like the summer one due to its location frequently at Carrie Furances!
• Pittsburgh Magazine's Best Restaurant Party – June – The premier food event of the year where Pittsburgh Magazine hosts their favorite restaurants at Acrisure Stadium.
• Pick Your Own Fruit – Spring/Summer – Find a fruit farm to pick your favorite fruits!
• Farmer's Markets – Spring/Summer/Fall – Visit the many area farmer's markets to buy local produce and more!
• Cinema in the Park – Summer – Live movies at many city parks.
• Music in the Park – Summer – Live music at many city and county parks.
• Anthrocon – July – Welcome the furries to Pittsburgh in what is often considered to be the largest congregation in the world.
• Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix – July – Check out the car shows throughout the city and races at Schenley Park during this nearly two week event.
• Deutschtown Music Festival – Enjoy hundreds of bands as they perform on dozens of stages during this two day (free) festival in the North Side.
• Picklesbrugh – July – Pack the bridge for the popular pickle festival. Just watch out for the crowds!
• Vine Rewind – July – A wine and live music festival in the Strip District hosted by Pittsburgh Winery.
• VegFest – August – A one-day event in the North Side celebrating all things vegan.
• Little Italy Days – August – Bloomfield shuts down to host this Italian festival!
• PedalPGH – August – A fun charity bike ride raising money for BikePGH.
• Barrel & Flow Fest – August – A top beer festival that pairs minority owned businesses and city leaders with local breweries to create new beers.
• Oktoberfest – September/Oktober – Celebrate Oktoberfest at Penn Brewery with lots of delicious beer.
• The Pittsburgh Irish Festival – September – Celebrate all things Irish heritage at the festival typically taking place at Carrie Furnace!
• Pierogi Fest – September – Head to Kennywood to enjoy some delicious pierogies from many local producers, food trucks, restaurants, and more.
• Renaissance Festival – Fall – Be transported back to Renaissance times at our annual Ren Fest.
• Step Trek – October – Make new friends while climbing the stairs on South Side Slopes at this annual event.
• Haunted Pittsburgh Tours – Summer/Fall – Learn about the haunted side of Pittsburgh with these seasonal walking tours.
• Living Dead Weekend – October – Celebrate all things zombie in Evans City at this annual event.
• Dirty Dozen – October – Bike up the 13 steepest streets in the city or watch others try their best at this annual tradition.
• Haunted Houses – Get your scare on at ScareHouse , Phantom Fright Nights , and Hundred Acres Manor .
• Three Rivers Film Festival – November – Check out many short and feature films at the annual film festival!
• Light Up Night  – November – Kick off the Christmas season the Saturday before Thanksgiving (new night as of 2021). Christmas lights turn on, the holiday market starts, Santa arrives, fireworks, and more!
• Lawrenceville Cookie Tour – December – Support local Lawrenceville businesses over this weekend while also getting cookies at every stop!
• Handmade Arcade – December – Support hundreds upon hundreds of local artisans at this holiday shopping event at the convention center.
• AllClad Seconds Sale – December – A seconds sale for one of the best cookware producers in the country. Typically occurs the first full weekend of the month at the Washington County Fairgrounds.
• Christmas in Pittsburgh  – Check out the Christmas Markets , Kennywood Holiday Lights , Phipps Winter Flower Show , Overly's Country Christmas , Christmas at the Cathedral of Learning , A Christmas Carol by the CLO , and Nutcracker by the Ballet to name a few!
• First Night – December 31st – Ring in the new year with many events in the Cultural District and fireworks!

Phipps Summer Flower Show “Under the Sea”

Steelers Training Camp

Young Frankenstein at Greer Cabaret

Artisan Seafood Conservas & Wine (21+)

Barrel & Flow Fest (21+)

VegFest at Allegheny Commons Park

Bruce Springsteen at PPG Paints Arena

August 2024, events for july, young frankenstein at greer cabaret expired.

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Expired

Steelers training camp expired.

Seussical the Musical Expired

Events for august, phipps summer flower show “under the sea” ongoing.

Allegheny County Summer Concert Series: Micky Dolenz (South Park) Expired

Pirates Drone Show Expired

Steelers training camp ongoing, young frankenstein at greer cabaret ongoing.

Allegheny County Summer Concert Series: Magic! (Hartwood Acres)

Seven Springs Wine Festival

Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival

Pirates fireworks night.

Oktoberfest at Teutonia Mannerchor

Pittsburgh Soul Food Festival

Squirrel Hill Night Market

Find more things to do in pittsburgh on discover the burgh.

Looking for more on Discover the Burgh but don't know where to begin? Click the previous link to be taken to our ‘start here' page for more!

This guide is updated regularly as we find more things to do in Pittsburgh. If your favorite hasn't made the list, please contact us and we'll be happy to check it out!

The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Pittsburgh.

Our top 10 things to do in Pittsburgh are the Duquesne Incline, Phipps Conservatory, Point State Park, The Strip District, Andy Warhol Museum, Heinz History Center, Randyland, Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, Fallingwater, and Carrie Furnaces.

Pittsburgh is best enjoyed over a weekend, 2-3 days, but you can get the highlights in a day or spend many weeks exploring it all.

The Heinz History Center, the Frick Museum, Carrie Furnaces, and the Fort Pitt Museum are all great spots to learn about Pittsburgh's rich history!

Point State Park, the Duquesne Incline lookout, and the River Trails are all great options.

The Children's Museum, Carnegie Science Center, Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium, and Phipps Conservatory are all kid-friendly!

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📍 Duquesne Incline

Things to do.

A City of Multitudes

Pittsburgh is a modern, ever-evolving city where the must-sees vary week to week as Downtown-encompassing festivals , a vibrant Cultural District of world-class productions , fan-friendly sports events in iconic stadiums, and our distinct four seasons make each trip unique. Add in our award-winning culinary scene, craft beverage -packed neighborhoods and renowned museums you can enjoy throughout the year, and the only thing you won't have on your itinerary is free time.

Need to extend your trip a day or two to get it all in? We figured .

Inclines and trolleys and riverboats (oh my)! There are so many ways to tour and sightsee around the city of Pittsburgh.

You can take a tour by bike, trolley, boat, jet ski, kayak, funicular, bus or Segway, or go old fashioned and explore on your own two feet. Take a ride on the historic Duquesne Incline for panoramic views of the city's skyline and rivers.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, bike and picnic at the numerous parks and green spaces , including Schenley Park and Point State Park .

Our recommendation? Pick one of our 90 neighborhoods that make the city unique and explore.

Events that will pique your interests and inspire new adventures.

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40+ Best Things To Do And See In Pittsburgh, From a Local

Heading to Pittsburgh Pennsylvania for a visit or weekend getaway? Here’s my local’s guide to visiting the Steel City, with the 40+ top attractions and best things to do and see.

Rachel Carson Bridge with the Pittsburgh skyline

I also give you a rundown of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh and tips for visiting.

Pittsburgh is a town that was built on steel and the Steelers. But Pittsburgh’s reputation as a gritty city is as old as petticoats.

These days, the city thrives on culture as well. Formerly a Rust Belt baby, Pittsburgh is now a cultural and artistic hub. It’s also a foodie town.

Formerly, the go to meal in Pittsburgh was a French fry stuffed sandwich. Now, there are gourmet and international restaurants, from budget to expensive.

Pittsburgh is sometimes overshadowed by the much larger city of Philadelphia in the east. But Pittsburgh also has a wealth of fine art and architecture. Some of Pittsburgh’s top attractions are its world class museums and cultural centers.

To top that off, Pittsburgh is beautiful situated. This hilly city sits at the crux of three rivers — the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio. The city is a visual feast, with a rugged topography and an enviable skyline.

Pittsburgh’s not as ancient as places like Lisbon . But its natural setting –with rivers, viewpoints, and vistas — bear a resemblance. If Pittsburgh were in Europe, the city would be wildly popular.

Pittsburgh is also a city of many neighborhoods. There’s pockets of cuteness sprinkled all over the city. You need a car or Uber to explore them properly.

Hall of Sculptures in the Carnegie Museum of Art

Best Things To Do In Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Here are my picks for the 40+ best things to do and see in Pittsburgh. I take you on a tour of all the top must visit sites, attractions, museums, and landmarks in Pittsburgh.

You’ll discover all the best destinations in Pittsburgh — where to eat, stay, and play on your Pittsburgh getaway. I also give you a long list of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh by neighborhood.

It’s possible to hit the highlights of Pittsburgh in 2-3 days. A really thorough exploration could take a week.

1. Carnegie Museum of Art

You may not think the “Steel City” of Pittsburgh is an art mecca. But for a small city, the beloved Carnegie Museum of Art (“CMOA”) packs a surprisingly art punch, with international flair.

For art lovers, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

The Carnegie was founded by industrialist and philanthropist  Andrew Carnegie in 1895. This gorgeous museum is in Pittsburgh’s lively Oakland neighborhood near the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University.

There are many wings and dozens of galleries. The wide ranging collection is devoted to art from ancient times to cutting edge contemporary works.

Launched in 1974, the Scaife Galleries are CMOA’s crown jewel. Sarah Mellon Scaife was a sister of Pittsburgh tycoon Richard Mellon.

She gifted the massive Beaux Art galleries and a slew of important works to CMOA, nearly doubling its space.

