Looking for the best things to do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania? Look no further. We wrap up the top attractions and fun activities into a perfect 3 Day Pittsburgh Itinerary!
The historic city may be rooted in industry, but there is much more to discover than its gritty past. In fact, balancing old and new is one of the things that Pittsburgh does best!
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About Our 3 Day Pittsburgh Itinerary
Designed in an easy-to-follow guide, our Pittsburgh 3-Day Itinerary is ideal for a weekend getaway, but with a few tweaks it works for any visit!
While we have outlined a plan for three days in Pittsburgh, our itinerary can be used for longer and shorter trips, as well.
Sightseeing is arranged by district, so you can simply adjust our suggested Pittsburgh Itinerary to jive with your timeframe.
DAY 1: Top Pittsburgh Things To Do
Kick off your itinerary with the absolute best things to do in Pittsburgh. Navigate past the famous bridges, ride a historic cable car to an epic viewpoint and discover downtown. Then cap off your day with a classic Pittsburgh event.
Itinerary Tip: If you’re limited to 24 hours, these are the best things to see in Pittsburgh in one day!
MORNING: Three Rivers Heritage Trail
Start your Weekend Pittsburgh Itinerary by hopping on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail. Incorporating 33 miles of paved paths, the route follows the shoreline of all three Pittsburgh rivers.
For locals and visitors alike, utilizing these recreational paths is one of the best things to do outside in Pittsburgh. We are highlighting top sights along the route, but you can also use this Heritage Trail information to find access points and amenities and this free self-guided tour.
Three Sisters Bridges
Spanning the Allegheny River are three identical bridges. They are best known as the Three Sisters and were constructed in the 1920s and considered engineering feats in their time.
Painted Pittsburgh Yellow (officially ‘Aztec Gold’), the spans run north/south and are named after prominent residents.
The Sixth Street Bridge is called Roberto Clemente, the Seventh Street Bridge is named for Andy Warhol and the Ninth Street Bridge bears the name Rachel Carson.
Point State Park, Fountain and Confluence of Three Rivers
Without a doubt, a top thing to do in Pittsburgh is to visit Point State Park and the massive fountain.
Located at the tip of the Golden Triangle where the three rivers meet – often just referred to as ‘The Point’ – the land is steeped in history.
The National Historic Landmark Point State Park was once the site of Fort Pitt and Fort Duquesne. They played a pivotal role in relations between Native Americans, French colonists and British colonists.
The Point State Park Fountain is an icon of the city. Sitting on the edge and watching water blast 150 feet into the air is a must-do in Pittsburgh!
Fort Pitt Museum
While very little remains of the original strongholds, the brick Fort Pitt Block House still stands. It ranks as the oldest surviving structure in Western Pennsylvania.
Utilizing a bastion of the former fort, this museum details the events of the French and Indian War and other historical conflicts.
Featuring artifacts and informational plaques, visitors gain a better understanding of relationships and disputes over the rights of the territory.
MID-MORNING: Mount Washington
Across the Monongahela River stands the 450-foot-tall Mount Washington. The neighborhood is one of the most visited places in Pittsburgh. We are highlighting the top attractions to help you plan your time.
Ft Pitt Tunnel and Bridge
Entering Pittsburgh via the Fort Pitt Tunnel has been dubbed, “The best way to enter an American city”. We can’t argue with that claim!
Driving east on Interstate 376, it’s difficult to imagine you’re about to enter a major metropolis. Then you are practically dropped on top of the city and greeted with an impressive Pittsburgh skyline view.
Pro Tip: Hopefully, your route into Pittsburgh was through the Ft. Pitt Tunnel. If not, cross over Fort Pitt Bridge to the first viewpoint. While not as dramatic as driving through, the vantage point is still great!
Duquesne Incline
Dating to 1877 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Duquesne Incline is a Pittsburgh must-see!
The funicular – which has an 800-foot-long track and an elevation gain of 400 feet – was built to alleviate the steep uphill climb to the top of Mount Washington (then called Coal Hill).
Although automobiles rendered the incline obsolete, local residents rallied to save it from destruction. Today, the Duquesne Incline is still in operation and riding it practically a must on your Pittsburgh Itinerary.
