The Ultimate And Definitive Bucket List For Everyone In Pittsburgh
By Beth Price-Williams|Updated on May 05, 2024(Originally published November 24, 2016)
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Have you ever stopped to look around Pittsburgh to appreciate all that our beloved city has to offer? It’s easy to become complacent and take for granted what Pittsburgh means to us. Embrace the full Pittsburgh experience by checking off these 20 items on your Pittsburgh bucket list.
1. Go to the top of Mount Washington on the Duquesne Incline
Duquesne Incline, 1197 W Carson St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
Every Pittsburgher has to climb the side of Mount Washington aboard the Duquesne Incline. It's just what we do. You'll be well rewarded with breathtaking views of the Pittsburgh skyline.
2. Stop by the Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
Journey back millions of years to prehistoric times when you visit the renowned dinosaur collection at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. The museum also features such exhibits as the Hillman Hall of Minerals and Gems and Bonehunters Quarry.
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3. Visit Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens at Christmastime
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens promises a magical adventure any time of the year. But, Christmas adds that extra special touch - with topiary gardens, countless LED lights, and visits from Santa himself - that makes it a must-visit spot during the holiday season.
Embrace winter as you skate around Pittsburgh's most majestic Christmas tree at PPG Place. Watch the twinkling lights and enjoy skating alongside novice and expert ice skaters. Glide around the Christmas tree at the UPMC Ice Rink at PPG Place from January until the end of February.
5. Enjoy the Fourth of July Fireworks at the Point
Point State Park, 601 Commonwealth Pl, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA
Sure, you can enjoy amazing fireworks at cozy neighborhood displays during the Fourth of July holiday. But, every Pittsburgher must - at least once - experience fireworks at the Point.
6. Dine at the Church Brew Works
The Church Brew Works, 3525 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, USA
Enter a delightfully charming restaurant, a former church that still maintains much of its former decor, at the Church Brew Works. The popular restaurant features a variety of menus, including a dinner menu, a lunch menu, a pub menu, a kids' menu, and a gluten-free menu. Enjoy a delicious meal at the Church Brew Works at 3525 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15201.
You can't live in Pittsburgh without eating authentic pierogies. You just can't. Grab some of the city's finest pierogies from the PGH Pierogi Truck. We have some amazing food trucks that pop up in different areas of the city every day.
8. Glide down the Water Natural Slides in Ohiopyle
Ohiopyle State Park, 124 Main St, Ohiopyle, PA 15470, USA
The Natural Water Slides beckon daredevils to take to these natural slides for an unforgettable experience. Word of caution, however: You may get bumps and bruises from hitting against the rocks as you make your way down the slides. Cool down next summer as you zip down the Natural Water Slides in Ohiopyle.
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9. Cheer on the Steelers at Acrisure Stadium
Acrisure Stadium, 100 Art Rooney Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA
No matter where you go on Steelers Sunday, you'll find fans glued to the TV, watching the latest match-up. But, nothing quite compares to the electricity of watching the Steelers play at Acrisure Stadium, kicking off the day-long celebration by tailgating in the parking lot before the game. Root for the black and gold at Acrisure Stadium on Art Rooney Avenue.
10. Go to Fireworks Night at PNC Park
PNC Park, 115 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA
Baseball fans can attest to the amazing experience - the food, the atmosphere, and, of course, the baseball game - that awaits at PNC Park. But, even if you're not a baseball fan, you must add PNC Park to your Pittsburgh bucket list. Plan your visit during fireworks night, one of the most popular events at the Buccos ball field.
It's a Burgh thing. Summer means Kennywood and Kennywood means fries, drenched in cheese and topped with bacon, at the Potato Patch. Plan your visit to Kennywood soon because it is a magical theme park with a long history dating back to 1898.
Outdoor enthusiasts know how much Pittsburgh has to offer in outdoor activities including kayaking, biking, and hiking. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail winds along 25 miles, passing all of Pittsburgh's iconic spots, including PNC Park, Acrisure Stadium, downtown Pittsburgh, and the South Side.
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14. Apply for a role as an extra when Hollywood comes to town
Hollywood comes calling to Pittsburgh pretty frequently. So, why not take advantage and get a glimpse at your favorite stars by applying for a role as an extra? Keep your eyes open for ads for movie/TV extras when you know Hollywood is coming to town.
15. Spend a moment of reflection at Heinz Chapel
Heinz Memorial Chapel, S Bellefield Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
Heinz Chapel in Oakland provides Pittsburghers, and visitors, with the ideal spot for a moment of reflection. The non-denomination chapel also features tours during regular chapel hours.
16. Tour the Nationality Rooms at the University of Pittsburgh
University of Pittsburgh, 4200 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
The University of Pittsburgh's renowned Nationality Rooms certainly deserve at least one visit in every Pittsburgher's lifetime. Visit a multitude of places, including Africa, Scotland, Austria, early America, Germany, India, and Russia. Explore the world via the University of Pittsburgh.
17. Cruise on the Gateway Clipper Fleet
Gateway Clipper Fleet, 350 W Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
Gain a unique perspective of downtown Pittsburgh from the water aboard a Gateway Clipper Fleet Cruise, which features numerous unique cruises, including dinner cruises, holiday cruises, sightseeing cruises, and the Good Ship Lollipop. Climb aboard a cruise with the Gateway Clipper Fleet at 350 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
18. Pay respects at the Southwestern Pennsylvania World War II Memorial
World War ll Veterans Memorial, N Shore Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA
The veterans of World War II are honored at the Southwestern Pennsylvania World War II Memorial. A spectacular monument that provides Pittsburghers with a place to reflect and honor all those who served the United States during World War II. Honor the Greatest Generation at the Southwestern Pennsylvania World War II Memorial, located at North Shore Drive.
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19. Visit The Roberto Clemente Museum
The Clemente Museum, 3339 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15201, USA
Roberto Clemente, perhaps one of Pittsburgh's most enduring figures, is remembered at the Roberto Clemente Museum, which takes visitors on a journey through Clemente's life until his tragic death. View baseball memorabilia, photographs, and other exhibits at the museum.
20. Meet the birds at the National Aviary
National Aviary, 700 Arch St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA
Get up close with some of the world's most beautiful birds - bald eagles, penguins, and parrots at The National Aviary. Attend one of the daily interactive encounters, such as the Flamingo Trek and the Birds of Prey. You'll always make new feathered friends at The National Aviary.
The ultimate Pittsburgh bucket list will give you the full Pittsburgh experience as you create memories to last a lifetime. In your opinion, what are some of the best things to do in Pittsburgh? Leave a comment with a few more Pennsylvania bucket list ideas.
Here are several easy hikes you might want to add to your bucket list if you enjoy the outdoors as much as we do. Grab some maps from AllTrails+ and start exploring.