THE OFFICIAL TRAVEL AND TOURISM WEBSITE OF THE UNITED STATES

Pittsburgh

Share Print Email
Previous Page
Classic Pittsburgh

Day 1

The must see sites in Pittsburgh make up your “Classic Pittsburgh” itinerary. It all starts with a ride on the Duquesne Incline to the top of Mt. Washington. There you will thrill at the nighttime view of downtown Pittsburgh that USA TODAY ranked as the second best view in America!

Continue your exploration at the Senator John Heinz History Center. The History Center brings the past of Pittsburgh and Southwestern PA to life through fascinating exhibits focused on life in the Steel City and its environs, from the War for Empire to Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood. Also experience the thrill of victory with a stroll through The Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum! After all, what’s the history of Pittsburgh without the Steelers, Pirates, Penguins and Pitt?

The National Aviary is just across the Allegheny River from the History Center. Over 600 birds from around the world are displayed in naturalistic exhibits at the nation’s premiere bird park. Enjoy hands on programs such as Wings of the World free flight bird show, interactive feedings with Lories and Friends, and the Penguin Connection. The Aviary is a high flying time with our feathered friends that is not to be missed during your visit!

End your day with a leisurely cruise on the Three Rivers, courtesy of the Gateway Clipper Fleet. Enjoy dinner, music, and the majesty of Pittsburgh, all with the coach parked for the evening!

Day 2

Just a short drive east of downtown brings you to the Oakland section of Pittsburgh. Renowned as the home of the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, Oakland also is home to several great Pittsburgh attractions.

The Nationality Rooms at the University of Pittsburgh is a one-of-a-kind attraction that defies description. Located in the inspiring Cathedral of Learning on the Pitt campus, each of the 24 classrooms reflects the culture and heritage of one of the area’s diverse ethnic groups, and represents that nationality’s contribution to the fabric of Pittsburgh. Through authentic design and decoration, each classroom evokes the soul of the world’s peoples in Pittsburgh. Visit the classroom that represents your heritage and establish your own emotional bond with the peoples of Pittsburgh!

The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History combine two world renowned museums in one unforgettable visit. Discover Dinosaurs in Their Time, sparkling gems, ancient Egyptian treasures, and African and North American wildlife in the Museum of Natural History. Then, marvel at the Museum of Art’s collections of American art, Impressionist paintings, furniture, architecture, and more. Additionally, The Carnegie International Art Exhibit, held every four years, showcases emerging artists from around the world. The Carnegie Museums will take your breath away!

Continue your Oakland exploration at the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This recently expanded Schenley Park jewel has delighted plant and flower enthusiasts for over 100 years. Housed in what is considered to be one of the largest and finest Victorian glasshouses in the country, the glass display rooms at the Phipps feature tropical, desert, regional, flowering, and fruit displays, as well as fabulous seasonal displays. The Phipps is your botanical oasis in the heart of Pittsburgh!

Enjoy your evening in the Pittsburgh Cultural District, the city’s entertainment and cultural nerve center. Located in the heart of downtown and within walking distance of most major hotels, restaurants, and shopping, the Cultural District is the place for the best of musical theater, ballet, modern dance, classic and popular music, drama, and the visual arts. Take your pick — the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Pittsburgh CLO, Pittsburgh Opera, Pittsburgh Ballet Theater, the Pittsburgh Public Theater, and other cultural institutions all call the Cultural District home. And what a home — many of these entities perform in opulent, restored theaters such as Heinz Hall, The Benedum and Byham Theaters, or in newer show halls such as the O’Reilly Theater and Theater Square. Make sure you get some culture while you’re in town!

Day 3

Just one more thing before heading home. You have to spend some time in the Strip District, Pittsburgh’s hot and happening neighborhood featuring shopping (by day) and entertainment (by night). Grab some hot, exotic coffee and a fresh biscotti before taking a stroll into some of the greatest shops and eateries you’ve ever seen. Everything from kitchenware to costumes, sports fan merchandise to fish, Italian to Chinese to Polish cuisine, it’s all at your fingertips. And, you can even buy ice and a cooler to get your purchases home!

Sign up for our newsletter
Keep up on what's happening at your favorite destinations, learn about special offers, and more.