Pittsburgh: The Unconventional Travel Destination | Lonely Planet’s 20

Pittsburgh has been named Lonely Planet’s 2025 City of the Year 🏆. How would you describe this city? The Steel City? The City of Bridges? Perhaps it’s a place where revival meets a faint, nostalgic hint of rust. Before industrialization, Pittsburgh was lush and green 🌳. There’s even a saying: “A squirrel could travel from Pittsburgh to Chicago without ever touching the ground.” Then came the steel era 🏭. The three rivers were crowded with barges carrying coal and iron ore. Steelworkers labored day and night, filling the sky with red glow. Even the academic towers of universities were once stained black by pollution. It’s hard to believe the city has now transformed into a clean, vibrant hub. Here are some off-the-beaten-path inspirations for your trip: 🧢 Emerald View Park A great spot for skyline views. Hiking enthusiasts will love the Grand View Scenic Byway, and the Duquesne Incline cable car is a popular ride. 🧢 University of Pittsburgh Worth exploring—its cathedral is a classic Gothic “Batman-style” building. 🧢 Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Even if you’re not a zoo person, it’s amusing to see lions napping surrounded by admirers 🦁. 🧢 Carnegie Museums A comprehensive museum complex. The art museum is perfect for exhibitions and photos, and the natural history section is equally fascinating. 🧢 Carnegie Mellon University Famous for its iconic sculpture, Walking to the Sky. 🧢 Strip District Former warehouses and rail tracks now form a vibrant street market full of energy. 🧢 Point State Park Known as the “Golden Triangle,” it’s the perfect place to witness the convergence of three rivers. 🧢 Carrie Furnace An abandoned factory (currently closed until May 2025). Pennsylvania has many such post-industrial sites Other Fun Facts: 🎓 Locals are called Yinzers. 🎓 The nickname “The Paris of Appalachia” comes from Bryan O’Neill’s book 「The Paris of Appalachia」. 🎓 The best time to visit is between May and October. Perfect for #NoEarlyMorningTravel #NewYearCityWalk#Welcome2025WithATrip #2024TravelRoundup #PittsburghTravel #PennsylvaniaTourism #UniversityOfPittsburgh #NearPhilly #JustGoNow #TheBestPlanIsToStart #NewYearFirstTrip #OffbeatTravel #ThisIsWhatHolidaysAreFor