Western Pennsylvania History Tour: 3-Day Itinerary

Hotel Recommendation

The Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh/Southpointe is an excellent choice for groups seeking comfortable overnight accommodations in the Pittsburgh area. Located in the Southpointe business park, this modern hotel offers a blend of convenience, comfort, and amenities ideal for corporate gatherings, sports teams, wedding parties, and other group stays. Guests will enjoy the hotel’s easy access to I-79, placing them just a short drive from downtown Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh International Airport, and local attractions.

Morning: Whiskey Rebellion & Trolleys 🏛️

Start you morning with visit to the Bradford House Museum and the Whiskey Rebellion Visitor Center is an immersion into the political excitement of the first citizen challenge to the newly forged United States Constitution. Meet the men and women who experienced the 1790s southwestern Pennsylvania frontier in all its brutality and glory as they struggled to build a civilized society. Experience architecture, artifacts, art, and illuminating text along the way. Take away a living history lesson in justice, equality, and equity.

Afterwards head over to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. Imagine a museum where visitors are actually encouraged to touch the exhibits and ride in them too! We are a lot more than a trolley ride; our museum guides will put the trolley in its historical context, and explain what life was like 50-100 years ago. Admission includes 4-mile scenic trolley rides, interactive exhibits, theater, museum store and picnic area. Free parking. Inquire about having lunch catered on-site for an additional cost.

Afternoon: Ancient History at Meadowcroft Rockshelter ⏳

While you are in Washington County you must visit Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village a unique destination that offers a fascinating glimpse into 16,000 years of human history. Located in Avella, Pennsylvania, about an hour from Pittsburgh, it is the oldest known site of human habitation in North America. This National Historic Landmark features a well-preserved rock overhang where prehistoric people once lived, providing invaluable archaeological insights into early human life. With hands-on exhibits, interactive demonstrations, and scenic walking trails, Meadowcroft is perfect for history buffs, school groups, and families looking for an educational and engaging experience.

Evening: Dinner at Primanti Bros. 🥪

After a day a learning so much about our local history have dinner at Primanti Bros., located in the Meadowlands, just off 1-79. Home of the almost famous sandwich. Born in 1933 from a small wooden lunch stand in the Strip District to today with over 20 locations in Pittsburgh and South Florida, Primanti Bros. is a Pittsburgh tradition. These over-stuffed sandwiches with your choice of grilled meat topped with fresh hand-cut French fries, sweet and sour crunchy coleslaw, two slices of tomato all between two fresh slices of Italian bread have become world famous!

Hotel Recommendation:

Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square a premier choice for group travel, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and stunning city views. Located along the Monongahela River in Pittsburgh’s vibrant Station Square district, this hotel provides an ideal setting for corporate groups, wedding parties, sports teams, and tour groups looking for a seamless stay in the heart of the city.

Morning: Grandeur & History 🏛️

Walk down to the Grand Concourse for breakfast housed in the beautifully preserved Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station, the Grand Concourse restaurant at Station Square is a true testament of grandeur and elegant dining. With a cathedral stained-glass vaulted ceiling, marble columns, and a dramatic staircase, guests are quickly transported to the glamorous side of the Progressive Era with the luxury of a modern-day menu.

Next Ketch-up on more Western Pennsylvania History at the Smithsonian’s home in Pittsburgh! Voted “Pittsburgh’s Best Museum” in 2024, the Senator John Heinz History Center is Pennsylvania’s largest history museum where you can see Smithsonian artifacts daily throughout six floors of engaging exhibitions, perfect for visitors of all ages.

Afternoon: Subs & Forts ⚔️

Arrange a boxed lunch to be delivered from DiBella's Subslike nobody's business, with our own crusty-soft, just-baked bread and tons of meats, cheese and toppings! Our dough is aged to perfection daily and scored and seasoned by hand. Our crew arrives before sunrise and bakes throughout the day to ensure you're getting the bet sub you've ever had! Fresh-baked classic Italian rolls, fresh veggies and meats for subs and salads and famous grandma DiBella's cookies is what we're about.

Head over to Point State Park and eat your lunch in the lawn or by the fountain. Once your group is finished up go inside to the Fort Pitt Museum. Located in Point State Park, the Fort Pitt Museum explores Western Pennsylvania’s pivotal role during the French & Indian War, the American Revolution and the birth of Pittsburgh.

Evening: Cultural District 🎭

When the sun is setting perhaps check out the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust calendar at one of their many theaters, galleries, and multi-use properties. The Pittsburgh Cultural District is a vibrant, 14-block arts and entertainment hub in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, making it an ideal destination for group outings. Whether you're organizing a corporate event, student trip, or social gathering, the Cultural District offers a dynamic mix of world-class theaters, galleries, restaurants, and live performances that cater to a variety of interests.

Morning: Breakfast & Industrial History 🏭

Start your day with breakfast at Eat'n Park-Waterfront, a casual, neighborhood restaurant featuring a full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu plus a Soup and Salad bar and a Breakfast and Fruit buffet. Kids 10 and under as well as Motorcoach groups receive a free signature Smiley® Cookie!

Next up, Rivers of Steel Heritage Tours works with tour operators, conference planners, and pre-formed travel groups to organize single or multi-day itineraries who are looking to visit points of interest throughout southwestern Pennsylvania. Partnering with other attractions, hotels, eateries, and more, Rivers of Steel is a one-stop shop to package and book your inbound tours. We also offer local step-on guides and of course are happy to arrange for you to visit our own attractions, including the iconic Carrie Blast Furnaces!