12+ Great Things to Do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

I literally never go on a trip with nothing planned, but this is exactly how I arrived in Pittsburgh. I didn’t know what was in the city, if I would like it, or if it was going to be for me. Well, most cities are for me. Especially underrated cities like this one. I have a friend who lives here that I call my “camp friend” or my “travel friend”, so I knew she had me. We met in Wisconsin years ago, but we have traveled to many places both in the US and Europe together since, so she gets me.

I am usually the travel planner (I mean, I have a travel blog), so this was a fun trip to just say I’ll go wherever you want to take me! And y’all, it was SO fun. I loved every second of it, and I hate that Pittsburgh is so underrated. When I arrived in the airport, I was wondering where all the people were! I mean, I had just flown from Nashville, which is a notoriously touristy town.

But still, the whole weekend, I was wondering where all the tourists were. Sure, we saw a few here and there, but generally, this is the time to head there. It’s quaint, it’s a mountain town, it has good food and good fun, and you won’t be overwhelmed by too many people.

Anyway, I spent a Thursday through Friday here, and we did quite a few things. So, as always, I just share things I did, and if they sound fun to you, then add them to your list! Here’s some great recommendations:

1. Duquesne Incline

If you want to get the perfect skyline view of the city, definitely head to Duquesne Incline. While it is historical and authentic, it didn’t feel unsafe at any time. They have definitely done the work to keep up with the maintenance of these incline cars. It takes you up and up, and you get views out of the windows of the city and the tracks as you go.

All you do is pay $5 for a round trip per person, but young kids get in for free. You can park down in the parking lot for a reasonable price, and just walk up to the station. This is quite the walk, because you have to walk a little uphills to get to the stairs, then up the stairs, then across the walkway to the station. You’ll wait in there until you get the green light, and then head on in to the car.

It is maybe a 2-3 minute ride up to the station at the top. There, you can do a little tour of how everything works, buy souvenirs, and take pictures of the view of the city. It was such an easy and quick way to see everything and do something that is authentic and had character. I would definitely recommend going here if you’re visiting for the first time.

2. Steel Mill Saloon

If you do the Duquesne Incline, plan to get lunch at the Steel Mill Saloon. At the top of the incline, there is this quaint restaurant right across the street for lunch. I mean, they even have the menu at the station, so you can see if you want to eat before you head over!

The Steel Mill Saloon has a variety of lunch options, but I opted for the special for the day, which was something like a chopped hamburger hoagie. I know that’s not the real name, but I didn’t get the veggies, and it was chopped hamburger meat, melted cheese, and onions. Y’all, it was so good. And their fries were so good as well.

I couldn’t eat the whole thing, because I had finished my leftovers before coming, but I took the second half to go. I was joking the whole time about how embarrassing it was to carry a see-through to-go box back on the incline car.

But really, they have a full bar and the crowd felt very cozy. You definitely can’t go in there to use the restroom or anything if you’re not a customer, but you can definitely sit at the bar and have a drink or grab an app. Here is the menu if you want to check it out: Steel Mill Saloon.

3.Pirates Game

Okay, if you go during baseball season, this is a must-do activity. I don’t say that often, but I had so much fun, especially coming from a city that only has minor league and the games are nothing like this. This stadium felt huge for a baseball game, and it was Star Wars Night, and we had the best time. And yes, I’m a total newbie for MLB baseball games, but if you like baseball or not, you can still have a great time. The city comes together, and if you go on a themed night, you get a free t-shirt!!

They have all the food you could want at a game (for me that’s popcorn), and you can get drinks, hang out, and move around as much as you want. The Pirates played the Cubs this night, and they won! The other 3 games they didn’t, so I guess I could say I was their good luck charm. There are plenty of bars and restaurants around the stadium, and I think we only payed $10 or $15 for parking.

The tickets were also reasonable at around $23 a person. I think this is such a good way to see a city, because you actually feel like you’re a part of the city and see the camaraderie of everyone there. Definitely check out a Pirates or if you want football, go to a Steelers game!

4. Point State Park

Probably one of the most iconic places to go in Pittsburgh is Point State Park. Sitting where 3 rivers merge, sometimes you can even see the difference in the colors of the water. There are likely a few different places where you can park, but we parked towards the northern side and I thought the price was very reasonable.