The Impressionist works on display include pieces by top shelf names like Monet , Manet, Pissarro, Renoir, Degas, and Matisse.

A unique part of the Carnegie is the Hall of Architecture. As part of his effort to “bring the world to Pittsburgh,” Carnegie commissioned plaster copies of some of the world’s most iconic buildings and sculptures. 

They were created by master craftsmen. If the citizens of Pittsburgh couldn’t get to Europe, they could at least see what they were missing.

Architectural cast collections were incredibly popular in the late Victorian era. Their popularity subsequent waned. 

Now, the Carnegie has one of the world’s best collections, rivaling the Victorian & Albert Museum in London.

Here’s my complete guide to the Carnegie Museum of Art .

2. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is a top attraction in Pittsburgh for kids. The museum has an extraordinary collection of dinosaur fossils. It’s one of the best collections in the United States.

The permanent collection explores every facet of the natural world. You’ll see dinosaur skeletons, minerals, Egyptian artifacts, and sea creatures.

The premiere exhibit is the Diplodocus Carnegie . A bone digging crew financed by Carnegie dug the 84 foot skeleton out of the dirt in southwestern Wyoming.

The sauropod is nicknamed “Dippy.” The life size dinosaur sculpture in front of the museum captures Dippy as he would have looked in real life.

There are also exhibits that explore the flora and fauna of Pennsylvania and the United States.

The Museum of Natural History is housed in the same building as the Carnegie Museum of Art. There are two cafes onsite. One is quite chic. You can also lounge in the museum’s lovely sculpture garden.

3. Carnegie Science Center

The Carnegie Science Center is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh for families.

Spread over four floors, the museum has hundreds of interactive exhibits. They explain everything from natural science, to artificial intelligence, to scientific principles, to human anatomy.

Aside from the displays, you can visit a submarine, the Blue Planetarium, the OmniMax Theater, and the sports center. At the later, you can zip line, rock climb, or take a virtual roller coaster ride.

One thing to keep in mind when you purchase your ticket is that there are separate charges for certain attractions. For example, a visit to the submarine is included in your ticket.

But you still have to book a time slot when you check in. Or, you’ll have to wait in line.

The planetarium and OmniMax are also separate charges. Check the schedule to see what’s playing every half hour to hour. Tailor your visit around those time slots.

4. Andy Warhol Museum

The Warhol Museum is my favorite museum in Pittsburgh. It’s a fabulous single artist museum that celebrates Pittsburgh’s hippest native son, Andy Warhol.

As the Prince of Pop, Warhol made himself a world famous artist. Warhol was a true iconoclast and performance artist. He was a hugely significant artist of the second half of the 20th century.

Warhol challenged traditional norms of what constituted art. He cannily merged superficial commerce and fine art.

Warhol was unashamedly obsessed with beauty and fame, how they were linked, and how to capture the duo in a shocking way.

Pittsburgh’s Warhol museum is the only one of its kind in the United States. It’s housed in a chic urban venue. It boasts a veritable treasure trove of Warhol art and archives.

Opened in 1994, the Warhol Museum is an immersive and well curated museum. If you’re a Warholic, you may think you’ve fallen into a fancified version of the factory.

The museum has 7 floors, with the art work displayed in chronological order. Four of them showcase a decade of Warhol art per floor. You start from the top and work your way down. You can see the entire evolution of Warhol’s oeuvre.

You’ll see seminal works from the 1940s to Warhol’s death in 1987, with explanations of Warhol’s creative process. The museum also has a permanent room on the 4th floor for viewing Warho’s films.

There’s gallery after gallery of paintings, sculptures, photographs, drawings, and Warhol’s personal knickknacks.

Some of the drawings are by Warhol’s talented mother, Julia. The Warhol archives document his life with scrapbooks, newspaper articles, photographs, and Warhol’s time capsules (with 300,000 of Warhol’s possesions).

Click here for my complete guide to the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh .

For rabid Warhol fans, Warhol’s grave is also in Pittsburgh in the suburb of Bethel Park.

It’s an active shrine. People are constantly leaving soup cans, Coke bottles, and wigs. A local artist collects the notes people leave in languages from all over the world. 

5. The Mattress Factory

The Mattress Factory is a unique museum. It’s Pittsburgh’s premiere alternative art space and an unusual thing to do in Pittsburgh.

The museum is housed in a former industrial building. It’s become a mecca for wacked out installation art.

The Mattress Factory doesn’t even call itself a museum. Instead, it uses the phrase “Laboratory.”

The space provides an immersive experience, with engaging displays of modern and contemporary art. The museum aims to plunge you into “the creative vision of artists from around the world.” There are both temporary and permanent installations.

The light-bending Infinity Room (shown above) is wildly popular. To see it, you’ll need to don booties or socks because the floors need to be protected.

6. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Need some flower power? Set in beautiful Schenley Park, Phipps Conservatory is a beautiful and tranquil botanical garden. The glass, stone, and steel building is dubbed the “crystal palace.”

Phipps is definitely one of Pittsburgh’s most beautiful must visit attractions. The conservatory has staggeringly lush floral collections, glass art, and themed exhibits.

Phipps Conservatory is one of the few remaining public gardens that still produces full scale season flower shows year round.

The beautiful Outdoor Gardens are free to the public. Inside, the Victorian greenhouse has a wide ranging collection of 14 indoor gardens.

The well manicured exhibits range from rare miniature orchids to massive palm trees. There’s astonishing attention to detail in each room.

In addition to the permanent displays, Phipps has temporary exhibits celebrating each season. This makes Phipps a great place for repeat visits.

Phipps is especially twinkly and beautiful during the winter holidays when it hosts its annual Winter Flower and Garden Light Show .

Phipps also has a beautiful collection of glass art from renowned Seattle glass artist Dale Chihuly.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Phipps Conservatory .

Address : 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh PA 15213

7. First Presbyterian Church

The beautiful First Presbyterian Church is in downtown Pittsburgh. It was built in 1773. There’s still an active congregation.

The church’s claim to fame is its Tiffany stained glass windows. Tiffany Studios designed 13 of the church’s 26 foot x 7 foot stained glass windows (now insured for $2 million). The windows were hand-painted, making them unique among Tiffany windows.

The Tiffany windows, however, are just a few of the 253 stained and leaded glass windows throughout the sandstone church.

You’ll also find two 80 foot ceiling beams and a pair of 2 ton, 30 foot oak doors in the sanctuary. 

8. Cathedral of Learning

The Cathedral of Learning is one of Pittsburgh’s most iconic landmarks. It was built in a Gothic Revival style. The exterior was polished up in 2007.

The Neo-Gothic cathedral is over 42 stories high. It’s a lone skyscraper in the area that houses many of the University of Pittsburgh’s classes. And, in fact, it’s the second tallest university building in the world.

You enter into the stunning Commons Room. It’s a beautiful church-like three story foyer. The cathedral houses classrooms, administrative offices, and libraries.

The best part of the cathedral is the Nationality Rooms . They are themed class rooms from different time periods around the world. Each room is decorated to honor a specific ethnicity that contributed to Pittsburgh’s development. 

You can’t visit the classrooms when they’re in use. It’s best to visit on the weekend or during summer break. During the holidays, the rooms are dressed up in holiday finery.

9. Heinz Memorial Chapel

Heinz Memorial Chapel is right next to the Cathedral of Learning. It’s a tiny gem. But still one of the most striking churches in Pennsylvania.

The chapel was built between 1933-38. It’s an impressive ode to the Flamboyant Gothic style from the Middle Ages.

The chapel was built with funds donated by Henry John Heinz, the founder of the H.J. Heinz Company.

The chapel honors Heinz and his mother, Anna Margaretta Heinz. Today, it is used by the University of Pittsburgh for a variety of functions, both university related and religious.

The chapel was designed by the same architect responsible for the Cathedral of Learning. Inside are some of the world’s tallest stained glass windows. They’re simply breathtaking, reminiscent of Sainte-Chapelle in Paris .

Because it’s so beautiful, the chapel is a popular place for weddings.

The chapel is only open to the University of Pittsburgh community and not the general public. But you can book a small group tour by emailing the university.

Click here for a virtual tour of Heinz Chapel.

10. Frick Art & Historical Center

Another wonderful Pittsburgh attraction for art lovers is the Frick Pittsburgh . The Frick is a small free museum in the Point Breeze neighborhood.

It’s housed in a lovely Italian Renaissance style building. The museum was built by Helen Clay Frick to house her fine and decorative art collection.

The museum houses a collection of old masters. There’s a special emphasis on the early Renaissance and 18th century French painting. There are some masterpieces by luminaries such as Fragonard and Rubens.

There’s an extremely rare painting by Cimabue, a proto-Renaissance painter from Florence called The Flagellation of Christ . And a sweet nativity scene attributed to the Master of the Scrovegni Chapel Presbytery.

The Frick also hosts some great temporary exhibitions. I recently went to one on Frieda Kahlo and the Victorian Radicals.

11. Clayton Mansion

Along with his swanky NYC digs, Henry Clay Frick had a place in Pittsburgh. It’s an Italianate house called the Clayton Mansion . The house is on the corner of Penn and South Homewood avenues.

The Clayton House is not a grand Italian palazzo like you might find in Venice . But presidents have been entertained in this house-museum.

The museum consists of 23 meticulously restored rooms. There are more than 90% of the original period furnishings.

