Shadyside
Shadyside is one of Pittsburgh’s most walkable and livable neighborhoods. This community is known for its Victorian homes, indie shops, popular restaurants, and charming tree-lined streets. Home to young professionals and families alike, Shadyside offers a blend of historic and modern vibes. Stroll down Walnut Street to do some window shopping and explore boutiques selling everything from books to designer clothes. Grab a coffee at a local cafe or try the neighborhood’s best ice cream from Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream. The neighborhood’s restaurant scene has exploded in recent years, so you’re bound to find trendy new spots alongside Pittsburgh staples. Art lovers won’t want to miss the Westmoreland Museum of American Art. This hidden gem houses an impressive collection of American art from the 18th century to today. Works range from American Impressionism and the Hudson River School to modern and contemporary pieces by Andy Warhol and other Pittsburgh natives.
Lawrenceville
Lawrenceville is quickly growing into one of Pittsburgh’s trendiest neighborhoods. Located northeast of Downtown, this former working-class neighborhood has blossomed into a hub for the arts, dining, and nightlife. Expect converted warehouses, exposed brick facades, public art murals, hip galleries, craft cocktail bars, and some of the city’s best restaurants. Must-visit destinations in Lawrenceville include celebrity chef restaurants like Superior Motors and Morcilla, as well as the contemporary gallery and event space known as Row House Cinema. Be sure to browse the funky shops and boutiques lining Butler Street too. This is the main drag where you’ll find record stores, thrift shops, cafes, and more local flavor. As a neighborhood with a strong sense of community, Lawrenceville hosts several popular events throughout the year. Don’t miss the weekly farmer’s market in Arsenal Park from June to October. There’s also the lively Lawrenceville Craft Beer Week held every August.
Strip District
The Strip District certainly lives up to its lively name. This warehouse district hugging the Allegheny River has long been the hub of Pittsburgh’s food scene. Explore the aromatic bazaar of wholesalers and ethnic food shops along Penn Avenue and Smallman Street. Start your Strip District adventure bright and early at the iconic Stamoolis Brothers wholesale and retail produce terminal. Grab fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, meats, cheeses, and other specialty foods at wholesale prices. Further down Penn Avenue you’ll find bakeries with drool-worthy smells wafting onto the sidewalk. Stop at beloved local businesses like Pomedoro Bakery, Enrico Biscotti Company, and La Prima Espresso Company. Amid the foodie heaven lie quirky boutiques, antique shops, galleries, and lively bars and restaurants. Beloved Pittsburgh chain Primanti Brothers got its start here, so make sure to try one of their famous sandwiches stacked high with french fries and coleslaw. If that doesn’t fill you up, grab a bite at popular eateries like Bar Marco, Smallman Galley, and Gaucho Parrilla Argentina.
South Side
Looking for nightlife, entertainment, boutique shopping, and dining all in one vibrant neighborhood? Pittsburgh’s South Side has you covered. Centered along East Carson Street, this community comes alive after dark while still retaining its old-school Pittsburgh charm during the day. East Carson Street is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants ranging from college joints to upscale gastropubs. Try your luck at one of the buzzing bars or dance the night away at a happening club like Diesel Pittsburgh. If you’re exploring during the day, pop into an antique shop, boutique clothing store, or record shop. Don’t miss seeing the iconic South Side Works cinema sign, remnants of the early 20th century glory days of film. This sign has graced the South Side skyline since 1914. The SouthSide Works retail and entertainment area is also a popular spot for its movie theater, restaurants, and outdoor spaces.
Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill is often considered Pittsburgh’s Jewish neighborhood, with kosher markets and delis lining Murray and Forbes Avenue. However, this vibrant community welcomes all walks of life to experience its charming shops and eateries. With two business districts, Squirrel Hill North and Squirrel Hill South, you’ll have plenty of places to explore during a day out. Popular destinations include the original and much-loved Primanti Brothers location, as well as Mineo’s Pizza House for award-winning pies. Bibliophiles will delight in strolling the towering wooden bookshelves at White Whale Bookstore. After lunch, work off those calories while walking through Frick Park or admire the Tudor revival architecture of Chatham University. Don’t leave without trying a black and white milkshake from Page Dairy Mart. This old-fashioned soda fountain shop is a beloved neighborhood staple. With so much to see and do, you’ll be glad you have the flexibility of a party bus to easily keep your group together.
