Pennsylvania is a huge state with unique cities and smaller towns. If you grew up on the East Coast, you have likely visited Philadelphia, East PA, more than once. But to many, the western part of PA is still a mystery. Put Pittsburgh, also known as Steel City, in the Top 100 Best Places to Live in 2020 with 51 {JC was 56th on the list} loudly Livability.com. The area has transformed into a place of community, high tech industry, vibrancy and one of the best places to walk to.
Pittsburgh, also known as “Steel City,” became one of the Top 100 best places to live in 2020, at number 51 (Jersey City was ranked number 56 on the list).
While you can’t go wrong with a baseball game at PNC Park, a Steelers game at Heinz Field, or a hockey game at PPG Paints Arena. There is so much the Burgh has to offer its weekend visitors. With endless neighborhoods and a myriad of culture and history, your time in this western Pennsylvania city will be nothing short of extraordinary. Here is your ultimate guide to your next road trip to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania:
How to get there
By car
The distance between Pittsburgh and the NYC area is approximately 330 miles. If you’re looking for a fun road trip, getting to Pittsburgh is easy. With plenty of rest areas and open roads – take I-78 W to 1-81 S to 1-76 W and you will be there in no time.
By bus
There are direct buses that run from New York to Pittsburgh. The services depart more than twice a day and run daily. The journey time by bus is approximately six hours and 30 minutes. Check with Megabus or Greyhound as they usually have the most round-trip flight options – sometimes as low as $ 20 for a ticket.
Where to sleep
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh {620 William Penn Place}
{Photo credit: @monacopgh}
Located in a 1903 building right in downtown Pittsburgh, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh is your ultimate boutique hotel. Everything from the stunning interior design to the city skyline views, oh, and two Pittsburgh hotspots are located at {The Commoner and Hotel Monaco’s outdoor beer garden}.
Fairmont Pittsburgh {510 Market Street}
{Photo credit: @fairmonthotels}
The Fairmont is also located in downtown Pittsburgh, just a few minutes’ walk from the city’s cultural district, marketplace and more. With two restaurants, a full-service spa, and two bars / lounges, you’re sure to have a relaxing break at the Burgh.
Read more: A Guide to Exploring Princeton
Things to do
Duquesne Incline {1197 W Carson Street}
Pronounced “doo-KANE” (you are welcome to Duquesne University students), the slope of Duquesne has red cars that are visible from many areas of the city. Take a ride on one and climb the 100+ year old incline for spectacular panoramic views of the entire city. At the top of the incline you are in Mount Washington (see below).
Marketplace
In the center of downtown Pittsburgh is the Market Square – surrounded by shops and restaurants. This place (popular with both visitors and locals) has year-round activities. Some restaurants to check out are Primanti Bros. (a legendary Pittsburgh spot that has been around since 1933), Pizzaiolo Primo (which serves delicious Italian food), and Craft Beer – City Works Eatery & Pour House has over 90 choices.
During the holidays on the market square there are festive markets for shopping. And if you visit the rest of the year, there are a variety of pop-up events – something for everyone.
Mount Washington
Back in 2013, USA today named the night view of Mount Washington the second most beautiful place in America, on their list of the top ten. There are some great restaurants on Grandview Avenue, and while the food is delicious, the view will blow you away. Altius, Monterey Bay Fish Grotto, and LeMont are all restaurants that offer breathtaking views of Pittsburgh. While La Tavola is the place to go for some authentic Italian food (as we’re honest, you’re probably from New Jersey). This place is tucked away in Mount Washington. So check out the view before or after dinner.
Warhol Museum {117 Sandusky Street}
{Photo credit: @thewarholmuseum}
Andy Warhol was from Pittsburgh, although he is very well known in our three state region. This museum (in the North Shore neighborhood) marks the largest collection of Warhol’s artwork and an archive that is a must-see when visiting Pittsburgh.
Point State Park {601 Commonwealth Place}
Offering a beautiful 36-acre destination in downtown Pittsburgh, Point State Park is paved with river walks and epic views of different parts of Steel City. This park is also home to one of the largest fountains in the country, where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers meet the Ohio River – also known as “The Point”.
South side
This neighborhood of Pittsburgh is culture and community with a variety of boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, theaters, and even a live music venue (you’ve seen Rex Mix on Pittsburgh’s Southside for over a century). Similar to Hoboken, this area has one of the highest concentrations of bars in any location in the country. So there’s plenty to do, especially when it comes to happy hour or the Pittsburgh team partying in season.
