Gabbi Hall
Remember when I said goodbye to Boston? Well, my first stop after that was Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was that or Niagara Falls, and basically everyone I talked to said Niagara Falls was 1) kind of seedy and 2) not that amazing. Pittsburgh ended up being the right choice! It seems to be one of those sleeper cities. It doesn’t have the same iconic status of New York or San Francisco, but it’s an amazing metropolitan area all the same.
I spent a little over 48 hours there, and with the help of my friend, Ashley, explored some of the unique parts of the city. These are the top things things to do in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Where to Stay in Pittsburgh
DISTRIKT HOTEL
Located downtown, this new hotel has easy access to all sections of the city. I got a great deal for three nights using the Hotel Tonight app. The rooms are clean, bed is comfortable, and the wi-fi is solid. I also enjoyed sitting in the sun on the 10th-floor terrace. The only downside is that I ended up with an interior room, which did not have a view. Seriously, the window looked into a brick wall, but I didn’t spend all that much time in my room, so it was not the end of the world.
Best Restaurants in Pittsburgh
GASOLINE STREET COFFEE COMPANY
I stopped in this small coffee shop near my hotel to get some work done. It has quirky interior design, comfy chairs, fast wifi and was not so busy that I couldn’t find a place to sit. Oh, and solid coffee and breakfast sandwiches.
CAFE RAYMOND
I walked from my hotel to the Strip District. Putting in 14,000+ steps causes me to work up an appetite. I stopped into the welcoming Cafe Raymond. It’s similar to a deli, but the food felt more substantive. I had the Bistro Burger that was simply amazing.
PEACE, LOVE AND LITTLE DONUTS
This spot is great for dessert. Freshly made mini-donuts with a very wide assortment of toppings. I stopped in while I was in the Strip District. This is definitely worth a visit.
THE MILKSHAKE FACTORY
Stopped in here after dinner. They’ve got classic milkshakes, and more inventive sundaes. Seemed like it could be a cute date spot, but it’s also just a great place to sit with friends and enjoy a treat on a warm day.
F
PORK AND BEANS
My friend Ashley and I stopped in here after visiting the Andy Warhol Museum. We shared a Blue Apron plate with two meats and two sides as well as the deviled eggs appetizers. ALL amazing! The cocktails weren’t bad either.
BUTCHER AND THE RYE
Before I went to see the Pirates play at PNC Park, I stopped in for a cocktail at this hip local haunt. Think dim lighting, hipster vibes, and leather seating. There are two bars, and I was able to find a set. The bartenders were great about suggesting cocktails to fit my tastes, and they did not disappoint.
Things to Do in Pittsburgh
PIRATES GAME AT PNC PARK
Here’s the deal. I am not a hardcore baseball fan. That said, I love going to baseball games. PNC Park was a lot of fun for a number of reasons, but its most stunning feature is the view from behind home plate. Beer, food and friends? What’s not to like?
THE ANDY WARHOL MUSEUM
Legendary artist Andy Warhol was born in Pittsburgh and a museum filled top to bottom with his life’s work. It’s $20 to get in, which did feel a little steep for entry considering it’s not all that big, but if you love museums, this is very well done. Warhol’s work was so influential in art and advertising. It’s incredible to see the materials up close.
Until next time, here goes nothing.
