Pittsburgh is a city of bridges, rivers, rolling hills, and surprising treasures. If you’re wondering what to do in Pittsburgh, PA, you’re in for a treat.
From world-class museums to scenic overlooks, this guide will walk you through the best spots, neighborhoods, and experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or relocating and want to explore your new home, there are so many fun things to do in Pittsburgh, PA to fill your itinerary.
Getting Started: Where to Begin Your Exploration
If it’s your first time in the city, start downtown and orient yourself. Walk along the riverfront at Point State Park where the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers meet to form the Ohio. The park offers great views, green space, and access to trails.
From there, head into Market Square and the Cultural District, where theaters, restaurants, and street life converge. A simple downtown stroll reveals a lot about the energy and architecture of the city.
To get panoramic views early in your trip, ride the Duquesne Incline or the Monongahela Incline up to Mount Washington. The vistas over Pittsburgh’s skyline and three rivers are iconic and help ground your sense of place.
Must-See Attractions
When deciding what to do in Pittsburgh, PA, these destinations should top your list:
- Carnegie Museums & The Frick – In the Oakland area, you’ll find the Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and the Frick Art & Historical Center.
- Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens – A lovely escape with seasonal flower shows, tropical greenhouses, and outdoor gardens.
- Heinz Hall – Catch a concert or theater show in the city’s premier performance venue.
- National Aviary – Located on the North Side in Allegheny Commons Park, it’s the only independent indoor aviary in the U.S. and home to hundreds of species.
- Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium – In Highland Park, this 77-acre complex houses 4,000+ animals across numerous habitats.
- Bicycle Heaven – A quirky, massive museum and showroom of bicycles, from vintage to futuristic. It’s free (donation suggested) and often delightfully surprising.
- St. Nicholas Croatian Church (Millvale Murals) – For an offbeat but moving experience, view the murals by Maxo Vanka inside this hilltop church just outside the city.
These attractions help define what to do in Pittsburgh, PA in terms of culture, nature, and local flavor.
Outdoor & Nature Highlights
If you love being outside, here are fun things to do in Pittsburgh, PA that embrace green spaces, trails, and rivers:
Trail & Riverfront Adventures
- Three Rivers Heritage Trail is a nearly 33-mile network of urban trails along Pittsburgh’s rivers. It’s perfect for walking, running, or biking.
- Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve offers forested trails, native birdlife, and a respite from city life.
- Mount Washington / West End Overlook offer splendid skyline views. Hike the Emerald View Trail or take the inclines.
- Allegheny Observatory tours provide a peek into the cosmos and a mix of indoor and outdoor experience (seasonal).
Parks & Gardens
- Mellon Park in Shadyside/Point Breeze is charming and historically significant, with the Walled Garden and open lawns.
- Point State Park is more than just a meeting-of-rivers landmark, it’s a well landscaped park, often hosting events.
These outdoor locations are essential stops on your list of things to do in Pittsburgh, PA if you’re chasing fresh air and scenic beauty.
Neighborhoods & Hidden Gems
Venturing beyond downtown reveals personality in Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods. Here are fun things to do in Pittsburgh, PA off the beaten path:
- Strip District – A lively food and market district. Try local eats, browse specialty shops, and experience the street life.
- Mexican War Streets – Beautiful historic homes and a pleasant walking route.
- Randyland – A colorful, quirky outdoor art garden in the North Side, beloved by locals and visitors alike.
- Allegheny Commons / North Side – Home to the National Aviary and green space plus interesting local architecture.
- Dead Man’s Hollow (McKeesport) – A quiet trail area just outside the city, mentioned by locals as an underrated gem. > “Dead Man’s Hollow in McKeesport is exceptionally underrated.”
By exploring neighborhoods, you’ll get a feel for what to do in Pittsburgh, PA beyond the top attractions.
