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Places to Visit in Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania

Things to do / Travel Guide

The southwestern Pennyslvania region's most popular tourist attractions are centered around the bustling urban city of Pittsburgh and the gorgeous Ohiopyle State Park.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is divided into neighborhoods defined by their unique cultures and characters. “That's over on the Southside,” you might hear a local say, or “you'll find that down on the Strip.” So, to get around easily and make the most of your stay it's a good idea to learn what's behind the local lingo.


Downtown - Widely referred to as the “Golden Triangle” or the “Central Business District,” downtown Pittsburgh is a triangle of land bordered by the Allegheny River and the Monongahela River, which converge to form the Ohio River. The Mellon Arena, Heinz Hall, Point State Park, as well as countless skyscrapers and historic buildings of architectural significance are located in the downtown Pittsburgh area.

Cultural District - For a bit of cultural refinement, outstanding dance, theater, and musical performances, head to the 14 contemporary historical and artistic venues in the Cultural District. Here, you will find a 14-square block area within downtown Pittsburgh bordered by the Allegheny River on the north, Liberty Avenue on the south, Stanwix Street on the west, and Tenth Street on the east.

Mount Washington - With its award-winning restaurants and breathtaking views, the 375-foot high Mount Washington, along Grandview Avenue, is considered to be one of the most beautiful spots in the city. Take the historic cable car railway, the Monongahela Incline or Duquesne Incline, or drive up to the top of Mount Washington and you'll see for yourself what we're talking about.

Shadyside - Centennial trees canopy over Shadyside's well-manicured streets, casting a cool shade that gives this neighborhood its name. Located between Centre Avenue and Fifth Avenue, Shadyside is known for its upscale, chic boutiques, and brand name shopping on Walnut Street and Ellsworth Avenue. Fine dining and ethnic eateries are also scattered throughout the neighborhood.

South Side - The South Side is, predictably, on the south side of the Monongahela River and downtown Pittsburgh. East Carson Street is known for its unique shops, art galleries, vintage boutiques, and ethnic restaurants. On the weekends, nightowls of every age, shape, and color flock to the South Side for the city's best bars and live music.

Strip District - The Strip District is a tasteful mile-long “strip” located northeast of downtown Pittsburgh, roughly located between Liberty Avenue and Smallman Street. The Strip District is known for its bustling outdoor market, quaint mom and pop restaurants, trendy nightclubs and bars, as well as the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh Regional History Center.

Ohiopyle State Park

Located just 40 miles south of Pittsburgh, the area around Ohiopyle, with its waterfalls, lush vegetation, rocky promontories, and 1,700-feet deep gorge, contains some of southwestern Pennsylvania's most beautiful views and scenic drives. The turbulent, fast-moving Youghiogheny River twists through Ohiopyle State Park and Frank Lloyd Wright's must-see architectural masterpieces, Fallingwater and Kentucky Knob, are located nearby.

Places to Visit in Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania

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