Best Things To Do on Weekend Visit to Pittsburgh

If you are looking for the best things to do on a weekend visit to Pittsburgh, then you have found the right post! Pittsburgh, PA is probably the only place I would drive 8 hours for a long weekend. There are so many treasures found there it is impossible to list all the things, but we have a few favorites we think you should put high on your list. 

We recently went back for a weekend visit to Pittsburgh, PA, and to catch a ballgame and visit family. It was nice to travel back to our hometown just because.

Each May, we are in town to run the Pittsburgh Marathon and although it is fun to be a Runner of Steel, marathon weekend is full of preparation and running and not much site-seeing. 

What is Pittsburgh, PA Known For? 

Pittsburgh has a few nicknames such as “The Steel City”, “City of Bridges” or “Three Rivers” but they all point to a town that offers way more than anyone can squeeze into just one weekend!

One thing you should know before stepping foot downtown, in a supermarket, a museum, or anywhere- Pittsburghers LOVE their sports teams; The Steelers (football), Pirates (baseball), and Penguins (hockey) and you will see black and gold as a common fashion statement. 

PNC Ball Park is probably one of my favorites. The view of the city is amazing, especially for night games when you can catch the sunset. It is spectacular. 

Easy Transportation Around Town

After the Pirates game, head to the back of the stadium to find the water taxi, which is part of the Gateway Clipper Fleet. For only $6 (one way) you can get a ride on the river and a beautiful view of the city!

It will bring you to Station Square, where you can grab a cab or Uber/Lyft or walk over to the Incline to ride up to Mount Washington to see the views. 

What Should I Eat in Pittsburgh?

We thought you'd never ask! Every trip into the Burgh brings a new culinary discovery we are more than willing to find and enjoy. 

First and foremost, you need to get a Primanti Bros. sandwich in your belly. This is the sandwich that made this city famous. Order off the menu – we like the sirloin steak or kielbasa- and get ready for flavor town. Fresh Italian bread with your menu selection topped with tomato, coleslaw, and french fries. 

There are a few Primanti Brothers restaurants around the city, the original is located in the Strip District, but we ate at the Market Square location and it was really good. 

Speaking of the Strip District- this is another must-visit area to have on your weekend visit to Pittsburgh. Full of shopping, bakeries, coffee shops, and restaurants, this is the place to be on the weekend. 

Grab a cappuccino at LaPrima, and meander down the street for sports gear, fresh produce, flowers and more. 

Pittsburgh is also home to some great beer. We were able to find a great place near PNC Park, Southern Tier brewery. It has a great selection of delicious brew and pub food like fried pickles and smoked wings. 

Looking for a more traditional brew? Then you will want to visit the Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh located in South Side Works. Great German beer, family-style seating, and weekend entertainment, this is a definite stop if you love beer. 

Other Attraction Ideas for a Weekend Visit to Pittsburgh

• Pittsburgh Zoo
• Carnegie Science Museum
• Andy Warhol Museum
• History Museum
• Phipps Conservatory
• Kennywood Amusement Park
• Heinz Field
• Kayak Rentals 
• Live Music
• Point State Park

I'm glad I could pack my favorite travel items to make this weekend full of fun! We really saw so much in a short 3 days, yet know there are still some new places waiting for us when we return once again. 

So, The Best Things to Do on your weekend visit to Pittsburgh? 

• If you can catch a ballgame, do so. PNC Park is a great night out for young and old. 
• Visit Mount Washington to take in the best views of the city. 
• Take a water shuttle for a fun way to see the river and the sights. 
• Visit the Strip District for coffee, yummy food and more. 
• Eat a Primanti Bros. sandwich.
• Enjoy some really good beers at Southern Tier and Hofbrauhaus. 

I love Pittsburgh and know you will love it too. There is so much to see and do that it may take you a few visits to see and enjoy it all! 

Have you ever been to Pittsburgh? Let me know some of your favorites.