The only way to visit the museum is via a docent led tour. To take a virtual tour of the Frick, click here .

The Clayton House is undergoing restoration. At the moment, only the first floor is open to the the public.

12. Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall

Soldiers & Sailors is a museum in Oakland. Opened in 1910, it was originally conceived to honor the soldiers and sailors from Allegheny County who served in the Civil War.

The museum has since broadened its scope to include everyone who has served in the US military.

There are four exhibit-filled galleries. You’ll find a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and memorabilia that highlight the military history of the region — military uniforms, weapons, flags, medals, and photographs.

The Slave to Soldier exhibit in the Gettysburg Room is a highlight. It explores the experiences of African Americans in the military.

13. Saint Paul Cathedral

St. Paul Cathedral was established in 1834. It’s the principle Catholic church in Pittsburgh, home to over 600,000 Catholics. St. Paul is one of Pittsburgh’s architectural landmarks.

The pile of a church is located on Fifth Avenue between the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. It’s a popular wedding venue.

The limestone cathedral was built over 3 years, completed in 1906. St. Paul’s was built in a Gothic Revival style. It has a frilly triple portal like you would find in a cathedral in France .

Inside, there are 186 stained glass windows, double side aisles, and vaulted arches. The cathedral underwent an $8 million restoration in 2005.

14. Saint Anthony Chapel

Saint Anthony Chapel holds the world’s most extensive collection of publicly revered Christian relics outside the Vatican Museums .

The fantastic collection is displayed in handcrafted solid walnut reliquaries, arranged in altars and side areas.

The chapel has been designated by the Pittsburgh culture and foundation of monuments as a historic site. Except for Friday, visitors to Saint Anthony’s may take a one hour guided tour of the chapel each day.

15. PPG Place

The PPG Place Plaza is a one acre space in downtown Pittsburgh. It’s a year round attraction that’s akin to a mini Rockefeller Center.

The plaza is home to the PPG Building, the most interesting modern architecture in Pittsburgh. The beautiful Modern meets Gothic building is a veritable castle of shimmering glass.

During the winter months, there’s an ice rink during the winter months. The plaza is decked out for the holidays.

In summer, there’s a unique water fountain. Water pulses from the surface up to a height of over fifteen feet, with no barrier between the fountain and the rest of the plaza. The water disappears into the plaza surface and is recycled. 

16. Senator John Heinz History Center

The John Heinz History Center is housed in a former icehouse in the Strip District. The history museum is dedicated to telling Pittsburgh’s history from the pre-revolutionary era to the present day.

The museum is packed with kid friendly exhibits. It houses the original set from the TV show Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood .

Another permanent exhibit is dedicated to the H.J. Heinz Company. It shows the company’s evolution from a horseradish manufacturer to one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies.

17. Roberto Clemente Museum

I don’t know about my readers. But, in my life, I’ve been a rabid baseball fan. I spent years in fantasy baseball leagues.

During that time, I had a mad crush on Roberto Clemente. Roberto is Pittsburgh’s favorite baseball player.

Deservedly, Clemente has his own museum. The Roberto Clemente Museum showcases the world’s largest exhibited collection of baseball artifacts. Naturally, there’s a focus on the great right fielder.

Clemente came to the Pirates in 1954. He was a great baseball player who was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. But his story goes beyond his vaunted stats.

Clemente was a humanitarian. He lost his life en route to help earthquake victims in Nicaragua.

18. Randyland

This quirky Pittsburgh neighborhood is a psychedelic street art dream. Randyland is a recycled art kingdom. It’s a child-like world created by local artist and neighborhood renovator Randy Gilson.

It’s one of the most flamboyant — and free — spectacles in Pittsburgh. Gilson called it his “house of junk and joy.”

Essentially, every square inch of Gilson’s candy colored building is brightly painted and decorated with found objects — flamingos, mannequins, lawn furniture, banana plants, etc. The found object space functions as the home, garden, and artist space for Gilson and fellow creators.

But Randyland isn’t just confined to Gilson’s crazy house. Gilson has spread his artistic influence to all surrounding areas. Gilson’s “streetscapes” have transformed vacant lots into anti-depressant public parks and community gardens.

19. Benedum Center

The Benedum Center is your go to spot for Broadway shows or plays. It’s the centerpiece of Pittsburgh’s cultural district.

The Benedum Center was built in 1928. It was intended to be a “movie palace version of Versailles.”

The theater seats almost 3,000 people. It’s been perfectly restored.

The signature piece is the massive chandelier in the center of the theater. It’s 10 feet high and 12 feet wide.

As befitting a Versailles-wannabe, the Grand Lobby is also a pretty sparkler. There’s original marble and woodwork. The mirrors at the staircase landing are 18 feet high.

20. Heinz Hall

Heinz Hall is a stunning concert hall and showplace. The world class venue is home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

Like the Benedum Center, Heinz Hall is an architectural beauty.

Heinz Hall began life as a movie theater in 1927. Then, it was completely renovated and turned into performing arts venue in 1971.

Heinz Hall is designed and decorated in a French Court style. You’ll see marble, crystal, chandeliers, and gold leaf detailing everywhere.

21. Hike in Fall Run Park

Fall Run Park is a beautiful park north of the city. It’s an uncrowded hiking space.

The out and back trail is a mere one mile long. But the trail leads to a 25 foot drop waterfall.

The trail has been restored. Now, there are wide paths and bridges to help you along.

Not far from the park is the Aspinwall Riverfront Park. I’ve had some great food from a food truck there, Farmer X Baker .

22. Wander in the Strip District

Just shy of the city center is the Strip District. It runs from 11th to 33rd street. The Strip is a must visit attraction in Pittsburgh.

The Strip District was historically a wholesale produce district. Today, it’a a quirky and treasured market and food spot.

You’ll find meat purveyors, specialty shops, and popular bars and restaurants. You’ll also find the odd antique or crafts shop.

The Strip District has some of the same vibes you’d expect in Shoreditch in London . The shops and restaurant are a ragtag assemblage strung down Small Street and Penn Avenue.

The Strip District is a great place to go grocery shopping, especially if you like Italian or specialty ethnic ingredients.

Pennsylvania Macaroni Company is practically an institution. It’s a family run grocery with thousands of items, including a legendary selection of cheeses.

Enrico Biscotti Company is another good spot. If you have a sweet tooth, I love Peace, Love and Little Donuts .

Finally, for the best nightcaps, hop over to Bar Marco . It’s one of the best places to go in Pittsburgh for cocktails.

23. Explore Lawrenceville

Lawrence is a hipster mecca. It’s a gentrifying area of Pittsburgh.

Whenever I go, there’s something new. There’s a constant arts-driven urban revitalization. That makes the neighborhood one of the best places to visit in Pittsburgh.

Lawrenceville is an eminently walkable neighborhood. The main drag is Butler Street. You’ll find loads of vintage and one-of-a-kind shops, along with plenty of restaurants.

Lawrenceville is probably my favorite neighborhood to go for drinks and dinner, as you’ll see in my restaurant listings below.

24. Explore Shadyside

Shadyside is another must visit neighborhood in Pittsburgh. It’s a combination of restored Victorian mansions and student apartments in historic buildings. My daughter lives there right now in an apartment in a colorful Victorian complex.

Shadyside is one of the trendier neighborhoods in Pittsburgh. There are some beautiful places to stroll.

Walnut Street and Ellsworth Avenue offer up yoga studios, bookstores, boutiques, local eateries, and some galleries.

There are recognizable names like Apple, Lululemon, Banana Republic, and Athleta. But there are also independent local boutiques. Toadflax is an utterly adorable store with plants and cool gifts.

Be sure to check out Roslyn Place. It’s a short street off of Ellsworth Avenue.

Roslyn Place is one of the country’s only remaining wooden streets. The tiny cul-de-sac is “paved” using 26,000 oak blocks.

25. Explore South Side

The South Side is one of Pittsburgh’s cool neighborhoods. Not as hip as Lawrenceville, but still cool.

East Carson is the main drag and a designated historic landmark. But there are four micro-neighborhoods in this part of Pittsburgh.

The shopping options are endless. The South Side Works is a large open air complex with a move theater, the Cheesecake Factory, and the Hofbrau House.

You’ll also find class shops like Urban Outfitters, cocktail bars like Acacia , good eateries, and great music venues like The Smiling Moose .

Nine Mile Run, a stream in Frick Park

26. Hike in Frick Park

Frick Park is one of my favorite green spaces and a top attraction in Pittsburgh. It’s the perfect bucolic escape from the city. You can hike and bike to your heart’s content in this sanctuary.

The park has hundreds of acres. 644 to be exact. It stretches from the Pointe Breeze neighborhood down to the Monongahela River.

The park has miles of hiking trails, the famous “blue slide” playground, red clay tennis courts, etc. There are several entrances. There’s a parking lot by the tennis courts.

After you’ve got your nature fix, head to Pointe Brugge for a delicious brunch or lunch.

27. Duquesne Incline

Riding the Duquesne Incline is easily one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh. Especially if you want to experience a slice of the city’s long history. And enjoy one of the world’s best urban vistas.

The wooden cable cars were first used to transport workers back in the 1800s. They’ve now been renovated and are open to the public.

Once you arrive at Duquesne, there’s a small onsite museum. You can learn about the history of incline and many details about how the incline operates.

