District Weekender Trip to Pittsburgh: What to Do and Where to Eat

View from Duquesne Incline (RSN/The District Weekender)

If you have lived in DC long enough, chances are Pittsburgh must have crossed your mind as a weekend trip destination. Look no further, we are here to guide you to have a fulfilling weekend at Pittsburgh.

The former Steel City has the best of both world. A city-feel like Manhattan or Philadelphia but surround by hills just like in Ashville, North Carolina. The city is fulfilled with magnificent colors especially if you visit in the fall.

Pittsburgh takes its pride as a city with a strong immigrant roots. Kielbasa and pierogi have become an identical food to the city, thanks to the strong Central European communities in Pittsburgh. The brewing culture in Pittsburgh is also exciting. There are more reasons to visit Pittsburgh, here they are:

WHAT TO DO

View of downtown Pitts from West End Overlook (RSN/The District Weekender)

Duquesne Incline and the Grandview Overlook

From the overlook, you can see a stunning view of the City of Pittsburg and where the three rivers meet: the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio. This point is the closest and clearest overlook of the city. You can also go to West End which is a little bit further from downtown and get a similar view. You can also take a cable car to the overlook. Two ways ticket is $5.

Main fountain at Point State Park (RSN/The District Weekender)

Point State Park

Technically, you can see the Point State Park from the Grandview Overlook. But walking around the park and being there is a completely different experience. The fountain is very beautiful. You are also by the river.

Old building at Strip District (RSN/The District Weekender)

Strip District

Street vendors, specialty food stores, and bars — you name it. Strip District is the spot where you go to buy souvenirs for your family and friends, including Pittsburg Steelers memorabilia. S&D Market which specializes in pierogis and kielbasa and other Polish delicacy is also located here. This strip is as lively as a Chinatown in Manhattan.

“Femme Touch” Exhibition at the Andy Warhol Museum

The Andy Warhol Museum

In case you did not know it, yes, Andy Warhol is Pitts-born. The seven-level floor museum hold the many collections of Warhol, including the Silver Clouds. Entrance is $20 per person, if you are a AAA member, you’ll get $1 off per ticket.

South Side Flats

This neighborhood has the highest concentration of bars and restaurants in the city. Even if you are not thinking of drinking or eating in the area, driving by East Carson Street is nice to see the old buildings that are turned into stores.

Part of the store and museum of Bicycle Heaven (RSN/The District Weekender)

Bicycle Heaven

The store claim itself as the biggest bike museum un the world. The establishment is home to many Schwinn’s bike of different sizes. Check out the eclectic-disco bike room for an Instaworthy photo.

Where to Eat

Argentinian barbeque at Gaucho Parrilla (RSN/The District Weekender)

Gaucho Argentina

The newly moved to downtown Argentinian restaurant received more than 2,700 reviews on Google and is a local favorite that is not a tourist trap. The meat is cooked in perfection as well as the other side dishes. Make sure to order your meat medium rare for the maximum deliciousness. They also have a patio seating on the second floor. Reservation several days before is highly recommended.

Pittsburgh in a nutshell (RSN/The District Weekender)

Primanti Bros

Primanti Bros sandwich and Iron City beer are Pittsburgh in a nutshell. The sandwich place is everywhere in PGH. For an authentic experience, come to their store at the Strip District.

Pastries from La Gourmandine (RSN/The District Weekender)

La Gourmandine

This bakery is definitely a true taste of France in Pittsburgh. There are several locations around Pittsburgh greater area, but the two that are within the city are in downtown and in the Lawrenceville/Highland neighborhood. Their almond chocolate croissant is really good!

Bauern schnitzel from Hofbräuhaus (RSN/The District Weekender)

Hofbräuhaus

Upon your entrance to this beer house, you are immediately transported to Germany. The German beer selection is great. Hefeweizen, Dunkel, Oktoberfest beer, you name it. The food is also delicious. We definitely recommend Bauern schnitzel with a side of mushroom gravy!

Colorful fish tacos from the Urban Tap

The Urban Tap

This tap house serves around 100 types of beer. Our favorite includes Mischievous Brown Ale by Helltown Brewing. Their fish tacos are also amazing. Definitely stop by this place if you are in East Liberty/Highland Park area.

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