At the Upper Station, step out onto the viewing platform for an astounding vista. Inside, memorabilia and information about the cable car decorates the walls – and there’s a small gift shop, too.
Top Tip: There is a fee for visitors and it’s a cash-only ticketing system.
Walk Grandview Avenue
The best views in Pittsburgh are from the various lookout points on Grandview Avenue that runs along the top of Mount Washington.
From the Duquesne Incline Upper Station, a short walk northwest leads to appropriately named Point of View Park.
To the southeast, there are three phenomenal viewing decks: Grandview Overlook, Pittsburgh Skyline Overlook and the Upper Scenic Overlook. Emerald View Park also offers epic views.
Pro Tip: Expand your Pittsburgh sightseeing to a few Grandview Avenue attractions. St. Mary of the Mount Church is a historic site and the Shiloh Street Shops are a good spot for a sweet treat, cup of coffee or even lunch.
Monongahela Incline
The Monongahela Incline was the first passenger funicular railway in the United States, pre-dating Duquesne by 7 years.
By the early 1900s, there were more than 20 inclines running up and down the Mt. Washington hillside. Now hop on the only other one still operating and ride back down to the riverside.
Pro Tip: Tickets for the Mon Incline can be purchased with cash or credit card and there is a roundtrip discount.
AFTERNOON: Downtown Sightseeing in Pittsburgh
Downtown Pittsburgh attractions are best seen on a short walk through the city. The following featured sights are listed in order for an easy Pittsburgh sightseeing stroll.
Smithfield Street Bridge
The current Smithfield Street Bridge is the third on this site. The first was a wooden river crossing that burned in the Great Fire of Pittsburgh in 1845.
The second bridge was built by John A Roebling, the same engineer as the Brooklyn Bridge in NYC. The latest Smithfield Street Bridge was built in 1883 and designed by Gustav Lindenthal.
Ranking as the second-oldest steel bridge in the US and the oldest bridge in Pittsburgh, it’s a National Historic Landmark. Use it to cross into downtown, where we discover more top attractions in Pittsburgh.
Fourth Avenue Historic District
Strolling down the narrow Fourth Avenue under the towering historic skyscrapers is one of the top things to do Downtown Pittsburgh! Use this information for a Free Self-Guided Tour of Fourth Avenue.
PPG Place
These buildings were designed in the 80s, centering around a 40-story skyscraper for PPG Industries (formerly Pittsburgh Plate Glass).
Nearly 20,000 pieces of glass were used to complete the project, which consists of 6 buildings on 3 city blocks covering 5.5 acres of land and features a popular fountain.
Market Square
Marking the heart of the city, Market Square is a hub of activity. It stands as a social gathering place to shop, sip and dine. You can read more information for a Self-Guided Tour of Market Square.
Katz Plaza
The Agnes R Katz Plaza is a unique square in downtown. It features a 25-foot-tall bronze fountain and artistic benches that resemble giant eyeballs. Resting your feet and sitting on one of the eyeball benches is a great photo op!
Cultural District
The Cultural District encompasses 14 blocks and is known for its high concentration of theaters, art galleries and interesting architecture.
Historic venues – such as the Benedum Center and Byham Theater – have been beautifully restored and are premier places to watch performances in Pittsburgh.
Evening: Fun Pittsburgh Events
Day 1 of our Pittsburgh Itinerary has covered the best places to visit – but there is still more to do! End your first day with a fun evening event.
Pittsburgh Sporting Events
Pittsburgh is crazy about sports! Naturally, watching a game is often a highlight of Pittsburgh weekend trips.
In the summer, catch the Pirates playing at PNC Park. The Steelers play at Acrisure Stadium (aka Heinz Field), although tickets can be difficult to come by. The Penguins take the ice at PPG Paints Arena, located on the east side of downtown.
Pittsburgh Theater Performances
Theater productions cover a range of styles, from opera to comedy and Broadway plays to rock and roll concerts.
Check the current schedule on the Cultural District Website to find a performance to add to your Pittsburgh Weekend Itinerary!
