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?!?!
Who said you have to spend money to have a good time? Not us! Here are the top 16 free things to do in Pittsburgh.
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There are plenty of free activities in Pittsburgh and Its Countryside from gallery crawls to movies in the park to free wifi. Check out our top picks here:
The Basics
1. Enter Here
If you wonder what the New York Times meant by calling Pittsburgh the "only city with an entrance," simply drive from the Parkway West (I-376) into Downtown via the Fort Pitt Tunnel and Bridge (the main route from the airport). Watch for it: You won't want to miss a detail of the spectacular skyline and sparkling rivers as they appear suddenly before you.
2. Free Wireless Internet
You won't have to pay to stay connected in the 'Burgh. For two hours, connect to the Internet anywhere Downtown for free!
3. Free Transportation
Go underground in Pittsburgh's subway, called the "T," which you can ride for free within the Golden Triangle. Downtown stops include Wood Street Station, US Steel Tower, First Avenue and Gateway.
4. Park for Free on Sunday
Downtown street parking is free on Sundays.
More Free Things to Do
5. Downtown Walking Tours
See skyscrapers. Soak up stories. Scarf down a sandwich. Download one or all six walking tours of downtown Pittsburgh to learn surprising tales from the past, see the best classic and modern skyscrapers, and sit down for coffee or Pittsburgh's legendary lunch. These tours were created by the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation are one of the best ways to experience Pittsburgh rich architectural history! Download Tour Here
If you happen to be touring on a Monday, stop by the Old Allegheny County Jail Museum between 11:30 and 1 when a docent is available to tell the story of this historic building.
The view from Mount Washington.
6. View from Mt. Washington
Drive up McArdle Roadway to Mt. Washington any evening to see why USA Weekend called this vantage point "one of the Top 10 most beautiful views in the country." Daytime views are great too, and sightseeing can be paired with a visit to the Emerald View Park, a 280-acre green space.
7. Public Art & Murals
Pittsburgh is filled with so much inspiration. Tour the city's many public art installations and look for murals in all of Pittsburgh's distinct neighborhoods.
8. Free Events & Festivals
Some of Pittsburgh's biggest annual events and festivals are completely free. View our annual events page and the city-wide events calendar to find affordable activities and events coming soon.
9. Hit The Trail for An Urban Adventure
Go on an urban adventure and get a workout too. Pittsburgh boasts more than 700 outdoor stairways within the city limits. You can climb more than 24,000 vertical feet if you tackle them all! Learn more about all the hiking and biking trails plus waterways - all waiting to be explored.
10. Free Arts & Architecture Activities and Tours
From gallery crawls to walking tours showing off the finest architecture in the city, there are plenty of free art activities to enjoy in Pittsburgh. Here are the top free arts and architecture activities to try.
11. Free Live Music
The local music culture in Pittsburgh is robust. Check out an upcoming free jazz concert or free opera performance. Here are all the regular free music events to look for.
12. The Allegheny Observatory
Take a free evening tour and see the night sky in a whole new light. The visit includes a short presentation, tour of the building, and an opportunity to look through the telescope. Reservations are required and the observatory does operate on a seasonal schedule.
Visit The Frick Museum for free!
13. The Frick Art & Historical Center
Take a step back in time to the gilded age in this beautifully preserved series of buildings and gardens right here in Pittsburgh. The best part? It is completely free to tour the grounds, The Frick Art Museum, Car and Carriage Museum, and Greenhouse.
14. Nationality Rooms at University of Pittsburgh
Tour 30 classrooms designed to represent distinct nationalities and cultures. Housed in the university's beautiful Cathedral of Learning building these amazing classrooms are a must-see.
15. Farmers Markets
In the warmer months, our farmers markets are something to behold. Try local foods, meet area farmers, and mix with the locals at one of many fresh farm stands.
See the entire city from West End Overlook.
16. Take a Sunset Selfie at Pittsburgh's Most Famous Views
We are a city of gorgeous hills and vistas. Discover our best views and scenic overlooks and see if you can grab a selfie at each one! Point State Park and West End Overlook are two of our favorites!
