The Roberto Clemente Bridge in Pittsburgh taken at dusk. Photo credit: darrellmccrea66
Are you looking for a unique travel destination? Look no further than Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania! Here’s your guide to an excellent Pittsburgh visit. From world-class museums and galleries to thrilling sports events and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in Pittsburgh. Don’t believe me? Read on! (We lived in Pittsburgh for 8 years, so this is a bit of an insider guide for seeing the city and enjoying some of the local’s favorites).
Things to Know
A few fun facts about Pittsburgh you should know before you go.
- Pittsburgh is known as the “Steel City” due to its history as a major steel producer. In the early 20th century, Pittsburgh produced about half of the nation’s steel. Our Steel City candle is a fun representation of the city skyline.
- Pittsburgh is also known as the “City of Bridges” because it has more bridges than any other city in the world, with over 446 bridges in the greater Pittsburgh area. And several of them are yellow! Giving downtown a cohesive look that is really all about the “black and gold”.
- Pittsburgh is the birthplace of the famous Mr. Rogers, the beloved host of the children’s TV show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” Our Good Neighbor candle is a little nod to your favorite neighbor.
- The first baseball stadium with a retractable roof, PNC Park, is located in Pittsburgh and is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Go Bucs!
- The University of Pittsburgh, one of the top-ranked universities in the country, was founded in 1787 and is one of the oldest continuously chartered universities in the United States.
- The world-famous Primanti Bros. sandwich originated in Pittsburgh in the 1930s and is made with meat, cheese, coleslaw, and French fries on thick Italian bread. Are you a fan of french fries on your sandwich?
- Yinzer’s are what people from Pittsburgh are called. There is a rich history of local dialect that you will still catch from native Pittsburghers. If you hear the term “jagoff” or “nebby”, you’ve found a local.
These are just a few fun facts about Pittsburgh, a city with a rich history, culture, and a lot to offer visitors and locals alike!
Things to Do/See
If you’re planning a trip to Pittsburgh, here are some must-visit places and activities that will make your trip unforgettable:
- Visit the famous Carnegie Museum of Natural History, which features a vast collection of dinosaur bones and exhibits on geology, anthropology, and wildlife. This is my favorite museum.
- Take a ride on the historic Duquesne Incline, a century-old cable car that offers breathtaking views of the city from the top of Mount Washington. The Burgh candle is the view you will see from the Overlook at the top of Mount Washington. It’s a beautiful view!
- Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the beautiful Three Rivers Heritage Trail, which runs along the three rivers that converge in Pittsburgh.
- Catch a game or concert at PNC Park, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, or Heinz Field, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pitt Panthers.
- Discover the city’s rich history at the Senator John Heinz History Center, which showcases Pittsburgh’s role in American history.
These are just a few examples of the many exciting things to see and do in Pittsburgh. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family, this vibrant city offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
When it comes to shopping, Pittsburgh offers a wide variety of options, from trendy boutiques to quirky vintage shops. Visit the Strip District, a bustling neighborhood filled with food markets, specialty shops, and antique stores. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and homemade pastries to handmade jewelry and vintage clothing. You’ll want to pick up our Strip candle after a visit there.
The Strip candle in The Strip District Pittsburgh
Our full list of Pittsburgh shops can be found here: (where to shop) you’ll see there are amazing small shops and boutiques all over town!
Favorite Restaurants:
In addition to the many attractions and activities, Pittsburgh is also home to a variety of unique and diverse restaurants.
Foodies will be delighted to explore the city’s culinary scene, which features everything from upscale dining to street food. If you’re a fan of pierogies, you’ll definitely want to try the classic potato and cheese pierogi at Pierogies Plus, a family-owned establishment that has been serving up delicious pierogies for over 30 years. For a more upscale experience, make a reservation at Cure, a popular restaurant that offers a rotating menu of locally sourced, contemporary American cuisine.
Beer enthusiasts will also find plenty to love in Pittsburgh, which is home to numerous craft breweries and bars. Check out Church Brew Works, a local favorite that specializes in flavorful, small-batch beers, in an old church!
A little up north…
If you’re looking to explore the smaller towns around Pittsburgh, Zelienople and Harmony are two charming destinations that are definitely worth a visit.
Located about 30 miles north of Pittsburgh, Zelienople is a picturesque town that features tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a quaint downtown area. Take a stroll down Main Street, where you’ll find unique shops, galleries, and cafes. Don’t miss the Strand Theater, a beautifully restored Art Deco movie theater that hosts a variety of live performances and film screenings.
Just a few miles away from Zelienople, Harmony is another small town with a rich history and charming atmosphere. Established in 1804 by a group of German settlers, Harmony is home to several historic buildings and landmarks, including the Harmony Museum and the Harmony Society Cemetery. Take a leisurely walk through the town’s tree-lined streets and admire the beautifully preserved architecture.
Both Zelienople and Harmony also offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. Visit the nearby Moraine State Park, where you can hike along scenic trails, relax on the beach, or go boating on the lake.
No matter what your interests are, the small towns of Zelienople and Harmony offer a refreshing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the city. So why not add them to your itinerary and experience the beauty and charm of these historic towns?
Before you leave…
And when you’re looking for a souvenir to bring back home, be sure to check out our candles! Roots & Wings, started in Pittsburgh and we offer hand-poured candles made from natural soy wax and non-toxic fragrance oils. Our unique scents and beautiful packaging make them the perfect memento of your trip to Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh Collection by Roots & Wings Candles
So why wait? Start planning your vacation to Pittsburgh today, and experience all the excitement and beauty that this dynamic city has to offer! Pittsburgh is a vibrant and exciting travel destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, sports, food, or shopping, this city has it all.