Perfect for everyone, Pittsburgh offers everything from American football to zip-lines. For an unmissable art experience, visit the Andy Warhol Museum, the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist. The museum features an extensive collection of works from the Pittsburgh-born artist’s iconic career in pop art.
For history and spectacular views all at once, ride the Duquesne Incline (which was used previously to haul coal) up Mount Washington for the most breath-taking views of Pittsburgh and experience one of the few remaining inclines in America today. On Mount Washington, there are traditional restaurants on Restaurant Row, which are perfect for a meal with a view.
A lot has changed in Pittsburgh since its days as an industrial capital: it’s become a more diverse, cultural and creative city which offers visitors a welcome they will never forget. British Airways will be the first British airline to directly link London and this trendy Pittsburghers city.
Started from April 2019, this new route will take you from London to the lively hub of Pittsburgh in a respectable eight hours. It’s not hard to see why Pittsburgh is the ultimate place to visit- there’s simply so much to see and do that it would be difficult to squeeze it all in to one stay.
Things to do in Pittsburgh
Sports
Pittsburgh is home to the Pittsburgh Penguins ice hockey team, and the world-renowned Pittsburgh Steelers, whose fans are almost as legendary as the team itself, and that’s quite an impressive feat.
The Steelers have reached the playoffs an astonishing 30 times and won the Super Bowl an awesome six times. The Heinz Field Stadium is their home, and from April to October exclusive behind-the-scenes tours are available, so you can see the inner workings of a true American football team’s home stadium.
Pittsburgh Pirates are the local baseball team, and there is no place like PNC Park, their home ground. This stunning stadium perfectly captures Pittsburgh’s skyline and riverfront, meaning that the city is very much at the heart of its sporting scene.
Shopping
Visit the fabulous Ross Park Mall and Grove City Premium Outlets® to discover an extensive range of shops and outlet boutiques, including brands like Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, Michael Kors and many more. If retail therapy is your thing, Pittsburgh certainly has you covered! Calling all independent shoppers- downtown Pittsburgh is definitely the place for you. Explore the small boutiques and one-of-a-kind stores and find some hidden gems and buy special gifts that will make memories that will far outlast the trip!
Dining
New restaurants in the up-and-coming Downtown area blend high-quality ingredients and laid-back atmospheres to create a contemporary dining experience. Union Standard, set in the renovated Union Trust building, serves wood-fired, grilled food and rotisserie meats. City Works Eatery & Pour House offers diners modern American classics with tasty twists and an exhaustive list of craft beers on draft. Pittsburgh favourites include The Original Oyster House, the city’s oldest restaurant and bar, which has stood the test of time among generations of Pittsburghers.
Double Wide Grill is a Texas-style restaurant themed with a 1930s gas station theme, offers barbecued delights, even catering to vegetarians and vegans, so it’s a perfect spot for everyone. Restaurant Row on Mount Washington at the top of the Duquesne Incline is the hottest place in the whole city for magnificent views of the striking skyline and the three rivers meeting.
Outdoor Adventure
With so many beautiful parks, including Schenley Park, there’s so many ways to see the city other than by foot. Take to the skies and soar above the forests in North Park at its Go Ape zip line course or take to the water, and rent a paddle board from Stand Up Pittsburgh to explore the rivers. Hire a bike and pedal along the three Rivers Heritage Trail System. Healthy Ride has fifty stations throughout the city, so you can begin your adventure from wherever you are. Kayak Pittsburgh offer stunning kayak guided river experiences, ideal for beginners and beyond. You can even kayak whilst watching magical fireworks display at night or hire a pontoon from Boat Pittsburgh to watch the sun set over the majestic Pittsburgh skyline.
There’s no shortage of action packed adventures in Pittsburgh- whether challenging forest climbs or laid-back walks there’s something for everyone. Even walking around the city itself can be an exciting challenge, as the neighbourhoods are linked by bridges and some 712 sets of steps!
The surrounding Alleghany County Parks feature nine different parks and 12,000 acres of adventures, including Deer Lakes Park, spanning 1,180 acres and encompassing fishing lakes, an observatory, golf course, playgrounds and hiking trails.
Families
Pittsburgh has plenty of things to keep the whole family engaged! The Carnegie Science Centre has hours of hands-on fun, from investigating how the human body works to the marvels of rivers in H2OH!, everyone in the family can discover their inner scientist in the educational, amusing exhibits. Have an exhilarating day out at Idlewild&SoakZone, claimed to be one of the best theme parks for children in the world. The enchanting Story Book Forest and themed rides will easily fill an entire day with fun and laughter. Just Ducky Tours are an iconic part of summer life in Pittsburgh. Climb aboard their World War II amphibious vehicle and journey through downtown and the three rivers while learning fun facts about Pittsburgh and maybe even quacking at some local river residents!
For nature lovers, visit the National Aviary to see more than 500 birds in walk-through exhibits that put you alongside the birds so you can see their environments from their perspective. Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium also make an exciting day out with 77 acres to explore and 8,000 animals to see, there’ll never be a dull moment!
Adults
Beyond the outdoor adventures, sport, museums and idyllic parks, there’s even more to discover on a trip to Pittsburgh, perfect for friends or couples. Head to the South Side if you’re unsure what to do, it’s the one neighbourhood in Pittsburgh with something for everyone, including a lively night scene. Station Square has glorious views of downtown Pittsburgh as well as shops, restaurants and bars. Head to hipster heaven on East Carson Street and see the Victorian architecture and restaurants, bars, vintage clothing shops, theatres, galleries and coffee houses. Southside Works is the ultimate spot to dine, drink, shop and catch a movie at the Southside Works Cinema.
If you’re feeling lucky, Rivers Casino on Pittsburgh’s North Shore is open 24 hours and offers entertainment beyond its 3,000 slot machines, including a popular happy hour, live entertainment, dancing and dining. Why not head to a distillery or winery, such as Wigle Whisky distillery, and explore the process of making some of your favourite beverages? Or, for a morning living like a local, why not check out a farmers market to pick up some local produce to savour during your stay?
Pittsburgh is certainly the ultimate city for culture vultures, families, friends and sports lovers. Be one of the first to fly to British Airway’s new destination from London and book an unforgettable, action-packed holiday to Pittsburgh today. You won’t regret your decision!
