The Perfect Pittsburgh Bucket List

By michael vivar

Some who've never been to Pittsburgh have an anachronistic notion of it being a worn down city left behind by the steel industry collapse.

It is known by sports fans who either love or hate the Steelers and Penguins for their storied championship record in the NFL and NHL respectively.

Pittsburgh experienced a renaissance in the 1990s when graduates of prestigious local universities stuck around for the cost of living. They made it a tech and medical hub. Here's what's on offer.

The two-mile stretch is one of Pittsburgh's main destinations for epicures. Beside world-class restaurants are food treasure troves for the most discerning home cooks.

Strip District

This historic neighborhood includes homes restored to their late-1800s/early-1900s glory. Every year owners host a public house tour. Don't forget to see Randyland.

Mexican War Streets

The confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio rivers was once a fort for both British and Colonial armies. It's now a venue for concerts and cultural festivals.

Point State Park

The Black cultural center is named for the Pittsburgh-native playwright. It has permanent art installations along with traveling exhibitions and regular live performances.

August Wilson Center

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Before the advent of cars, numerous funiculars bore people between Downtown and the residential neighborhoods above. Two remain, providing gorgeous views of the city.

Inclines

The venerable amusement park is large enough to have something for everyone but small enough to do in a day. It's a destination for coaster fanatics across the globe.

Kennywood

An architectural masterpiece that's a jewel of the Oakland neighborhood and the University of Pittsburgh. Within are Nationality Rooms funded by international alumni.

Cathedral of Learning

Click below for day trips from Boston, one of Pittsburgh's rival cities.

Day Trips From Boston