Weekend in Pittsburgh: Your Ultimate 48-Hour Travel Guide for Partier’s!
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has undergone a transformation in the last few decades, evolving from an industrial hub into a thriving cultural, culinary, and entertainment destination. Whether you’re an avid sports fan, a food lover, or a night owl, everyone needs a weekend in Pittsburgh!
Fun fact: Pittsburgh has the most bridges in the entire world!
In this two-day guide, we’ll cover some of the must-do activities, iconic dining and drinking spots, and the best nightlife in the city.
Some of my best friends live in Pittsburgh so I always make it a point to visit them every few months and they’re some of the best times and memories I have all year, so I want to share the best parts about Pittsburgh with you all!
Day 1: Sports, Scenic Views, and Local Flavors
Morning: Breakfast at Pamela’s Diner
Start your day off right by heading to Pamela’s Diner, a beloved Pittsburgh institution. This retro-style diner serves up some of the city’s best breakfast options, including their famous pancakes that are perfectly crispy on the edges but soft inside. Their omelets are stuffed to the brim with fresh ingredients, and you can’t go wrong with their home fries or French toast. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up before a busy day of exploration.
Afternoon: Visit PNC Park for a Pittsburgh Pirates Game
No visit to Pittsburgh would be complete without catching a game at PNC Park, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Located along the Allegheny River, the ballpark boasts one of the most picturesque views in Major League Baseball, with the skyline of Pittsburgh serving as a stunning backdrop. Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, this ballpark is one of the best in the MLB. It’s unfortunate the team is so bad because the games are very cheap and it’s always a great time at PNC park.
Grab a hot dog, enjoy the energy of the crowd, and be sure to check out the “Pirates Cove” section for some of the best views of the river. If you’re in Pittsburgh during the baseball season, the atmosphere around the ballpark is electric, with lots of fans proudly sporting their black and gold gear.
After the game make sure you walk along the boardwalk right next to the river for a firework show and great views of the city. If the game is at night then even better! The casino is about a 15 minute walk along the boardwalk that’ll lead you straight there. One of my favorite things about Pittsburgh is doing this walk at night while the fireworks are going off over the water.
Evening: Dinner at Primanti Bros.
When in Pittsburgh, you can’t leave without trying a Primanti Bros. sandwich. These famous sandwiches are piled high with meats, cheese, coleslaw, and fries—all inside thick slices of Italian bread. While you can find their locations all around Pittsburgh, the original spot on the Strip District is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere is lively, making it the perfect place to refuel after an action-packed afternoon.
Night: Riverside Casino
If you’re a fan of casinos, then head over to the famous Rivers Casino, located along the Ohio River. Whether you’re feeling lucky or just want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, the casino offers a wide variety of table games, slots, and poker rooms. If you’re more into live entertainment, check the schedule for music performances or special events.
One of the best casinos in the North East. It’s big and always bustling with large amount of tables open so you’re always bound to get some exciting games in.
Not a gambling fan? No problem. There’s several bars and restaurants in the casino that you can have a drink at and always events going on.
Day 2: Scenic Views, Unique Experiences, and Culinary Delights
Morning: Breakfast at Blue Dust
Start your second day in Pittsburgh with a visit to Blue Dust, located under the Homestead Grays Bridge. This quirky spot is known for its farm-to-table offerings, including their breakfast burritos, omelets, and homemade waffles. The restaurant’s industrial vibe, combined with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients, makes for a unique, flavorful morning meal.
Mid-Morning: Ride the Duquesne Incline and Visit Mount Washington
One of Pittsburgh’s most iconic attractions is the Duquesne Incline—a funicular railway that takes you up to Mount Washington for sweeping panoramic views of the city’s skyline, rivers, and bridges. It’s a photographer’s paradise, and the ride itself is a fun and historic way to experience the city.
Once you’ve reached the top, take some time to explore the Mount Washington Overlook. You’ll have a fantastic view of downtown Pittsburgh, the point where the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers meet to form the Ohio River, and a perfect spot for an Instagram-worthy shot.
