Discovering Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: An Exciting April Adventure

April 2023

Introduction Spring is a magical time to explore new destinations, and this April, I found myself heading to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Known as the “City of Bridges,” Pittsburgh is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history, diverse culture, and an array of family-friendly attractions. Traveling from Boston, Massachusetts, I was eager to see what this city had to offer. Here’s a detailed account of my delightful journey through Pittsburgh, filled with tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit.

The Andy Warhol Museum My first stop was the iconic Andy Warhol Museum, the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist. As a fan of Warhol’s work, I was thrilled to explore the seven floors of exhibits showcasing his art, films, and personal memorabilia. The interactive displays and engaging activities made it a hit with my kids as well. We even got to create our own Warhol-inspired prints!

Carnegie Science Center Next on the itinerary was the Carnegie Science Center, a haven for curious minds of all ages. This sprawling center features hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and even a World War II submarine, the USS Requin. My family spent hours exploring the interactive exhibits and marveling at the wonders of science and technology. The Highmark SportsWorks area was particularly popular with my kids, who loved the chance to test their athletic skills.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens For a serene escape, we visited the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This stunning glasshouse boasts beautiful floral displays and themed gardens that change with the seasons. In April, the Spring Flower Show was in full bloom, offering a colorful spectacle of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. The Children’s Discovery Garden was a hit, with its interactive exhibits designed to engage young visitors.

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium No family trip is complete without a visit to the zoo, and the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium did not disappoint. Home to thousands of animals from around the world, the zoo provided a day full of fun and learning. Highlights included the Tropical Forest, where we saw playful orangutans, and the Kid’s Kingdom, an interactive area where my children could get up close with animals.

Duquesne Incline For a unique perspective of Pittsburgh, we took a ride on the historic Duquesne Incline. This century-old funicular offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and its famous three rivers. At the top, the observation deck provided the perfect photo opportunity. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the incline and its role in the city’s development.

Cultural District Pittsburgh’s Cultural District is a vibrant area brimming with theaters, galleries, and public art. We enjoyed a delightful evening performance at the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts. The district also features numerous restaurants and cafes, making it an ideal spot for dinner and a show. For art lovers, the Wood Street Galleries offer contemporary art exhibits that are sure to inspire.

Primanti Brothers No trip to Pittsburgh is complete without sampling the city’s culinary icon, the Primanti Brothers sandwich. These colossal sandwiches, stuffed with meat, coleslaw, and French fries, are a local favorite. I tried the classic Pastrami and Cheese, and it was every bit as delicious as I had hoped. For dessert, we headed to Sarris Candies, where the homemade chocolates and ice cream were the perfect sweet ending to our meal.

Travel Tips for Pittsburgh

Conclusion Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and family-friendly fun. From its world-class museums and stunning gardens to its vibrant cultural scene and delectable food, Pittsburgh has something for everyone. I left with a newfound appreciation for this dynamic city and can’t wait to return. If you’re looking for a destination that offers a little bit of everything, Pittsburgh should be at the top of your list!

Places Mentioned