Seasonal & Event-Based Fun
Pittsburgh’s calendar is packed with seasonal happenings. Here’s how to time your visit for maximum fun:
- Picklesburgh Festival – A quirky, tasty festival celebrating all things pickled, downtown along the river.
- Kennywood Phantom Fall Fest – An autumn event combining amusement rides and haunted houses.
- Weekly events like Oktoberfest, jazz festivals, art events, and holiday happenings appear at VisitPittsburgh’s “This Week in Pittsburgh.”
- Cultural performances at Heinz Hall, Benedum Center, and other venues make for memorable evenings.
If your schedule allows, align your trip to coincide with one of these events, it’s one of the most dynamic fun things to do in Pittsburgh, PA.
Food, Drinks & Local Flavor
No list of what to do in Pittsburgh, PA is complete without the local food scene:
- Try the Pittsburgh classic Primanti Bros. sandwich (fries and slaw inside the sandwich).
- Sample ethnic food in the Strip District (Italian, Eastern European, etc.).
- Visit local craft breweries; Pittsburgh has a growing craft beer community.
- Walk through local markets and food stalls, particularly in Strip District and downtown.
- Don’t miss local sweets like the Burnt Almond Torte or Pecan Ball dessert, iconic treats tied to the city’s culinary heritage.
Exploring food is both delicious and a key part of understanding what to do in Pittsburgh, PA through local taste.
Itinerary Ideas (1–3 Days)
1-Day Sample
- Morning: Ride Duquesne Incline, enjoy skyline view
- Late morning: Walk through Point State Park and downtown
- Noon: Lunch in the Strip District
- Afternoon: Visit Phipps Conservatory and Carnegie Museums
- Evening: Catch a show at Heinz Hall or explore the Cultural District
2-Day Sample
- Day 1: Complete the above
- Day 2: Explore neighborhoods (Mexican War Streets, Randyland), visit National Aviary, enjoy trails along Three Rivers Heritage Trail
- Evening: Try local restaurants and check for a festival or concert
3-Day Sample
- Add a day trip out: Ohiopyle State Park or Fallingwater (Frank Lloyd Wright house)
- Use extra day to go deeper into hidden gems and offbeat spots
These sample itineraries will help you experience a balance of must-see landmarks and local gems when figuring out what to do in Pittsburgh, PA.
Tips & Logistics
- Getting around: Pittsburgh’s public transit includes buses and light rail, but some popular spots are best reached by car or rideshare.
- Walking gear: Bring comfortable shoes, the city is hilly and some trails are steep.
- Weather: Summers are warm and humid; winters can be snowy. Plan accordingly.
- Timing: Many museums and attractions close by early evening, so start early.
- Relocating? If you’re planning a move here, reach out to a moving company in Pittsburgh, PA for reliable local help as you settle in.
- Research ahead: Use VisitPittsburgh for updated event calendars and tickets.
These practical tips help you make the most of your time and avoid surprises.
Why Pittsburgh Delivers
What makes Pittsburgh special is its unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. The hills, rivers, and trails mesh with a robust arts and culture scene. Locals talk about “Pittsburgh on the move,” and indeed the city is reinventing, combining history and innovation. For both visitors and newcomers, knowing what to do in Pittsburgh, PA means embracing contrasts, museums by day, riverfront strolls by dusk, festival nights and hidden alleys.
Because of its size (big, but manageable), you can see a lot in a short span and still leave room for spontaneity. Whether you’re chasing scenic overlooks, sampling pierogies, or catching a symphony, Pittsburgh rewards curiosity.
Conclusion
If someone asks you what to do in Pittsburgh, PA, your answer can range from riding an incline at sunset to wandering neighborhood murals or tasting a city-famous sandwich. The options are abundant, with fun things to do in Pittsburgh, PA that satisfy nature lovers, culture seekers, foodies, and adventurers alike. Use this guide as your roadmap, but leave space for surprises that’s how Pittsburgh tends to impress the most.
