Pittsburgh is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Nicknamed the “Steel City” for its once booming steel industry, Pittsburgh has transformed into a modern hub for technology, medicine, education and tourism. Though remnants of its industrial past remain, the city offers an array of unique attractions for visitors to enjoy.
| Attraction | Description (Summarized) |
|---|---|
| The Andy Warhol Museum | Museum dedicated to Andy Warhol’s art and life. |
| Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens | Victorian greenhouse with diverse plant species and seasonal exhibits. |
| The Carnegie Museums | Includes the Carnegie Museum of Art and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. |
| PNC Park | Home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, offers games and city views. |
| The Duquesne Incline | Historic inclined railway providing panoramic city views. |
| Point State Park | Park at the confluence of three rivers, with historical and natural significance. |
| Carnegie Science Center | Interactive science and technology exhibits for all ages. |
| The National Aviary | Large collection of birds from around the world in naturalistic habitats. |
| Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium | Features diverse animal and marine life. |
| Fort Ligonier | Restored fortification and museum from the French and Indian War. |
| Mount Washington | Neighborhood offering city skyline views. |
| Fallingwater | Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece over a waterfall. |
| Rivers Casino | Casino with gaming, dining, and entertainment on the riverfront. |
From world-class museums and gardens to historical sites and scenic city views, Pittsburgh has something for everyone. Here are the top 12 attractions in Pittsburgh that you won’t want to miss on your next visit.
The Andy Warhol Museum
Name and Location: The Andy Warhol Museum is located on the North Shore in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is one of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh.
History and Significance: The Andy Warhol Museum opened in 1994 and is the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist. It holds an extensive collection of art, films, videos, photographs, and archival materials related to pop artist and Pittsburgh native Andy Warhol. The museum aims to advance the understanding and appreciation of contemporary art through Warhol’s life and work.
What to Expect: Visitors can view Warhol’s famous works such as his Campbell’s Soup Cans and Marilyn Monroe portraits. Exhibits feature his experimental films, music projects, celebrity portraits, and coverage of Factory studio. There are also photography exhibits, paintings by Warhol contemporaries, and works by emerging artists.
Visitor Information: The museum is open year-round except major holidays. Tickets can be purchased online or onsite. There is a museum store and cafe on premises. Guided tours are offered.
Dedicated to the life and work of Andy Warhol, the Andy Warhol Museum holds the largest single collection of his artworks and archival materials. Visitors can view his famous pop art paintings, films, photographs and installations. Exhibits trace Warhol’s path from his early commercial illustrations to the experimental art factory he founded in New York. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits by contemporary artists and Warhol-inspired programming. Fans of pop art and culture will appreciate this comprehensive showcase of his creative output.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Name and Location: Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is located in Schenley Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is a green jewel of Pittsburgh.
History and Significance: Founded in 1893, Phipps Conservatory is a historic steel and glass greenhouse with lush gardens. It was one of the first greenhouses to incorporate energy-efficient climate control. The gardens promote sustainability and feature seasonal flower shows. It is a popular site for weddings and events.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore themed indoor gardens, outdoor gardens, and art exhibits. There is a tropical forest conservatory, palm house, orchid room, children’s discovery garden, bonsai collection, and rotating exhibits. The gardens are beautifully decorated for spring Flower Show, Winter Light Garden, and holiday lights.
Visitor Information: Phipps is open daily year-round. Tickets can be purchased online in advance. There is a café and gift shop on site. Tram tours and programs are offered seasonally.
This beautiful Victorian greenhouse complex contains elaborate gardens and plant exhibits. Opened in 1893, it houses thousands of species of plants and flowers. The outdoor grounds feature scenic walking paths, flower gardens and art installations. Inside the glasshouse domes are tropical forests, deserts, orchids and bonsai trees. Special exhibits change seasonally and have included butterflies, trains, Christmas flowers and glass art. There are also fun interactive fountains for children. The gardens make for a refreshing oasis in the city to view gorgeous flora and greenery.
The Carnegie Museums
Name and Location: The Carnegie Museums consist of four museums located in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Science Center, and Andy Warhol Museum.
History and Significance: Founded by Andrew Carnegie in the late 19th century, the museums are dedicated to science, art, and education. They have extensive collections, hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and rotating exhibits covering art, natural history, science, and Warhol’s pop art. The museums attract over 1.6 million visitors annually.