But the best part is the ride up. At the top, you’re treated to gorgeous views of the city from Grandview Overlook in the Mount Washington neighborhood.

Grandview Park probably has the best view Pittsburgh. During the summer, the park hosts movies and music festivals. But no matter what the view is worth it!

If you don’t want to take the incline, just drive up.

Directly across from the Monterey Bay restaurant is a life size bronze statue of George Washington and the Indian leader Guyasuta. The Point of View statue was unveiled in 2006.

28. Monongahela Incline

The other 19th century incline in Pittsburgh is the Monongahela Incline . It’s the oldest and steepest incline in the United States. The incline is three years older than its more famous counterparts in San Francisco.

The incline began operating in 1870. The incline creaks and groans like a wooden rollercoaster.

You hop on board at the lower station near the Smithfield Street Bridge and across the street from Station Square.

Like the Duquesne Incline, customers are deposited on Grandview Avenue.

29. Pittsburgh Bridges

One of the best things about Pittsburgh is that it’s set on three rivers. The city is known as the “City of Bridges.”

There’s over 446 bridges in Pittsburgh. That’s more than any city in the world including Venice .

The most famous golden bridges are an identical trio — the Andy Warhol Bridge, Roberto Clement Bridge, and the Rachel Carson Bridge.

Honestly, my least favorite bridge is the Fort Pitt Bridge. There’s a rapid merging of four lanes of traffic in a few hundred feet.

30. Canton Avenue

Canton Avenue is in Pittsburgh’s Beechview neighborhood. In a city full of hills, Canton is the United States’ steepest street. If a heart pumping hike is what you’re after, you can test your mettle here.

But, be forewarned, Canton Avenue takes no prisoners. This cobblestone beast has a 37 percent grade.

Bikers seem to like the challenge. At least my husband does. He says you need strong legs and a light bike.

Canton Avenue is part of the Dirty Dozen, a grueling bike race in Pittsburgh for hard core climbers.

31. Market Square

Market Square is the center of downtown Pittsburgh.

I think it’s most beautiful during the holidays. There are Christmas markets set up for shopping, just as in Paris or Vienna in the winter.

During the rest of the year, there’s plenty to do at this Pittsburgh attraction. There are art installations, pop-up events, and chairs for lounging and people-watching in the summer.

There are plenty of restaurants on Market Square too. Pizzaiolo Primo is a good Italian spot. Then, there are the classics like Morton’s Steak House and McCormick and Schmicks Seafood.

32. Brew Pubs in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh isn’t Bavaria Germany . By any stretch, having been there. But it still has quite a few craft breweries.

The top spot is the Hofbrauhaus in the South Side. It was designed to emulate the original brewhouse concept launched in Munich Germany .

You’ll be served German beer amids live entertainment from lederhosen-clad performers.

Another popular spot is the Church Brew Works . It’s a microbrewery and restaurant housed in a restored 1902 church. The setting is sublime. But it can be very noisy and crowded.

Click here for a guide to all of Pittsburgh’s craft breweries.

33. Kennywood

No Pittsburgh post would be complete without a mention of Kennywood . Kennywood is a large amusement park. It’s a favorite attraction in Pittsburgh for kids and teens.

Kennywood has been a Pittsburgh thrill for decades. Its classic rides were built in the early 20th century. A popular throwback is Thunderbolt, a wooden roller coaster. 

The other rides which you can enjoy here include the Pittsburgh plunge water, the Phantom’s Revenge roller coaster, carousels, water rides, a 3D experience, and a 4D theatre and paddle boats. 

You would need to spend at least an entire day here in order to truly enjoy this adventurous Park.

34. Point State Park

The “Point” is where the Monanghela and Allegheny rivers converge. Point State Park is known for its refreshing lush green gardens. It’s also a lovely place to watch the sunset.

The Point is also a historic site. It was a landmark during the French and Indian war of the late 18th century. 

The park contains beautiful riverfront promenades and a 150 tall fountain, which is a great photo opportunity. The park is home to festivals, picnics, and concerts.

The Fort Pitt Museum is situated within the vicinity. Its exhibits tell the story of the early history of Pittsburgh.

35. Schenly Park

Schenley Park is a pretty municipal park in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood. In 2011, the park was named as one of the “America’s Coolest City Parks” by the popular travel magazine, Travel + Leisure. 

Schenley was created in 1889 with land donated by heiress Mary Schenley. She was a Pittsburgh-based heiress and philanthropist. 

The park has 456 acres of trails, woods, a lake, and a golf course. It’s surrounded by University of Pittsburgh campus and Carnegie Mellon University campuses. But it’s an oasis of quietude.

The park has many attractions. Those include a plaza, a large pond, a conservatory, tennis courts, soccer field, playgrounds, a public swimming pool, and a golf course.

In the winter, the action shifts to the Schenley Park Skating Rink . The rink is generally open from early November to late March.

36. Sports Venues

Are you a sport fan? Pittsburgh wears its sporting pride proudly with three centrally located arenas. On game days, the populace is clad in the trademark black and gold color scheme used by the Pittsburgh sporting teams.

Heinz Field stadium is the home of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team. Founded in 1933 by Art Rooney, the Steelers are the fifth oldest team in the NFL.

PNC Park is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates, a team which dates to the late 1800s. The arena also hosts a variety of concerts and events.

Art Rooney had a lot of clout in the sports word. In the mid 1960s, he successfully made a bid for a National Hockey League franchise. The team was named the “Penguins” to match its PPG Paints Arena called the “Igloo.”

37. Mexican War District

The Mexican War Str e et s  is a beautiful and historic neighborhood with plenty to offer. It’s kind of a gentrified bohemian row house neighborhood with many writers, artists, eclectic personalities and interesting people.

The surrounding streets were named from people and places of the  Mexican-American War , hence the current name, the Mexican War Streets.

From the architecture to the artistic attractions, a whole day can be spent exploring this North Side neighborhood.

Attractions in this district include the Mattress Factory, Randyland, the beautiful architecture, and the popular Commonplace Coffee .

38. City of Asylum

City of Asylum is an organization that gives sanctuary to writers persecuted in their home countries.

A dissident poet from China, Huang Xiang, lived in one of the organization’s houses on Sampsonia Way. Now it’s called “House Poem,” because he painted his anthology on it in Chinese characters.

But the City of Asylum is more than just a writer’s sanctuary. It’s a thriving community that participates with the poetry, art, or music that’s being created in its living spaces.

The organization now has a neighborhood literary center. There, you can enjoy free performances, a cafe, a book store.

39. Canonsburg

Just southwest of the city lies the suburb of Canonsburg. The town is a small quaint borough with plenty to do.

Canonsburg is most well known for its Old Fashioned Christmas event . The state pitches it as “Holiday Hallmark Move-esque location.”

It’s a two day event. Festivities include a tree lighting ceremony, Christmas parade, food truck court, and live entertainment. Naturally, you can meet Santa at the North Pole.

40. Fallingwater

Fallingwater is UNESCO site in Pennsylvania. It was designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright . Fallingwater is likely the most significant building of the 20th century. 

Fallingwater is nestled in a bucolic setting. It sits atop a cascading waterfall.

Fallingwater is eye-grabbing and visually stunning. It’s a marriage of modern architecture and a wild landscape that blurs the line between the indoor and outdoor.

The house is the apotheosis of Wright’s long lasting obsession with nature and a must visit architectural site in the US.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Fallingwater . Fallingwater is about 1.5 hours from Pittsburgh. You need to make a reservation in advance.

>>> Click here to book a guided tour from Pittsburgh

41. Polymath Park: Wright Overnight

If you really want to live the Wright way, head 23 miles down the road to another Wright-designed house, Polymath Park . There, you’ll find four houses designed by Wright.

These homes reflect Wright’s Usonian ethos. The term “Usonian” refers to Wright’s concept of building planned communities of affordable homes.

Wright wanted the small homes to have the same design benefits as a grand mansion. The homes feature native stone, clerestory windows, and Wright’s trademark Arts & Crafts style.

You can stay overnight, go for dinner, or book a guided tour.

42. Boating

Naturally, as a city on three rivers, boating is a popular thing to do in Pittsburgh. There are approximately 30 marinas in Pittsburgh.

The city boasts the second largest number of registered pleasure boats in the country. There are mooring spots in the South Side and North Shore. The water is a great place to watch July 4th fireworks.

If you don’t have your own boat, take a ride on the Gateway Clipper Fleet . It’s based in Station Square. Gateway has five riverboats and an array of sightseeing cruise options.

43. Best Restaurants In Pittsburgh

I’ve lived in Pittsburgh nine years now. And I’m a real foodie.

Years ago, the coolest thing you could do in Pittsburgh was put French fries on your salad or sandwich. Those days are long gone.

Pittsburgh now has serious culinary cred, with a farm to table vibe moving in. In 2019, the city earned the title Food City of the Year.

You can eat your way through Pittsburgh like a herd of goats, the food scene’s that good. The restaurants alone are reasons to visit Pittsburgh.

Here’s a breakdown of the best restaurants in Pittsburgh by neighborhood. I also include some of the fun wine and cocktail bars around town.

You’ll find fine dining as well as hole-in-the-wall spots.

