48 hours in Downtown Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is known as the Steel City and the City of Bridges, but it’s time the world knew it for something else: its vibrant Downtown. Why not choose Pittsburgh as your next weekend destination and find out what the Downtown has to offer? Here’s a simple itinerary for a two-day visit. 

Pittsburgh - Day 1: The Culture District and The Warhol

Stay at the Westin Hotel in Downtown Pittsburgh for its location, beauty,p and comfort. The four-star hotel is in the perfect location and offers various dining options. The hotel is even connected – via a bridge – to the gigantic David L. Lawrence Convention Center, also home to a tourist info center on the ground floor. Year round, the center hosts top-notch conferences, and its terraces are a prime spot to admire the view of theriverside. Visit it if you can!

If you’re looking for brunch, Sally Ann’s is a great option. With a vast menu, friendly waiters, and an urban vibe, this cafe is a perfect introduction to the city of Pittsburgh. 

Take a stroll in the Culture District and breathe in the cultural life. Penn Avenue houses various theatres and cultural centres – take a look at their calendars and see what events they offer while you’re there, try to catch a show, if you’re into theatre. Visitpittsburgh.com has all the info on what’s going on in the city, make sure to consult their website for the latest exhibits, events, shows, and so much more. 

Did you know that Andy Warhol was born in Pittsburgh? Cross the bridge named after him to the other side of the Allegheny river. In the distance, to your left, you’ll see the Heinz Field, and a block later you’ll be facing the Andy Warhol Museum. A visit to this multimedia museum will make for an enriching experience, and you’ll leave knowing much, much more about this Pittsburgh-native iconic artist that shaped the second half of the 20th century. 

When you’re ready, walk back to the Culture Ditrict and treat yourself to a fancy dinner at the Bridges and Bourbons restaurant for some fine dining. Their colorful cocktails are spectacular (both in taste and in creative appearance), and, to me, their dishes are the best in Pittsburgh. 

Pittsburgh - Day 2: History and The Strip District

A way to start your day is by having coffee at The Standard. They serve breakfast and brunch (as well as lunch and dinner) and you’ll be able to choose your latte flavor from a myriad of options. 

Once caffeinated, walk over to Point State Park, where Fort Pitt once stood. At the Fort Pitt Museum, you can read up the interesting history of the place that’s linked to the French and then the English. From there, cross the Monongahela river on Fort Pitt Bridge and climb aboard the Duquesne Incline, a funicular that has become a national historical landmark. From a restored cable car dating back to the 1870s climbing Mt. Washington, you’ll be able to enjoy a view of the entire city from above. 

For lunch on a Saturday, I recommend Barcelona Wine Bar. Order as many tapas as you want, for a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine. You’ll be close enough to go back to the hotel for a quick change or nap, if you want. 

Next, you should cross into the eclectic Strip District. Your first stop along the way should be the Heinz History Center – yes, if ketchup just came to mind, it’s named after that Heinz family. It’s Pennsylvania’s largest history museum and affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution. 

Stroll the colorful streets of the Strip District and shop where you will. Embrace the authentic mix of cultures and smells surrounding you. For dinner, pick whichever spot calls to you the most. 

Let Pittsburgh surprise you!