Welcome to Pittsburgh! What do you want to do first? Not sure yet? Well what about plans for tomorrow?
…Well you still have time to decide… Where are you staying? You haven't booked a hotel yet?!?!
In town for a big game? We've got the scoop on how to enjoy a Steelers game in the ultimate sports town!
Nicknamed the City of Champions, it's no surprise that Pittsburgh is a top football destination. Whether you're visiting from out-of-town or you're a local with season tickets, check out our Pittsburgh guide for every football fan.
How to get to Heinz Field?
Public Transportation Since parking on the North Shore near the stadium is reserved and pre-sold, you may wish to park and ride to the stadium using alternate transportation. The PortAuthority offers convenient options from light rail service on the “T,” to shuttle buses for fans coming from downtown Pittsburgh and the suburbs. You can find more information on how to get to the stadium on the PortAuthority website.
Riverboat Shuttles Gateway Clipper also offers gameday riverboat rides to the stadium. This is an enjoyable and convenient way to get to the game. Find more information about riverboat shuttles hereriverboat shuttles here.
Driving & Parking Information If you are planning to drive and park near the stadium, visit ALCO parking for a helpful interactive guide to parking on the North Shore.
Where’s the best place to tailgate before a Steelers game?
The tailgating scene in Pittsburgh is a lot of fun. You can find tailgaters grilling and getting revved up for the game in designated parking lots. The parking lots open five hours prior to kick-off and you can find more tailgating information and regulations here. If you’re planning a special tailgate party with your friends, let the pro’s handle your setup. The Tailgate Guys offer several party packages perfect for groups, family reunions, birthdays, bachelor or bachelorette parties, and more.
Where to Eat Near Heinz Field?
The North Shore, home to Heinz Field, is filled with plenty of bars and restaurants for all football fans. Jerome Bettis Grille 36, owned by former Steelers running back Jerome Bettis, is a football hot spot serving home-cooking inspired dishes. Southern Tier and Rivertowne Brewing are also popular spots to grab a craft beer pre- or post-game.
The Clark Bar & Grill is the original Pittsburgh sports bar. For over 20 years, this restaurant has been a Pittsburgh game-day tradition, with some of the best burgers you've ever had. Housed in the historic Clark Candy Factory between Heinz Field and PNC Park, it is the ultimate scene for the true Pittsburgh sports fan before or after the game.
A few other popular and delicious options in the area are Burgatory or Bar Louie.
Leave your backpacks and large tote bags at home because Heinz Stadium has an “All Clear On Game Day” safety policy requiring guests to carry their items in clear bags. Any non-clear bag exceeding 4.5” by 6.5” is not permitted. For all the security guidelines detailing what you can and cannot bring into the stadium, including food, drinks, strollers, and more, check out the security guidelines page here. Another useful resource is The Heinz Field A to Z guide, which covers frequently asked questions about attending a game.
Where to eat inside the stadium?
You can find so many delicious Pittsburgh favorites right in the stadium. Two local favorites are Primanti Brothers and Pittsburgh Pierogi House. You can find a full list of concessions here or download the official Steelers mobile app for navigating all of the treats and sweets in Heinz Field.
Photo Credit: Yinzers in the Burgh Facebook Page
Are there family-friendly activities for Steelers fans?
Be sure to head to Art Rooney Avenue on game day for the Steelers Experience and a family fun zone. Highmark SportsWorks is also on the North Shore, near Heinz Field. This is a great stop to make before or after the game to try the ropes course, rock wall, and tons of other family-friendly activities.
Photo Credit: Carnegie Science Center Website
More Cool Things to Do Near Heinz Field
Show your Pittsburgh pride by taking a selfie with the Roberto Clemente Statue, which sits outside of PNC Ballpark.
If you have time before or after the game, take a ride on the Duquesne Incline nearby for amazing city and river views.
Visit the Hall of Honor, located in the stadium’s FedEx Great Hall. This area recognizes beloved coaches, players, and contributors to the Steelers success.
If you need to level-up your gear game, Yinzers in the Burgh in the Strip District is one of the area’s most notable sports stores with lots of creative and crazy gear for fans.
Go behind the scenes with a tour of Heinz Field. Tours are family-friendly and take fans on the field, in the locker rooms, and more.
Photo Credit: Senator John Heinz History Center Facebook Page
Don't Forget to Brush Up On Your Pittsburgh Steelers Trivia
What is The Terrible Towel? Created by Steelers radio broadcaster, Myron Cope in 1975, the Terrible Towel is easily one of the most recognized symbols in the NFL and waving it during games has become a revered tradition.
What is the song played before the fourth quarter? At the conclusion of the third quarter, the song Renegade resonates throughout Heinz Field. Playing the song is a tradition that's equally important for fans as it is for players and represents Pittsburgh's defensive strength in the fourth quarter.
What’s the meaning behind the Steelers logo? While it's widely known that the Steelers are named for Pittsburgh's rich steel history, few recognize the meaning behind the logo. Each of the hypocycloids represents one of the three materials used to make steel. Yellow represents coal, red is for iron ore, and steel scrape is illustrated with blue.
Why do Steelers fans chant “Here We Go Steelers?” During games, you'll hear fans chanting "Here We Go, Steelers!" While it seems like a simple chant, there's some history behind this one too. “Here We Go,” originally written by Rodger Wood and recorded in 1994, was and still is intended as a Steelers fight song. Having sold more than 120,000 copies of the original, Here We Go is now regularly updated to mention current players' names and has become an anthem for the team during playoffs.
