Pittsburgh Hotels and City Guide

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The beautiful city of Pittsburgh made its mark first as a French fortress and then as the British Fort Pitt. In the 1800s it emerged as a leader in iron and steel production. Although it gained momentum during that time, it would be unfair to think of it as a steel mill town today. These days, you’ll find top-notch museums, beautiful parks and walkways and great places to feel like a kid. In addition to all that, it has a fantastic cultural hub and great theatre productions.

Pittsburgh is home to a wealth of, well wealth. With entrepreneurs like Andrew Carnegie, the Heinz family and Henry Clay Frick who have called it home, the amazing result is a city filled with fantastic educational and cultural institutions. Take for example the Carnegie family. Andrew Carnegie, sometimes referred to as the richest man in the world, had humble beginnings in Scotland but became incredibly wealthy through the oil and steel industries. He often donated his money to good causes, which included establishing three fine museums that are located in Pittsburgh. The Carnegie Museum of Art is one of the first museums of modern art in the United States. One of its highlights is the amazing collection of plaster casts of the architectural masterpieces in America. The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is proud to have one of the best dinosaur collections throughout the world, including the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skull to date. Other fantastic exhibits here include the Polar World, the Walton Hall of Ancient Egypt and the Alcoa Foundation Hall of American Indians. The Carnegie Science Center opened in 1991 and is one of the most visited museums in Pittsburgh. Make time for the Buhl Planetarium, the Miniature Railroad and Village and the World War II submarines.

Arguably one of the most influential American artists of the 20th century, Andy Warhol is a Pittsburgh native and thus, there is a museum dedicated to his amazing works. Spanning over seven stories you’ll see more than 500 pieces of his art. In fact, this museum is the largest in the nation to dedicate one museum to the works of one artist.

The Cathedral of Learning is a 42-storey gothic tower, making it the second tallest educational building in the world… imagine being late for a class that’s at the very top. What makes this place unique are the classrooms. Each is designed in a different period style so you could be in one that features Austrian chairs or another with Indian cherry-wood doors. Don’t worry about walking in on a class – there are always rooms open for viewers, especially on the guided tour. If you’re interested in learning about American History, make your way to the Fort PItt Museum. Showcasing Pittsburgh’s involvement in the French and Indian War, it has a great selection of exhibits and buildings that tell of its interesting history.

If you can’t watch Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds, avoid the National Aviary. But if you enjoy feathered friends, you’ll absolutely love it. There are over 500 exotic and endangered birds that are protected here. Enjoy a unique experience as you make your way to the Waterfront, which is located along the Monongahela River. Stretching across 360-acres you’ll find stores, boutiques, restaurants and lots more.

For the kids traveling with you, or even the kid still inside of you, Pittsburgh is a great place to let loose. First up, the Sandcastle Water Park. It’s one of the major drawing cards for coming to Pittsburgh in the summer and with rides like the Bermuda Triangle, Thunder Run and Cliffhangers, you’ll soon see why. But maybe you don’t like getting soaked. Make your way to Kennywood. It’s one of only two amusement parks on the National Register of Historic Places and features an amazing array of rides, including three wooden coasters. Famous rides here include the Thunderbolt, the Exterminator and the Phantom’s Revenge. Another great family setting is Idlewild Park where you’ll be able to visit Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, enjoy a story in the Story Book Forest or work off some extra energy at the Jumpin’ Jungle.

Learn more about American History, enjoy fantastic museums, walk along the beautiful riverbanks or have fun begin a kid again. Pittsburgh has definitely become more than just your run of the mill town. Today, it’s a cultural hub filled with exciting possibilities for you to explore.