Pittsburg Travel Guide

Explore the best of Pittsburg, Texas with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about must-visit attractions, food scene, accommodations, local customs, safety, transportation, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to Pittsburg

Nestled in the Central Piney Woods region of Texas, Pittsburg is a quaint city rich in history and natural beauty. Founded in 1854, the town was named after William Pitt, the Prime Minister of Britain at the time. It’s just a three-hour drive east of Dallas, making it an ideal weekend getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Pittsburg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Camp County Historical Museum: Located in downtown Pittsburg, the museum boasts exhibits depicting the history of Camp County, including the Native American and Civil War periods.

  • The Ezekiel Airship Monument: Located in northeast Pittsburg, the monument commemorates the 1902 Zeke airship flight, the first successful powered flight in Texas.

  • Pittsburg Railroad Depot: Built in 1898, the restored depot houses a museum showcasing the history of railroads in the area.

Natural Attractions: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Bob Sandlin State Park: The park offers an array of activities such as fishing, boating, hiking and camping, with plenty of campsites available for overnight stays.

  • Pittsburg City Park: Perfect for a picnic or family outing, the park features playgrounds, a pavilion, and a walking track.

  • East Texas Gators and Wildlife Park: Get up close and personal with over 200 alligators, as well as other wildlife, such as zebras, ostriches, and emus.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pittsburg

  • Trail de Paris: A 60-mile trail that runs from Farmersville to Paris, the route offers breathtaking scenery, including forests, wetlands, and hills.

  • Cass County Rail to Trail: This 18-mile trail is a popular route for hiking and biking, offering views of wilderness areas and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Pittsburg: Activities and Tours

  • Three Rivers Paddle Sports: Rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard and explore the scenic waterways of Pittsburg.

  • Southern Sisters Designs: Take a crafting class or purchase unique handmade gifts at this charming boutique.

  • Eagle Eye RV Park: Experience RV camping at its best with a range of amenities, such as a fishing pond, pool, and mini-golf course.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pittsburg

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Lake Bob Sandlin State Park
Day 2 Explore the Camp County Historical Museum and Pittsburg Railroad Depot
Day 3 Take a scenic drive along Trail de Paris
Day 4 Visit the Ezekiel Airship Monument and East Texas Gators and Wildlife Park
Day 5 Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle through the waterways of Pittsburg
Day 6 Take a crafting class at Southern Sisters Designs
Day 7 Relax at Eagle Eye RV Park

Food and Drink Scene of Pittsburg

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pittsburg Hot Links: A local speciality, these spicy sausages are served on a bun and topped with cheese and onions.

  • Fried Catfish: Enjoy this Southern staple at any of the local seafood restaurants.

  • Pecan Pie: A classic dessert made with local pecans and served in most restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A Southern classic, this refreshing beverage is served at most restaurants.

  • Craft Beer: Check out the craft breweries in the area, such as the Pine Mills Pottery and Brewery.

Where to Stay in Pittsburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Maverick Inn: This budget-friendly motel offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV.

  • The Castle B&B: This charming bed and breakfast offers themed rooms and a full hot breakfast.

  • Rustic Romance Cabins: Enjoy a unique glamping experience in one of the rustic cabins surrounded by nature.

What to Buy in Pittsburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pittsburg Hot Links: Pack some of these spicy sausages to bring home as a tasty souvenir.

  • Handmade Crafts: Browse the shops in downtown Pittsburg for unique handmade crafts and gifts.

  • Pecans: Take home some of the freshest pecans from the local pecan orchards.

Local Culture and Customs of Pittsburg

  • Friendliness: The people of Pittsburg are incredibly friendly and welcoming to visitors.

  • Traditional Values: Residents of Pittsburg value family, faith, and hard work.

  • Small-Town Charm: The town has a strong community spirit and a slower pace of life.

Best Time to Visit Pittsburg

The best time to visit Pittsburg is in the spring or fall months, when the weather is pleasant, and the scenery is at its best. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters can get cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pittsburg

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine: Don’t leave Pittsburg without trying the delicious hot links and fried catfish.

  • Do visit the local shops: Support the local economy by visiting the shops and purchasing unique handmade souvenirs.

  • Do take in the natural beauty: Enjoy the scenic views and outdoor activities that Pittsburg has to offer.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent: Protect yourself from the sun and pesky bugs when spending time outdoors.

  • Don’t forget to bring cash: Some local businesses may not accept credit cards.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for directions: The locals are friendly and happy to help visitors find their way around town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pittsburg

Pittsburg is a relatively safe town with low crime rates. However, it’s always wise to take precautions and keep valuables locked away.

Health in Pittsburg

The town has a good healthcare system with excellent hospitals and clinics. Check with your healthcare provider for any necessary vaccinations or precautions before traveling.

Getting to Pittsburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pittsburg

The closest airports are in Dallas/Fort Worth and Shreveport, both about a two-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Pittsburg

There are no bus stations in Pittsburg. The closest Greyhound station is in Mount Pleasant, about 20 miles away.

Other Options

Driving is the most practical way to get around Pittsburg and the surrounding areas. Alternatively, visitors can rent a car or hire a private car service for transportation.

How to Get Around in Pittsburg

The best way to get around Pittsburg is by car. Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are not widely available.

Where to Go Next from Pittsburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tyler: Just an hour and 15-minute drive away, Tyler is known as the “Rose Capital of America,” with hundreds of thousands of roses in bloom every year.

  • Caddo Lake State Park: Located just 20 miles southeast of Pittsburg, this park features the largest natural lake in Texas and offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

  • Jefferson: Known for its historic homes, horse-drawn carriage rides, and antique shops, this charming town is located 30 miles east of Pittsburg.

Conclusion

Pittsburg may be a small town, but it has a lot to offer visitors. From the scenic outdoors to historical landmarks and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and come explore all that Pittsburg, Texas has to offer.