DAY 2: Pittsburgh Neighborhoods and Museums
Today discover the neighborhoods surrounding downtown. Start by exploring North Side, visit a few museums and end your day in the hip Strip District.
Top Tip: If you only have 48 hours in Pittsburgh, we recommend following Days 1 and 2.
MORNING: North Side Exploration
In the morning, get a ride or take a morning walk to North Side across the Allegheny River. The district is dotted with Pittsburgh top attractions.
Start off with a beverage and a pastry from Commonplace. The regional coffee shop is a local favorite that extends a warm welcome to visitors, too.
Loved for both the delicious coffee and friendly service, it’s a great place for coffee in Pittsburgh before your day of exploring.
Mexican War Streets
Step out into the Mexican War Streets and, despite the name, get a full dose of the area’s unique charm.
Originally called Buena Vista, the historic neighborhood dates to the mid-1800s. The street names were all attributed to people and places from the Mexican-American War. Now it’s simply referred to as Mexican War Streets – or MWS.
Appreciating the area’s architecture is one of the top activities in Pittsburgh – but there are a few must-see sights to visit in MWS, too.
City of Asylum Alphabet Reading Garden
This small space is a quiet respite from city life. The community garden features benches and nooks to read and rest.
The City of Asylum is a non-profit group dedicated to protecting creative expression, promoting social justice and providing sanctuary to writers who face being silenced.
Mattress Factory
One of the unique Pittsburgh attractions, Mattress Factory is a creative and modern art museum that takes many visitors by surprise.
The exhibits are designed by in-residence artists and meant to be thought-provoking and engaging. Spoiler alert: none of them are mattresses!
Randyland
This house-turned-art museum features the upcycled artwork of owner Randy Gilson. Colorful, intriguing and sometimes a little weird, the outdoor art exhibits are fun to contemplate.
Randyland is one of the free museums in Pittsburgh and opening hours are usually from 10am until 9pm.
Allegheny Commons
Want to know where to go in Pittsburgh for some fresh air and exercise? Allegheny Commons Park! The expansive green space was unveiled in 1867 and is the oldest park in Pittsburgh.
Fountains, monuments and statues dot the landscape that is crisscrossed by shaded walking paths. Located within (or near) the park are the National Aviary and the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh.
Federal Galley
This unique food hall hosts up-and-coming chefs before they branch out on their own. The spacious eatery has both indoor and outdoor seating – as well as a fun beer garden.
In addition to the excellent eats, Federal Galley hosts events – like live music and drink specials. Check out their website to see what’s on!
Deutschtown
A National Historic District in North Side, Deutschtown has strong German roots. The area has a mix of mainstays (like Max’s Allegheny Tavern) and new establishments (like Fig & Ash).
The businesses on Ohio Street are an eclectic mix and it is evident that the neighborhood is being revitalized.
If you have time during your weekend trip to Pittsburgh, be sure to stop in the Photo Antiquities Museum. The shop showcases antique cameras and historic photography.
AFTERNOON: Pittsburgh Museums
Some of the best museums in Pittsburgh are located near the Allegheny. Our top picks in the area are the Heinz History Center and The Andy Warhol Museum.
Senator John Heinz History Center
The engaging and interactive museum features 6 floors of exhibition space, plus a Pittsburgh sports museum.
Fascinating history is displayed throughout in easy-to-digest exhibits. The historical information relates directly to the development of the city and its impact on worldwide events.
Andy Warhol Museum
One of the largest museums in the world dedicated to a single artist, this venue celebrates the life, art and legacy of the Pittsburgh native. For fans of contemporary art, it’s a Pittsburgh must do.
Exhibits feature Warhol’s art, as well as his personal affects. Not only does the museum tell the story of the life of Andy Warhol, but it also traces the artist’s influence on pop culture.
Carnegie Science Center
The engaging and interactive CSC boasts more than 400 fascinating exhibits. A must do Pittsburgh attraction for families, top exhibits include Roboworld, a planetarium, a submarine – plus many other spectacular displays.
EVENING: Pittsburgh Strip District
The Strip is a destination for Pittsburgh shopping, eating and having fun! For those enjoying Pittsburgh vacations, we recommend spending a couple of hours here grazing on local fare in the revitalized area.
