Once known more for its steel than its style, Pittsburgh has experienced a rebirth since the mills closed and its infamous pollution cleared out. Perched at the meeting of three rivers, this charming city offers a nice mix of modern-day skyscrapers and turn-of-the-century architecture.
PointState Park's 200-foot fountain marks the spot where the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio rivers converge. When you're done admiring the view, pick up some Pittsburgh history at the FortPittMuseum and Blockhouse. A number of theaters, galleries, performance spaces and the Pittsburgh Opera reside in the downtown Cultural District, and nearby Mellon Arena hosts sporting events and concerts.
East of downtown, the Oakland district is home to more schools and hospitals than typical tourist attractions. But this unassuming neighborhood just happens to host one of the nation's foremost cultural centers, the Carnegie. With its Museum of Art, Museum of Natural History, Music Hall and Library all under one roof, the Carnegie offers something to satisfy nearly every cultural craving.
Located in the heart of Pittsburgh's East End, Shadyside is a bustling district of boutiques, shops, lounges and restaurants. Its main commercial strip runs along Walnut Street, but be sure to slip down some of the tree-lined side streets graced with stately Victorian mansions. One of the area's hidden gems is Roslyn Place, a wooden-brick street lined with 18 restored houses built in 1914.
Shoot for spring for temperate weather, or plan an autumn excursion to experience a truly beautiful change of season in Pennsylvania. During the summer, Pittsburgh gets hot, humid and hazy, with occasional thunderstorms. Winter is notorious for its freezing temps and influx of snow, which can make driving dangerous.