What to Expect: Visitors can see dinosaur fossils, gemstones, Egyptian mummies, art from ancient to modern, Warhol pop art, live shows at the planetarium, and biology/robotics labs. There are activities for kids and dining options onsite.
Visitor Information: The museums are open 6 days a week year-round, closed Mondays. Tickets can be purchased online or onsite. Membership options are available.
Founded by industrialist Andrew Carnegie in the late 19th century, this educational complex consists of two major museums – the Carnegie Museum of Art and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.
The art museum contains collections of decorative arts, sculptures, prints, paintings and photographs. Works span from ancient civilizations to the modern era with notable pieces by Monet, Van Gogh and Warhol. The natural history museum features exhibits of dinosaurs, gems, minerals, mummies and live animals. Visitors can also experience the recreated skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex and an Egyptian mummy. Both museums host rotating exhibits and educational programs throughout the year.
PNC Park
Name and Location: PNC Park is a baseball park located on the North Shore of Pittsburgh along the Allegheny River. It is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
History and Significance: Opened in 2001, PNC Park is praised for its design, scenic views, and fan experience. It helped spur development along Pittsburgh’s North Shore. PNC Park has hosted the MLB All Star Game and World Series.
What to Expect: Fans can catch a Pirates baseball game and enjoy views of downtown and the Roberto Clemente Bridge. There are riverfront Promenade areas, concession stands, a kid’s zone, Pirate memorabilia and exhibits at the Pirates Hall of Fame.
Visitor Information: Public tours are available on non-game days during season. Tickets for games can be purchased on the Pirates website or box office. The park offers accessible seating and dining options.
Home of the Pittsburgh Pirates professional baseball team, PNC Park hosts exciting Major League Baseball games in a scenic waterfront setting. Opened in 2001, the stadium provides sweeping vistas of the Pittsburgh skyline beyond center field and the Roberto Clemente Bridge. Along with standard ballpark fare, fans can try signature food items like the Primanti Brothers sandwich, Mrs. T’s Pierogies and popcorn from Popcorn Wagon. With fun games, promotions and fireworks nights, PNC Park is a hit for baseball fans. Walk along the Riverwalk beyond the outfield wall before or after the game for great city views.
The Duquesne Incline
Name and Location: The Duquesne Incline is a historic cable funicular railway located near the mouth of the Monongahela River in downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
History and Significance: Built in 1877, the Duquesne Incline is one of Pittsburgh’s iconic historic landmarks. It transports riders up and down Mt. Washington offering spectacular views. It was designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
What to Expect: Riders can enjoy a one-of-a-kind view during the 5 minute ascent up Mt. Washington. At the overlook at the top are gift shops and food spots with panoramic views of Pittsburgh.
Visitor Information: The incline is open year-round. Tickets can be purchased at the station. Hours vary by season. No reservations required for the pay-per-ride service.
A remnant of Pittsburgh’s history, this inclined railway climbs Mount Washington to offer panoramic views from high above. Originally built in 1877 to carry cargo up and down the steep hillside, it later carried passengers as funicular railcars. Though no longer in use for transport, the renovated Duquesne Incline now operates as a tourist attraction. The one-mile ride up the wooden track ends at an observation deck atop Mount Washington. From here, visitors can soak in sweeping vistas of downtown Pittsburgh, the three rivers and the surrounding hillsides – especially picturesque at night. It’s one of the city’s quintessential experiences.
Point State Park
Name and Location: Point State Park is a National Historic Landmark located at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers in downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
History and Significance: This strategic river junction was once a historic Native American area and the site of Fort Pitt, the source of Pittsburgh’s name. Point State Park commemorates Pittsburgh’s role in the French & Indian War.
What to Expect: Visitors can walk around the park grounds, see the outlines of the historic fort, view the large fountain, enjoy city skyline views, and walk across pedestrian bridges. There are water taxi rides seasonally.
Visitor Information: The park is open daily year-round from 6am to midnight. No admission fees. The park hosts festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year.
Situated where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers meet to form the Ohio River, Point State Park preserves the historic foundations of Fort Pitt. Visitors can explore the remnants of the 18th century fort and learn about the area’s crucial role in the French and Indian War. The park also contains preserved bastions, a blockhouse, foutains and a 150-foot tall granite and steel fountain. This scenic green space on the tip of Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle offers relaxing riverfront walks, views of the city skyline, concerts at the amphitheater and festivals throughout the year.
