FIRST time in Pittsburgh. Top areas or things to do

[svband76]

Originally Posted by PghYinzer

An often overlooked spot to check out in Pittsburgh is St. Anthony Chapel in Troy Hill. One does not even need to be particularly religious to enjoy a quick stop by.

https://saintanthonyschapel.org

Great choice. Seek the offbeat "real Pittsburgh" locations. Spring Hill Cemetery. Spring Garden. Troy Hill. Brighton Heights. West End.


To OP, shoot me a PM if you want. I'm a part time Mainer. We can shoot the breeze.

[Rust Belt Kid]

It sounds like we like doing similar things when we travel so I will go over what I would like if I was visiting.

Visit the college campuses, they have some really cool history and architecture. I like walking around Pitt, CMU, and Chatham. Chatham may be my favorite campus because it's beautiful and so secluded. It was also designed by Patrick Law Olmstead's firm. You can find resources for self guided Downtown walking tours online. There are other self guided walking tours including the South Side Slopes which would be fun.
Most picturesque neighborhoods would be the Mexican War Streets, Allegheny West, Shadyside, Point Breeze, Squirrel Hill, Highland Park, and any other ones already mentioned. There was so much wealth in Pittsburgh in the guilded age, and a lot of the mansions will show that off. Visit some of the parks, particularly Schenley, Frick, and Highland Parks.
You may also be interested in Scoobi, which is an electric scooter sharing service. If you download the app you can find and rent scooters to zip you from place to place around the main parts of the city.

[Charley Barker]

Not sure how flexible your plans are, but Doors Open Pittsburgh is an annual event that gives access to many historic or significant buildings that are not always open to the public: https://doorsopenpgh.org

The 2018 list will post later this month. You can look at the 2017 list to get an idea of the scope and variety.

Also, the older cemeteries are good for interesting imagery and a city respite, most notably Allegheny and Homewood Cemetaries.

[PGH423]

Originally Posted by Charley Barker

Not sure how flexible your plans are, but Doors Open Pittsburgh is an annual event that gives access to many historic or significant buildings that are not always open to the public: https://doorsopenpgh.org

The 2018 list will post later this month. You can look at the 2017 list to get an idea of the scope and variety.

Looks awesome. OP could also consider a Gateway Clipper cruise.