The history of The Strip District dates to the early 1800s when factories and mills lined the Allegheny riverside.
In the 1900s, manufactures moved into the spacious warehouses. Then, as transport hubs shifted, much of the area was left abandoned by the 2000s.
Today, however, the historic market district is once again thriving. Restaurants, bars and breweries have moved into the spaces. As well as tech companies, start ups and residents.
The Strip is close to our recommend Pittsburgh hotel (more on that below), and we spent quite a bit of time here and loved the area. We are highlighting a few of our favorite things to do.
S&D Polish Deli
As surprising as it may sound, pierogies are one of the top things to eat in Pittsburgh. Polish immigrants brought along their cuisine when they arrived in the mid-1800s.
If you love pierogies, then you need to put S&D Polish Deli on your Pittsburgh to-do list! The Strip deli cranks out authentic prepared Polish food – and offers pantry items for sale as well.
At this point in the day, you’re probably in between lunch and dinner – so maybe just a pierogi snack is in order. If you have a bigger appetite, go for the Kielbasa Platter! We can tell you the quality and taste rival meals we ate in Warsaw!
Robert Wholey and Co Seafood Market
Known locally as Wholey’s, this market was established in the Strip in 1912 – and is still going strong today. The bustling bazaar is fun for a look at the incredible array of seafood goods, but sampling the product is even better.
The onsite restaurant makes delectable fish sandwiches, savory lobster bisque and heavenly lobster mac and cheese.
Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop
Not necessarily a long time Pittsburgh shop, but definitely a fun one, Grandpa Joe’s evokes nostalgia with it’s aisles of classic candies, chocolates, sodas and old fashioned root beer.
St. Stanislaus Kostka Church
Built in 1891 by a congregation of Polish families, the St. Stanislaus Kostka Church features classic European architecture.
Inside, light flows through stained-glass windows, illuminating the murals that decorate the elaborate building.
Craft Beer at The Strip District in Pittsburgh
As a central hub of local cuisine, it is not surprising that several Pittsburgh craft breweries have set up shop in The Strip.
With multiple spots in close proximity, it’s simple to create a Pittsburgh brewery bar hop! We recommend starting at Cinderlands Warehouse, a spacious and industrial brewery with a good range of beers (and cocktails, too).
Next, head over to 1700 Penn Ave where Helltown Brewing produces tasty brews in-house. Also on-site is Pennsylvania Libations, a shop that sells all things boozy (mostly from the region).
Although not a brewery, the BeerHive has an extensive list of beers that hail from PA and beyond. Plus, they have happy hour deals!
Make a final stop at Aslin Beer Company, where they boast a heavy IPA tap list and a selection of canned brews, as well.
Dinner at Primanti Bros
No vacation to the ‘Burgh is complete without indulging in a classic Primanti sandwich! Piled high with meat, cheese, coleslaw and fries, this decadent sandwich is a Pittsburgh must-eat.
Established in 1933 as a roving sandwich cart in The Strip, Primanti Bros has evolved into an iconic Pittsburgh eatery. The original Strip District location features counter-style dining and friendly staff.
Foodie Tip: Primanti Bros sandwiches are huge. If you have a traveling companion, we recommend sharing one.
DAY 3: Things To Do Around Pittsburgh
Begin with a famous pancake breakfast and see the sights in Schenley Farms National Historic District. Then, spend your final evening drinking in a former church and dining in a comeback neighborhood or enjoying an evening out on the south side.
Pro Tip: The ideal way to get around on Day 3 is by Uber or Lyft.
MORNING: Oakland Pittsburgh Sightseeing
Home to 3 universities, world-class museums, historic buildings and incredible gardens, Oakland is definitely one of the best Pittsburgh places to see.
Pamela’s Diner
Start your day with an exceptional breakfast of crepe-thin pancakes at Pamela’s Diner. Established in 1980, Pamela’s has expanded to include multiple locations around Pittsburgh.
In addition to short stacks, Pamela’s offers a full range of favorite breakfast foods – including their famous Lyonnaise potatoes!
