A Visitor’s Guide to Pittsburgh

It’s official: Pittsburgh has undergone a major make-over throughout the last few decades. In 2012, National Geographic even listed the Steel City as one of the top locations to visit in the world. On top of that, Pittsburgh has been named the “Most Livable City” in the United States by The Economist multiple times over the last 4 years.

So with all that recognition, you obviously need to visit. But what to do while you’re there?

A Guide to the Steel City

Art Lover

When you hear the name “Pittsburgh,” you probably don’t think of fine art. Well, you’re wrong. Pittsburgh is home to a lively and thriving art scene.  Ranging from local galleries to nationally renowned collections, Pittsburgh caters to everyone’s art tastes.

If you’re in the mood for something bold and colorful, then you’re best bet is to check out The Andy Warhol Museum in North Side. The collection includes hundreds of Warhol’s paintings, sculptures, works on paper, prints, photographs, and films. Another local favorite is The Mattress Factory, an installation art museum also in North Side. You’ll leave with your head swimming.

If you’re more into a “traditional” art museum experience than what either of those two will offer, head over to the Carnegie Museum of Art. Attached to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, the Carnegie Museum offers visitors a wide-range of styles and exhibitions.

Sports Fanatic

The sacred black and gold trinity: the Pirates, Steelers, and Penguins. Between their three schedules, you’re likely to find tickets to a game almost any time of year.

There are, however, many other sports teams competing in the Pittsburgh area. Notably, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds professional men’s soccer team recently found a new home in their Highmark Stadium in Station Square. And with a little bit of research, you may just score tickets to the Steel City Roller Derby.

Outdoorsman

Tired of being inside all day? Get out and stretch your legs on any of the 37 miles of trail and greenway that make up the Three Rivers Heritage Trail System. The various trails are designed for pedestrian and bike use only and follow the bends of all three rivers: the Monongahela, the Allegheny, and the Ohio.

Love green space? Pittsburgh has 2,000 acres of urban parks open to the public, including Point State, Emerald View, Frick, Highland, Riverview, and Schenley Parks. And if you’re around in the summer, check out Dollar Bank’s Cinema in the Park to watch a movie from the comfort of a blanket on the grass at any of the 7 locations.

And Don’t Forget the Food!

Once again, you may not think of fine cuisine when you think of Pittsburgh. Sure, its signature sandwich had French Fries on it, but that doesn’t mean Pittsburghers don’t know how to cook! Just check out Pittsburgh Magazine’s 2013 countdown of the best restaurants in town to start your stomach growling.

Anna Albi is a graduate from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, where she received a B.A. in Creative Writing with an additional major on Professional Writing. She is currently pursuing her Masters of Arts in Professional Writing, also at CMU. Feel free to reach out to her through Google+.