Known for steel, food, and football, Pittsburgh is the second-largest city in Pennsylvania. Though it is not famous for its tourism, its unique neighborhoods and revitalized downtown make Pittsburgh an excellent spot for a weekend getaway, especially if you end your day here.
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Try These 10 Fun Weekend Activities In Pittsburgh
1. Check out the food scene
Pittsburgh is the home of such infamous foods as Heinz ketchup and the Big Mac. This city enjoys a diverse array of cuisines, such as Turkish, Argentinian, and Belgian foods. However, Pittsburgh may be best known for its mile-high sandwiches stuffed with meat, cheese, and French fries. Visit Primanti Bros. to taste this iconic Pittsburgh dish.
2. Visit the Andy Warhol Museum
Andy Warhol, perhaps America’s most famous creator of pop art, was born in Pittsburgh. The museum dedicated to him is the largest museum in America dedicated to one single artist. Located on the North Shore of Pittsburgh, the Andy Warhol Museum is home to over 8,000 works of art. If you’re in Pittsburgh for a three-day weekend, go on Friday afternoon for half-price admission.
3. Catch a ballgame at PNC Park
PNC Park, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, gives visitors scenic views of the Allegheny River the city skyline. Many restaurants are built into the stadium, allowing you to spend an entire day here. Tickets are fairly affordable, and the fans’ loyalty makes a Pirates game an exciting experience.
4. See a quirky film at Row House Cinema
This single-screen movie theater takes a break from blockbuster hits and shows films based on a weekly theme. Located in the historic Lawrenceville neighborhood, you can make an evening out of exploring this cute part of town and then catching a classic film. You may even get discounted tickets if you show up in an awesome costume!
5. Take in the views from Mount Washington
Hailed as “the most beautiful vista in America” by USA Today, Mount Washington is a neighborhood perched on a steep hill at the south side of Pittsburgh. Hike up the steep incline for a thigh-burning activity and then indulge at one of the high-end restaurants along “Restaurant Row.” If you’re not keen on the challenging walk, take an “incline,” essentially a tram, up to the top. Once you are there, check out Emerald View Park, which spans 280 acres at the top of Mount Washington.
6. Learn more about Pittsburgh’s history
The Senator John Heinz History Center is a collection of museums and historic landmarks. It is the Pittsburgh affiliate of the Smithsonian, so it is packed with artifacts and interactive exhibits—perfect for visitors of all ages. Don’t miss Meadowcroft Rockshelter, the oldest site of human habitation in North America!
7. Immerse yourself in bird watching
Though a metropolitan city like Pittsburgh doesn’t seem like the best place to observe nature, it is home to the largest aviary in the United States. Over 600 animals live at the National Aviary, representing approximately 200 species. There are both rare birds and crowd-pleasing penguins and macaws. As you explore the various ecosystems and their inhabitants, you will learn many facts about the birds through informative displays.
8. Spend a surreal afternoon at Randyland
Pittsburgh artist Randy Gilson opens his courtyard most afternoons in the Mexican War Streets district of the city. He has dedicated the last several decades renovating a dilapidated house into a display of public art. Using bright colors and recycled materials, Randy turned his home into a museum of sorts, inviting visitors in to relax and enjoy the things that make him happy. Admission is free, but donations are always appreciated.
9. Tee up at a public golf course
There are several highly-ranked public golf courses in the Pittsburgh area. It has a growing reputation in the golf community, furthered by hosting the 2016 U.S. Open in June. Some courses, such as Old Stonewell Golf Club and Mystic Rock at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, received top ranks from Golf Magazine and Golf Digest. When you’re finished, check out the clubhouse for a tasty meal!
10. Relax at the Pittsburgh Center for Complementary Health and Healing
If you need a break from the countless attractions that Pittsburgh has to offer, embrace a quieter pace at this holistic healing center. This relaxing spa offers everything from acupuncture to yoga therapy. Voted the best spa in Pittsburgh, this center is the perfect place to wind down after an adventurous weekend in the Steel City!
This article was written by Missy Fackler.