Pittsburgh holidays

Pittsburgh is nicknamed ‘Steel City’ for the role it played in the glory days of America’s steel industry. But there’s more to this Pennsylvania powerhouse than mere metal. Holidays to Pittsburgh take you where the three rivers meet and the good times flow. Cruise through world-class museums, plunge into the excitement of the city’s baseball, football and hockey teams and dive into plates piled high with comfort foods.

Pittsburgh: Know before you go

Language

English

Currency

United States dollar ($)

Time zone

UTC-5 (EST) and UTC-4 (EDT)

High season

June – August

Low season

January – February

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The best neighbourhoods in Pittsburgh

The Strip District

Cosying up to the banks of the Allegheny River, The Strip is packed with street art, produce markets and independent delis. Locals and travellers alike are drawn here by the cheap eats, aroma of roasting coffee beans and relaxed vibes. Right next door to downtown, this district is also within walking distance of some of Pittsburgh’s best museums and is just across the river from PNC Park and Heinz Field where the city’s beloved baseball and football teams play.

Good for: Street art, markets, sports stadiums

Shadyside

A 15-minute drive from downtown, Shadyside is a well-heeled district of leafy streets and restored Victorian mansions. High-end boutiques, cafes, bars and restaurants make it one of the best areas to stay in Pittsburgh if you’re seeking upscale style with a relaxed attitude. Look for Roslyn Place, a cul-de-sac paved with wood and lined by Georgian-style houses. Travelling with your pooch? Shadyside boasts over 10 dog-friendly hotels.

Good for: Boutiques, architecture, dog-friendly hotels

Lawrenceville

Lawrenceville is the best neighbourhood to stay in Pittsburgh if you’re into old-school vibes. Slip on some bowling shoes at the Arsenal Lanes, catch a cult classic at the Row House Cinema and check out the boutique stores and hip galleries of Butler Street. Feeling thirsty? Grab a pint at Church Brew Works, a favourite with hops worshippers for over 20 years.

Good for: Craft beer, bowling, galleries

Things to do in Pittsburgh

VisitPittsburgh

Shopping

Walnut Street in Shadyside is the go-to spot for upscale shopping in Pittsburgh. Here, clothing boutiques and gift shops are punctuated by coffee roasters and restaurants. The city also has a thriving maker scene. Love Pittsburg, in downtown, showcases the work of more than 100 local artisans while some indie brands, like Knotzland bowties, have their own flagship stores. 

Places to eat

The city has blossomed into something of a foodie hotspot over the last few years, with downtown leading the charge. But Pittsburgh’s many neighbourhoods also hold their own. Lawrenceville attracts hungry travellers with Spanish-style tapas, standout Mexican fare and some of the city’s best Italian restaurants. And the Strip District is home to the original Primanti Bros and its famous sandwiches stuffed with meat, cheese and french fries.

Take in the culture

You’ll find more than 30 museums in Pittsburgh, so prepare to have your mind expanded. Top of our list is the Heinz History Center, followed by the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh dedicated to natural history, science, art and the city’s favourite son, artist Andy Warhol. On sunny days, visit the Rivers of Steel Heritage Area, a gritty celebration of the city’s industrial past. 

FAQs about Pittsburgh holidays

Organise your Pittsburgh trip for January and you'll be there at the coolest time of the year. -10ºC (14ºF) is as cold as the city gets.
The warmest month in Pittsburgh is July, which sees highs of 31ºC (88ºF).
Three to five days is perfect for a trip to Pittsburgh if you're planning a quick escape from somewhere nearby. Consider booking for a week or longer if you're travelling long-distance. You'll be able to explore all of the major attractions and add a day trip or two to your itinerary.
From Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens to Andy Warhol Museum, this city serves up endless ways to explore. Prepare for your next big adventure by researching the best things to do in Pittsburgh.
During your trip to Pittsburgh, you'll be using the United States dollar (USD) for your expenses. It's a good idea to carry a mix of cards and cash to avoid any payment issues.
Pittsburgh regularly ranks as one of the safest cities in the US. Most of the tourist areas are well-policed and safe during the day but use your common sense after dark and when exploring off the beaten track. If you decide on a winter Pittsburgh holiday, be prepared for severe weather events like snowstorms. In summer be sure to stay hydrated when the temperatures climb.
English is what you'll hear the most while you're here. Get familiar with some common local phrases during your city break in Pittsburgh and you'll blend right in.
Book hotels and flights to Pittsburgh for a holiday in any season. Come in spring for rosebuds, fish frys and great deals on hotels. Join the crowds in summer when the festival and baseball seasons hit full swing. Enjoy the overflowing beer steins and merriment of Oktoberfest in autumn, or pull on your ski boots or ice skates in winter.
While holidays to Pittsburgh can be pricey if you go five-star, the city welcomes budget-minded travellers too. Ride the subway system anywhere within the Golden Triangle (Downtown Pittsburgh) for free. Visit the Warhol Museum for half price on Friday nights. And feast on a world of flavours at markets and food trucks where you can eat your fill for less than $10.
The rainiest month is June, which gets an average rainfall of 16 cm. But don't let a few grey skies dull your Pittsburgh trip — there's still loads to do indoors such as shopping, visiting an art gallery, or enjoying a long lunch.

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