3 day itinerary for Pittsburgh

Itinerary

Pittsburgh is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning views, and a thriving arts scene. Let’s make the most of your three days there! Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary for your road trip from East PA to West PA.

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Downtown

Morning:

• Drive to Pittsburgh: Start your day early and enjoy the scenic drive across Pennsylvania. Depending on where you’re coming from in East PA, you might want to grab a coffee and a breakfast sandwich at a local café before hitting the road.
• Check-in: Once you arrive in Pittsburgh, check into your hotel. The downtown area has some great options, like the Omni William Penn Hotel or the Drury Plaza Hotel.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Market Square: Head to Market Square for lunch. There are plenty of options, but I recommend trying Primanti Bros. for their famous sandwiches piled high with fries and coleslaw.
• Point State Park: After lunch, take a stroll through Point State Park. It’s a beautiful spot where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers meet. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the iconic fountain!

Evening:

• Dinner in the Strip District: Head over to the Strip District, a lively neighborhood filled with shops and eateries. You can find everything from Italian to Asian cuisine. Consider dining at the famous Franktuary for gourmet hot dogs or head to the Pittsburgh Public Market for a variety of local bites.
• Catch a Show: If you’re up for it, check out what’s playing at the Benedum Center or the Heinz Hall for a night of culture. Alternatively, you can explore the nightlife in the Strip District or head to a local brewery for some craft beer.

## Day 2: Culture and History

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pamela’s Diner: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pamela’s Diner, known for its crepe-style pancakes.
• Carnegie Museum of Natural History: After breakfast, head to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. It’s one of the best natural history museums in the country, with fascinating exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to ancient civilizations.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at The Café Carnegie: Enjoy lunch at the museum’s café or head to nearby Oakland for more options.
• Pittsburgh’s Cultural District: Spend your afternoon exploring the Cultural District. Visit the Andy Warhol Museum, dedicated to the life and works of the famous pop artist, or check out the Carnegie Science Center if you’re feeling more science-minded.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Capital Grille: Treat yourself to a nice dinner at The Capital Grille, known for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list.
• Ride the Duquesne Incline: After dinner, take a ride on the Duquesne Incline for breathtaking views of the Pittsburgh skyline at night. It’s a romantic and picturesque way to end your day!

## Day 3: Nature and Neighborhoods

Morning:

• Breakfast at Blue Dust: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Blue Dust, located near the Homestead Grays Bridge. Their creative dishes and outdoor seating are a treat!
• Visit Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: After breakfast, head to Phipps Conservatory. The stunning gardens and beautiful glasshouse are perfect for a leisurely morning stroll.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Squirrel Hill: Head to Squirrel Hill for lunch. You can find a variety of eateries, but I recommend trying the famous D’s Six Pax & Dogz for a casual vibe and great hot dogs.
• Explore the Neighborhoods: Spend your afternoon exploring the charming neighborhoods of Pittsburgh. Check out Shadyside for boutique shopping or Lawrenceville for its trendy shops and art galleries.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Church Brew Works: For your final dinner, head to The Church Brew Works, a unique brewery located in a former church. Enjoy their craft beers and delicious pub fare in a stunning setting.
• Wrap Up with a Nightcap: If you have time, grab a nightcap at a rooftop bar like the Fl. 2 at the Fairmont Pittsburgh for one last view of the city skyline.

Bonus Tips:

• Transportation: If you’re not driving around the city, consider using public transport or rideshares. Pittsburgh has a decent public transit system.
• Weather: Check the weather before you go, as it can be unpredictable. Dress in layers, especially if you plan to be outdoors.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Pittsburgh! Enjoy your road trip and all the wonderful experiences the city has to offer! Safe travels! 🚗✨