While Pittsburgh is known nationally and internationally for its sports teams, 446 bridges, three rivers, thriving cultural district, amazing museums, robotics and medical advances, the city is emerging as a major leisure tourism destination with many only-in-Pittsburgh activities for everyone, as well as 90 unique neighborhoods which can keep visitors exploring, and eating, for a long time.
VisitPITTSBURGH and the city’s tourism community invite travelers to rediscover Pittsburgh … or, discover it for the first time. With the mild autumn weather and the holidays following behind shortly, this is the perfect season for a visit.
Though much has changed this year, Pittsburgh remains a beautiful and welcoming leisure tourism destination. “We understand that travelers will continue to be cautious this season, opting to travel to cities close to home or where they have visited before, and that is why we think it’s the right time for nearby visitors to take advantage of a beautiful, safe destination in their own backyard – Pittsburgh,” VisitPITTSBURGH President & CEO Jerad Bachar said.
The Pittsburgh hospitality community has come together to ensure that updated, responsible health and safety guidelines are implemented throughout the city.
The community is aligned in exceeding the highest expectations when it comes to visitors’ wellbeing. Convenience is key, and Pittsburgh is within a short car trip of Cleveland, Columbus and other Ohio cities.
When packing the car, leave room for those furry friends. Pittsburgh is a pup-friendly destination, and Ace, the Pittsburgh Adventure Dog, has plenty of tips for visitors traveling with dogs. Follow him on Instagram (@AcePGHAdventures). Visitors will want to pack a jacket, too, to take advantage of endless outdoor activities, including hiking, biking and ice skating.
Upon arrival, visitors will instantly notice the city’s beauty. The rolling hills, mountains, three rivers and forests define Pittsburgh. The fascinating topography, as well as the city’s stunning skyline, can be enjoyed following a short ride up the Duquesne or Monongahela Inclines to the top of Mt. Washington.
“Home for the holidays or staying close to home has a new meaning in 2020,” VisitPITTSBURGH Chief Marketing Officer Tom Loftus said. “Pittsburgh offers plenty to see and do for the whole family. You can visit one of our many only-in-Pittsburgh attractions or enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Most of the city’s engaging attractions and hotels have reopened. Additionally, our restaurants are finding unique ways to reach customers. Pittsburgh welcomes the opportunity to entertain you and your family this season.”
Pittsburgh is a mid-sized city with big city amenities and boundless hospitality. Visitors have their pick of world-class accommodations, as well as mid-size hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, rustic inns and more. There is an option for any style or budget.
Avid artists have plenty of options in Pittsburgh. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens delights with its art crafted by flowers, and The Andy Warhol Museum wows with the largest collection of Warhol art in the world. Classical art collections can be found at The Frick Pittsburgh, while contemporary art and installations created by artists in residence are housed at the Mattress Factory.
When walking about Pittsburgh’s compact Downtown neighborhood, make sure to check out the August Wilson African American Culture Center, located in the heart of the city’s Cultural District. Free and open to the public, the AWAACC currently features Dominic Chambers’ Like the Shape of Clouds on Water (through Dec. 13).
With so many family-friendly attractions, Pittsburgh is KidsBURGH. Get nose-to-beak with feathered friends at the National Aviary, home to more than 550 birds representing more than 150 species. The Carnegie Science Center inspires and entertains by connecting science and technology to everyday life.
History buffs are in luck, as Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Museum of Natural History features one of the world’s largest and finest dinosaur collections, Dinosaurs in Their Time, which includes real fossils. Additionally, the Senator John Heinz History Center, a Smithsonian Institution, showcases 250+ years of Pittsburgh history, including an exhibit dedicated to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.
And, sports fans will want to swing by the Roberto Clemente Museum, a museum dedicated to the “Great One.”
Foodies will embrace Pittsburgh’s culinary creations. Named the 2019 Food City of the Year by Restaurant Hospitality, Pittsburgh has everything from James Beard-nominated chefs and restaurants to the inventive Federal Galley, featuring delectable bites from aspiring chefs. From casual family spots and upscale, romantic eateries, to late-night bites and convenient take-out joints, every palate will be satisfied.
Thirsty? Pittsburgh is a town united in its love of beer. Named a top city for craft brewing by MoveBuddah.com, more than 30 craft breweries call Allegheny County home.
No matter what draws visitors to the city this holiday season, one fact remains true – all are welcome to safely Rediscover Pittsburgh. Visit the website VisitPITTSBURGH.com and plan your next trip today.
Photos courtesy of VisitPITTSBURGH, JP Diroll, Dave DiCello, the National Aviary, Joanna Warden and the August Wilson African American Culture Center.
Rediscover (or Discover) Pittsburgh
