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Planning a trip to Pittsburgh? Well, you’re in the right place.
Pittsburgh is packed with history, culture, and a whole lot of personality! From its steel-town roots to its vibrant arts scene, this Pennsylvania gem offers something for everyone, and we love spending time here. Whether you’re cruising through the city on a bike, diving into its storied past, or spotting iconic landmarks from a hop-on-hop-off bus, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences to be had.
After a ton of great trips to the city, we’ve rounded up five of the best things to do in Pittsburgh, so you can make the most of your visit. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Pittsburgh is this private city tour! We rode the Duquesne Incline, cruised past Steelers and Pirates landmarks, and explored the city’s coolest neighborhoods. It was super fun, stress-free, and totally worth it!
Things to do in Pittsburgh
1. Learn all about Pittsburgh’s Steel Valley history
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Various time slots between 6:30 am–9:30 pm
- Highlights: Mesta Mansion, Homestead, Waterfront Drive, learning about the process and history of steel production, personalized tour
- Inclusions: Private transport, professional guide, private tour
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 135+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
This private Steel Valley tour is a must-do when visiting Pittsburgh! We had such a fantastic time with our guide, George, who has an incredible passion for the city’s steel heritage. He’s actually the grandson of a key figure in the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steelworkers, and his personal connection to the area made every stop feel rich with stories.
We started at the Bryce-Mesta Mansion, where George vividly recounted how Pearl Mesta, the original “Hostess with the Mostess,” entertained political bigwigs before moving to D.C. Next, we stood on the hallowed ground of the 1892 Battle of Homestead Site and learned about the intense labor struggle that took place there. Honestly, prior to this tour, I had no idea that the history of steel was so juicy!
I also loved seeing the 12,000-ton press at Waterfront Drive. It’s one thing to hear about Pittsburgh’s industrial might, but standing next to that colossal machine was something else. After all, it once forged armor for battleships!
George didn’t just stick to steel, either. He threw in plenty of Pittsburgh’s sports history and even recommended a detour to the Flight 93 Memorial, something we wouldn’t have known was nearby. His knowledge and enthusiasm were infectious, and he was more than willing to answer every question we had.
This tour is a fantastic way to dig deep into Pittsburgh’s industrial past while feeling like you’re exploring the city with a local insider. We loved it and we’re not surprised at all that it has such great reviews!
Book this private tour of the Steel Valley here!
2. See Pittsburgh on a customizable private city tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Various time slots between 6:30 am–9:30 pm
- Highlights: Heading to the top of Mount Washington via the Duquesne Incline, exploring the North Shore, visiting Acrisure Stadium, seeing the Fred Rogers Memorial Statue, checking out the Cultural District, marveling at PPG Place
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, private tour, local guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 490+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you’re new to Pittsburgh or just want to see the city from a fresh perspective, this private tour is the perfect way to get a feel for the Steel City. Our guide, George, was a fantastic host. Not only did he know Pittsburgh’s history inside and out, but his enthusiasm was infectious!
We started the day with a ride up the Duquesne Incline to Mount Washington, where we enjoyed spectacular panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Meanwhile, George’s narration about how Pittsburgh evolved from a gritty industrial hub to one of the “coolest cities on Earth” added so much depth to the experience.
Next, we headed to the North Shore to see Acrisure Stadium, home of the Steelers, and PNC Park, where the Pirates play. George even threw in some quirky sports trivia, and then it was off to the Fred Rogers Memorial Statue, which is dedicated to the US’s most wholesome icon.
You also get breathtaking river and skyline views from here, so it’s definitely worth visiting!
Finally, the tour wrapped up with a stroll through the Cultural District, where we got a glimpse of the city’s vibrant arts scene and the stunning glass architecture of PPG Place. Throughout it all, George kept us laughing, learning, and entertained. He even recommended some must-see spots we wouldn’t have found on our own.
This tour is such a fun and informative deep dive into what makes this city so special, so don’t miss it!
Book this top-rated tour here before it sells out!
3. Explore Pittsburgh on a bicycle
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Mellon Square, Cultural District, Strip District, Heinz Lofts, Three Rivers Heritage Trail, Point State Park, PPG Place
- Inclusions: Use of bicycle, helmet, local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 240+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking to see Pittsburgh in a way that’s both active and packed with history, this bike tour is a fantastic option. I’m not a hardcore cyclist, but the pace was easy and accessible for all fitness levels, and our guide, Sarah, made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe throughout the ride.
We started in Mellon Square, where we admired the architecture and soaked up the hustle and bustle of downtown. From there, we rode through the Cultural District, where Sarah filled us in on how the area went from rundown to revitalized. It was quite the transformation!
Next up was the Strip District, which was bursting with food markets, Steelers merch, and colorful murals. I think it was actually my favorite part of the tour—well, either that or the ride along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail. The skyline views from the riverbank were incredible, and I loved hearing the stories of Pittsburgh’s industrial past while cruising along.
Another pleasantly surprising stop was the old Heinz factory. I had no idea Heinz ketchup was invented in Pittsburgh. It’s just one of those quirky bits of trivia that makes the city even more interesting!
By the time we reached Point State Park, with its iconic fountain and views of all three rivers, I felt like I’d seen so many sides of the city in just a few hours. If you want a fun, informative, and slightly offbeat way to explore Pittsburgh, this bike tour is definitely the way to go.
