The Burgh's Black & Gold

A Pittsburgh Itinerary for the Sports Lover

Donned in black and gold from head-to-toe, Pittsburgh fans take their sports teams seriously. But you don’t have to be a native to enjoy our City of Champions. Follow this two-day itinerary of scenic stadiums, hands-on sports museums and more that keep us ranked a top sports city in the country year after year.

TRIP NOTE: For this itinerary, there is one magical month from late March to mid-April where the Penguins, Pirates and Riverhounds are all playing at the same time, maximizing the number of teams you can see in one trip. When visiting at other times of the year, substitute a stadium tour or bike ride past the arenas you can’t make it into.

Photo Credit: Matt Shuck

DAY 1: Bucs & Pucks

It doesn’t have to be a Steelers game day to enjoy an inside look at Acrisure Stadium. Pick up a Terrible Towel from the Strip District neighborhood or the attached Steelers Pro Shop and take one of the daily tours offered here. The Stadium Blitz Tour hits all the highlights in about 45 minutes, or do the 90-minute Ultimate Tour for an in-depth look at the Steelers Locker Room, iconic Heinz Ketchup Bottle and the FedEx Great Hall full of Lombardi trophies and Super Bowl rings. Be sure to check both the Steelers’ and Pitt Panthers’ schedules before your visit if you’re looking to catch a game here.

Located just steps away from PNC Park, Mike’s Beer Bar is the ultimate stop pre- or post-game. It’s also where you can sample many of Pittsburgh’s best craft breweries in one place with 80 rotating taps of local craft beer and coolers filled with 300 more microbrewed favorites. Be sure to fuel up with one of their signature steak on a stone dishes before you continue exploring.

Photo Courtesy: Pittsburgh Pirates

Next up to the plate is a visit to PNC Park, the stunning MLB ballpark home to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Try to catch a game during your visit to Pittsburgh to experience the unbelievable skyline views, top ballpark foods inspired by local restaurants and the battling Bucs (the Pirates’ nickname) from April-October. Tours are also available throughout the year on select dates and times which include guided walkthroughs of the Pirates bullpen/ warning track, press box, luxury suites and more.

Your whirlwind tour of all three major sports teams ends with a Pittsburgh Penguins hockey night at PPG Paints Arena. Sit as close as you can to the glass and hear every slapshot and check into the boards as the five-time Stanley Cup Winners take aim at their next trophy. Be sure to grab photos at the Le Magnifique statue of Mario Lemieux before you enter and keep an eye out for the antics of their high-energy mascot, Iceburgh, during the game and between periods.

Photo Credit: Matt Shuck

Day 2: Deep Dive into Sports History

Day two of your journey takes you into the history of our City of Champions with museums that are anything but ordinary. The WPA Sports Museum, located within the Senator John Heinz History Center, lets you dive deep into Pittsburgh champions with 70 interactive exhibits spread across two stories. All the major sports teams are covered here, but this museum excels for delving even further into Pittsburgh sports history by including Negro League Baseball, Olympic champions, basketball and even marbles!

The Clemente Museum, located in our trendy Lawrenceville neighborhood, is situated in a beautifully preserved firehouse and chronicles the life, trials and accomplishments of Pittsburgh Pirates legend Roberto Clemente. No matter your familiarity with the player or the sport, you’ll leave inspired by Clemente’s ability to rise above racial barriers to become one of the greatest to ever play the game. Timed tickets are required in advance for this stop!

Photo Courtesy: Heinz History Center

The retro-tainment at Shorty’s Pins x Pints on the North Shore combines old-school fun with a great drink list and easy-to-share food menu, all in an open space with trendy vibes. Chow down on a pizza boxa nachos (it’s exactly what it sounds like) and something local from 30 rotating drafts as you challenge your friends to get the high score as you play duckpin bowling, bocce or a classic arcade game. Shorty’s is a great late-night spot and opens early for all Steelers home games.

Our sports journey ends watching “the beautiful game” of soccer from Highmark Stadium. From your seat, you’ll see the Pittsburgh Riverhounds look for glory on the pitch as trains rumble by and a breathtaking view of our three rivers is unveiled. Don’t be afraid to get loud and join the Steel Army supporters' section as they cheer the Hounds on to victory!

Credit |
Chris Cowger

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