Pittsburgh is a big city with small city charm. If you fly into Pittsburgh and arrive at the Greater Pittsburgh International Airport, you are greeted by a mecca of interesting shops. The wares sold there are not only unusual but reasonably priced for the traveler. Souvenirs and good food await the arriving guest. at this airport destination.The hospitality of the city begins here.
Pittsburgh boasts of a vibrant downtown area. Most cities do not have a prominent downtown, but Pittsburgh is the exception. There are major shopping stores lining Fifth Avenue, and Market Square. Macy’s Department Store is a large part of this downtown shopping experience. During the holidays, Macy presents holiday parades, similar to those in New York City. The holiday window displays are animated, and both adults and children enjoy these windows. Lines form the day after Thanksgiving to view them.
Downtown is ablaze with lights all year long. The high rise buildings light up during the year. At holiday time, they are lit with various holiday symbols.
Touring the city is an easy task. Horse drawn carriages offer a scenic tour of the downtown area. The best time to take this ride is in the evening, when the town is lit up. Boat tours are offered and some are dinner cruises. Even in the cold Winter months, these heated boats offer a scenic view of the three rivers that make Pittsburgh famous. The Gateway Clipper fleet has been operational for many years and offers a variety of boats that provide both day and night time entertainment. Another popular tour is by bus, which takes the tourist to the historic neighborhoods in the metro area. Land and water tours range in price from $16 to $40.
The downtown area is called the Golden Triangle. That name is given to the area because of the convergence of three rivers at that spot. The Allegheny, Ohio, and Monongahela merge at Point State Park. This Park is home to many festivals throughout the year. A fountain, which is considered one of the largest in the nation, is the focal point of the park. The huge lit fountain is a sight to see. The Ft. Pitt Museum and the Ft. Pitt Block House are located in this area. There are many exhibits featuring artifacts, dioramas and audio visual demonstrations, depicting the history of the area. The Block House tour is free and the Museum entrance fee is just $5, with discounted pricing available.
Pittsburgh’s North Shore has become a place to be in the evening hours. Heinz Field is home to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the area’s football team. On game days, the town erupts with fans wearing Pittsburgh Steeler jerseys. The game, whether it is football, baseball or hockey, is the topic of most conversations. Pittsburgh is proud of its professional teams, the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Pittsburgh Penguins. During their seasons, visitors can purchase tickets to see them in action.
Along the site of Heinz Field, is the gambling mecca of the area. “The Rivers” is a huge facility, offering gaming at its best, and good food. The entire side of the building is glass, which enables diners to view the famous inclines that inch their way up and down Mount Washington.
Station Square, located near “The Rivers,” is a shopping and entertainment center. There are many name brand shops located there, along with unique small shops that offer some Pittsburgh treasures. Restaurants, that meet every taste, offer excellent fare. In the evening, the area becomes alive with party goers of every age. This property was once the Baltimore and Ohio Station. With the ingenuity of some developers, it has become one of the great places to visit and shop.
No trip to Pittsburgh would be complete, without riding the inclines that make their way up and down Mount Washington. Once atop the Mountain, the visitor can see a spectacular view of the city. This is especially beautiful at night. The LeMont Restaurant on Mount Washington has become a favorite of Pittsburghers and visitors. It is a four star restaurant offering tantalizing meals. Prices range from $24 to $48.
There are other great restaurants in every corner of Pittsburgh. Tambelini’s is a good choice for Italian food. It is located in the downtown area and has been serving customers for more than 50 years. Prices range from $7 to $20.
There are many other quaint restaurants in the downtown area, along with fast food favorites. All are within walking distance of most downtown hotels.
Hotel rooms are plentiful in the downtown area. Many conventions are held at the Westin Convention Center. Some of the more popular hotels are the Westin Convention Center Hotel, Omni William Penn, Pittsburgh
Marriott, Sheraton-North Shore, Holiday Inn, and Hampton Inn and Suites. Most range from $135 to $499 per night.
Pittsburghers are very friendly and helpful to tourists. They thrive on visitors, and can be very helpful in offering directions. The public transportation system in the city makes it economical and convenient to get around the town. There is a subway, bus and streetcar system, all run by the Port Authority. Passes are available for day, weekly, and even monthly rides on the various conveyances. These are available for the inclines, also. The taxi cab drivers are friendly and most helpful to visitors, also.
The city offers cultural events at the many theaters located in the downtown area. Broadway shows entertain in the city’s downtown area. For more detailed information, contact Visit Pittsburgh at 800-359-0758. The Visitors Bureau at this number will furnish you with detailed maps, tour books, etc. for your visit to this metropolitan area.
Pittsburgh has much to offer the tourist. It is an exciting experience to visit this town. Each area offers something for the visitor. This is just a sampling of the downtown area. References: AAA publishing
Visit Pittsburgh 800-359-0758
