A city once known as the wealthy center of America’s steel industry, Pittsburgh has transformed itself into a vibrant cultural hub. The second largest city in Pennsylvania attracts millions of visitors per year, and as the City of Bridges, it boasts about 446 bridges. Even though the steel industry collapsed back in the 1980s, the city has continued to thrive, giving visitors plenty of affordable activities to do around the city.
It’s easy to lose sight of the budget while traveling. Instead of spending millions on activities and hotels you may not enjoy, here are a few that meet anyone’s budget.
Free Activities to Enjoy
Whether you enjoy art or history, Pittsburgh has a variety of activities to enjoy. Take a stroll through Point State Park, where you’ll see Fort Pitt Block House. This is what remains of Fort Pitt, once one of the largest British forts in North America. Learn more of its history by going to the Fort Pitt Museum, which costs $8 per adult.
Just a short walk away is the Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown, which offers a great view of the city as well as complimentary shuttle service. Near the hotel is a subway station that will get you to and from your next destination. If you’re looking for more art, the Frick Art & Historical Center is a cluster of museums offering a bit of everything, including art collections and an Italian Renaissance-style museum. The Frick was founded by Henry Clay Frick, who was one of America’s greatest industrialists.
In addition to the history and art museums, Pittsburgh also offers visitors a look into its whimsical side. Home of artist Randy Gilson, Randyland is a colorful landmark in Pittsburgh’s Northside. Full of statues and trinkets, this whimsical home will make your day. The Randyland courtyard is open every day between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., allowing visitors to explore the public art displays around the property. Nearby is the Springhill Suites Pittsburgh, which is very budget-friendly and is in the center of major attractions.
Some of the attractions around the area are PNC Park, the Carnegie Science Center, the Warhol Museum, and Heinz Field. You can also take a stroll around Schenley Plaza, which is nestled between the Cathedral of Learning and the Frick Fine Arts Building. This gorgeous public park that attracts thousands of visitors every year, and has a 1-acre lawn, ornamental gardens, dining kiosks, entertainment programs, the PNC Carousel, and a tented area with chairs. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors in Pittsburgh.
Budget-Friendly Activities
There are many free activities around the city, but if you’re looking to go to the more popular attractions, then these budget-friendly activities will give you the opportunity to experience the main attractions. If you’re a fan of Andy Warhol, there is this beautiful museum dedicated to the artist. The Andy Warhol Museum carries the largest collection of Warhol art. This museum not only has a large collection, but it also tells the story of Andy Warhol and his legacy. Although the Andy Warhol Museum is $20 per adult, on Fridays from 5 to 10 p.m., the admission is half price.
If you made your way to Schenley Plaza and you’re looking for attractions nearby, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History is a short walk away. Founded by industrialist Andrew Carnegie in 1896, Carnegie Museum of Natural History consists of 20 galleries holding 22 million specimens. The regular admission for adults is $19.95, but the rate is 50 percent off on weekdays after 3 p.m.
In that same area, near the Cathedral of Learning, is the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum. This gorgeous museum is the nation’s only military memorial dedicated to honoring all branches of service. The museum offers a unique look into American military history. The price per adult is $10, while military members or families of members deployed overseas get in for free.
The nearest hotel to all these attractions is the Wyndham Pittsburgh University Center. This beautiful hotel has 251 rooms that underwent a complete renovation in 2013 to meet the high standards of Wyndham Worldwide.
Pittsburgh has plenty of attractions near some great budget-friendly hotels. This hotel planning guide has a list of all the affordable hotels with detailed information of the attractions and best times to visit Pittsburgh.
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