Things To Do in Pittsburgh

A major metropolitan area, Pittsburgh has plenty of wonderful attractions to make your visit memorable. Situated at the point where the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers meet to form the Ohio River, it's no surprise that Pittsburgh offers numerous outdoor attractions, like boating and other water sports. With a beautiful parks system, Pittsburgh offers a multitude of ways to enjoy the beautiful Pennsylvania landscape and temperate climate.

Pittsburgh celebrates its urban nature as well! You'll discover unique shopping in downtown Pittsburgh and the surrounding neighborhoods, and plenty of other things to do that will make your trip fun and exciting.

In addition to being a national leader in green innovation and global business, Pittsburgh also offers a rich cultural history and diverse activities.

History & Heritage: Pittsburgh is a city laced with history. Pittsburgh proudly puts its rich history on display for you to experience from the Fort Pitt Blockhouse and Museum to the Senator John Heinz History Center, the largest history museum in Pennsylvania and a Smithsonian affiliate, and the new August Wilson Center for African American Culture. You will surely appreciate Pittsburgh's past once you have seen all of the historical wonders that Pittsburgh has to offer.

Architecture: Amazing feats of architectural innovation and design can be found all around the Pittsburgh area. Your interest in architecture will build when you experience the architectural must-sees of Frank Lloyd Wright, green buildings, skyscrapers, churches and more. With both its historic background and modern technology, Pittsburgh showcases the brilliance of architects of yesterday and today.

Sports: Pittsburgh is a hub for the country's best football, baseball and hockey – with both Super Bowl and Stanley Cup Champions. Wave your Terrible Towel at a Steelers football game, get to PNC Park to catch a Pirates game, or gear up for the action at a Penguins hockey game. We'll show you why champions call Pittsburgh home. If you can't catch a game you can always visit the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum, housed within the Senator John Heinz History Center, to celebrate the rich tradition of sports in the region.

Family Fun: Find great things to do for everyone in the family in Pittsburgh! With so many fun family activities, it's easy to entertain the little ones and satisfy your inner child. From the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh to interactive science exhibits at the Carnegie Science Center, a visit to Pittsburgh is fun and educational for the entire family. And, you can see Pittsburgh in a whole new light – from the water. From Station Square, set sail on a variety of excursions, such as a Gateway Clipper cruise or a Just Ducky tour on a WWII amphibious vehicle.

Outdoor Fun: If you hear the great outdoors calling, then Pittsburgh is the place for you! Even National Geographic Magazine thinks Pittsburgh is one of the top cities for outdoor urban adventure. White water rafting, hiking, cycling and a wide variety of city and state parks are available for your outdoor pleasure.

Performing Arts: When it comes to the lineup of great shows in Pittsburgh, there is something for everyone! Catch a symphony performance, head to the ballet, experience Pittsburgh jazz, or enjoy an opera performance. With new shows and performances always opening in Pittsburgh, you'll never have to look far for a show you'll absolutely love.

Neighborhoods: As a city full of diversity, you will love exploring the culture, food and atmosphere of Pittsburgh's 89 unique and ethnically distinctive neighborhoods. Pittsburgh's downtown is full of the city hustle and bustle. Squirrel Hill has the quaint charm of a main street-like community while, Oakland, with its many universities, supplies a uniquely intellectual atmosphere. The Strip District is home to Pittsburgh's only historic market district. And the 16:62 Design Zone - stretching from the Strip District through Lawrenceville - is billed as Pittsburgh's arts and interior design district. The South Side offers fabulous dining, shopping and an exciting night life.

Underground Railroad: Western Pennsylvania played a key role in the Underground Railroad, one of the most significant forms of activism in our nation's history. Take part in Live and Learn Weekends at the Senator John Heinz History Center or visit the August Wilson Center for African American Culture to learn more about the extraordinary events that helped to shape Pittsburgh and the United States alike.