4 Fun Things To Do In Downtown Pittsburgh
There are a lot of things to do in downtown Pittsburgh, but here are the four uniquely Pittsburgh things you can do any time of year.
Ride an incline up Mt. Washington
While not technically in downtown Pittsburgh, right across the river is the Duquesne Incline. At 140 years old, it’s one of the oldest inclines in the United States, and has been in use for all but one of those years. It used to carry coal miners and equipment up and down “Coal Hill,” but now it’s a popular tourist attraction and method of transportation for Pittsburghers who live in Mt. Washington.
A round trip ticket costs just a few dollars. When you get off at the top, stop at the viewing platform for the best view of Pittsburgh. While you’re up there, walk around historic Mt. Washington, an old neighborhood full of cute shops and restaurants.
We recommend the Duquesne Incline because it has a small museum in the station and is tourist friendly, but if you want to see the oldest continuously operating funicular in the United States, go down the street to the Monongahela Incline. You can get to it from downtown for free by taking the “T” (our subway system) to the Station Square stop. Of all the things to do in downtown Pittsburgh, this is certainly the most unique.
Take in some culture in the Cultural District
100+ years ago, the people of Pittsburgh, as well as titans such as Heinz, Mellon and Carnegie used to come to this part of the city to enjoy the latest theater productions. The neighborhood became Pittsburgh’s red light district in the 1970’s but has been restored to its former glory and is now known as the Cultural District.
When you’re in town, be sure to get some tickets to one of our theaters that show popular music acts, plays, and musicals every day of the week.
- Benedum Center for the Performing Arts (music, theatre)
- Heinz Hall (music, theatre, events)
- Pittsburgh Public Theater (theatre)
- Harris Theater (independent films)
- Arcade Comedy Theater (live comedy)
- Greer Cabaret Theater (live music, late-night entertainment and food)
- Backstage Bar (bar with live music)
Additionally, the Cultural District is home to some of Pittsburgh’s hottest restaurants, including…
Learn about Pittsburgh at the Heinz History Museum
For those who want to learn about Pittsburgh, the Heinz History Museum has something for everyone. Check out their exhibits on the French & Indian War, early Pittsburgh, the steel industry, Pittsburgh sports, the technology that’s come out of Pittsburgh, and much more.
The museum has a great gift shop and cafe, and is conveniently located close to the Strip District, which has a ton of great shops and restaurants.
Take a free walking tour of downtown Pittsburgh
A walking tour is a great way to see the sights of downtown Pittsburgh with a knowledgeable local who can tell you things you wouldn’t otherwise learn. And because you decide the price for this walking tour, it can fit into anyone’s budget.
Free Pittsburgh Walking Tours will take you by the Cultural District, show you the inclines, and you’ll get to see a lot of what’s covered at the Heinz History Museum up close and in person. Click here to learn more and reserve your spot for free.
Want more things to do in downtown Pittsburgh?
Check out Pittsburgh City Paper’s event calendar.
Add Comment