Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is a charming city with a rich history and culture. Nicknamed the “Steel City” for its once booming steel industry, Pittsburgh has reinvented itself as a hub for technology, healthcare, education and tourism.
Activity | Description |
---|---|
Romantic Walk Across a Bridge | Scenic walks across various city bridges. |
Ride the Incline to Mount Washington | Funicular ride with panoramic city views. |
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride | Intimate tours through charming neighborhoods. |
Romantic Dinner on Mount Washington | Dining with spectacular city views. |
Sightseeing Cruise on Pittsburgh’s Rivers | Riverboat tours with city views. |
Show at the Benedum Center | Performances in a historic theater. |
Picnic at Frick Park | Peaceful outdoor setting for picnics. |
Ice Skate at PPG Place | Winter ice skating in downtown. |
Duquesne Heights Observation Deck | City views from an observation deck. |
Concert or Festival at Point State Park | Live music and events in a park setting. |
Tour Gardens at Phipps Conservatory | Lush gardens and seasonal exhibits. |
Couples Massage at Allegheny Spa Châteaux | Relaxing spa treatments for couples. |
Beyond its many museums and historical sites, Pittsburgh also offers plenty of romantic activities for couples. From scenic views to intimate dinners, here are the top 12 most romantic things to do in Pittsburgh:
Take a Romantic Walk Across a Bridge
Name and Location: Pittsburgh has 446 bridges, many pedestrian-friendly for romantic walks, like the Andy Warhol Bridge over the Allegheny River.
History and Significance: Pittsburgh’s many river crossings showcase innovation. Once nicknamed “The City of Bridges,” they link neighborhoods and offer great skyline views.
What to Expect: Strolling across a bridge at sunset or night offers dramatic city views. Favorites include the Rachel Carson Bridge and Panther Hollow Bridge.
Visitor Information: Bridges have pedestrian walkways in both directions. Bring a jacket as river breezes can be chilly.
Pittsburgh is known as the City of Bridges for good reason – there are 446 bridges within the city limits! Taking a romantic stroll across one of these bridges offers beautiful views of Pittsburgh’s downtown skyline and riverfronts. Some of the most romantic bridges to walk across include the Rachel Carson Bridge, Clemente Bridge and Panhandle Bridge. Stop along the way for a kiss with the cityscape in the background.
Walking the pedestrian-only Andy Warhol Bridge at night is also incredibly romantic with the bridge lit up and reflections on the water. You and your partner can enjoy views of the baseball stadium on one side and mountaintop vistas on the other.
Ride the Incline to Mount Washington
Name and Location: The Duquesne Incline ascends Mount Washington overlooking downtown Pittsburgh.
History and Significance: This funicular railway opened in 1877 to transport people up and down the steep hillside. It offers iconic Pittsburgh views.
What to Expect: Romantic sunset rides up the inclined plane railcars showcase the city skyline. The observation deck has the best views.
Visitor Information: The incline is open daily, with extended hours in summer. Ticket prices vary by age. Cash only.
For amazing panoramic views of Pittsburgh, hop aboard the Duquesne Incline or Monongahela Incline. These two funicular railways date back to the late 19th century and carry passengers up and down the steep slope of Mount Washington.
At the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of downtown Pittsburgh and a romantic place to cuddle up with your loved one. Grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants up top or bring a picnic to enjoy as you take in the twinkling lights of the city below. The inclines run daily, making this is a romantic activity morning, noon or night.
Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
Name and Location: Horse-drawn carriages in Pittsburgh offer romantic rides through various neighborhoods and parks.
History and Significance: Leisurely carriage rides evoke nostalgia of bygone eras. Popular routes include downtown, the Strip District, and Schenley Park.
What to Expect: Snuggle under a blanket as your horse-drawn coach takes you past historic and cultural sites. Operators provide narration.
Visitor Information: Book carriage rides in advance online or by phone. Rides last 30-60 minutes. Rates start around $100.
For an intimate tour of Pittsburgh’s charming neighborhoods, hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage. Nestle up with your sweetheart under a blanket as your driver guides the horse through areas like Market Square, the Mexican War Streets and Point State Park.
Many companies offer private evening rides that are perfect for proposals, anniversaries or just a romantic night out. The clip-clop of the horse’s hooves adds old-fashioned romance to any occasion. Just relax, enjoy the views and let the city carry you away.
Have a Romantic Dinner on Mount Washington
Name and Location: Mount Washington offers romantic dinner spots with amazing skyline views, like Le Mont Restaurant.
History and Significance: This scenic overlook has attracted lovers for generations, whether dining out or picnicking with a view.
What to Expect: Upscale restaurants like The Summit offer intimate fine dining with gorgeous Pittsburgh views through window tables or outdoor seating.
Visitor Information: Make dinner reservations in advance for window seats. Complimentary incline tickets provided for diners.
For incredible food with a side of spectacular views, book a table at one of Mount Washington’s restaurants. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the downtown skyline, these restaurants create the perfect ambiance for a romantic dinner for two.