The walk to the actual park was a little questionable at times, taking us through a tunnel and everything, but it was pretty simple. Although it’s a mountain town, it didn’t feel super hilly in most places. It was an easy walk to the point, where there is a little emblem in the concrete and a big fountain where ducks were swimming.

The walk to the actual park was a little questionable at times, taking us through a tunnel and everything, but it was pretty simple. Although it’s a mountain town, it didn’t feel super hilly in most places. It was an easy walk to the point, where there is a little emblem in the concrete and a big fountain where we even saw ducks.

This place is much larger than expected. There is a little bridge you can walk under with a beautiful stone design in it, a large area for what concerts and events, and views for days. This is a great time to just stroll and take in views, maybe see a boat or two you might want to book during your trip. I mean hey, I got hit on while waiting for my friend in the bathroom. The possibilities are endless.

5. Strip District

This seems to be one of the most popular areas of town, in my humble opinion. I felt like I barely saw tourists everywhere else, but the Strip District was actually lively. The Strip District has a wide variety of things to do here. I didn’t even really know where to start, but for now, I’ll just highlight a few places:

Helltown Brewery

I think it’s so smart to have a brewery in this area. Sometimes you just want to do a little shopping, a little eating, and then sit back and enjoy a beer. Well, this was our first stop, but after I did a little shopping at Love, Pittsburgh, this was so nice. They have live music outside, a large open area to sit and enjoy a beer inside, and plenty of tables outside to enjoy your beer (with shade!). This is an easy stop to make while you’re in the area, and they have a wide variety of beer to enjoy.

The Terminal

So, The Terminal is a long stretch of stores and businesses that you can visit while you’re in the Strip District. They had everything from golf to plant stores to restaurants and more. The stores are on this raised walking area, but on a Saturday, many small businesses are also selling and promoting their products and services on the sidewalk next to it. We saw everything from cocktails to jewelry to pictures. Look, they even had a DJ and his music was playing all around here.

Primanti’s

We didn’t stop here, but this is definitely a Pittsburgh classic place. Originated in Pittsburgh, this sandwich shop has become a chain in and around Pittsburgh. I mean, they had a line out the door waiting to eat here. That’s when you know it’s good. Located directly across from The Terminal, this is a convenient way to get in that local sandwich goodness if you’re in the area. If the line wasn’t so long, I probably would have stopped here. And if you’re someone who wants to try out the local cuisine, I think this is absolutely a spot for you.

Lucky’s Dive Bar

I LOVE a dive bar. And if we weren’t trying to catch a game, we probably would have stopped here just for the stories. I think you can see that this is a very popular spot and if you have the time you should stop here. I mean, just look at the decor and street appeal. It’s perfect. If you’re visiting and doing a little bar crawl in the Strip District, definitely stop here.

Souvenir Shopping (Love, Pittsburgh)

The only souvenirs I buy when I travel is a sticker. Okay, maybe a few stickers, but I just try to keep it minimal. After walking around for a little bit, I knew this plan would have what I needed. They sell tons of cute Pittsburgh merch and items. I got myself the perfect Pittsburgh sticker and just browsed around for a while. If you’re in the area, definitely check out this local store.

Rescue Dogs

If you’re walking in the area, you definitely won’t miss these pups. They were hanging out outside near Love, Pittsburgh, and it was so cute. If I lived in the area, I probably would have ended up taking one home. They had tiny dogs and bigger dogs, sleepy dogs and excited dogs. But sometimes you just need to pet dogs to put you in a great mood.

Wholey’s Fish Market

We didn’t stop in here, but apparently it is the place to go for all your seafood needs. It looks like it has been there for a while, and that’s how you know it’s good. They don’t need all the frills, just some quality products. But really, if you don’t live here, you can also grab some lunch or dinner at their hot food bar and eat some fresh food.

6. Coop de Ville

If you’re looking for a fun and young spot, definitely head to Coop de Ville. It is light and airy inside with plenty of windows and bright decor. They have tons of games to play, and if you’re like me, you like an activity with your food and drinks. This includes duck pin bowling, pool, and arcade games. There are tables and a large wraparound bar. Definitely plan to eat here.