Afternoon: Lunch at The Hofbrauhaus
After taking in the views, head over to the The Hofbräuhaus for a bite to eat and a drink, a lively, authentic beer hall located in the South Side. Modeled after the iconic Hofbräuhaus in Munich, this spot offers a festive atmosphere with communal seating, large wooden tables, and an impressive selection of German beers.
The menu features hearty Bavarian fare, including classics like bratwurst, pretzels with mustard, schnitzels, and their famous Hofbräuhaus pretzel—giant, soft, and perfect for sharing. Don’t miss their signature dishes like the roast pork shank with sauerkraut or the rich, flavorful potato pancakes.
Of course if you’re not a big German food lover like myself they have standard burgers and sandwiches, so there is someone for everyone!
Whether you’re sipping on a stein of Hofbräuhaus lager or enjoying the lively, oompah music played by the in-house band, this spot is the perfect place to indulge in comfort food and enjoy the fun, authentic German beer hall experience.
Late Afternoon: Pittsburgh’s Strip District and the Heinz History Center
For a little more history and local flavor, head over to the Strip District. Known for its food markets and specialty shops, this neighborhood offers a great way to experience Pittsburgh’s cultural diversity. Visit The Heinz History Center to dive into Pittsburgh’s industrial past and see exhibits that showcase the city’s role in American history.
River Boat Cruise: If you want to hit the water, explore the many different cruise options along the Allegheny river. They have dining cruises, kids cruises, sight seeing cruises, booze cruises and more! One of my favorite things we did in Pittsburgh was the sightseeing and booze cruise.
Whatever you’re in the mood for they got it. I myself just enjoy being on the water and cruising through the city, and reserving a cruise with some of your friends or family is one of the best things you can do in Pittsburgh.
Evening: Dinner at Alta Via and Drinks at Acacia
For dinner, consider dining at Alta Via, an upscale Italian eatery located in the East Liberty neighborhood. The rustic, modern space serves handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and inventive Italian dishes. Don’t forget to try their famous focaccia and rich olive oil. It’s a great spot for a memorable meal to wrap up your trip.
Afterward, head to Acacia, a craft cocktail bar in the heart of Pittsburgh. Known for its expert mixologists and creative cocktails, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a unique drink. Whether you’re into classic cocktails or more adventurous concoctions, Acacia offers something for every taste.
Night: Head to Tequila Cowboy for some nighttime fun!
For a more lively, late-night experience, head over to Tequila Cowboy, a fun, country-themed bar with an electric energy. This bar is popular for its large dance floor, line dancing, and, of course, tequila shots. It’s the perfect way to cap off the night if you’re in the mood for dancing and a bit of western flair.
This is one of my favorite bars in all of Pittsburgh! If you’re looking for an exciting place to party with friends or meet new ones then this is the place for you!
Be aware this is a very large bar and it can be very easy to get lost. I may or may have gotten lost there before. But the atmosphere is electric and plenty of different rooms for your vibe.
In the mood for dancing, hit the main dancing room, want to do karaoke? There’s a room for that too. You’re not going to have a bad time at this place because the atmosphere is so contagious!
If you’re looking for a chill bar to have a drink and watch some games, then you’ll have to come earlier than 9pm because this bar does get very crowded especially after Pirates or Steele’s games. So plan accordingly
Final Thoughts for your weekend in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh may not always be top of mind when planning a getaway, but with it being one of the best sports cities in the country, a thriving food scene, and dynamic nightlife, it’s definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, taking in the atmosphere of a Pirates, Steelers or Penguins game, or dancing the night away at one of its lively bars, Pittsburgh offers something for everyone.
With two days of exciting activities, delicious eats, and a mix of both relaxation and adventure, you’ll leave the Steel City with a full heart and a camera full of unforgettable memories.
When you’re done in Pittsburgh, just a show two hours drive North East is beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park! And of course I have a guide for that too! Click on the link!