Soldiers and Sailors National Military Museum & Memorial
Standing as a Pittsburgh landmark, the Soldier and Sailors National Military monument honors service members of all branches of the US military. Created in 1910, the museum displays artifacts from numerous US conflicts.
Cathedral of Learning
A must-see Pittsburgh sight, the 42-story Cathedral of Learning stands in the center of the University of Pittsburgh Main Campus.
Built in the 1920s, the 535-foot-tall high-rise ranks as the second-tallest university building in the world. The 31 Nationality Rooms housed inside are top sights, too. Each is decorated to celebrate a different culture.
Carnegie Cultural Complex
An entire complex of Carnegie cultural institutions is based in Oakland. Founded by industrialist Andrew Carnegie in the late 1800s, the site includes the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and Carnegie Museum of Art – as well as the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Music Hall.
Forbes Field
Built in 1909, this stadium witnessed some iconic Pittsburgh sports moments. It was where Bill Mazeroski hit the game-winning homerun in the 1960 World Series and Babe Ruth hit his final three homeruns. Forbes Field is also where the Steelers played their first ever games.
Outdated by the 1960s, Forbes Field was demolished in 1971…well, mostly demolished. A section of the outfield wall still stands on Roberto Clemente Drive. It’s definitely one of the cool places to visit in Pittsburgh for sports fans.
AFTERNOON: Pittsburgh Nature
Although most visitors don’t think of Pittsburgh as having an abundance of outdoor parks, there are a few lush green spaces that are worth seeking out.
Phipps Conservatory
This conservatory was established in 1893 and the 14-room glasshouse is a listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.
Each room features a different plant habitat – such as the Palm Court, Fern Room, Orchid Room and Tropical Forest Conservatory. In addition to the themed rooms in the Phipps Conservatory, there are outdoor gardens on exhibit.
Schenley Park
Dating to 1889, Schenley Park is one of the top outdoor places to visit in Pittsburgh. The vast space encompasses 456 acres of land, miles of hiking and biking trails and a swimming pool, golf course and poignant memorials.
Pro Tip: The Schenley Overlook (near the tennis courts and disc golf course) provides an impeccable view of downtown Pittsburgh.
EVENING: Best Pittsburgh Districts
From Oakland, discover more of the best districts in Pittsburgh. You can go north into Lawrenceville or cross the Monongahela into South Side Flats. Both enclaves host a slew of fun bars and restaurants for evening entertainment.
Lawrenceville
Lawrenceville is another Pittsburgh district that has been turned around in recent years. The once industrial area is now a thriving spot.
The neighborhood has an abundance of eateries and bars – so if you are looking to have some fun in Pittsburgh at night, Lawrenceville is a good choice.
Start out at Church Brew Works, a former chapel-turned-brewery. Then head out to Butler Street, the main thoroughfare in Lawrenceville.
Dining choices are robust – from Morcilla (Spanish), Senti (Italian), Burgh’ers Brewing (Burgers) to Frankie’s Extra Long hot dog restaurant!
Top Tip: Lawrenceville is known for hosting fun events – like Art All Night and a Cookie Tour – that could be great to add to your Pittsburgh Itinerary!
South Side Flats
Bohemian and eclectic, the South Side Flats district is a fun place to go in Pittsburgh for indie cafes, dive bars and character.
Start your exploration on East Carson Street – a historic road decorated with Victorian architecture and lined with boutique shops, art galleries and tattoo shops.
Swing by Fat Head’s Saloon for craft brews, devour a gyro from Mike and Tony’s Gyro Shop and then knock a few more back at South Side institution, Jack’s Bar!
Pittsburgh Itinerary Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our 3 Day Itinerary Pittsburgh, PA Map below.
More Pittsburgh Itinerary Activities
Our Pittsburgh weekend guide highlights the best places to visit in 3 days. However, there are a few more attractions that you might want to squeeze into your vacation!
Kayaking and Cycling
Two fun outdoor Pittsburgh activities in the summertime are kayaking and cycling. Visitors can rent kayaks downtown and paddle along the three rivers. Likewise, there are places to rent bikes so that you can pedal your way around the ‘Burgh.
