PGH Fun Fest: A 4-Day Adventure in Pittsburgh!

Explore the endless family fun in Pittsburgh, where vibrant culture meets thrilling adventures!

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Pittsburgh, United States offers an array of attractions and activities for all ages. Explore the Carnegie Science Center and enjoy interactive exhibits and a world-class planetarium. Take a scenic ride on the Duquesne Incline for stunning views of the city, and have a blast at the famous Kennywood Park, with thrilling rides, games, and live entertainment.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Steel City

  • Check into the charming Hotel Monaco, situated in a historic building downtown, where your family will feel like royalty with their pet-friendly policy!
  • Kick start your day at the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, where creativity flows in abundance and even the grown-ups won't be able to resist joining in on the fun.
  • Take the incline up to Mount Washington for stunning panoramic views of the city, making sure to snap an obligatory family selfie with the cityscape as your backdrop.
  • Dive into a mouthwatering lunch at Primanti Brothers, where the sandwiches are as legendary as the city itself, piled high with fries and coleslaw, Pittsburgh style.
  • Visit the famous Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a tropical oasis filled with exotic plants and mesmerizing floral displays.
  • End your day with a leisurely stroll along the North Shore River Trail, admiring the sparkling waters of the Three Rivers and relishing in the undeniable charm of Pittsburgh's skyline.
Day 2

Museums Galore

  • Begin with a hearty breakfast at Pamela's Diner, a local institution known for their iconic crepe-style pancakes. Be prepared for a line, but trust me, it's worth the wait!
  • Immerse yourself in the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, where you'll encounter everything from ancient fossils to contemporary masterpieces.
  • Lunchtime calls for a visit to Smallman Galley, a unique food hall showcasing local culinary talent with an ever-changing lineup of innovative eateries.
  • Swing by the Andy Warhol Museum, dedicated to the eccentric pop art guru. Channel your inner artist while creating your own Warhol-inspired masterpiece.
  • Time for a sweet treat! Head to the Strip District and indulge in some delectable chocolates from Mon Aimee Chocolat, a paradise for all cocoa lovers.
  • End the day at the National Aviary, a bird lover's paradise. Get up close and personal with majestic eagles, colorful parrots, and even adorable penguins.
Day 3

Sports and Science

  • Start the day at Deluca's Diner, a classic '50s style joint known for their oversized breakfast platters that will fuel your family for a day of adventure.
  • Head over to Heinz Field for a thrilling tour of the legendary Pittsburgh Steelers' stadium. You might even catch a glimpse of their zealous mascot, Steely McBeam!
  • Visit the Carnegie Science Center and let your inner scientist loose with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and even a sportsworks for some hands-on sports fun.
  • Grab a bite at The Church Brew Works, an extraordinary brewery housed in a historical church, offering mouthwatering dishes alongside their handcrafted brews.
  • Venture into Pittsburgh's quirky side with a visit to Randyland, an explosion of color and creativity. This outdoor art installation is a whimsical wonderland.
  • Cap off the day with a scenic river cruise on the Gateway Clipper Fleet, gliding along the rivers while admiring Pittsburgh's skyline illuminated at night.
Day 4

Neighborhood Vibes

  • Breakfast at Pamela's Diner again? You bet! No trip to Pittsburgh is complete without another helping of those heavenly pancakes.
  • Explore the hipster haven of Lawrenceville, known for its trendy shops, innovative eateries, and vibrant street art. Keep an eye out for quirky boutiques!
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Noodlehead, a Thai-inspired joint where you can customize your noodles to perfection, creating a dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
  • Walk off your meal with a stroll through the picturesque Frick Park, a leafy oasis with nature trails, play areas, and even a charming greenhouse.
  • Raise a glass at the Churchview Farmstand, a unique farm offering tours and tastings of their craft cider creations, made from hand-picked locally grown apples.
  • Wind down your Pittsburgh adventure with a visit to the 22nd Street Coffee, a cozy cafe where you can savor a cup of expertly brewed coffee while reflecting on your unforgettable family getaway.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Pittsburgh by plane is to fly into Pittsburgh International Airport from your departure airport. There are multiple major airlines that service this airport making it a convenient option for travelers.

Car

Driving to Pittsburgh is an option for those nearby or looking for a road trip. Major highways leading to Pittsburgh include I-76, I-79 and I-376. Once in Pittsburgh, it is recommended to park in one of the public parking garages located throughout the downtown area.

Train

Unfortunately there is no direct train service to Pittsburgh. However, Amtrak has stations in nearby cities such as Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. which offer connections to Pittsburgh via bus or rental car.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Pittsburgh, it is possible to travel by boat on the Ohio River which runs through the city. There are various boat tours and rentals available for those interested.

Bus

There are several bus companies such as Greyhound and Megabus that offer travel to Pittsburgh from various cities. The main bus station in Pittsburgh is the Pittsburgh Intermodal Station located in the downtown area.

More travel plans

Weekend Wanderlust: Romance in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is the perfect destination for a romantic trip. With picturesque views of the skyline and its many bridges and rivers, a riverboat cruise or walk along the riverbanks are romantic options for couples. There are also plenty of intimate dining options, such as modern Italian restaurant Lidia's, or the trendy Meat & Potatoes, offering delectable dishes and beautiful ambiance.

Romantic Pittsburgh: A 4-day Love Adventure

Pittsburgh, known as the "Steel City", offers plenty of opportunities for a romantic trip. Take a stroll through the beautiful Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, indulge in a candlelit dinner at the LeMont Restaurant with beautiful panoramic views of the city, and explore the cultural and artistic side of the city with a visit to the Andy Warhol Museum.

Discover Pittsburgh: A 4-Day Adventure Guide

Pittsburgh, known as the "Steel City," offers a variety of affordable activities. Visit the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History for a discounted admission, walk along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail and explore the Point State Park, and try the city's famous Primanti Brothers sandwich. For budget-friendly accommodations, consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb.

Budget-Friendly Pittsburgh: 5 Days of Fun & Flavor

A limited budget trip to Pittsburgh in the United States is a perfect opportunity to explore the city's affordable attractions. Take a stroll through the Strip District, a vibrant neighborhood famous for its food and local shops. Visit the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, with free admission on the third Sunday of every month.