1. South Hills :

• Wild Rosemary (farm to table food in a cozy bistro setting)
• Cafe Io (casual sandwiches & comfort food)
• Pamela’s Diner (classic breakfast food at a Pittsburgh institution)

2. Shadyside :

• Senyai Thai (Thai)
• Soba (modern Asian)
• Mercurio’s (wood-fired Italian pizza and artisanal gelato)
• Noddlehead (Thai street food)
• Acacia (amazing cocktails)

3. North Side

• Siempre Algo (Spanish)
• Fig & Ash (wood-fired cuisine)

3. Strip District

• Bar Marco (Italian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients)
• DiAnoia’s Eatery (the “it” Italian place)
• Wigle Whiskey (whisky tasting spot)
• Kaya (Caribbean fare)
• Chicken Latino (Peruvian food)

4. Lawrenceville

• The Forge (craft cocktails and Mediterranean small plates)
• Pusadee’s Garden (Thai cuisine)
• Banh Mi & Ti (Vietnamese)
• Refucilo (Argentinian wine bar)
• Leo (ultra hip custom cocktail bar)
• Apteka (Eastern European, technically in Bloomfield)
• Chengdu Gourmet (Northern Chinese cuisine)
• Grapperia (Italian cocktail bar)

5. Downtown:

• Oaklander Hotel (glassed in sky bar with views)
• Eddie V’s (seafood and oysters)
• Tako (Mexican)
• Butcher & Rye (for carnivores)
• Meat & Potatoes (gastropub)
• Pizzaiolo Primo (Italian)
• Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse (steak & seafood)
• Speckled Egg (brunch food)

6. Mount Washington

• Atria’s (seafood with views)
• Monterey Bay Fish Grotto (seafood with views)
• Coughlin’s Law (bar food and tacos)

Tips For Visiting Pittsburgh

Here are some must know tips for discovering all the best things to do in Pittsburgh.

1. How To Get To Pittsburgh

If you’re coming from far afield, Pittsburgh has an international airport. From there, you can take a taxi or Uber into the city center. You can also book a one way private transfer or a round trip private transfer , for a quick and efficient trip.

2. Where To Stay in Pittsburgh

I’m a fan of the Kimpton boutique chain. So, I would recommend the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh . It’s a trademark Klimpton with some whimsy and a bold color scheme.

The Distrikt Hotel is another great option. At the District, historic meet modern and posh meet minimalism.

My previous favorite hotel was the Ace Hotel, a place I regularly went for brunch. But the hotelier closed during the pandemic.

The hotel has recently reopened with new management and a new name. It’s now called  Kasa at the Maverick . Of course, you’ll also find a Hilton Garden Inn and a Marriott .

If you want to stay in Oakland near the colleges, check out the Oaklander Hotel .

3. When To Visit Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has all four seasons to enjoy. So you can pick whichever one best suits you.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Pittsburgh is fall. The weather is perfect, sometimes even surprisingly mild. This year, we had fall colors and 70 degree temperatures in October.

Fall is also fairly dry too, without much rain. It doesn’t really turn chilly until mid November.

As you might expect, the summers are hot and sunny in Pittsburgh. You’ll have long days to get the most out of your sightseeing.

Winter isn’t actually a bad time to visit Pittsburgh either. Pittsburgh doesn’t get frigidly cold like other popular cities.

But you can expect gray skies in winter. Pittsburgh isn’t known for its winter sunshine.

On the upside, there are plenty of holiday activities and fun Christmas things to do in Pittsburgh in winter.

Late spring is a great time to see Pittsburgh’s many attractions. May is the best month. March and April can sometimes be rainy.

4. Getting Around Pittsburgh

I’m not going to lie … Pittsburgh can be a challenging city to get around in. There are hills, uncommon street grids, and loads of one way streets.

The myriad bridges can be insane to traverse. They seem to go everywhere except where you’re headed. If you get in the wrong lane or can’t instantly move four lanes over, you may well be detoured.

Use your phone GPS to get the most accurate directions.

Pittsburgh has limited public transportation. The subway, such as it is, is called the T.

But it doesn’t go to that many places. And the buses are slow. Another option is the hop on hop off tourist bus .

Don’t just hang out in the downtown area, no matter how convenient it is. Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods are what make the city’s “gritty but quirky” vibe shine the brightest.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best things to do and see in Pittsburgh. You may enjoy these other United States travel guides and resources:

• 2 day itinerary for Philadelphia
• 3 day itinerary for Boston
• 2 days in Washington D.C. itinerary
• 2 day itinerary for Cleveland Ohio
• 1 day in Denver itinerary
• 25 most beautiful towns in New England
• 45 amazing destinations in the United States
• Best places to visit in Massachusetts
• Hidden Gem Towns on the East Coast
• One week itinerary for southern New England
• Fall foliage road trip in New England

If you’d like to visit the top attractions in Pittsburgh, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “40+ Best Things To Do And See In Pittsburgh, From a Local”

Apteka is in Bloomfield, not Lawrenceville. We are trying hard to keep that neighborhood contained.

Thanks Sam. The neighborhoods are so close together, I lopped Apteka into my Lawrenceville list. I obviously need to do more research on Bloomfield! Any suggestions?

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Last Updated on July 7, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Weekend in Pittsburgh: The Perfect Itinerary for Your First Visit to the Steel City

Without a doubt, Pittsburgh is one of my favorite cities in the world, and it’s somewhere that I think everyone should visit at least once. However, with so much to do in this corner of western Pennsylvania, what should you do during your first weekend in Pittsburgh?

Having visited the city many times over the years and having enjoyed each visit more than the last, I decided to put together this guide to help you enjoy your first visit to Pittsburgh. While there are enough things to do here to keep you busy for a lifetime, I’ve pulled together my top picks to help you have a wonderful weekend. Should you have longer than the roughly 48 hours that this itinerary covers, I’ve included some additional suggestions at the bottom of the article

So, whether this is your first visit to the Steel City or it’s just been a while since your last visit, here are suggestions for how to spend a great weekend in Pittsburgh, PA.

Where to Stay in Pittsburgh

Before we get into the itinerary, you’ll need somewhere to spend the night during your weekend in Pittsburgh. While there are many great places throughout the city, I recommend staying in the downtown area as they will provide you with the most central location. In fact, you’ll be able to walk to many of the spots mentioned here.

In downtown Pittsburgh, I really like the Wyndham Grand Hotel . This hotel is located near Point State Park and is highly rated. Other great options nearby include Renaissance Pittsburgh and the Sheraton at Station Square .

If price is more important than location, the Holiday Inn in Greentree is near downtown Pittsburgh and offers free parking and easy access into the city.

There are many more great places to stay on Booking.com .

For this weekend in Pittsburgh itinerary, we’ll assume that you arrive on the first day in the late afternoon. Because of this, the first day of the itinerary is only going to focus on the evening. If you arrive in the morning, you can either skip to Day 2 or add things from our additional places to visit at the bottom of this post.

The Duquesne Incline and Mount Washington

There’s no better place to start your first visit to Pittsburgh than by checking out the view from Mount Washington .

This is, without a doubt, the classic view of Pittsburgh and might be the best urban vista in the entire world. From here, you can see all of the downtown area and marvel at the beauty of the city. Make sure to spend some time strolling along Grandview Avenue at the top of the hillside.

While you can drive to the top of Mount Washington, the best way to get up here is via the Duquesne Incline . While there used to be over a dozen of these inclines in the city, today there are only two, of which this is the most well known.

You can access the lower station for the incline by walking across the pedestrian walkway on the Fort Pitt Bridge. You can also park in a lot near the station.

The Strip District

There’s no better place to start the second day of your Pittsburgh weekend than in the Strip District. This area of the city is located just outside of the downtown core and is full of old warehouses that have been converted into many great shops, markets, and restaurants.

This is a great area to pick up breakfast and coffee before heading out. A few good options include Cafe Raymond, Delucca’s, Peace, Love, and Donuts, and De Fer Coffee.

The Strip District is most active on Saturday mornings but is a great morning destination any day of the week. It’s also a good spot for nightlife if you are looking for something to do after a busy day exploring Pittsburgh.

Most of the shops are located along Penn Avenue, though there are also some along Smallman Street, especially on the eastern end of the district. This is a great guide to the Strip District to help you plan your time there.

Lunch at Primanti’s

There might be no more famous restaurant in Pittsburgh than Primanti Brother’s . And, if you’re visiting Pittsburgh for the first time, I definitely recommend trying this institution.

While there are Primanti’s locations throughout the city (and now around the country), none are better than the original location in the Strip District, which is why it’s been added for lunch today.

While Primanti’s has a variety of sandwiches, they all come with traditional sandwich toppings, as well as fries (on the sandwich, not on the side). I also recommend getting an egg on the sandwich. All that’s left is to choose your meat and you’re ready to have a Pittsburgh staple for lunch.

If you’re looking for somewhere else to eat, S&D Polish Deli is another great choice for some delicious food.

Afternoon Options

After lunch, I recommend picking one of the great museums in and around downtown Pittsburgh depending on your interest.

The Fort Pitt Museum is located within Point State Park and offers a great look at the history of western Pennsylvania, particularly the area’s military history and how it impacted the United States.

This museum is on a portion of the fort’s former footprint does a great job highlighting the European exploration and settlement of the region, as well as covering the Native American history in western Pennsylvania.

If you love art, the Andy Warhol Museum is another great choice. Located on the North Shore, just across the Allegheny River from downtown Pittsburgh, this museum is the largest single-artist museum in the United States.