Carnegie Science Center
Name and Location: Carnegie Science Center is one of the four Carnegie Museums located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania along the Ohio River on Pittsburgh’s North Shore.
History and Significance: Founded in 1991, Carnegie Science Center is dedicated to science and education. It has hundreds of interactive STEM exhibits including robotics labs, live demonstrations, a planetarium, an aquarium, and the USS Requin submarine.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy hands-on science exhibits, live science shows, explore technology, ride the Highmark SportsWorks, catch a film in the Rangos Omnimax Theater, and more. There are activities for all ages.
Visitor Information: Carnegie Science Center is open every day except Thanksgiving/Christmas. Tickets can be purchased online or onsite. Memberships are available. Special events are offered year-round.
With hundreds of interactive exhibits, live demonstrations and experiences across science and technology, the Carnegie Science Center appeals to visitors of all ages. See how your body works in the World of the Body gallery. Learn about outer space in the Planetarium and Astronomy exhibits. Try out activities in the SportsWorks and Roboworld sections. For an extra charge, experience cutting-edge simulations in the XPLOR Theater or take a ride on the four-story screen of the Rangos Omnimax Theater. With new exhibits and programs all the time, there’s always something fresh to discover. It’s both educational and entertaining for the whole family.
The National Aviary
Name and Location: The National Aviary is an aviary and indoor bird zoo located in Pittsburgh’s North Side. It is America’s only independent indoor nonprofit aviary.
History and Significance: Founded in 1952, the National Aviary promotes conservation and education about birds. With over 600 birds of 200 species, it is home to one of North America’s largest collections. Many are endangered.
What to Expect: Visitors can observe colorful exotic birds up-close in natural habitats and aviaries modeled after different ecosystems. Interactive experiences allow visitors to feed lories or penguins.
Visitor Information: The aviary is open daily except major holidays.
Home to around 500 birds of 150 different species from around the world, the National Aviary lets visitors immerse themselves with exotic and endangered birds. View flamingos, bald eagles, penguins, owls and parrots in expansive indoor habitats modeled after various ecosystems. Walk-through areas like Pelican Island and Puffin Coast let you get up close to the birds. Feed lories in the free-flight forest or watch the antics of wetland birds like ducks and herons. With educational talks, shows and feedings throughout the day, the aviary makes for an intriguing look into the world of birds.
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium
Name and Location: The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is located in Pittsburgh’s Highland Park. It is one of the top zoo and aquarium combos in the country.
History and Significance: Founded in 1898, the 77-acre zoo has extensive animal exhibits and conservation programs. The aquarium opened in 2000 featuring aquatic wildlife and interactive exhibits.
What to Expect: Visitors can see gorillas, elephants, lions, tigers, polar bears, seals, penguins, sharks, seahorses, a kids zone, reptile encounter, and more. There are fun activities like paddle boats.
Visitor Information: The zoo is open daily except holidays. Tickets can be purchased online or at entry gates. Memberships are available.
This zoo and aquarium complex houses an extensive collection of animals from around the globe. The 77-acre zoo is home to elephants, lions, tigers, leopards, zebras, giraffes, monkeys, kangaroos, camels and much more. Kids can play in the Children’s Zoo with llamas, cows and goats. The aquarium immerses visitors in underwater worlds with sharks, piranhas, stingrays, seahorses and a tropical coral reef. Together, the zoo and aquarium provide opportunities to view and learn about a diverse array of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and aquatic life. Special experiences like the Wild Ride safari train, Discovery Outpost and Penguin Point provide memorable family fun.
Fort Ligonier
Name and Location: Fort Ligonier is a reconstructed historic fort located in Ligonier, Pennsylvania about 50 miles southeast of Pittsburgh.
History and Significance: Fort Ligonier was built in 1758 during the French and Indian War. Reconstructed on site, it commemorates a key victory for the British over French forces in 1758. It preserves this history.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore the fort’s stone buildings, wooden palisades, museum exhibits, and reconstructed fortifications. Costumed interpreters do reenactments and demonstrations.
Visitor Information: The fort is open daily Memorial Day through October. Guided tours available. An annual reenactment event occurs mid-October.
Located an hour outside Pittsburgh, Fort Ligonier takes visitors back to the time of the French and Indian War. The restored fortification originally built in 1758 includes reconstructed barracks, stockades and buildings. Costumed interpreters demonstrate 18th century life through weapons firings, cooking, trades and military drills. The onsite museum displays artifacts, dioramas and interactive exhibits on the history of the fort and war. Reenactments and other special events bring the past to life. The scenic grounds also include period gardens, a cemetery and the archaeological remains of the original fort. History buffs will enjoy this immersion into colonial America and a key conflict.