If you didn’t know, Pittsburgh loves a good sandwich. And the menu at Coop de Ville made it hard to choose. I ended up with a chicken sandwich and fries, and it was a solid meal. I mean, just look at those fries. They also make a mean espresso martini and have a large variety of drinks to choose from. If you’re looking for a fun time out with friends or to watch a game, head here! Check out their menus and info here: Coop de Ville.

7. Lincoln Avenue Brewery

If I didn’t mention it before, my friend lives in Bellevue, a little north of Pittsburgh. This area is SO walkable, and I’m just not used to that in Nashville. It has plenty of gems in the area, but our first stop of the trip was right after I landed and we went to Lincoln Avenue Brewery.

It was getting close to closing time, so we only had a limited menu, but I got a delicious pretzel and my friend got a small flatbread. The brewery is in an exposed brick building and the staff were so friendly. I mean, we even met the owner and she made us her signature drink and WOW.

We got to talking for a while with her, and she was so kind and told us all about it. If you’re looking for a fun and quaint brewery to visit while in Pittsburgh, definitely head here. Click here for more info: Lincoln Avenue Brewery

8. 202 Hometown Tacos

Another Bellevue favorite is 202 Hometown Tacos. In my opinion, this is definitely a must-visit stop on your trip if you go out to Bellevue. They have so many options and an incredible backyard patio area where you can sit and hang out. I mean, they even have a little sand area with patio furniture and mini fire pits as you’ll see in the picture. If you want to play corn hole, we did that too. It has string lights, strong drinks, and friendly people. Have I mentioned I love this area of Pittsburgh?

We had such a good night hanging out outside and saying hi to the dogs and playing corn hole. If you’re looking at my picture above, I know for sure I got the Salmon and the Chorizo tacos, but I cannot remember what that third one on the right is. Either way, these were amazing. I would do almost anything for a good taco, and I love when they have variety and unique options. For more info and to see the menu, click here: 202 Hometown Tacos.

9. Market Square

So I’m very aware I ventured through Market Square on what seems like the only time there wasn’t an event happening. But, it was a Friday early afternoon, so it just wasn’t really the time for anything. I can imagine a Saturday morning or weekend nights being lively and lit up. There are stores and restaurants all around the square.

The greenery right in the middle of the city is what always gets me. It’s always good to have a green space and an outdoor area for people to gather and have events. If you’re in the downtown area, this is a great spot to hit while exploring.

10. PPG Place

Talk about incredible architecture. I mean, you can just see from the pictures how massive and gorgeous these buildings are. Also called “Pittsburgh’s Crown Jewel”, PPG Place is home to office buildings and restaurants if you’re hungry. You can walk around here and explore. The massive plaza is gorgeous, with fountains and seating.

It was starting to rain when we walked through, but that just made the mirrored building all the more moody and aesthetic. I definitely would check out the restaurants here if I went back. For more information about it, click here: PPG Place.

11. Sly Fox Taphouse

If you’re looking for a beer or even a flight while in the downtown area, head to Sly Fox Taphouse. It is on the way between Point State Park and Market Square. I absolutely love the boards they use for their flights. It is industrial just like the entire city, and it is easy to hold. If we hadn’t just eaten after the incline, I definitely would have gotten some pizza or a good sandwich.

Their menu is small but mighty, and their beers definitely also have that German influence to it. Add this to your brewery list if you’re doing a brewery tour! For more information and to see the menus, click here: Sly Fox Brewing Company.

12. Penn Brewery

While I didn’t get to visit the actual brewery, I did stop in here at the airport on my way out. This poutine was so, so good. I had to get a mimosa first, but I did try a beer and it was good. They had a good mix of beers, and it definitely had an older feel to it.

A lot of Pittsburgh has German influence, so this brewery was no exception. It definitely feels like an original brewery, and I was only at the airport, so I’m sure the actual brewery is much more fun to visit. Stop here at the airport or if you’re a brewery person like me, add this to your brewery tour of the city. For more information and menus, click here: Penn Brewery.

For More:

To read more about destinations around the United States, click here: Domestic Destinations.

For a list of things to do in Philadelphia, click here: How to Spend One Day in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania .

To read more about my favorite things to do in my hometown, click here: Best of Nashville.