In the museum, you’ll find hundreds of Warhol’s original pieces ranging from his commercial work to his more avant-garde work. This is a great spot to learn about the life and art of this Pittsburgh native.

A third great option for your afternoon if you are traveling with younger children is the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh . This spot offers three floors of interactive activities that are a ton of fun for kids (and many that are also fun for their parents). This is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do with kids in Pittsburgh and one of the best children’s museums in the region.

There are also many Pittsburgh elements mixed into the museum, so you can learn a bit more about the city’s history while exploring this fun spot.

Walking Through Downtown

After you’ve had a chance to check out one of Pittsburgh’s great museums, take some time to take a stroll through downtown Pittsburgh. This area of the city is quite beautiful and there are many great architectural gems to uncover.

Depending on which museum you visited earlier in the afternoon, the order that you visit spots may vary, so consider this more a listing of places to visit instead of an exact walking guide.

One spot that you definitely won’t want to miss is Point State Park . This is Pennsylvania’s most urban state park and is located on the spot where the Monongahela River and the Allegheny River form the Ohio River.

During the city’s early years, there was a series of French and English forts here. Today, an outline of Fort Pitt can be seen, along with the Fort Pitt Blockhouse, the oldest existing structure west of the Allegheny Mountains. You also won’t want to miss the great fountain at the confluence of the rivers.

Two other can’t-miss spots are Market Square and PPG Place. Located adjacent to each other, these squares are a flurry of activity with many shops and restaurants located in and around this area. They are especially great spots to visit during the Christmas season in Pittsburgh .

Leaving Market Square, head towards the Cultural District . This area is home to several historic performance venues that showcase a broad range of entertainment. The lights here after dark are fun to see, and it’s also neat to watch as people in fancy clothes head in to see a show.

From the Cultural District, cross the Allegheny River on one of Pittsburgh’s famous golden bridges.

My favorite is the Roberto Clemente Bridge (the most downstream of the three) as it provides great views of the city, and you can check out PNC Park , home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, and the Roberto Clemente Statue at the end of the bridge.

Once across the river, head down to the water level. This is the North Shore River Trail , a great walking and biking trail that stretches for several miles in each direction. The best views can be had by walking upriver. If you walk far enough, you might even reach the rather odd but tranquil statue of TV’s Mister Rogers.

Once you’ve walked up an appetite, it’s time for dinner. While the area around downtown isn’t the city’s best restaurant area, there are still a few notable options here for a delicious dinner.

My top pick is Federal Galley . This is located on the North Shore near the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and is a flat walk of about a mile from the downtown core.

Federal Galley is a food hall with a handful of different and rotating restaurants. This space is designed to be a launching pad for aspiring restauranteurs to try out new ideas and get feedback from customers without having to set up an entire restaurant.

However, don’t think that the food here is second rate. It’s often some of the best you’ll find in the city.

If you are looking for something a bit more traditional, Gaucho Parrilla Argentina is a South American restaurant located in downtown Pittsburgh. Having moved here from the Strip District, this is a great spot to try delicious meat dishes that span a wide range of styles and prices. The sandwiches here are especially delicious.

After Dinner

If you’re still up for a bit of fun after dinner, there are a lot of great options in the city.

My first pick for those spending their first weekend in Pittsburgh is to take a ride on the Gateway Clipper . These sightseeing boats leave from a dock in Station Square and take you on an hour-long ride on all three of the city’s famous rivers.

This is a great way to see the city from a whole new angle, and the provided narration offers a lot of great information about Pittsburgh’s history.

Another great option is to take a ride up to the West End Overlook .

While Mount Washington gets most of the love, the view from this overlook is nearly as good, and is, in fact, favored by some residents and visitors. It makes a great way to cap off day two of your Pittsburgh itinerary and is one of my favorite places to take photos in Pittsburgh .

If you’re looking for a hearty way to start off the last day of your weekend in Pittsburgh, look no further than Pamela’s Diner . This local institution has been serving one of the city’s best breakfasts for more than 50 years and has six locations in and around the city.

While you could have enjoyed them in the Strip District on your second day, I recommend saving Pamela’s for day three and going to their location in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood. Since you’ll be spending the rest of your day here, this is the perfect place to start your day. Just make sure to arrive early as there is often a wait.

If you are looking for something a little faster or less hearty, Redhawk Coffee is a great choice. While the primary focus here is on their excellent coffee, they also offer a few food options that are perfect for a light breakfast.

Morning Options

For your last morning in the city, I recommend enjoying one of the great attractions in Oakland. This neighborhood is the home of the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, so there is always a lot of activity going on here, and there are some fun spots to visit as well.

My top pick for the area is the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and the Carnegie Museum of Art . While these are technically two different museums, they are connected together and a single ticket provides admission to both spaces. Depending on your interests, you can spend more time in one than the other or split it equally.

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is one of my favorite museums in Pennsylvania and features everything from an incredible collection of dinosaur fossils to gemstones and anthropological exhibits about different cultures around the world.

The Carnegie Museum of Art covers a wide breadth of artistic styles, including some of the strangest art displays I’ve ever seen. However, if you love art, there is definitely something for everyone in this space.

Another great option for your morning is Phipps Conservatory . This botanical garden was first opened in 1893 and features 14 indoor and half a dozen outdoor gardens. Each garden is set up with a different theme, creating many incredible botanical spaces to explore.

There’s even a children’s garden that’s perfect for families with young kids.

If you’d rather do something free in Pittsburgh , Schenley Park is a great choice. This nearly 500-acre park features several miles of hiking trails, a large lake, and many great statues and monuments.

There’s also a great view of downtown Pittsburgh from the park.

Cathedral of Learning

The Cathedral of Learning is the perfect spot to end your visit to Pittsburgh.

Located on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh, this is the tallest educational building in the western hemisphere, and the views from the top-most accessible floor are quite good. However, the view is not the main draw here.

Instead, it’s the 31 Nationality Rooms that are the star of this beautiful building (Don’t miss the main lobby area when visiting).

Located on the first and third floor, these working classrooms are designed to resemble nearly three dozen different cultures from around the world that have impacted Pittsburgh. The rooms were built by each cultural community and truly offer an incredible look into each of these countries.

If you have more than a weekend in Pittsburgh…

It should probably come as no surprise that what’s listed above is only a very small sample of the many amazing spots to visit in and around Pittsburgh . If you have a bit more time to explore this corner of the state, here are a few more spots I recommend checking out (in addition to all the places above).

Randyland –  Randyland is the work of local artist Randy Gilson and is one of my favorite spots in Pittsburgh. Gilson has transformed his home and yard into a whimsical kingdom filled with bright colors and things found around the neighborhood. If you’re lucky, Randy might even be there to greet you.

National Aviary and the Pittsburgh Zoo –  The National Aviary and the Pittsburgh Zoo are actually two separate attractions, but since they are both animal related, I thought I’d include them. If you are itching to see some of the world’s most beautiful animal species, these are spots that you won’t want to miss.

Carrie Furnace – The historic Carrie Furnace was once part of the Homestead Steel Works. Today, only this small part of the facility remains and tours are offered for those that want to learn more about the history of steelmaking in western Pennsylvania.

McConnells Mill State Park – McConnells Mill State Park is located about 40 minutes north of the city and is one of the most beautiful state parks in Pennsylvania. It’s located along Slippery Rock Creek and features some great waterfalls and an incredible covered bridge .

Ohiopyle State Park –  Located approximately 90 minutes southeast of Pittsburgh, Ohiopyle State Park is worth the trip to see its many beautiful waterfalls and to hike its fantastic hiking trails. It’s also near two Frank Lloyd Wright homes: Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob .

Have you spent a weekend in Pittsburgh? What were your favorite things to do?

Looking to explore more of Pennsylvania? Check out our itinerary for your first weekend in Philadelphia , our Pennsylvania Bucket List , and our favorite small towns in PA .

Great places to stay in Pittsburgh

• Renaissance Hotel - One of the city's highest-rated hotels on Trip Advisor.
• Residence Inn North Shore - The perfect hotel for sports fans
• Hampton Inn and Suites - The only downtown hotel with free parking
• Hyatt Place - Great value near great attractions
• Find more great places to stay on Vrbo!

Click the map to see more nearby things to do

More nearby places worth exploring

How to Get to Quaker Falls Near New Castle, PA

Pennsylvania Waterfalls: How to Get to Big Run Falls in New Castle’s Cascade Park

Overlooking Pittsburgh from Mount Washington: The Best Urban Vista in the World

Visiting the Historic North Park Water Tower: A Hidden Gem near Pittsburgh

Find more things to do in the pittsburgh region.

Jim Cheney is the creator of UncoveringPA.com. Based in Carlisle near Harrisburg, Jim frequently travels around Pennsylvania and has visited, written about, and photographed all 67 counties in the state. He has also traveled to more than 30 different countries around the world.

5 thoughts on “Weekend in Pittsburgh: The Perfect Itinerary for Your First Visit to the Steel City”

Wonderful weekend in Pittsburgh..it was amazing..I used to live & work in Pittsburgh & seen most of those wonderful places…thank you..

I’m glad you had a fantastic visit!

This is like a re-write of every listicle about Pittsburgh. Maybe explore the Maxo Vanka murals, Pamela’s in Millvale, Big Jim’s in the Run, Pusadee’s Garden, banjo night at the Allegheny Elks, a Pittsburgh steak salad, stroll through one of the 90+ neighborhoods, check out the Tiffany windows in various places throughout the city, Hornbostel buildings, learn about John Roebling.