Some top picks include LeMont Restaurant – Pittsburgh’s only revolving restaurant – as well as The Summit and Monterey Bay Fish Grotto. Be sure to request a window table when you make reservations so you can enjoy the twinkling city lights and river views all evening long.
Take a Sightseeing Cruise on Pittsburgh’s Rivers
Name and Location: Narrated sightseeing cruises along Pittsburgh’s three rivers depart downtown from Station Square.
History and Significance: Boat tours showcase Pittsburgh’s riverfronts, bridges, and skyline. Popular options include dinner cruises and sightseeing tours.
What to Expect: Relax on open-deck or climate-controlled boats while taking in river views. Tours last 1-2 hours with live narration highlighting landmarks.
Visitor Information: Tickets start around $25 per person. Boarding is 15 minutes before departure time. Book ahead online.
A sightseeing cruise is a relaxing way to see Pittsburgh’s three rivers – the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio. Several companies like Gateway Clipper offer narrated tours on old-fashioned riverboats, perfect for snuggling up with your sweetie on deck.
Enjoy views of downtown Pittsburgh, architectural bridges, stadiums and Point State Park from the river. Cruises run during the day and at night when everything is lit up, making for a dazzling romantic outing. Many cruises feature live music, dancing and dining options for an extra touch of romance.
See a Show at the Benedum Center
Name and Location: The Benedum Center is a historic performing arts venue in the Cultural District of downtown Pittsburgh.
History and Significance: Built in 1928, this elegant theater hosts touring Broadway shows, ballet, concerts, and more. Its ornate interior creates a romantic atmosphere.
What to Expect: Attending a show in the red-velvet seated, domed auditorium makes for a special date night. Options range from classical to pop stars.
Visitor Information: View event calendar online. Ticket prices vary. Offering valet parking and dining packages.
For an elegant date night, get dressed up for a romantic evening at the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts. This historic downtown venue presents spectacular Broadway shows, concerts, ballet and opera in its stunning, ornate theater.
Cuddle up in your seats before the show and make your experience even more romantic by booking a VIP backstage tour and going out for dessert and drinks after. Surprise your partner with tickets to their favorite show or try something new together for a sophisticated date night.
Picnic at Frick Park
Name and Location: Frick Park is a large woodland park located in Pittsburgh’s East End with hiking trails and picnic areas.
History and Significance: Henry Clay Frick donated this land in 1919 to become Pittsburgh’s largest park. Its forests and streams provide an escape from the city.
What to Expect: Pack a picnic basket to share in a tranquil nature setting. Enjoy wooded trails, gardens, play areas, and historic gatehouses.
Visitor Information: The park is open daily from 5am to midnight. No admission fee. Nine Mile Run trailhead offers parking.
Escape the city for an afternoon and head to sprawling Frick Park, home to hiking trails, gardens and woodlands. Pack a picnic basket full of your sweetheart’s favorite foods, then find a peaceful spot to spread out a blanket and dine under the trees.
With over 600 acres to explore, Frick Park makes for a refreshingly romantic setting right in the city. Take a romantic stroll through the park’s gardens and former clay tennis courts after your scrumptious picnic.
Ice Skate at PPG Place
Name and Location: PPG Place in downtown Pittsburgh features an outdoor ice skating rink in the winter months.
History and Significance: Since 1981, this popular urban plaza converts into a skating rink from late November through February.
What to Expect: Glide hand-in-hand across the ice with your special someone against the backdrop of downtown. Skate rentals are available.
Visitor Information: The rink is open daily with extended hours on weekends. Admission is free, skate rental extra.
From November through February, downtown Pittsburgh transforms into a winter wonderland with an ice skating rink at PPG Place. Lace up your skates with your sweetie for an active date gliding hand-in-hand on the ice, surrounded by towering skyscrapers.
Skating sessions run daily with special themed nights like DJ nights and evening skates under the lights. Be sure to warm up afterwards with hot chocolate and treats from the nearby Market at PPG Place.
See the City from the Duquesne Heights Observation Deck
Name and Location: The Duquesne Heights Observation Deck offers panoramic views high above Pittsburgh.
History and Significance: Located atop the Duquesne Incline lower station, this deck has been a popular outlook since the 1800s.
What to Expect: The sweeping city vistas are perfect for a romantic sunset. Telescopes let you zoom in on downtown sites.
Visitor Information: Free observation deck. Incline ticket or pedestrian access required to reach it. Open year-round.
For a unique perspective on the city, head to Duquesne Heights Park and take in the views from the observation deck atop the cliff. Standing nearly 500 feet over the Monongahela River, this lookout point offers stunning vistas of downtown Pittsburgh and the surrounding hillsides.
Embrace the romance of the moment as you and your loved one find a quiet spot to soak in the scenery. Pack a thermos of hot coffee or cocoa to sip as you point out sights below and share a special moment together overlooking the city.
