Pittsburgh is known as “the most livable city,” and with these suggestions, you can have some free fun on the weekend. For newcomers to Pittsburgh, these weekend ideas can help you explore the city and maybe make some friends along the way.
Enjoy the View
Whether it’s the plentiful bridges that arch over the rivers or the vegetation that is spread throughout the city, Pittsburgh’s landscape offers an array of views and greenery for those looking for no-cost adventures.
Mount Washington stands as one of the most visited neighborhoods in the city, with a famous view of the skyline that is picture-worthy. Low on cash? You can walk around Mount Washington and enjoy all the views that tourists flock to at no cost.
If you are a park lover, take advantage of what the city has to offer. Pittsburgh has six city parks: Schenley Park, Emerald View Park, Frick Park, Highland Park, August Wilson Park, and Riverview Park. These trail filled, refreshing areas are perfect for spending your Saturday with friends and family.
Along with the city parks, Pittsburgh has various state, county, and waterfront parks. Many locals enjoy downtown’s Point State Park. Here you can spend time at the fountain and enjoy the beautiful views.
Bring your four-legged friend for some off-the-chain, weekend fun at one of the many dog parks that Pittsburgh has to offer. Who says you can’t bring your furry friend on a weekend escapade?
Learning Is Always Fun
Books, movies, and activities, oh my! The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh has 19 locations sprinkled throughout Pittsburgh, which offer a world of opportunities for the community. City residents can stop by one of the locations to begin exploring what the local libraries have to offer.
Pittsburgh has a rich history, and as such, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission has installed plaques around the city. These plaques commemorate events, people, and locations that have historical significance. Learn more about local and national history by spending your weekend on an informational scavenger hunt for these plaques.
The Arts
Listen to local beats at any one of the music filled, free events that the Steel City offers.
Pittsburgh Opera’s Brown Bag Opera Concerts take place on second Saturdays, from September to April, in the Strip District. Bring a friend and maybe a sandwich.
The First Fridays at the Frick concert series lasts from June to September. The series hosts an array of musical selections and starts at 7 p.m. City dwellers are welcome at no cost.
See some amazing art in downtown Pittsburgh at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Gallery Crawls. These multi-venue showcases occur on a quarterly basis, so you have many opportunities to experience multimedia, dance, theatre, visual art, and music, all for free.
Festivals for Everyone
Perhaps one of the most alluring things about Pittsburgh is it’s cultural diversity and celebrations.
Some of the city’s more iconic celebrations include PicklesBURGH, Light Up Night, Art All Night, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Pittsburgh PrideFest and Pride in the Street, the Dollar Bank Three Rivers Art Festival, and Bloomfield Little Italy Days.
No matter the month, there’s bound to be a community celebration that you can attend, and it won’t break the bank.
[tweetthis]Out of things to do in #PGH this weekend? Check out this list of #free fun around the city.[/tweetthis]
Fitness Lovers
Looking to “get your sweat on”?
Pittsburgh is quickly moving up as a bike-friendly city. Save some dollars by putting on your helmet, hopping on your two-wheeler, and pedaling along one of Pittsburgh’s rivers or exploring the various neighborhoods. Visit BikePGH for maps and safety tips.
Downtown Pittsburgh’s Market Square is gushing with summer classes that are, you guessed it, FREE. Enjoy yoga, ballroom dancing, and even Zumba. Who says fitness can’t be fun?
Runners and walkers, set your marks, and prepare for one of the many marathons that you can be a part of in the city. With so many races on the weekends, you can burn calories and meet others who enjoy fitness as much as you do.
Not much of a runner? Read How to Start Running: Advice from a Converted Cynic for some athletic inspiration.
Having fun on the weekends doesn’t mean you have to pull out your wallet. With these tips, we hope you can find some no-cost fun in your Pittsburgh neighborhood.