Need to Escape? Skip the Vacation and Opt for a Pittsburgh Staycation!

Date: August 7, 2014

It may only be early August, but before you know it the kids will be back to class and we’ll be enjoying the fall football season again. If you’re frantically searching your calendar and checking flights to see where you might be able to get away to before the bustle of the fall season hits, look no further than right here in Pittsburgh.

For those of us fortunate enough to call the city of Pittsburgh “home,” there are still many ways to “get away” without actually leaving. Yes, we’re talking about a “staycation” and it just so happens that Wallethub.com ranked our city in their top five “Best Cities for Staycations” report. In fact, Pittsburgh ranked higher than popular vacation cities like Orlando and New Orleans.

If you’re not familiar with the term “staycation,” it means taking some time off from work, but not travelling anywhere to relax; but, rather, soaking up all that your hometown has to offer. So, whether you had the chance to get away this summer or not, let Pittsburgh offer you a great escape. With a little help from our friends, we’ve highlighted some of the best things you can do on your Pittsburgh staycation:

If you’re looking for a historical or educational escape, Pittsburgh will more than meet your expectations.

• The Mattress Factory, a contemporary art museum, showcases the unique work of artists from around the country and around the world.
• The Andy Warhol Museum not only pays tribute to pop art icon, Andy Warhol, it also plays live music and rare films on Friday nights.
• Named in honor of one of Pittsburgh’s big-name benefactors, the Carnegie Science Center and Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History offer full days of mind-bending entertainment and education.

If you’re looking for a more natural escape from your day-to-day routine, Pittsburgh’s sure to impress with an array of environmentally-friendly entertainment options.

• Not far from downtown Pittsburgh, you can find peaceful tranquility at Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece, Fallingwater.
• Located in downtown Pittsburgh, the National Aviary is a bird-watcher’s dream. With more than 500 species to see, it is the country’s largest aviary, too.
• Set in Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park, the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens showcase beautiful gardens and exotic plants.
• For those ready to take a walk on the wild side, the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium sits on over 75 acres and exhibits more than 4,000 animals!

When it comes to food, Pittsburgh’s tastes are unbeatable. There are far too many options to sample on just one staycation, but, there are a few that you simply must try.

• The Hyeholde Restaurant is a historic Moon Township mansion that serves up magnificently-plated, locally grown cuisine.
• Meat & Potatoes is a trendy downtown gastropub that serves high-end comfort food and even more impressive drinks.
• Located in a restored church in Pittsburgh’s revitalized Lawrenceville suburb, the Church Brew Works boasts great food, freshly-brewed beer and an incredible atmosphere.

If culture is what you seek on your staycation, look no further than Pittsburgh’s downtown Cultural District.

• The Benedum Center is recognized as a nationally historic venue, but the beautifully designed theater and concert hall hosts contemporary acts that range from Jason Mraz to the Wiggles.
• Another historical masterpiece, the Byham Theater hosts a variety of performing arts that include dance, music, theater and film.
• The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra calls Heinz Hall home, but the incredible concert hall also hosts a variety of musical acts throughout the year. 

Finally, sporting and outdoor enthusiasts can not only root for Pittsburgh’s hometown Pirates, Steelers and Penguins during their staycation, but they can also explore some other great outdoor adventures.

• Kennywood Theme Park and Sandcastle Water Park are two Pittsburgh summertime staples that children of all ages dream of attending on a hot, summer day.
• Only in a city where three rivers meet can you enjoy the city skyline via kayak or race dragon boats up and down the river. Thanks to Kayak Pittsburgh and the Three Rivers Rowing Association, you can do both in Pittsburgh.
• The Duquesne Incline operates 365 days a year to provide one of the most breathtaking views of Pittsburgh around. It also leads to the top of Mount Washington, where dining and entertainment options await.

With everything that Pittsburgh has to offer, it is no wonder that the Steel City ranked as the 4th best city for a staycation in Wallethub.com’s report. Instead of packing your bags and travelling to another city to vacation, stay in Pittsburgh and explore some of your hometown’s best attractions.