Attend a Concert or Festival at Point State Park
Name and Location: Point State Park is located at the tip of downtown Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle, where the city’s rivers meet.
History and Significance: This historic park hosts festivals and free summer concerts with the city skyline as a backdrop.
What to Expect: Spread out a blanket and enjoy live outdoor music with your sweetheart. Genres range from jazz to pop to symphony.
Visitor Information: Event schedule posted online. Park open daily from 6am to midnight.
Situated where the city’s three rivers meet, Point State Park is a popular venue space for concerts, cultural festivals and events throughout the year. Spread out a blanket on the lawn and enjoy amazing musical acts against the backdrop of the city skyline.
Major concerts and festivals at Point State Park create a lively, electric ambiance – perfect for an exciting date night. Pack a picnic, dance to the music and end your evening strolling together under the park’s romantic twinkle lights.
Tour the Gardens at Phipps Conservatory
Name and Location: Phipps Conservatory is a botanical garden located in Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park.
History and Significance: Built in 1893, these historic greenhouses contain elaborate plant exhibits and seasonal floral shows.
What to Expect: Stroll through tropical forests, orchid rooms, and Japanese gardens. Light exhibits add romance at night.
Visitor Information: Phipps is open daily. Admission fee charged. On-site cafe and gift shop available.
Escape the winter chill by exploring the lush tropical gardens and plant exhibits under glass at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Wander through rooms filled with colorful orchids, bonsai trees, palms and seasonal flower shows.
Have your sweetie pose amidst the backgrounds in the Broderie Room or Fern Room for romantic photos together. Time your visit to catch one of Phipps’ evening events, when the gardens are illuminated by magical twinkle lights.
Try Couples Massage at Allegheny Spa Châteaux
Name and Location: The Allegheny Spa Châteaux offers luxury couples massages and treatments in Pittsburgh.
History and Significance: This premier day spa provides rejuvenating spa experiences for couples looking to relax and reconnect.
What to Expect: Pamper yourselves side-by-side with soothing massages, body scrubs, and facials in the same room. Luxurious amenities.
Visitor Information: Book well in advance. Packages range from 60 to 90 minutes. Robes and slippers provided.
Pamper yourselves with a relaxing couples massage at Allegheny Spa Châteaux, located in the Omni William Penn Hotel. You and your sweetheart will be led to a candlelit treatment room and enjoy side-by-side massages in the elegant, historic setting.
After your treatments, continue the romance by lounging in the spa’s whirlpools and saunas. End your blissful spa visit with chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne in the relaxation room.
Dine at a Romantic Restaurant
Name and Location: Pittsburgh offers many romantic restaurants perfect for date nights, like Altius overlooking Mount Washington.
History and Significance: Intimate restaurants with candlelit tables, fine cuisine, and exceptional service create memorable evenings.
What to Expect: Splurge on exquisitely plated meals and attentive service in an upscale yet cozy ambiance. Many provide live music.
Visitor Information: Make reservations in advance. Research dress code requirements. Valet parking is common.
Pittsburgh boasts a thriving dining scene with many restaurants that set the mood for romance with dim lighting, fine wines and live music. For an intimate date night, book a table for two at a romantic restaurant like Alla Famiglia, Altius or The Carlton – where you’ll find amazing food, cozy decor and spectacular city views.
Other romantic options include visiting a piano bar like Ace’s Jazz and Cigar Lounge, or enjoying late-night jazz and cocktails in the atmosphere-rich 21st Amendment Lounge. Wherever you choose, dine and drink the night away with your loved one.
Check into a Boutique Hotel
Name and Location: Pittsburgh offers charming boutique hotel options, like The Quentin, Hotel Monaco, and The Wilson.
History and Significance: Boutique hotels provide intimate, stylish accommodations in historic buildings with a focus on customized service.
What to Expect: Enjoy chic, sophisticated rooms with luxury amenities and décor. Many boast prime locations downtown.
Visitor Information: Reserve well ahead. Boutique hotels have limited rooms and fill fast. Rates around $200-400 per night.
Treat yourselves to an overnight stay in one of Pittsburgh’s boutique hotels, many of which offer charming historic character and lavish amenities perfect for romance. The contemporary Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh is centrally located downtown, with stylish rooms featuring soaking tubs.
For more history, book a room at The Mansions on Fifth, an intimate Victorian hotel where you’ll feel like nobility. The Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel surrounded by theater district culture, or unwind together at Elements urban retreat.
With so many options, why not make an evening out of checking into a luxurious hotel that sets the mood for romance?
Conclusion
Pittsburgh exudes rustic charm, historic character and natural beauty – creating the perfect backdrop for romance to bloom. From scenic overlooks to chic cafes and cozy hotels, the Steel City offers many diverse options for couples to connect and rekindle the spark. Whether you want an activity-filled day downtown or a peaceful retreat in nature, Pittsburgh’s unique spaces and hidden gems make it easy to enjoy quality time with your sweetheart. So bring someone special and come discover why Pittsburgh is a top destination for romantic getaways.