Oakland

1. Say Hi To Cathy

The tallest academic building in the Western Hemisphere, the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning – affectionately known as “Cathy” – sits in the middle of Pitt’s campus and serves as a token photo op moment. Once you step inside, you’ll be transported into a new, gothic-style world that will have you questioning if you’ve finally gotten your wizarding school invite. While there, take in the Nationality Rooms – Pitt’s community space where you're invited to experience your heritage in a space that's timeless and austere, yet dynamic and alive.

2. Enjoy the Garden Life

Explore the beauty and wonders of nature at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, encompassing 15 acres including the historic 14-room glasshouse and 23 distinct gardens. Experience breathtaking seasonal flower shows, exclusive commissioned exhibits, immersive Tropical Forest, renowned orchid and bonsai collections, industry-leading sustainable architecture and green practices, delightful butterflies, fun family activities and much more. Discover why Phipps is a top destination for all ages, located just a few miles from downtown Pittsburgh in Schenley Park.

3. Take in the Great Outdoors

Speaking of, Schenley Park is a daily destination for university students, business people, and outdoor enthusiasts, while also hosting major annual events such as the Vintage Grand Prix and the Pittsburgh Race for the Cure. Visitors to Schenley Park can enjoy a light lunch at the Schenley Park Visitor Center, take a ride on the PNC carousel in Schenley Plaza, soak in the sunshine on the Arthur D. Hellman Lawn, relax on Flagstaff Hill, play a round at the Bob O’Connor Golf Course, head to the Schenley Oval Sportsplex for ice skating or summer sports, or take a dip in the swimming pool. And of course, the trails offer a refreshing and convenient escape from city noise and congestion.

4. Explore Two Museums in One

Explore two world-class museums with one ticket at Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History! Located in the Oakland neighborhood, the museums provide an experience filled with culture, creativity, and exploration to all who visit. Carnegie Museum of Art, renowned for its collections of more than 100,00 objects, features a range of visual art, including painting, sculpture, decorative arts, design, and photography. Located within the same historic building, Carnegie Museum of Natural History is home to one of the country’s largest and most celebrated natural history collections featuring 22 million objects and specimens, ranging from real dinosaur fossils and dazzling gems and minerals to iconic wildlife dioramas.

5. Honor Our Troops

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum is a unique military memorial dedicated to honoring the men and women of all branches of service, from all generations and conflicts. Their vast collection of artifacts donated over the past 100 years gives Soldiers & Sailors Memorial & Museum a unique platform to interpret American military history by telling stories of individuals who served our country since the Civil War through our current era.