7 Ways to Spend a Sunny Day in Pittsburgh
When the forecast calls for sunny day, Pittsburghers make sure to make the most of it and soak up every last ray of sunshine.
Summer may be coming to a close, but we've still got a few weeks of sunshine left. Here are a few ways to take advantage of a beautiful day out and about in the Steel City:
1. Go kayaking
Sunny days just make the three rivers sparkle a little brighter and deliver as a great way to cool down from the dog days of summer. And there’s not just one way to enjoy them. If you’re downtown, you can go kayaking past the stadiums or take a boat of your own to get out on the water. Or, hop aboard a dinner or sightseeing cruise on the Gateway Clipper to explore underneath and around the city’s iconic bridges. Outside of downtown, you can explore other waterways like stand up paddleboarding (SUP) in North Park, just a few minutes north of the city.
For some more ideas, check out these 7 things to do on Pittsburgh's Rivers.
2. Check out the rooftops
It’s by no mistake summer is known as “rooftop season” to many. From numerous rooftop bars and restaurants throughout the city, you’ll be treated to beautiful views, a chance to work on your daytime tan, and enjoy a drink or a meal out in the fresh air. Some long-standing favorite rooftop bars with locals include: Il Tetto, New Amsterdam, and Duke’s Upper Deck Cafe. If you’re looking for a new fun modern spot, check out Over Eden at the new Tryp Hotel in Lawrenceville for a cool vibe and unique vantage points of downtown.
Don't miss our list of some of our favorite outdoor dining spots.
3. Catch a game
Summertime and baseball go hand in hand for many, and if you ask any Pittsburgher (or many tourists!), there’s no better place to watch baseball than at PNC Park. With beautiful views of the skyline, and tons of special events like firework nights, free t-shirt nights and “dollar dog nights” there’s always a fun way to make a summer game at PNC Park a unique experience and memory that you’ll remember for many seasons to come.
4. Spend the day at Kennywood
With its wide variety of rollercoasters and iconic Pittsburgh food staples like Potato Patch fries, Kennywood holds an irreplaceable place in Pittsburgh’s hearst and culture. With both long-standing favorite coasters like the Thunderbolt (a beloved wooden coaster of over 50 years!) to the unveiling of the newest coaster with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Steel Curtain, Kennywood continues to make summer days fun, special, and exciting as ever. Find tips and tricks to making the most of your Kennywood trip here!
5. Take your workout outside
Whether you like to exercise solo, in a group, or in a class, there are endless ways to get both your workout and dose of sunshine in at the same time during the summer in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is home to several running clubs to help you stay in shape over the summer (and maybe make a new friend and running buddy!). One of my personal favorite summer running routes is along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail , where you’ll find views of downtown, the stadiums, and many other historic landmarks along the way that will make any run go by in a flash. If you’re looking to enjoy some views from higher up on your day in the sun, try out a yoga class on top of Mt. Washington that will surely be a change of scenery from your average yoga studio.
6. Hang out in Market Square
Market Square is often the central hub for downtown celebrations and events throughout the year and the summer is no exception. From fitness classes, expos, live music, gatherings, and many more, wandering over to the Square is a great way to stumble upon something new. While you're there, enjoy a treat from Market Street Grocery, Millie's Homemade Ice Cream (one of our Favorite Pittsburgh Ice Cream Shops), or any one of the other many restaurants and cafés lining the Square.
7. Go to a winery
Wine country and Pittsburgh are two things you don't often hear mentioned together, but one of the best summer time adventures is wine tasting at one of the city’s wineries. Narcisi is a popular family-owned winery just a few miles north of downtown that will make you feel worlds away. Or if urban wineries are more your style, you can check out Pittsburgh Winery on Penn Ave downtown, or one of my favorites - Engine House 25 attached to the Clemente Museum, another place I’m always up for an excuse to tour.
These are just a few of many ways to enjoy a late summer day in Pittsburgh. But the truth is, rain or shine, any day in the Burgh is a good day!
