Pittsburgh is like a patchwork quilt; the energy of the city revolves around its many neighborhoods, each with its own history and unique draws. Whether you’ve lived here 5 months or 5 years, there’s always something new to see. Let’s explore some of these areas of the city and my personal favorite spots, starting with those closest to campus!
*Free admission for Pitt students
Oakland
The hub of academics and health care in the city, Oakland, is where we find the University and our school of public health. Around us are UPMC Magee, Presbyterian, and even more hospitals, clinics, and research centers that make up a large part of Pittsburgh’s biomedical influence (not to mention clinic sites!). Whether you’re looking for a museum to explore or the perfect study spot, Oakland has so much to offer.
Favorite Bite to Eat: The Porch
Favorite Coffee: Divvy
Favorite Place to Get Lost: Carnegie Museum of Art & Natural History*
Top Spot: Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden*
Shadyside
Shadyside has a few main streets full of businesses and restaurants. I see it as the best place in the city for a social outing, and some of the best food! A walk down Walnut Street on a nice spring day is a perfect destress activity.
Favorite Bite to Eat: Kujira!!!
Favorite Coffee: Delanie’s
Favorite Place to Get Lost: Shadyside Art Festival
Top Spot: Kards Unlimited
Squirrel Hill
Squirrel Hill is where I lived my first semester, along with several other cohort members! Murray Ave has many unique businesses to explore, and Squirrel Hill is right next door to Schenley Park, one of my personal favorite spots in the city. It’s also a quick drive across the river to the waterfront, where you can find AMC Theater, Dave and Busters, and many more shopping choices.
Favorite Bite to Eat: Squirrel Hill Cafe
Favorite Coffee: Meccha Matcha
Favorite Place to Get Lost: Squirrel Hill Night Market
Top Spot: Pigeon Bagels
East Liberty
East Lib is where I go for the essentials. On my shopping days, I can stop at Trader Joe’s, Aldi, Target, PetSmart, Home Depot, and grab a bite to eat. Another great area for students to live and commute to school.
Favorite Bite to Eat: Dancing Crab Thai
Favorite Coffee: Margaux
Favorite Place to Get Lost: Bakery Square
Top Spot: Trader Joe’s
Strip District
I love Sunday mornings in the Strip, starting of course with Pamela’s Hotcakes and a drink from one of the many coffee shops. Historic businesses like Enrico’s bakery, Penn Mac, and Wholey’s Fish Market are just a short walk from modern night life at the Puttshack, Aslin Beer Company, and Novo Food Hall. Wandering down the terminal I’ve found a go-to nail salon and the cutest plant shop.
Favorite Bite to Eat: Pamela’s Diner
Favorite Coffee: Allegheny Coffee Co.
Favorite Place to Get Lost: Heinz History Museum
Top Spot: Wholey’s Fish Market
Cultural District
The Cultural District is the coolest part of downtown! I’ve been to many shows between the Benedum Center for the Performing Arts, the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, and the orchestra at Heinz Hall. It’s the best area for arts and entertainment, and you can stop by Howl at the Moon after a show to keep the night going with some music. Plus, all roads lead down to Point Park, where firework shows, pop-up concerts, and festivals can fill many Saturdays.
Favorite Bite to Eat: Proper Brick Oven and Tap House
Favorite Drink: The Spritzery
Favorite Place to Get Lost: Three Rivers Heritage Trail
Top Spot: The Benedum Center
North Shore
The North Shore proves why Pittsburgh is great whether you’re a sports fan, music lover, or both. I won’t forget the division championship Raven’s-Steelers Game, or Noah Kahan at Stage AE. Also, home to Allegheny General Hospital (Featured on The Pitt) and North Shore Riverfront Park.
Favorite Bite to Eat: Burgatory
Favorite Drink: Too many to pick from ;)
Favorite Place to Get Lost: The Science Center
Top Spot: The National Aviary
South Side
Another busy area for students! Carson Street has so many fun businesses and restaurants, not to mention even more over at South Side Works.
Fav Coffee: Delanie’s (Again)
Favorite Place to Get Lost (In the chocolate sauce): Page’s Dairy
Fav Food: Urban Tap (Shout out to trivia night!)
Top Spot: Ascend Climbing Gym
These are just a few of the dozens of neighborhoods that make up the beautiful city of Pittsburgh. I hope you’ve found some new places to try across the city, if you’re coming to stay or just for a visit. Social life and self-care are such an important part of grad school, and I couldn’t imagine building relationships with cohort members or finding so much time in nature anywhere else.
