Things to Do in Pittsburgh

There are a few ways to get up to Mount Washington from Pittsburgh, but Duquesne Incline is perhaps the most classic. In service from 1877, the historic cable cars, in their original wood, remain in operation. Along with the Monongahela Incline, it is the oldest continuous funicular in the world. 

Inclined at 30 feet and traveling from downtown Pittsburgh’s South Side to the top of Mount Washington, it’s where panoramic views and the city’s most upscale neighborhood await. Though once powered by steam and built for cargo, it now mostly carries passengers up to the scenic overlook with a view of Pittsburg’s “Golden Triangle” of rivers. 

There is also a museum that allows for a glimpse at the interior of the incline as it operates. At the top of the hill is a museum dedicated both to the history of Pittsburgh and inclines located all over the world. The view from Mount Washington has been called one of the most beautiful vistas in America.

Home of the NFL team the Pittsburgh Steelers, Heinz Field can hold more than 65,000 fans in its stadium. It sits on the bank of the Allegheny River and from its seats you can view the iconic Pittsburgh city skyline and riverfront. Large concerts and University of Pittsburgh football games are also played here. At nearly 1.5 million square feet in size, the stadium holds an impressive range of facilities from seating and lounges to concessions and televisions. 

The horseshoe-shaped stadium opened in 2001 after two years of construction, in which more than 12,000 tons of steel was used (an ode to the city’s history of steel production.) The stadium’s field is comprised of natural Kentucky Bluegrass, which is heated from below to stay in season year-round. Six giant trophy displays showcase the team’s history of success. The stadium’s thousands of seats have impressively been sold out for every Steelers home game since 1972.

Aside from being one of the most visited neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, Mount Washington offers some of the best views of the city skyline, having been named one of the most beautiful vistas in America. Rows of charming homes and Shiloh Street, the main district of shops, bars, restaurants, and boutiques also draw many to the area. Several of the restaurants offer an upscale ambiance with incredible views of the city and the three surrounding countryside and rivers. It is one of the premier neighborhoods in Pittsburg.

The mountain was once the home of many various coal mines, earning it the nickname of “Coal Mountain.” Grandview Avenue runs the length of the hill with four outlook decks in between homes and restaurants. At the edge of the mountain you’ll find the bronze statue of George Washington and Seneca leader Guyasuta staring at one another, marking the area’s history. Also be sure to check out the library and the city’s newest park, Emerald View, which feels worlds away from the city. 

What began as an American cafe in London has spread around the world, and Hard Rock Cafe in Pittsburgh is no exception to the classic food and rock ’n’ roll atmosphere found in the many restaurants. With a industrial interior as well as an outdoor patio, there are many comfortable places to sit and take in the energy. The exposed-brick stage always has some form of entertainment whenever classic rock ’n’ roll isn’t playing on the speakers. Frequently the space holds open mic nights and battle of the bands events.

While the bar features specialty cocktails, the menu has burgers, chicken wings, nachos, and potato skins to start. Entree choices range from fresh salads, sandwiches, and hickory-smoked barbecue specialties. Memorabilia found specifically at this cafe includes costumes from legends such as Elton John, Elvis, and Michael Jackson, or see the instruments once played by The Who and Stevie Wonder. There is even a handwritten draft of lyrics written by Bob Marley.