I realize that this isn’t the most inventive itinerary. That’s not the goal. I’ve done many of the things you mentioned and enjoyed them, but if you are visiting Pittsburgh for the first time, you want to see the main highlights of the city, which is what I’ve included here. Those are great spots for a second or third trip, though.

Some years ago, when we visited Pittsburgh, we went to a fun, rather usual diner called The Hot Steel and the owner was a hoot! Throwing insults (in fun) at customers yet serving some great food. I so saddened to see she passed away a few years ago and the diner has closed. We enjoyed the Phillips Conservatory and Kennywood the most.

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Pittsburgh has 700 staircases that offer the perfect view for urban hikers

The most step-rich city in the country, Pittsburgh boasts impressive scenery from its outdoor staircases, originally built for early 20th century steelworkers.

As more urban hikers take to trails such as the new Underline in Miami and Buffalo Bayou Greenway Connector in Houston , they are rediscovering Pittsburgh ’s unique kind of city challenge. Over 700 staircases climb the town’s steep, surrounding hills, plunging through dense residential neighborhoods and leafy thickets. From “the steps,” as locals refer to them, you can experience sweeping vistas of downtown Pittsburgh that might make you think you’re standing atop one of the peaks in the nearby Allegheny Mountains.

History of Pittsburgh’s steps

From the early 1900s through the 1970s, Pittsburgh was one of America’s leading steel manufacturing towns, producing over 20 million tons of steel annually by the early 20th century. The hills of western Pennsylvania were rich with iron ore—the key raw ingredient for steel—but setting up shop within these hills resulted in Pittsburgh building some of the steepest and most lung-busting streets in America. For the thousands of steel workers living up on the hills that surround the city center, “commuting” to the factories downtown was a grueling ordeal. In addition to constructing a series of mechanical funiculars that connected the hilltops to downtown, the city built long stairways to help Pittsburghers get to work and back up again without injuring their calf muscles. While you couldn’t call climbing these stairways “easy,” the flat steps were a slightly less arduous alternative to the relentlessly angular grade of Pittsburgh’s steep streets.

Altogether, more than 700 public stairways were created, making Pittsburgh the most step-rich city in the U.S., with a cumulative estimated height of roughly 24,000 feet—only 5,000 feet shy of the Mount Everest summit.  

When the steel industry collapsed in the mid-’80s, Pittsburgh lost much of its population (and tax base). The rise of the automobile had already prompted many Pittsburghers to abandon the stairways as their primary means of commuting to work. And as the city kept losing residents and revenue, it stopped maintaining the steps, leading to many falling into disrepair—posing a “stay or go” question for some residents whose homes were only accessible by stairway.

But in 2015, Bob Regan, a geographic systems professor, published Pittsburgh Steps: The Story of the City’s Public Stairways , a historic guidebook that brought hundreds of the forgotten stairways back into focus for the wider public, decades after the city had stopped managing the steps and even keeping records of them.

Regan, who biked hundreds of miles around the city to track down and chronicle the lost steps, also handed over his mapping data to the city government, which used it to produce a public interactive map of all the accessible stairways around town. This summer, local stair enthusiasts Laura Zurowski, Charles Succop, and Matthew Jacob joined forces to publish City Steps of Pittsburgh: A History & Guide , a sequel which includes original photos of the steps and several suggested walking routes that include some of the most interesting stairways and striking city vistas.

( Walk across the sky in the U.S.’s highest-elevation city .)

Four ways to experience the Pittsburgh steps

Of all the Pittsburgh neighborhoods, South Side Slopes is home to the greatest concentration of steps. Once each year, the South Side Slopes Neighborhood Association draws hundreds of urban hikers for StepTrek, a community adventure in which city residents and visitors are given maps and invited to walk two curated, trail-blazed routes up and down South Side Slopes stairways that offer some of the finest Pittsburgh vistas and scenic curiosities. A local tradition for 23 years, this angular urban hike doubles as a fundraiser for the association’s neighborhood projects, which have included mosaic tile artwork on a set of steps at Oakley Street.

“We also use part of the money for step cleanups and preservation projects,” says board member Jami Szalla. “As awesome and fun as StepTrek is, the steps are also part of our everyday lives.There are houses here that can only be reached via public steps.” For first-time Pittsburgh hikers, Zurowski points to Yard Way —one of the longest flights of stairs in the city, which offers direct access to the rustling greenery of Winters Park and a panoramic view of the Monongahela River, the high-rises downtown, and the city’s northern hills.

Another stunner is the Saint Michael’s Street steps. Those who descend this stairway will be surprised by the sight of an enormous green church steeple towering above South Side Slopes’s houses and woodlands, with the river serving as a backdrop. “Because you’re so high up when you’re walking around the South Side Slopes, you’ll often turn around and be like, ‘Whoa! Cool view!’” Zurowski says, adding that some of the best unexpected vistas that she’s stumbled upon during her step adventures have been glimpsed through the alleyways between houses or the gaps between trees.

( Explore some of America’s secret urban walks .) But some Pittsburgh step traverses are more about the challenge than the views, and one of the most grueling examples is Rising Main. Located in the Fineview neighborhood, on the city’s northwestern side, Rising Main has around 370 steps, by which hikers gain over 300 vertical feet of elevation in just two-tenths of a mile. Upon reaching the top of the stairs, you can stagger down Lanark Street to enjoy a sweeping city overlook at Fineview Fields—savoring the sunlight and the breeze, just like a mountaineer.

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

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Watch CBS News

Perseid meteor shower put on quite a show when it peaked overnight

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: August 12, 2024 / 6:33 AM EDT / CBS News

The Perseid meteor shower peaked overnight Sunday into Monday, giving astronomy fans one of the best shows of 2024 as they look to the skies. 

The shower started in July and will continue through most of August, but just peaked, NASA said. The Perseids are considered the " best meteor shower of the year" by NASA, with about 50 to 100 meteors seen per hour under ideal conditions. 

What time did the Perseid meteor shower peak?

The best time to catch the Perseids was in the pre-dawn hours, according to NASA, but it was possible to view its meteors as early as 10 p.m. 

NASA noted that the moon was to set just as the Perseids started to peak. The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonset times  for different ZIP codes across the United States. 

Where was the Perseid meteor shower visible?

The best view of the Perseids meteor shower was from the Northern Hemisphere. NASA urged astronomy fans who wanted to check out the shower to get away from the bright lights of cities. 

" Try to get to the darkest location you can," NASA wrote . "The darker it is where you are, the more meteors you will see streaking across the sky."

Around 50 to 75 meteors an hour could be seen in darker locations. 

Where was it best to look to see the meteor shower?

NASA had a simple suggestion: Look up! NASA suggested lying on your back, enabling your eyes to adjust to the dark — and staying off your phone. There was no need to look in any particular direction as the meteors could generally be seen all over the sky.

The space agency's Jet Propulsion Laboratory said it could have been helpful to face roughly northeast as you lied down, but viewers should have tried  to take in as much of the sky as possible because meteors can appear all over.

When will the next meteor shower be?

Two other meteor showers are actually active right now. The Southern Delta Aquariid meteor shower began last month and will run through Aug. 21. It peaked in late July. The alpha Capricornids, a small meteor shower, also started last month. It will continue through Aug. 11, according to the American Meteor Society.

The next major meteor shower, the Orionids , won't be active until late September, with a peak in October, according to the American Meteor Society. NASA describes the Orionids as one of the most beautiful showers of the year. The Orionids are known for their brightness and speed.

What are meteor showers?

Meteors — space rocks that enter Earth's atmosphere — streak through the sky every night, but meteor showers happen less frequently. During a meteor shower, many meteors hit Earth's atmosphere over a short period of time. When they pass through the atmosphere, the meteors leave behind streaks of light caused by glowing, hot air. 

While most meteors burn up as they fall, some survive the trip and reach Earth. Those surviving space rocks are considered meteorites.

Look up — what else can you see in the sky this summer?

There are two more full moons this summer. August's full moon, known as the Sturgeon Moon, reaches peak illumination on Monday, Aug. 19. September's full moon will reach peak illumination on Tuesday, Sept. 17, just days before the start of fall. 

• Meteor Shower

Aliza Chasan is a Digital Content Producer for "60 Minutes" and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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Perseid meteor shower 2024 peaks this weekend. Here's how to see summer's best 'shooting stars'

Find a spot with a wide-open sky view and no late-night lights nearby, lie back and get comfortable.

Every August, just when many people go vacationing in the country where skies are dark, the best-known meteor shower makes its appearance: The Perseids.

This year, the Perseid meteor shower should reach its peak during the overnight hours of late Sunday night into early Monday morning (Aug. 11-12), when there is almost no moon, making the late-night sky nice and dark for shooting star spectators and counters. The first quarter moon sets around 11:20 p.m. local daylight time, leaving the sky nicely dark thereafter. Some Perseids do appear during the evening, but the shower is always better from about 11 p.m. or midnight until the dawn's early light. 

Or, to put it another way, expect greater numbers of meteors to be evident during the pre-dawn hours because this is when your side of Earth turns to face the oncoming meteors more directly. 

