Pittsburgh Unleashed: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Pittsburgh: Where family-friendly fun meets steel city charm!

19 July 2023

Pittsburgh, known as the "City of Bridges," is a fantastic destination for a family friendly trip. Visitors can explore the Carnegie Science Center and the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh, where kids can engage in interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. The city also boasts beautiful parks, including the popular Point State Park, offering outdoor recreational opportunities for the entire family.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Steel City

  • Check into the kid-friendly Hotel Monaco, where art meets whimsy in this vibrant downtown hotel.
  • Start the day with a visit to the Carnegie Science Center, where kids can laser-tag giant brains and jet around on an exciting submarine simulator.
  • Don't miss out on the bizarrely enchanting collection at the Mattress Factory, an offbeat art museum filled with mind-bending installations.
  • Take a ride on the Duquesne Incline, a century-old cable car that offers stunning views of the city from atop Mount Washington.
  • End the day with a scrumptious dinner at Pamela's Diner, famous for their mouthwatering pancakes that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Day 2

Historic Treasures and Tasty Treats

  • Start your morning at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, where dinosaurs roar and ancient artifacts transport you to another time.
  • Get a dose of history at the Senator John Heinz History Center, known as the Smithsonian of Pittsburgh, it offers a unique blend of exhibits on everything from Pittsburgh sports to immigration.
  • Head to the Strip District and browse the eclectic mix of shops and food stands, where you can pick up delicious snacks like chocolate-covered bacon!
  • Visit The Andy Warhol Museum, dedicated to the iconic pop artist and showcasing his enigmatic works.
  • Treat yourself to a delectable dinner at Primanti Bros., where the sandwiches come piled high with meat, french fries, and coleslaw, all between two slices of bread. A true Pittsburgh classic!
Day 3

Discovering Pittsburgh's Nature

  • Explore the picturesque Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, where exotic plants, vibrant floral displays, and intriguing art installations reign supreme.
  • Enjoy a leisurely walk through Frick Park, a sprawling green oasis where you might stumble upon fairytale-like stone bridges and hidden trails.
  • Immerse yourself in wildlife at the National Aviary, a haven for bird enthusiasts offering interactive exhibits and even the chance to have a penguin encounter!
  • Take a riverboat cruise along the three rivers that converge in Pittsburgh, for a unique perspective of the city's stunning skyline.
  • Devour some mouthwatering BBQ at Showcase BBQ, a local favorite that serves up fall-off-the-bone deliciousness in a retro setting.
Day 4

Lively Neighborhoods and Local Flavors

  • Start your day at the lively neighborhood of Lawrenceville, where hip boutiques, art galleries, and trendy eateries line the streets.
  • Visit Randyland, a vibrant burst of color and creativity where you can marvel at the quirky art installations and snap Instagram-worthy photos.
  • Grab a tasty lunch at the Smallman Galley, a food hall where innovative chefs whip up culinary masterpieces from around the world.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the hip waterfront area known as the South Side, where charming shops and vibrant street art await.
  • Delight in the flavors of Pittsburgh's Little Italy at Alla Famiglia, where you can savor traditional Italian dishes served family-style, leaving you blissfully stuffed.
Day 5

Unique Museums and Cultural Gems

  • Begin the day with a visit to the Carnegie Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of contemporary and classical works.
  • Immerse yourself in the eclectic exhibits of the ToonSeum, a museum dedicated to the art of cartoons and comics.
  • Head to the Cultural District and catch a show at the historic Benedum Center, where Broadway hits and world-class performances take center stage.
  • Explore the thought-provoking exhibits at the Mattress Factory, showcasing contemporary art that challenges conventions.
  • End your trip with a memorable meal at Meat & Potatoes, a trendy gastropub serving up hearty comfort food with a modern twist.

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.

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