Your guide to Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh: Know before you go
| Language | English |
|---|---|
| Currency | United States dollar ($) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (EST) and UTC-4 (EDT) |
| High season | June - August |
| Low season | January - February |
The best neighbourhoods in Pittsburgh
The Strip District
Cosying up to the banks of the Allegheny River, The Strip is packed with street art, produce markets and independent delis. Locals and travellers alike are drawn here by the cheap eats, aroma of roasting coffee beans and relaxed vibes. Right next door to downtown, this district is also within walking distance of some of Pittsburgh’s best museums and is just across the river from PNC Park and Heinz Field where the city’s beloved baseball and football teams play.
Good for: Street art, markets, sports stadiums
Shadyside
A 15-minute drive from downtown, Shadyside is a well-heeled district of leafy streets and restored Victorian mansions. High-end boutiques, cafes, bars and restaurants make it one of the best areas to stay in Pittsburgh if you’re seeking upscale style with a relaxed attitude. Look for Roslyn Place, a cul-de-sac paved with wood and lined by Georgian-style houses. Travelling with your pooch? Shadyside boasts over 10 dog-friendly hotels.
Good for: Boutiques, architecture, dog-friendly hotels
Lawrenceville
Lawrenceville is the best neighbourhood to stay in Pittsburgh if you’re into old-school vibes. Slip on some bowling shoes at the Arsenal Lanes, catch a cult classic at the Row House Cinema and check out the boutique stores and hip galleries of Butler Street. Feeling thirsty? Grab a pint at Church Brew Works, a favourite with hops worshippers for over 20 years.
Good for: Craft beer, bowling, galleries
Things to do in Pittsburgh
Shopping
Walnut Street in Shadyside is the go-to spot for upscale shopping in Pittsburgh. Here, clothing boutiques and gift shops are punctuated by coffee roasters and restaurants. The city also has a thriving maker scene. Love Pittsburg, in downtown, showcases the work of more than 100 local artisans while some indie brands, like Knotzland bowties, have their own flagship stores.
Places to eat
The city has blossomed into something of a foodie hotspot over the last few years, with downtown leading the charge. But Pittsburgh’s many neighbourhoods also hold their own. Lawrenceville attracts hungry travellers with Spanish-style tapas, standout Mexican fare and some of the city’s best Italian restaurants. And the Strip District is home to the original Primanti Bros and its famous sandwiches stuffed with meat, cheese and french fries.
Take in the culture
You’ll find more than 30 museums in Pittsburgh, so prepare to have your mind expanded. Top of our list is the Heinz History Center, followed by the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh dedicated to natural history, science, art and the city’s favourite son, artist Andy Warhol. On sunny days, visit the Rivers of Steel Heritage Area, a gritty celebration of the city’s industrial past.