Oakland
Oakland is most well-known as the home of the University of Pittsburgh campus and UPMC medical centers. However, this urban neighborhood has much more to offer beyond just the college and hospitals. The Carnegie Museum of Natural History and Carnegie Museum of Art both call Oakland home, as does the grand architectural landmark, the Cathedral of Learning. When college is in session, Oakland has a vibrant, youthful energy with students buzzing about. Grab a coffee from Commonplace Coffee or a healthy lunch from The Zenith before exploring the local shops. Some local favorites include love, Pittsburgh for stylish apparel and Province for home goods and women’s fashion. Oakland’s restaurant scene features many affordable spots catering to college students along with upscale dining options. Taste global flavors at Aladdin’s Eatery, Umami, or Nicky’s Thai Kitchen. For a nightcap, stop into one of the cozy Oakland bars like Hemingway’s Cafe or The O Bar.
Bloomfield
Adjacent to Lawrenceville, Bloomfield is another up-and-coming Pittsburgh neighborhood with its own unique personality. Home to Pittsburgh’s Little Italy, this community is filled with red brick row houses, Italian eateries, and old-world charm along Liberty Avenue. Smell garlic and basil wafting through the air as you stroll by iconic restaurants like Lidia’s, Piccolo Forno, and Dylamato’s Market. Bloomfield isn’t just about pasta and pizza though. Taste delicacies from other corners of the globe too. Try sushi rolls at Fukuda or rich Indian curries at Kaya Indian Cuisine. Burn off the calories with a walk through West Penn Park or check out the Sunday Bloomfield Little Italy Farmers Market. Beyond the wealth of ethnic eateries, Bloomfield has an artsy vibe with street murals, galleries, and shops. Browse gifts at Wildcard gift shop or pick up some vinyl at the popular Sound Cat Records. The neighborhood even has its own independent theater company, the Bloomfield Bridge Troll.
North Side
Baseball fans especially will love a visit to Pittsburgh’s North Side neighborhood. This community is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates at the iconic PNC Park along the Allegheny River. Even if you can’t catch a Bucs game, you can still take a stroll on the scenic Riverwalk outside the ballpark. Beyond PNC Park, the North Side has several other popular attractions. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on science fun at the Carnegie Science Center. Pay your respects to “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” with a stop at the Fred Rogers Center. History buffs will appreciate a self-guided walking tour of the Mexican War Streets historic district. The Mattress Factory contemporary art museum is yet another North Side claim to fame. This museum displays wild, thought-provoking room-sized installations you have to see in person to fully appreciate. Of course, refuel between attractions at one of the cafes, breweries, or restaurants in the neighborhood.
Mount Washington
While most of Pittsburgh’s popular neighborhoods are located down in the river valley, Mount Washington perches high above on a bluff overlooking the city. Most visitors know Mount Washington for its inclines and the spectacular city views. However, it’s also a lively neighborhood with restaurants, shops, and scenic parks. Start your visit with a ride on the iconic Duquesne Incline or Monongahela Incline for unbeatable panoramas over Pittsburgh’s skyline. Snap the quintessential photos before riding back down to stroll the wide, pedestrian-friendly streets. Grab authentic pierogis at Babushka Deli or try upscale fare at The Summit with scenic views. Don’t miss visiting Grandview Park to continue soaking in the views from Mount Washington. This scenic urban green space sits atop Mount Washington’s cliffs. Meander along walking paths and snap photos of the three rivers meeting below with Pittsburgh’s downtown in the distance.
Book a Bus With Us
The best way to experience Pittsburgh’s diverse and vibrant neighborhoods is in the comfort of a Party Buses Pittsburgh charter bus or party bus. Our luxury vehicles allow your group to travel together in style with top-notch amenities and a professional driver at the wheel. Leave the hassle of directions, parking, and Pittsburgh traffic to us while you get busy exploring the Steel City’s attractions, local shops, bars, museums, and culinary delights. Simply contact our fun, dependable team at (412) 894-0966 anytime to request a custom quote for your next group trip around the ‘Burgh.