You can also watch the Perseid meteor shower online for free this weekend courtesy of astrophysicist Gianluca Masi of the Virtual Telescope Project. The first livestream will begin at 9 p.m. EDT on Aug. 11 (0100 GMT on Aug. 12,) and the second will begin at 9 p.m. EDT on Aug. 12 (0100 GMT on Aug. 13.), weather permitting.

If you want more advice on how to photograph meteor showers like the Perseids, check out our  how to photograph meteors and meteor showers  guide and if you need imaging gear, consider our  best cameras for astrophotography  and  best lenses for astrophotography .

Where to look

During those after-midnight hours the shower's radiant point (the point from which it appears to originate), located between the Perseus constellation and the 'W' of Cassiopeia , will be getting progressively higher in the northeast — so meteors should flash across all parts of the sky at a rate of about one every minute or two (as seen by a single observer). 

That, anyway, is the prediction if your sky is good and dark. But even if you live under moderate light pollution, as unfortunately, most of us do, you can catch at least the brightest of the Perseids. They have often been described in astronomy journals as including "many bright and fragmenting meteors" that leave persistent trains in their wake. 

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Earth should go through the thickest part of this "old faithful" of meteor showers for many hours centered around 1400 UTC on Aug. 12, which is 10 a.m. on that date Eastern Daylight Time, which is during the daytime across all of North America. So, for meteor watchers here, the night before and perhaps even after could be equally good. Fortunately, the Perseids stay active — about one-quarter their peak strength — for several days before and a day or two after their peak, and an occasional one may be seen almost anytime during the month of August. 

A Perseid is one whose path, if traced backward across the sky, intersects a spot between the constellations Perseus and Cassiopeia. Other "sporadic" meteors traveling in random directions occur once every 5 or 10 minutes. Two much weaker showers are also active at this time of the year , the Delta Aquarids and Kappa Cygnids.

Lay back, relax, and wait

You'll need no experience to watch the Perseids. Just find a spot with a wide-open sky view and no late-night lights nearby. Bundle up warmly (it can sometimes get chilly even on summer nights), lie back on a ground pad or in a sleeping bag or even better, on a reclining lawn chair, and watch the stars. Also cover exposed parts of your body with mosquito repellent so you won't get bit.

Be patient, and give your eyes sufficient time to dark adapt. The direction to watch is not necessarily toward Perseus but wherever your sky is darkest, probably straight up. 

The Perseids are the ionization trails made by little bits of debris from comet 109/P Swift-Tuttle , streaking into Earth's upper atmosphere at 37 miles (60 km) per second. The Perseids were especially dramatic in the early-to-mid 1990s surrounding the year of Swift-Tuttle's most recent return (in December 1992). Since then, however, they've reverted to normal. The comet isn't due back until August in the year 2126.

Startling occurrences

But surprises can always happen.

On the morning of Aug. 14, 2021, the Perseids displayed an unexpected outburst of meteors between 06:00 and 09:00 UT (2 to 5 a.m. EDT). The cause of this outburst is currently unknown but is probably the result of an unknown filament of comet debris produced by Swift-Tuttle as it raced through the inner solar system many centuries ago. 

In an announcement on Central Bureau for Astronomical Telegrams Circular #5016 , the maximum zenithal hourly rate was estimated to be somewhere between 130 and 210, plus or minus 20. Amazing numbers considering that rates are normally 50% lower each preceding night after maximum but these rates are two to three times more than was seen during the expected maximum on the night of Aug. 12-13, 2021.

Four years from now "might" bring a truly amazing Perseid display, as some meteor experts are predicting that Earth will interact with a thick knot or clump of meteoric material shed by comet Swift-Tuttle during the 15th century, that possibly could produce a short-lived display of many hundreds of meteors per hour. 

Defying predictions

Sometimes, even in years that are deemed favorable for Perseid viewing, sky watchers report seeing only a half or a third as many meteors that were predicted — and yet others report up to twice as many! It has been suggested that the stream of Perseid particles, strung out along its orbit around the sun, has a complex filamentary structure with gaps and rich spots. 

Complicating the situation is the fact that some people's eyes seem better suited for meteor work than others. 

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Regardless of your local viewing circumstances, each year the appearance of the Perseids give many people a reason to head outside and gaze upward at the night sky. Even if you see only a few "shooting stars," all it takes is catching sight of one outstandingly bright meteor to make the viewing experience worthwhile. 

A final incentive is to note that next year the moon will be at a waning gibbous phase only a few days past full and will flood the sky with bright light, squelching all but the brightest Perseid streaks. So, take advantage of the favorable conditions provided to us this year. 

To one and all we wish good luck and clear skies!

Joe Rao serves as an instructor and guest lecturer at New York's  Hayden Planetarium . He writes about astronomy for  Natural History magazine , the  Farmers' Almanac  and other publications.  

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Joe Rao is Space.com's skywatching columnist, as well as a veteran meteorologist and eclipse chaser who also serves as an instructor and guest lecturer at New York's Hayden Planetarium. He writes about astronomy for Natural History magazine, the Farmers' Almanac and other publications. Joe is an 8-time Emmy-nominated meteorologist who served the Putnam Valley region of New York for over 21 years. You can find him on Twitter and YouTube tracking lunar and solar eclipses, meteor showers and more. To find out Joe's latest project, visit him on Twitter.

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Meteors will stream across the sky in one of the year’s most anticipated celestial shows

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It’s that time of summer to watch the most anticipated meteor shower of the year: the dazzling display known as the Perseids.

Streams of light and color will travel across the sky while explosions of fireballs linger, leaving behind even brighter streaks than the meteor trails from the Perseids passing through the atmosphere.

Visible annually from mid-July to September 1, the Perseid meteor shower is set to peak between Sunday and before dawn Monday. Up to 100 meteors are expected per hour, moving at a speed of 133,200 miles per hour (214,365 kilometers per hour).

Bill Cooke, head of NASA’s Meteoroid Environment Office, described the Perseids as the richest meteor shower of the year because of the bright fireballs. It’s “the closest thing each year to a celestial fireworks display,” Cooke said.

Unusually bright meteors, fireballs can surpass 1 meter (3.3 feet) in diameter and are brighter than Venus — according to NASA and Cooke. Venus is one of the most luminous objects in the night sky.

These fireballs are “brighter than any star or planet in the sky,” said Robert Lunsford, the fireball report coordinator for the American Meteor Society. Like human-made fireworks, fireballs “tend to leave persistent streaks in the sky that will look like smoke and slowly dissipate over a few seconds after the meteor has gone,” Lunsford said.

This year is optimal for watching the shower because moonlight conditions will not wash out faint meteors, allowing viewers to observe both bright and dim ones, Cooke said. “Get in the entire shower this year,” he said, pointing out that last year’s moonlight conditions “kind of shut down the show” and obscured dim meteors.

During the peak of the shower, the moon will be 50% illuminated and will set around midnight — ideal conditions for meteor watching with dark skies contrasting with the balls of light.

“There are meteor showers going all the time, but again, they’re so weak, most people wouldn’t even notice they’re happening,” Cooke said. (In a rare instance last month, however, observers spotted a fireball meteor in broad daylight in parts of the Northeast.)

“This is your best opportunity to see these celestial fireworks, and what they tell us is exactly when we pass through certain orbits of the comet (Swift-Tuttle) that produced these meteors,” Lunsford said. “And besides, it’s kind of fun …  like having another Fourth of July.”

In 1865, Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli discovered that the Perseids resulted from Earth passing through debris trails originally released by the comet Swift-Tuttle .

The meteor shower’s name comes from the location in the sky that it appears to originate from — what’s called the radiant — near the constellation Perseus. The constellation can be identified with a stargazing app, which can help viewers pinpoint the shower’s starting point.

How to view the Perseids

NASA’s Cooke recommends four tips for optimal viewing. You don’t need instruments such as a telescope or binoculars, but find the darkest sky you can without light pollution. If you can, lie flat on your back and look straight up, taking in as much sky as possible. Give your eyes 30 to 45 minutes to adapt to the dark. “Don’t look at your cell phone, because that screen ruins your night vision, and it takes your eyes off the sky,” Cooke said.

Lunsford suggested bringing a comfortable chair so you can lie back and enjoy the scene, taking in as much sky in your view. Avoiding sources of light in your viewing location will allow you to see more meteors since most of them are faint, Lunsford said. Otherwise, you will only spot the brightest ones.

The best time to view the shower is after midnight around 2 a.m., when the source of the meteors will be the highest in the northeastern sky, both experts said. “Mother Nature doesn’t respect people’s sleep,” Cooke joked.

Any sky-gazer can see the shower in the Northern Hemisphere, but “the maximum (peak) will be later so the best place to see (it) is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii,” Lunsford said. The Perseids are not visible in Antarctica because the radiant never rises in the view of the sky there, he added.

Referring to John Denver’s 1970s hit “Rocky Mountain High” with the lyrics of “I’ve seen it rainin’ fire in the sky,” Cooke said, “He’s talking about the Perseids. He saw them from Colorado.

“So they’re good enough to be inserted into a song (and) so that’s good enough reason for me to go outside.”

Remaining meteor showers

Here are upcoming meteor showers , with the dates they are expected to peak:

Draconids: October 7-8

Orionids: October 21-22

Southern Taurids: November 4-5

Northern Taurids: November 11-12

Leonids: November 17-18

Geminids: December 13-14

Ursids: December 21-22

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