10 Things to Check off Your Pittsburgh Bucket List

Bucket lists are tricky. They serve as a checklist for amazing memories, or an equally present reminder of everything NOT accomplished. So we’re making it easy for you! The below 10 things to check off your Pittsburgh bucket list are accessible, affordable, and the perfect way to experience all the steel city has to offer. Newcomer or local, keep reading for the best tips and tricks!

Pro Tip: The list pairs well with a glass of Pinot. Sorry- we don’t make the rules.

1. Take in Views from on Top of the Mt. Washington Overlook

? Photo by Arran Senn

A must-see while in Pittsburgh, the Mount Washington overlook offers a breathtaking view of the city in its entirety. From the multiple vantage points, visitors are able to see the iconic Heinz field, Point State Park, as well as Pitt’s Cathedral of Learning. While the view is incentive enough, Shiloh Street restaurants offer a range of culinary options from Gordo’s Tacos to The Summit’s bougee cocktails, De Fiore’s Ice Cream, and more. Looking for something a bit more active? Take part in one of the overlook’s summer yoga or cycling classes hosted by local studios. The schedule changes often so be sure to check their Facebook page for upcoming events. When all else fails take a stroll down Grandview Ave. and admire the impressive real estate.

Hours & Location
Open 24/7

? Grandview Overlook

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2. Stop by the Point this Summer

? Point State Park

Picture this: green grass, a red checkered blanket, charcuterie (Aldi has the best options), and a bottle full of your favorite beverage. Oh, and did we mention it’s golden hour? Point State Park located in downtown Pittsburgh is the perfect spot to soak up some Vitamin D this summer. Also known as The Golden Triangle, the park marks the point at which all three of Pittsburgh’s rivers meet. Park in one of the many downtown garages or rent a bike to access and spend the day exploring The Three Rivers Heritage Trail. While beautiful during the summer, the park is worth a visit year-round for its giant Christmas tree too.

? Point State Park

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3. Eat a Sammie with Fries

? Primanti Brothers

Leave it to Pittsburgh to transform the humble sandwich into a colossal work of art. Originating as a sandwich cart, Primanti Bros has made a name for itself through its famous sammie with fries. Tomatoes, meat, provolone, house cole-slaw, and fresh-cut fries, all layered between two slices of home-style Italian bread. Four food groups in one bite, what’s not to love? While the chain has grown to include multiple locations throughout the state, the original spot in the Strip is worth a visit for authentic Yinzer cuisine and atmosphere.

? Primantis Brothers | The Strip

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4. Visit a Pittsburgh Musuem

? The Andy Warhol Museum

If there’s one thing Pittsburgh is not short on its museums. Start by visiting the Cathedral of Learning’s Nationality Rooms around Christmas and immerse yourself in holiday traditions from around the world. Another great option, the Andy Warhol Museum, displays the Pittsburgh-native’s work through a curated collection of paintings and sculptures. Trundle Manor or the Living Dead Museum provides more eclectic options with a random assortment of oddities in both. History, contemporary art, baseball, railroads…the options are endless and Pittsburgh is sure to have a museum for all of them!

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5. Find the Best Pierogies

? Apteka

Doughy. Bite-Size. Simply Delicious Potato-y Goodness. The pierogi is a staple within the Pittsburgh food scene. Try S&D Polish Deli in the Strip or Pierogies Plus in McKees Rocks for authentic flavor with their potato and cheese variations. From there, head to Cop Out in Etna or Forgotten Taste in Moon Township for novelty offerings including pizza, mac n’ cheese, or the more cultured chicken marsala. Still skeptical? Attend a Pirates game and witness the Pierogis race at the end of the 5^th inning. Slightly odd but endearing nonetheless—very on-brand for the Burgh.

Best Pierogies

6. Attend a Pittsburgh Sporting Event

? PNC Park

When it comes to sports (and potatoes), Pittsburgh fans bring an energy otherwise unmatched. They’re not picky either. Whether it’s the thunder of Heinz Field or the crack of a bat at PNC Park, a Pittsburgh sporting event is an experience you won’t want to miss. During the warmer months, watch the Pirates take on rival New York Islanders while enjoying the best view in town. Cooler temps mean Heinz Field tailgating or catching the Penguins at PPG Paints Arena. Make sure to prepare beforehand! Stop by the strip for all of your black and yellow needs as well as the perfect tailgate contributions. Our pick? Pepperoni Rolls from Jimmy & Nino’s accompanied by a pack of Yuengling (obvi). Check out all of the upcoming games happening this spring!

7. Eat Potato Patch Fries at Kennywood

? Kennywood

Are we sensing a theme yet? The best way to experience the city is through your taste buds and Potato Patch Fries at Kennywood tops the list for best entertainment/food duos. Just south of the city, Kennywood amusement park hosts a collection of roller coasters and rides for your next adrenaline rush. While Phantom’s Revenge and Sky Rocket are no joke, Kennywood offers cortisol-calming activities as well with paddle boats, carousels, and numerous snack options. A favorite of park-goers, the Potato Patch Fries (think cheesy, salty, bacony) are a must while visiting. PSA: Potato Patch then Sky Rocket are a no-go, choose wisely. Planning a winter visit? Check out the park’s website for special holiday events year-round.

Hours & Location
Hours vary, see annual calendar here

? Kennywood

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8. Cruise on the Gateway Clipper

? Gateway Clipper Fleet

The Gateway Clipper has sailed Pittsburgh rivers since the late 1950s and boasts the city’s best view by water. Docking right outside of Station Square, the Clipper offers a variety of cruises and rental options available during warmer weather months. Its most notable, The Three Rivers Sightseeing Cruise, showcases the city’s beautiful architecture and landscape while entertaining passengers with Pittsburgh trivia and a full-service bar. The boat’s Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a more private option for an ideal date night complete with music and an extensive dinner buffet. Additional cruises and party boat rentals can be found at their website below!

Hours & Location
Hours vary, see cruise availabity here

? Gateway Clipper Station

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9. Experience the Riverwalk

? By Arran Senn

There’s no better way to spend a summer day than on the Pittsburgh Riverwalk. Start your morning at the Allegheny Riverfront Park and soak up the sun (or clouds. usually clouds.) while sipping on a beverage from Rock ‘n’ Joe coffee on Penn Ave. Once finished, make your way across the Roberto Clemente bridge to explore the North Shores Riverwalk. Watch out for the baby geese and cyclists that tend to frequent this side of the trail. If you’re a planner, you likely bought tickets for an early afternoon Pirates game. If you’re the opposite, fear not. Spend the afternoon at Southern Tier Brewing or one of the many sports bars within walking distance of the river. At nightfall, head to Tequila Cowboy for a wild night of karaoke, dancing, and a mechanical bull for those brave enough. See below for directions and more info!

Hours & Location
Riverwalk open 24/7

? Northshore Riverfront Park

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10. Ride the Incline

? The Monongahela Incline

The Pittsburgh Inclines takes public transportation to new ‘levels’ with the Monongahela and Duquesne Inclines. Serving as a means of transport up and down Mt. Washington, the inclines are all that remains of the original 15 cars. The older Monongahela Incline drops passengers off at Station Square on East Carson Street. From there it’s an easy walk into Southside for an evening of bars, restaurants, and shopping. Less than a mile away, the Duquesne Incline is the best way to access Grandview Ave., Shiloh Street, and the Overlook. Check their websites below for more information and prices regarding round-trip and one-way rides.

? Lower Station

?Upper Station

For more fun things to do in Pittsburgh, check out our weekend guide – which is constantly updated with the latest and best events!

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412 Pittsburgh Bucket List