Bleisure in the Burgh
Pittsburgh, PA—or “the Burgh,” as the locals call it—is an eclectic, former steel town where business and leisure are forged together
Explore Pittsburgh by sticking to downtown or crossing any of its iconic bridges.
While the famous riverfront steel mills are mostly gone now, the industrial spirit that made Pittsburgh great is a permanent fixture of the city. If a work trip brings you to this vibrant town, it won’t take long to discover that there’s plenty of fun to be had here between meetings.
Take your favorite flavor to-go—or try something sweet and new. Credit: The Milk Shake Factory.
The Flavors of Pittsburgh
Your Morning Menu
Morning meetings, endless emails and a checklist a mile long—you need a pick-me-up to get going. Turn your morning up to eleven at the rock-and-roll themed Rock’n Joe Coffee Bar. This coffee shop also serves up simple breakfast bites, sandwiches and fruit smoothies. Or, swing by the Strip District and grab a quick bite at Pamela’s Diner—a charming, retro breakfast hotspot famous for its specialty crepes. Lauded by locals as one of the best breakfasts in Pittsburgh since 1980, this cash-only spot less than 2 miles from the Cambria hotel is the original of five locations throughout the city. Finally, find organic, Italian-style coffee and light bites at the old-school La Prima Espresso Co.—a local favorite since 1988, just a few steps from Pamela’s.
Tastes on Two Rivers
The two rivers that made Pittsburgh what it is today also inspire some of the best cuisine in the city. Head toward Point State Park at the confluence of the Ohio River and you’ll find City Works – Pittsburgh in busy Market Square. The restaurant serves elevated pub grub and has over 90 craft beers on tap. For a taste of history, grand architecture and surf ‘n turf, cross the Monogahela River via Smithfield St. Bridge and head to Grand Concourse, an elegant restaurant housed in the former Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station. This stunning spot is often busy, so reservations are recommended. Looking for an after-work hangout spot? Cross the Allegheney River via Roberto Clemente Bridge to discover Federal Galley, a modern, sprawling food hall with an incomparable beer garden.
Treat Yourself
Downtown Pittsburgh has enough sweet shops to satisfy any craving. Shake on down to The Milk Shake Factory on Fifth Ave and order up your favorite flavor, crafted with ingredients from local Pennsylvania farms. Or, indulge in handmade, gourmet treats at Sinful Sweets Chocolate Company. Visitors come from across the country to try their decadent cookie dough jars. And if that’s not enough, discover quirky flavors made with farm-fresh ingredients and a whole lot of love at Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream — their Pittsburgh Pothole is a must-try.
See history come alive at Fort Pitt in Point State Park.
Pittsburgh Playtime
For Art, History & Science Buffs
Across the river on the North Shore, discover the legacy of Pittsburgh-native artist Andy Warhol at the Andy Warhol Museum, which houses the largest collection of Warhol art and archives in the world. Then, explore the birthplace of the Burgh at Fort Pitt Museum, part of the Senator John Heinz History Center. This historic spot at the confluence of the Ohio River features guided tours, galleries, living history events and more. And while you’re at it, plan a quick visit to the Carnegie Science Center. While you’ll see lots of families here for the kid-friendly activities, two amazing exhibits are also geared toward adults (and kids at heart). Interact with the world’s largest permanent robotics exhibition at Roboworld; and then, learn fascinating facts about the parts that make us human at the BodyWorks exhibit.
For Shopaholics & Sightseers
Turn to the heart of downtown for some of the best shopping around. Explore the stores and galleries along Market Square—a historic landmark that’s now a shopper’s dream destination. It was home of the first courthouse, first jail and first newspaper west of the Atlantic Plain (the Pittsburgh Gazette). It’s also home to the Original Oyster House, which opened in 1871. Or, cross the Monongahela and take a stroll outdoors for some shopping with amazing river and downtown views at Station Square. This South Shore shopping experience also has fountain shows, duck boat tours with Just Ducky, over a dozen restaurants and plenty of space to stroll and people-watch.
For Sports Enthusiasts
One of the best things about the Cambria hotel in downtown Pittsburgh is the fact that it’s just minutes from the city’s arenas. Cheer on the Panthers or the Steelers at Heinz Field. Or, watch the Pirates swing for the bleachers at PNC Park. Want some excitement even closer to the hotel? See the Penguins skate to victory on the ice or listen to nationally touring bands at PPG Paints Arena—just next door to the Cambria.
Tasty pastries, awesome coffee and friendly locals await. Credit: Rock'n Joe Coffee Bar.
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