Strip district
Previously inhabited by warehouses and railways, “The Strip” is authentically Pittsburgh. This shopping district is your hub for merchandise stalls, street clothing vendors (if you want to buy Steelers equipment), and a number of restaurants with a local, buzzing atmosphere.
Shadyside
A nice, walkable area outside of town. Shadyside is known for its mix of upscale boutiques, vintage, antique, and home furnishings. If you are looking for craft beer spots, American restaurants or brunch spots, this is your neighborhood. Along the way, you’ll pass some of Pittsburgh’s finest homes, from Victorian mansions to fun, contemporary apartments.
See More: How to Spend a Day in Morristown
to eat and drink
Grandview Avenue higher {1230}
{Photo credit: @altius_pgh}
Craft cocktails and city views. Nothing beats Altius when it comes to a fantastic dining experience. The Mount Washington restaurant serves delicious upscale American fare and will leave you dreaming of returning to the great #eats and #views.
Coop De Ville {2305 Smallman Street}
{Photo credit: @coopdevillepgh}
Coop De Ville is new to the scene (but immediately made a name for itself). Expect delicious southern-style dishes – and a champagne machine {no, you don’t dream}. The best thing about it? You can relive your childhood with arcade games, bowling, ping pong, pinball machines, pool tables, and more. This room is definitely a must see.
Sienna Mercato {942 Penn Avenue}
{Photo credit: @siennamercato}
If you’re looking to rooftop the steel city, Sienna Mercato is for you. The two-story Italian restaurant offers a varied menu (both food and drinks). And the roof is heated so don’t be afraid to visit in the winter months. Just prepare to be overwhelmed by the beauty of the city.
Primanti Brothers {multiple locations}
{Photo credit: @primantibros}
When it comes to Pittsburgh, nothing is more famous than this sandwich joint. It’s an icon and often the only thing people really know about the city. Imagine this: a delicious french fries and coleslaw sandwich on heavy Italian bread. Something you probably won’t see anywhere else but the Burgh.
The City Faucet {1209 E Carson Street, 216 S Highland Avenue}
{Photo credit: @theurbantap}
With locations in South Side and Shadyside, The Urban Tap gives you a completely unique experience. From creative American dishes to mimosa flights {yes, we said mimosa flights!}, This gastropub is a favorite with Pittsburgh residents and regulars.
The {1 Boggs Avenue} table
Let’s face it, you’re probably from New Jersey. If you’re craving some authentic Italian food, be sure to check out La Tavola in Mount Washington. Long family owned BYOB – the restaurant offers fantastic pizza, pasta and dessert specialties. This place is tucked away in the neighborhood. So, before or after dinner, snap a photo with a view of Mount Washington!
Mario’s Salon {1514 East Carson Street, 5442 Walnut Street, 116 Oakland Avenue}
The ultimate neighborhood pub and a stapled southside. Enjoy trivia, karaoke or your favorite sports team at Mario. With locations in Southside, Shadyside, and the Oakland neighborhood, Mario’s has a fun happy hour menu and even a shot wheel.
Local Bar + Kitchen {1515 E Carson Street}
{Photo credit: Local Bar + Kitchen}
For a real taste of the Burgh (and Western PA in general) head to Local Bar + Kitchen on the Southside. This place is known for serving local beers and some Pittsburgh favorite foods. Bonus: Local also has a heated roof for visitors in winter.
Jack’s Bar {1117 E Carson Street}
The local watering hole is real Pittsburgh. Jack’s beer is cheap and they start at 7am. That’s right, 7 a.m. Open so early most days and 365 days a year – this place is a real Southside staple.
It’s impossible to include all of the breathtaking sights, delicious restaurants, and bustling things to do in Pittsburgh. But hopefully this is the start of your journey. Make sure to tag @thehobokengirl on your adventures in the Steel City!
Written by: Taylor Duncan
Taylor is an {overly} proud Jersey girl who was lucky enough to call Hoboken home for the past three years and Jersey City two years ago. Originally from a small town in Hunterdon County, Taylor graduated from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh with a degree in multimedia journalism. She also spent time in Miami but always knew she would find her way to Hoboken. Taylor has a career in sports, digital, and social media in the NYC area. A lover of all things local, she has a long list of favorite restaurants and cafes where she spends a good part of her time. You can also see her run by the water, take a walk with her new pup, watch reruns by real housewives, or take a trip to HomeGoods
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