Travel: The City Column
The City Column: What To Do In Pittsburgh
Updated on May 8, 2024
The reinvigorated historical downtown has a thriving arts and culture scene, making the City of Bridges a perfect weekend getaway. One of the great U.S. industrial towns, Pittsburgh is a sightseeing, shopping and dining destination.
Scroll for our guide to Pittsburgh!
Where to Eat:
New: Gi-Jin
This Japanese sushi, hand roll and gin bar is one of Pittsburgh’s hottest restaurants. The menu is as creative as the interior — a striking dragon mural runs along an entire wall while undulating wood beams adorn the ceiling. Book ahead; reservations go quickly.
208 6th St., gi-jin.com
Classic: Altius
Hailed as one of the city’s top fine dining restaurants, Altius is known for its refined take on contemporary American dishes and has exceptional views of the rivers and waterfront. Snack on gourmet popcorn and an amuse-bouche before indulging in the locally sourced duck breast or pork chop.
1230 Grandview Ave., altiuspgh.com
Where to Stay:
New: The Industrialist
Housed in one of the city’s first skyscrapers, this hotel showcases Pittsburgh’s history with a nod to modern design. Enjoy downtown river views from your suite, then head to the lounge where the daily Maker Menu pairs a cocktail with a DIY souvenir project, such as a stamped leather key fob or hand poured candle.
405 Wood St., meettheindustrialist.com
Classic: Omni William Penn
Steel City’s historical, circa-1916 hotel boasts a grand lobby and more than a few bars and restaurants. Visit Palm Court and Speakeasy, a 1920s-inspired lounge. Many boldfaced names have been welcomed here over the years, including nearly every seated president since Theodore Roosevelt.
530 William Penn Pl., omnihotels.com
Pictured: The Andy Warhol Museum
What to See: The Andy Warhol Museum
Here you’ll find seven floors dedicated to the life story of the iconic pop artist, with an in-depth collection of his work and archival materials, including personal notes and collaborative paintings.
117 Sandusky St., warhol.org
Take a one-hour drive out of the city to Mill Run and visit architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic masterpiece. Built over a running waterfall, the house is open for guided tours — book in advance!
1491 Mill Run Rd., Mill Run, Pa., fallingwater.org
Pictured: Carnegie Museum of Art
Explore America’s first contemporary art–focused museum, from sculpture to photography to architectural casts. Save time for the exhibit Extraordinary Ordinary Things, which celebrates the fun and creativity in everyday items.
4400 Forbes Ave., carnegieart.org
Tour the grounds and browse the 19th-century European art collection at this sprawling estate. Auto enthusiasts will love the Car and Carriage Museum, filled with antique motorcars.
7227 Reynolds St., thefrickpittsburgh.org
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
There’s plenty to see at this Pennsylvanian cultural institution. Don’t miss the Wertz Gallery of Gems and Jewelry with its 500 gems, crystals and decorative pieces.
4400 Forbes Ave., carnegiemnh.org
Where to Shop:
New: Anthropologie Home Outlet
Find a treasure trove of decorating accents at the brand’s first home warehouse location. Both new and slightly flawed items are on offer, with discounts ranging from 20 to 50 per cent.
250 Mount Nebo Pointe Dr., anthropologie.com
Classic: Hot Haute Hot
Curated by design enthusiasts Rose Smith and Keneva Kennedy, this boutique has a thoughtful mix of goods that reflects their travels around the world. Browse through beautiful vintage Turkish rugs, lamps, prints, furniture and more.
2124 Penn Ave., hothautehot.com
House & Home