Grab your spot on this small group bike tour here before it sells out!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
4. See all the city sights on a hop-on on hop-off bus
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: Multiple departures between 9 am–4:30 pm
- Highlights: Flexible hop-on hop-off tour, including Iconic landmarks, local eats, scenic neighborhoods, river views, and top museums
- Inclusions: Live guide, map of routes and sites, flexible bus ticket
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 390+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re visiting Pittsburgh and want to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed, this hop-on hop-off bus tour is perfect. It’s the best of both worlds because you get the ease of a guided tour with plenty of flexibility to explore at your own pace. There are 21 different stops to choose from, covering everything from the bustling Strip District to the serene Phipps Conservatory, so you can hop off wherever you fancy.
I started my day at the Duquesne Incline, where the panoramic views of the city skyline were incredible. After soaking it all in, I jumped back on the bus and headed to the North Shore to check out PNC Park and the Fred Rogers Memorial.
The guides on board were great. They were all super knowledgeable and had plenty of insider tips, like where to grab the best pierogi or catch a hidden mural. It really made the day so much better.
What I loved most about this tour was the independence! Instead of being locked into a rigid schedule, I could spend as much or as little time as I wanted at each stop. At Point State Park, I decided to linger and people-watch, while later, I zipped through Market Square, picking up some snacks to enjoy back on the bus.
Whether you’ve got two hours or a full day, this tour adapts to your schedule. With so many stops, it’s a great way to discover parts of Pittsburgh you might otherwise miss!
Read all of the glowing reviews and secure your spot on this fun bus tour here!
5. Discover Pittsburgh’s spooky past on a ghost tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 6 pm or 7 pm
- Highlights: Hearing Pittsburgh’s scariest stories, visiting haunted sites like the Heinz History Center, the Pennsylvanian Apartments, and the Allegheny County Courthouse
- Inclusions: Local guide, guided walking tour, hot drinks
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 175+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a walking tour that’s packed with history but also a ton of fun, this ghost tour in downtown Pittsburgh is it! Our guide, Allan, was a natural storyteller who had us hanging on his every word.
As we explored the city by night, Allan wove together tales of Pittsburgh’s past and the eerie spirits that supposedly still linger. We started at the David Lawrence Convention Center, where Allan set the mood with a few spine-tingling ghost stories.
From there, we moved to the Senator John Heinz History Center, where we learned about the building’s haunted past—and yes, it was just as creepy as it sounds! My favorite story, though, was the haunting tale of love at the Allegheny County Courthouse. It’s the kind of tragic tale that sticks with you long after the tour ends.
As for the Frick Building… Well, let’s just say I’ll never look at office windows the same way again!
This tour is the most entertaining way to spend an evening in Pittsburgh. Allan knew how to keep everyone entertained, from ghost-loving kids to skeptical adults. And despite all the spooky stories, the vibe was lighthearted and fun. Two hours flew by in what felt like 30 minutes—no wonder it has such stellar reviews.
Check out all the details and book this top-rated ghost tour here!
Where to Stay in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
So now that you’re all set with the best things to do in Pittsburgh, you’re going to need a great place to stay! Fortunately, this city is packed with fantastic accommodation options, whether you’re looking for a chic downtown hotel or a cozy spot in one of Pittsburgh’s charming neighborhoods. Staying central is a smart move, as many of the tours listed above offer convenient hotel pickup or easy meet-up locations.
To make your search easier, I’ve rounded up my top three Pittsburgh hotels for every budget. If they still have availability, these picks are well worth booking. They’re highly rated and often in demand!
Luxury – $$$
The Omni William Penn Hotel is pure classic charm in the heart of Pittsburgh. This historic gem combines timeless elegance with modern comforts, making it perfect for a sophisticated city escape. The rooms boast plush beds, marble bathrooms, and stunning city views, so you’ll probably never want to leave! But with top attractions like Point State Park and the Andy Warhol Museum just a 12-minute walk away, it really couldn’t be easier to get out and explore.
Room rates typically range from $200 to $540 USD per night. Check prices and secure your stay at Booking.com!
Mid-range – $$
Abode Pittsburgh – Downtown Convention Center is a fantastic choice for those who want to stay right in the heart of the city without the hefty hotel price tag. These well-equipped apartments come with everything you need for a comfortable stay, like cozy beds, a fully stocked kitchenette, and even a washing machine.
The location is a winner, too. You’re just a 7-minute walk from the David L. Lawrence Convention Center and 16 minutes from the Andy Warhol Museum. And if you’re heading to a game, PNC Park is less than a 20-minute walk away, or a short taxi ride!
Studio apartments here usually cost between $120 and $400 USD per night. Check prices and secure your stay at Booking.com!
Budget – $
Drury Plaza Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh is a fantastic find! It’s a super comfy 3-star hotel, but it’s way more affordable than most other properties in the area. My suggestion would be to snap up a room here before they all book up!
With an indoor pool and a rooftop terrace, this place delivers more than just a bed for the night. It’s also in a great location, as you’ll be just a 5-minute walk from the David L. Lawrence Convention Center and a short stroll from PNC Park and the Andy Warhol Museum. Plus, every stay includes a hot breakfast buffet, so you can fuel up before a day of exploring.
Rooms here start from $115 USD per night. Check prices and secure your stay at Booking.com!
For more options, check out all the listed hotels in Pittsburgh here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Pittsburgh surprised us in the best way—with its rich history, cool neighborhoods, and one-of-a-kind local flavor, there’s always something new to uncover. Whether you’re riding the Duquesne Incline, exploring quirky museums, or cruising through town on a guided tour, this city packs a punch.
We’ve had such a great time exploring Pittsburgh, and we hope this guide gives you a solid starting point for planning your own adventure. If you’re heading elsewhere in the States soon, be sure to check out all our USA travel blogs here. Or check out some of our top-rated blogs below to get started!
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