The David L. Lawrence Convention Center
One of the reasons you might come to Pittsburgh is to go to a convention at our new convention center. However, even if you came for a different reason, it's worth your time to visit the newest building to become a part of our cultural landscape.
The David L. Lawrence Convention Center is the first and largest certified “green” convention center in the world and is the only meeting venue to be awarded the Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) by the U.S. Green Building Council. Opened in 2003 along the river in downtown Pittsburgh, it is walking distance to the Cultural District and the Strip District.
The Center, designed by Rafael Vinoly Architects, blends unparalleled functionality with cutting-edge technology making it quite a sight to behold. Acres of column-free exhibit space and refreshing natural daylight are its impressive architectural hallmarks.
Before you enter, look up and notice the great Jenny Holzer installation running along the interior edges of the entrance including texts by locally born writers Annie Dillard and Edgar Wideman. This is just one of the twenty-five commissioned art works throughout the building.
Inside, check out the view along the river edge of the building and then the equally fascinating view on the opposite side of the convention floor. Give yourself time to explore all the building levels and art.
When you leave, it's an easy walk across the street to the Westin first stopping at Three G Gallery in the concourse to purchase some locally produced art and then onto a sushi snack at the Original Fish Market.
