Pittsburgh Region Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Pittsburgh Region with this comprehensive tour guide that includes the best things to do, places to stay, food and drink scene, and much more.


Introduction to Pittsburgh Region

The Pittsburgh Region is located in Pennsylvania, in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States of America. It is a city of bridges and rivers, and visitors are treated to iconic views of the city from the many lookout points. The region is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, natural beauty, and sports teams.

List of Places to Visit in Pittsburgh Region

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Andy Warhol Museum
  • Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History
  • Heinz Memorial Chapel
  • Fort Pitt Museum
  • The Frick Pittsburgh
  • The Nationality Rooms inside the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning
  • The Senator John Heinz History Center
  • The Pennsylvanian Capitol Building in Harrisburg

Natural Attractions of Pittsburgh Region: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Point State Park
  • Schenley Park
  • Mount Washington
  • Three Rivers Heritage Trail
  • Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
  • Fallingwater
  • Ohiopyle State Park
  • Laurel Caverns Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pittsburgh Region

  • North Shore Riverfront Trail
  • Great Allegheny Passage
  • Montour Trail
  • Rachel Carson Trail
  • The Three Rivers Heritage Trail

Best Things to Do in Pittsburgh Region: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium
  • Attend a Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Penguins, or Pittsburgh Pirates game
  • Relax at the North Shore Riverfront Park and enjoy the skyline view
  • Tour the Duquesne Incline
  • Take a Ducky Tour on a US Navy Amphibious Vehicle
  • Go for a rollercoaster ride at Kennywood Amusement Park
  • Enjoy a show at the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts or the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
  • Explore the Strip District, a historic market district with food, shopping, and entertainment

Week-Long Itinerary for Pittsburgh Region

Day Activity
1 Explore the cultural attractions, museums, and art galleries
2 Take a scenic bike ride through the parks and trails
3 Visit the natural attractions and state parks
4 Attend a sports game and enjoy the city’s sports culture
5 Sample the local food and drink scene
6 Take a tour of the city and surrounding areas
7 Relax at one of the city’s spas or wellness centers

Food and Drink Scene of Pittsburgh Region

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Primanti Brothers Sandwich, a Pittsburgh classic with coleslaw and fries in the sandwich
  • Pierogies, a potato stuffed dumpling that is a staple of Pittsburgh’s Eastern-European heritage
  • Heinz Ketchup, the famous ketchup brand that is based in Pittsburgh
  • Fish Sandwiches, the city is known for its fish sandwiches, the best can be found at Wholey’s Fish Market, Penn Avenue Fish Company, and Primanti Brothers
  • Burnt Almond Torte, a local dessert that can be found at Prantl’s Bakery

Local Beverages

  • Iron City Beer, a local beer that has been brewed in Pittsburgh since 1861
  • Wigle Whiskey, a craft whiskey distillery that offers tours and tastings
  • Penn Brewery, a local brewery that is famous for its Oktoberfest beer

Where to Stay in Pittsburgh Region: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Fairmont Pittsburgh, luxury hotel in the downtown area
  • The Omni William Penn Hotel, a historical landmark hotel in downtown Pittsburgh
  • The Drury Plaza Hotel, a budget-friendly and pet-friendly hotel
  • The Priory Hotel, a historic boutique hotel in the North Shore area
  • Not Another Hostel, a popular hostel in the South Side area

What to Buy in Pittsburgh Region: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Terrible Towels, a famous rally towel that fans wave at Steelers games
  • Pittsburgh Sports Memorabilia, Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates gear can be found at various souvenir shops
  • Pittsburgh Popcorn, a local gourmet popcorn shop with unique flavors
  • Pittsburgh Chocolate, purchase chocolates from Sarris Candies, a local chocolate company

Local Culture and Customs of Pittsburgh Region

  • Pittsburghese, the dialect of English spoken in Pittsburgh, has its own unique phrases and words.
  • The Heinz Field and PNC Park Stadiums are known for their unique sports traditions and game day rituals.

Best Time to Visit Pittsburgh Region

The best time to visit Pittsburgh Region is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. Spring and fall are also good times to visit as the weather is mild and the foliage is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pittsburgh Region

Do:

  • Do try the local food, especially the famous Primanti Brothers Sandwich
  • Do visit the cultural attractions and museums
  • Do attend a sports game to experience the city’s sports culture
  • Do bring a towel to wave during a Steelers game

Don’t:

  • Don’t confuse the three rivers, the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio
  • Don’t mispronounce the city’s name, it’s pitts-burg, not pitts-burgh
  • Don’t underestimate the city’s hills, pack comfortable shoes for walking uphill
  • Don’t forget to try the pierogies

Safety and Health

Safety in Pittsburgh Region

Pittsburgh is generally a safe city, but visitors should always exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in busy tourist areas.

Health in Pittsburgh Region

Pittsburgh has several hospitals and medical centers, including UPMC and Allegheny Health Network, that offer quality medical care services.

Getting to Pittsburgh Region: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pittsburgh Region

  • Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
  • Arnold Palmer Regional Airport (LBE)

Bus Stations Near Pittsburgh Region

  • Greyhound Bus Terminal
  • Megabus Station

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station
  • Driving: Pittsburgh is easily accessible via major highways, including I-70, I-76, I-79, and I-80.

How to Get Around in Pittsburgh Region

  • Public Transportation: Port Authority of Pittsburgh operates a bus and light rail system.
  • Uber and Lyft are both available in the Pittsburgh region.
  • Walking and biking are both popular ways to see the city.

Where to Go Next from Pittsburgh Region: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cleveland, Ohio
  • Erie, Pennsylvania
  • Hershey, Pennsylvania
  • Niagara Falls, New York
  • Washington, D.C.

Conclusion

Pittsburgh Region is a city with a diverse and exciting culture, stunning natural landscapes, and a rich history. Planning a trip to Pittsburgh can be overwhelming with so much to see and do, but this comprehensive tour guide provides all the information needed to plan the perfect visit. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re a sports fan, history buff, nature lover, or foodie. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to explore one of America’s best cities!



    Allegheny County
    Laurel Highlands
    North Pittsburgh Region
    South Pittsburgh Region