The ultimate long weekend in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

30.08.2024 - 16:41 / lonelyplanet.com

Aug 30, 2024 • 5 min read

Once the beating heart of industrial America, Pittsburgh has evolved from a city of mighty, pollution-spewing steel mills to one of green parks, talent-attracting universities and world-class medical centers.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, immigrants drawn by the promise of jobs arrived by the hundreds of thousands, packing into hilly neighborhoods like Polish Hill, Deutschtown, East Liberty and Allentown. Today, these vibrant areas testify to how Pittsburgh has emerged as a remarkable story of Rust Belt transformation.

My spouse is a “Yinzer” – a native of Pittsburgh, where people charmingly say “yinz” instead of “y’all” – and over years of visits, the ’Burgh (or Steel City, or City of Bridges) has won me over.

Here’s my guide to how to get the most out of Pittsburgh in one, ultimate long weekend.

When to arrive: I’d recommend visiting between May and October (winters here can be brutal). Fly or drive in on Thursday evening, then head home on Sunday evening.

How to get from the airport: A $55–70 taxi or rideshare gets you to Downtown in 20 minutes. The 28X-Airport Flyer bus makes it in half an hour for a fraction of the price.

Getting around town: Downtown Pittsburgh – also called the “Golden Triangle,” as it’s the point where three rivers meet – is compact and walkable. To reach surrounding neighborhoods, taxis or rideshares (or your own car) are easiest – though Pittsburgh Regional Transit does operate a network of public buses and three light-rail lines. The agency’s two funiculars, which ascend to the top of Mt Washington and its killer views of the Downtown skyline, are a highlight of any visit here.

Where to stay: There are numerous hotels Downtown – but be warned that many hotels charge hefty parking fees. An affordable boutique option (rooms range from $120 to $167), Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh has a rooftop terrace and bicycle rentals. Across the Monongahela River, the Priory Hotel is a 42-room boutique hotel that was originally a monastery; single rooms range from $150 to $230. Parking is free, and the Monks’ Bar makes a great hangout.

What to pack: Layers! For the 50°–70°F days and evenings of spring and fall, you’ll want options. Summer, when temperatures can soar, is t-shirt weather. And it’s always a good ideal to pack something waterproof for damp days.

Morning: Start with a light breakfast like a vegan pop tart at Gasoline Street Coffee Company. Fueled up, take a half-hour stroll through Downtown and over the Allegheny River Walk to the Andy Warhol Museum. This converted factory fills several floors with paintings, photos, films and much more by the Pop Art master, a Pittsburgh native.

How to spend the day: After the Warhol museum, snack your way across the Strip