The Perfect Pittsburgh Vacation

If you're heading to Pittsburgh for a vacation, you won't lack things to do. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or someone special, use the following tips to plan the perfect Pittsburgh vacation.

Grab Lunch at Conflict Kitchen

 

Image via Flickr by Alexander Day

You've heard of restaurants that specialize in cuisine from specific parts of the world, but this Pittsburgh favorite puts a new spin on an old restaurant theme. Instead of serving dishes that come from one part of the world, the Conflict Kitchen serves food from many countries, all of which remain in conflict with 

the United States.

The restaurant's focus shifts regularly to target a different part of the world. It invites speakers from those countries to talk to patrons and spread awareness about their culture.

Take a Bike Tour

Ditch the car during your Pittsburgh vacation and see the city from a new perspective. Several local establishments offer bike tours of various neighborhoods. Alternatively, consider renting a bike and striking out on your own. Best of all, you won't have to search for parking spots or worry about traffic jams. If you see something interesting, just pull your bike to the curb and check it out. Fortunately, Pittsburgh serves as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the United States.

Choose an Affordable Hotel

Why blow your vacation budget on lodging? You can find many affordable hotels in Pittsburgh proper as well as in its suburbs. Consider looking for hotels close to tourist destinations that interest you. For example, if you're a science, culture, art, or history buff, you might stay in the city's museum strip district. Meanwhile, sports fans can find hotels near Heinz Field or Three River Stadium, and travelers who prefer to stay near the airport will find abundant hotels near PIT.

Get Back to Nature

Several hiking and biking trails are scattered throughout Pittsburgh. Here, you'll get a taste of local flora and fauna as well as your daily dose of exercise. If you prefer less rustic pursuits, consider visiting the National Aviary. View birds from every corner of the United States in realistic habitats. This offers an excellent option during rainy or cold days. Don't miss the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, either, especially if you're bringing the kids along. View land and aquatic animals from a distance or sign up for interactive events.

Grab a Drink at Church

Who says church only serves communion wine? The Church Brew Works is an old Pittsburgh church that the owners have converted into a charming brewery. Relax and rewind with whatever's on tap or try some of the establishment's famous microbrews. You can even sit on the church's original pews and gaze at the stained glass windows that once bathed patrons in sunshine on Sunday mornings.

Whether you're staying overnight or for a few days, the Steel City offers plenty of attractions as well as comfortable hotels, delicious cuisine, and thriving nightlife. Start planning your itinerary today, and don't forget to check out the destinations recommended above.