Mount Washington
Name and Location: Mount Washington is a neighborhood that sits on a steep hill rising above the south side of the Monongahela River in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
History and Significance: Mount Washington is known for its steep sloping streets and the famous Duquesne Incline that transports riders to the top of the hill for iconic views of Pittsburgh since 1877.
What to Expect: Breathtaking panoramic views of downtown, the rivers, and the Point can be seen from scenic overlooks. Visitors can dine, shop, and stay in hotels overlooking the city.
Visitor Information: The Duquesne Incline operates daily, extended hours in summer. Parking areas are located at the base and top of the Incline.
The Mount Washington neighborhood rises high above the city across the Monongahela River to offer sweeping views from its overlooks. Glass-enclosed Duquesne and Monongahela Inclines carry passengers up the steep slope to panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. Photographers flock here to capture iconic shots of Pittsburgh’s skyline shining against the riverfront at day and illuminated at night. Scenic Grandview Avenue is lined with restaurants and shops to browse. Visitors can also hike the steep streets and alleys on foot for a workout with a view, or ride the Duquesne Incline roundtrip for sightseeing from above. It’s a stunning perspective on the city.
Fallingwater
Name and Location: Fallingwater is a historic house built over a waterfall located in rural southwestern Pennsylvania about 75 miles southeast of Pittsburgh.
History and Significance: Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935, Fallingwater is one of Wright’s most widely admired works. Displaying his organic design, it integrates architecture into nature.
What to Expect: Guided tours allow visitors to explore inside and around the house suspended over the waterfall. The design, cantilevered balconies, and integration with nature can be appreciated.
Visitor Information: Guided tour tickets must be booked online in advance. Tours are offered daily except holidays, year-round. No photography allowed inside.
Designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Fallingwater is a unique home situated dramatically over a waterfall. Completed in 1939 for the Kaufmann family, the house integrates artfully with its natural setting in the forested mountains of Western Pennsylvania. The bold cantilevered balconies perched directly over the 30-foot waterfall are an iconic example of Wright’s organic style. Visitors can tour the interior with its original furnishings and artwork to appreciate his vision. The grounds feature more of his architecture amid the lush greenery. This National Historic Landmark makes for an architectural masterpiece unlike any other in the region.
Rivers Casino
Name and Location: Rivers Casino is a casino located along Pittsburgh’s North Shore next to PNC Park and Heinz Field.
History and Significance: Opened in 2009, Rivers Casino features slot machines, table games, and poker rooms. It has been an economic boost for Pittsburgh and draws consistent crowds.
What to Expect: Visitors over 21 can try their luck at slots, roulette, craps, poker, and more. There are dining options and live entertainment options onsite. Visitors must be over 21.
Visitor Information: The casino is open 24/7 year-round. There is free self parking and valet parking available. Must present valid photo ID proving age. Strict dress code enforced.
For some nightlife and entertainment, Rivers Casino offers gambling action, dining and concerts along Pittsburgh’s Ohio River waterfront. Try your luck at over 2,900 slot machines or nearly 100 casino table games. Seven restaurants range from upscale steak and seafood to a food court. There’s also live music and comedy shows at the Event Center. Open 24 hours a day, it makes for an energetic night out. Located on the city’s North Shore, it’s convenient to sports stadiums and other attractions. You must be 21 or older to enter the gambling areas. Overall, it provides a lively experience with riverfront views in Pittsburgh’s vibrant North Shore district.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh boasts an array of unique attractions that highlight the city’s distinctive history, culture, sports, architecture and natural beauty. From world-class museums and historic sites to picturesque parks and vibrant entertainment, there are fascinating options for visitors of all interests. Iconic experiences like riding the Duquesne Incline and seeing the Andy Warhol Museum showcase the city’s character. Families will appreciate the many kid-friendly museums and zoos. Opportunities for scenic views abound at Mount Washington and Point State Park. Architecture aficionados will value touring Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece Fallingwater. Sports fans can cheer on the Pirates at PNC Park. And Rivers Casino offers lively gambling and entertainment along the waterfront. With this diverse selection of top attractions, Pittsburgh enthralls visitors with an array of memorable things to see and do.