Gateway Clipper
The Gateway Clipper Fleet offers an array of options for cruising the Pittsburgh waterways. Classic Three Rivers sightseeing boat tours are a relaxing way to see the landscape and learn about the history of Pittsburgh. Sunset and Dinner cruises are loads of fun, too!
The Frick Pittsburgh and Frick Park
The Frick Pittsburgh Art Museum houses exhibits of the Henry Clay Frick Art Collection and has immaculate on-site gardens.
The nearby Frick Park is an excellent space with walking trails, picnic areas and a dog park. There is no charge to enter the museum, gardens or park!
Pittsburgh Botanical Garden
Picturesque and serene, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is wonderful place to spend an afternoon. Trails weave through the park past fields of wildflowers and around a lotus pond.
Day Trips from Pittsburgh
While there is no shortage of fun things in Pittsburgh to fill your itinerary, those staying longer can take an excursion!
One of the most popular Pittsburgh day trips is to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater masterpiece in Laurel Highlands. The 20th-century home is only about an hour drive and the architecture is awe-inspiring.
Tour Tip: No car? No problem! Leave it to someone else and book a highly rated day tour.
Pittsburgh Tours
We created our itinerary for Pittsburgh in an easy-to-follow format and packed it with useful tips and information. However, joining a local tour guide can be immensely helpful and heaps of fun!
Hop On Hop Off Tour
With an all-day Pittsburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus pass, visitors can easily reach the top city sights without wearing off the tread on their shoes.
The route includes 21 stops and has a tour guide on board that shares live commentary on the city and attractions.
Guided Walking Tour
We provided some links to Self-Guided Walking Tours in Pittsburgh – but if you prefer to go with a guide, then the Essential Pittsburgh Tour is a for you! The local guide is both knowledgeable and entertaining.
Bike Tour
Pedal around on a Guided Bike Tour for a fantastic introduction to Pittsburgh! Tours last 3 hours, which is plenty of time to see unique architecture, find hidden gems and visit iconic sights.
Pittsburgh Brewery Tour
Instead of brewery hopping on your own, meet-up with fellow travelers and let a guide lead the way to the best Pittsburgh breweries. Get the details!
Pittsburgh Travel Tips
Now that you know what to do in Pittsburgh, PA, we have some honest advice to help complete your travel plans.
How To Plan a Trip to Pittsburgh
Planning a trip to Pittsburgh can be a big task, but don’t worry, we’ve made it simple with our itinerary!
As you make your Pittsburgh plans, stay organized with our Printable Travel Planner. Download the 26-page planner and get started on planning your trip right away.
Best Time to Visit Pittsburgh
Personally, we believe late summer or early autumn is the ideal time to travel to Pittsburgh. The weather is perfect for exploring on foot and attending a baseball game.
Where To Stay
The Downtown Pittsburgh Hampton Inn and Suites is literally across the street from the Heinz History Center and has easy access to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail.
It’s not just the location that makes it the best hotel in Pittsburgh. The rooms are huge with comfy beds and brand-name toiletries.
In the morning, they provide an included hot breakfast, with eggs, meat, waffle stations and fresh fruit (as well as many other options). Plus, the Hampton Hotel Pittsburgh has free parking!
What To Pack
We have a few final tips about what you will want to bring for your 3-Day Itinerary for Pittsburgh. First, grab your FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get to it!
Walking Shoes
We cover some serious ground in our Weekend in Pittsburgh Itinerary! You will want a quality pair of comfortable shoes.
I like to wear lightweight trainers for urban exploration – and Kris prefers Merrell Trail Shoes. Find more styles and reviews in our guide to The Best Shoes for Travel.
Travel Camera
Pittsburgh is actually quite photogenic – so you will want a real camera to capture it. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. Read more about the Best Budget Travel Cameras and how we chose which to shoot with.
Day Bag
You will need to be prepared with all your daily essentials when you leave your hotel. I have been using a lightweight day pack, which works great for city sightseeing. Read reviews in our complete article on the Best Day Bags for Travelers.
Start planning your trip to Pittsburgh, USA! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More US Getaway Ideas
Find more fun cities for a quick trip on our list of The Best USA Weekend Getaways! Want something off the beaten path? We have tips for Underrated USA Cities, too!
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