A Local's Guide to Pittsburgh

Arts & culture

For a unique Instagrammable activity, visit Randyland, a whimsical and vibrant outdoor art exhibit that promises a joyful experience. Cycling and history enthusiasts will enjoy Bicycle Heaven, featuring the world’s largest collection of bicycles and memorabilia that celebrate the history and culture of biking. If you have little ones, head to the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh for an interactive and educational experience that sparks creativity and curiosity in children and adults alike. Science lovers will want to check out the Carnegie Science Center, with its fascinating exhibits, interactive displays and planetarium. The Mattress Factory offers a unique and immersive art experience with its avant-garde installations and site-specific exhibits. If you are into musical theater, catch a show at Heinz Hall, Byham Theater, Benedum Center.

Outdoor activities

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, head to the city's largest park, Frick Park, to enjoy its expansive trails, picturesque scenery and diverse wildlife. Sports fans won’t want to miss the stunning views at PNC Park, named America’s best ballpark by USA TODAY. If you find yourself in Pittsburgh during the summer months, you’ll want to check out Summer Fridays at The Frick, which offers a delightful blend of outdoor concerts, food trucks and art activities in a historic setting.

Miscellaneous

The Cathedral of Learning, affectionately referred to as "The Cathedral," “Hogwarts,” and “Cathy” by Pitt students, is a breathtaking architectural marvel, housing unique nationality rooms that showcase diverse cultures and histories. After touring the nationality rooms, you can visit the Strip District, a bustling neighborhood known for its markets, gourmet food shops, restaurants, and vibrant street life. Alternatively, you can ride the Duquesne Incline up to Mt. Washington for breathtaking views of the city, especially at night, and grab a bite to eat.

Day trips

If you want to venture outside of the city for a day, there are plenty of options. You could visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater and marvel at the architecture. Nearby, you can take a hike, kayak or go white-water rafting in Ohiopyle State Park. You could opt to travel to NROCKS Outdoor Adventures in WV and take on the physically and mentally challenging, yet satisfying and rewarding, experience that is the Via Ferrata.

Places to eat

There is no shortage of pizza joints in Pittsburgh. Head to Murray Avenue in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood and provide your two-cents on a longstanding dispute: Aiello’s or Mineo’s ? I’m an Aiello’s gal myself. Sidebar: I once posted an IG poll pitting these two against one another, and the result was 50/50. Don’t sleep on Fiori’s, a short jaunt across the Liberty Bridge. If you’re looking for a more unique experience, hop on over to Beto’s, where they put the cold toppings on AFTER the pizza comes out of the oven. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it!

If food halls are more your speed, be sure to check out Federal Galley, Novo Asian Food Hall or Lawrence Hall, all offering diverse dining choices.

Some of my favorite sit-down restaurants include Ritual House, a vibrant, locally-owned restaurant known for its eclectic menu, unique cocktails and stylish ambiance. Alta Via, which offers modern Italian fare and a delectable prix-fixe brunch menu. Casbah, known for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. And of course, The Abbey, which features a casual atmosphere with a coffeehouse, lively bar, outdoor patio and a menu that appeals to a variety of tastes.

Places to drink

For fun cocktails and a tiki bar atmosphere, you’ll want to check out Hidden Harbor. If you are into rooftop bars, Over Eden, Il Tetto at Sienna Mercato and the Biergarten at Kimpton Hotel Monaco are great choices. Craft beer drinkers will enjoy Penn Brewery, Grist House Craft Brewery and VooDoo Brewing Co.