Pittsburgh is much more than a city with a beautiful skyline. Its friendly people have a strong sense of heritage and strong ties to their hometown. When its steel mills closed, they transformed Pittsburgh into a center for research and robotics, and that innovation has led to ongoing redevelopment that continues to attract young professionals, families, and tech companies. With its three rivers, Victorian architecture, green spaces, eco-friendly buildings, and 446 bridges connecting the neighborhoods, Pittsburgh's revival makes the city well worth a visit.
Where to Eat
There's a reason why Pittsburgh has been named a top city for foodies. Its chefs are regularly nominated for James Beard Foundation awards (three were semifinalists in 2019), and its restaurants reflect the innovation that has become the city's hallmark. While many new restaurants open here each year, many have been around long enough to become cherished dining spots. From fine dining restaurants to Mexican eateries, here are Pittsburgh's best restaurants.
Things to Do
With public parks, cool events and festivals, and a varied music scene, Pittsburgh is more than a foodie destination. The rivers and hills provide beautiful views, starting with the sight of the city as you come through the Fort Pitt Tunnel. Downtown's Market Square has outdoor tables and sometimes live music while the unparalleled Strip District has shops, restaurants, breweries, and "Robotics Row," where tech companies have settled. Pick a neighborhood to walk through and visit a bar or diner to feel Pittsburgh's charm. Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the top 10 museums in Pittsburgh, the best things to do, and 12 great day trips to take from the city.
Where to Stay
Pittsburgh's comeback has steadily been bringing new B&Bs and boutique hotels, some in mansions that give you a real feel for the city's history. Several hotels in the East End neighborhoods of Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, and East Liberty are in restored buildings like the Mansions on Fifth—a historic building that was home to powerful Pittsburghers—or Ace Hotel, a former YMCA. Meanwhile, downtown has plenty of hotels to choose from and keeps you close to Point State Park, museums, art galleries, and bike lanes, making it easy to explore the city on two wheels.
Your Packing List
Summer generally is warm, with temperatures in the 80s, but most days are partly cloudy. You'll be most comfortable in shorts, sandals, and other light clothing in July and August.
June experiences an average of 4.3 inches of rain, so a raincoat and umbrella are essential.
Many of the 1930s buildings in the Hawkes Bay towns of Napier, Hastings, and Havelock North tell a dramatic story. On the morning of Feb. 3, 1931, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit Hawke's Bay. It killed more than 250 people, destroyed buildings, and caused the coastline to permanently recede. The Art Deco artistic style was popular around the world in the 1920s but was just becoming fashionable in New Zealand in the 1930s. Many of Napier, Hastings, and Havelock North's buildings were rebuilt in the style. Now, a major highlight of visiting Napier is taking an Art Deco tour, either guided or independent.
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