One of my favorite parts of my job is that I am able to travel so much. Whenever I go somewhere I have never been before and am able to, I will try to spend a little extra time in the city. As a result, I have been able to visit some pretty cool places. Recently, I visited Pittsburgh for the first time.
I have to admit, Pittsburgh was the center of my fifth-grade city project (complete with a diagram of the three-rivers), so I was pretty stoked to visit for the first time. Because I had a little under 24-hours to explore the city, I did a lot of research prior to arriving so I could make the most of my time there. I think I was pretty successful, if I do say so myself.
Where I Stayed
I originally wanted to stay in one of the more historic hotels Pittsburgh has to offer, but ultimately decided on the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown after much research. The hotel had a 4-star rating on multiple travel sites, good reviews and the rates were reasonable. The staff was incredibly nice, answered and questions I had and were extremely helpful. The rooms were clean and provided enough space to make you feel like you weren’t living in a box. If I ever return to Pittsburgh, I would definitely stay here again.
Where I Ate
WIngharts: This is a cool little burger joint in the Market Square in downtown Pittsburgh. The staff was super friendly and made me not feel weird being there alone. The white truffle aioli French fries are possibly some of the best fries I have ever had (and that is saying a lot, as fries are my favorite food). Great food. Great vibe. Enough said.
Primanti Bros: Every article or guide I looked at about Pittsburgh mentioned Primanti Brothers as a place to eat, so I figured I should probably try it. I was not disappointed. The sandwiches are massive (they have fries in them!) and are mouthwatering delicious.
Pamela’s Diner: Another Pittsburgh must that lives up to the hype. The diner is super cute and makes you feel like you’ve been transported back in time. Prices are reasonable and the breakfast is tasty. What more could you ask for?
What I Did
Took a Stroll Through Point State Park: I started off my morning by taking a relaxing walk through this park and it was the perfect way to start my morning. If you walk all the way out to the tip of the park, you get a great view of the rivers and the city.
Walked the Strip District: I did this after breakfast at Pamela’s Diner because they were in the same neighborhood. The section on Penn Ave. between 21st and 17th is filled with fresh produce markets, bakeries, a fish market, flower stands and so much more. I had to use all my self control to not buy everything I walked passed.
Visited the Heinz History Center: I felt like I learned the entire history of Pittsburgh while walking through the six floors of the museum. It was amazing they were able to take you from the 1700s to present day while covering everything from politics to sports. Honestly, I wish I had, had another few hours to spend here. Plus, if you take the stairs to each level, you can get a special prize as you exit the museum.
Rode the Duquesne Incline: The Incline as been in operation for over a hundred years, which made me a bit skeptical of the safety factor. However, all of my safety fears where put behind me when I saw the view from the top. Oh. My. Gosh. The view is amazing and they have viewfinders (which I love).
What I Wish I Had Time To Do
Visit Fort Pitt Museum: I passed this during my walk around Point State Park. The original Fort Pitt House was built in 1746 and the museum goes into the history. I am a huge history buff, love museums and wish I had, had time for this one.
Watch A Steelers Game at Heinz Field: As I walked around the city, it was pretty easy to realize how much that city loves the Steelers. Since I visited in March this wasn’t exactly an option, but if I am ever back during the season and when there’s a home game…
Grab Drinks at Il Tetto of Sienna Mercato: I was originally going to grab drinks here on this trip, but ended up not having enough time. The bar is located on the roof and has a great drink menu. What can I say, I’m a sucker for a rooftop bar?
All in all, it was a great trip to Pittsburgh and I hope I can go back at some point. `Next week I will be talking about my trip to Boston, so make sure to check back! Until next time… CB
