PA Counties

26 Must-See Attractions in Allegheny County

Rusty Glessner

A collage of four images showcasing attractions in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania: Top left shows a dinosaur skeleton exhibit at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History; top right displays a creative arrangement of Heinz ketchup bottles in the shape of a larger bottle at the Heinz History Center; bottom left features three elephants near a watering hole at the Pittsburgh Zoo; and bottom right is an aerial view of PNC Park during a baseball game with the city skyline in the background.

If you’re looking for the best things to see and do in Allegheny County, you’re in the right place!

A map showing Pennsylvania's 67 counties, with Allegheny County highlighted in red. — A map showing Pennsylvania’s 67 counties, with Allegheny County highlighted in red.

The county was formed in 1788 and is named in honor of the Allegheny River.

A historical marker plaque in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, painted blue with raised gold lettering. At the top, a decorative arch contains the Pennsylvania state emblem with two horses and an eagle. The text details the county's formation on September 24, 1788, from parts of Westmoreland and Washington counties, and its naming after the Allegheny River. It mentions Pittsburgh as the county seat, laid out in 1764 and becoming a city in 1816, known for its iron, steel, and other industries, historically referred to as the "Workshop of the World." The bottom credits the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission 1981. The plaque is against a background of stone masonry. — Allegheny County is named for the Allegheny River.

The county seat is Pittsburgh, known as the “City of Bridges” for its 446 bridges.

Sunrise over Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with the city skyline silhouetted against a vibrant sky of deep oranges and purples. The yellow Fort Duquesne Bridge spans the Allegheny River in the foreground, its reflection shimmering in the calm water. The PPG Place and UPMC buildings are prominent in the cityscape, backlit by the rising sun. — Pittsburgh has the most bridges (446) of any city in the world.

Allegheny County is the state’s second-most populous county (after Philadelphia County), and Pittsburgh is the state’s second most populous city (also after Philadelphia).

A twilight view of the Pittsburgh skyline with the Monongahela River in the foreground. The city lights are beginning to twinkle as the sky transitions from dusk to night. The Fort Pitt Bridge with its distinctive arch spans the river, and prominent buildings like the UPMC and K&L Gates towers rise against the darkening sky, their reflections shimmering in the water below. The riverfront is tranquil, with a marina and walkways along the water’s edge. — Looking towards downtown Pittsburgh from the Hot Metal Bridge.

In the 18th century, ownership of the area that makes up modern-day Allegheny County was hotly contested between the French, the British, and Native Americans, resulting in what became known as the French and Indian War.

A detailed painting at Braddock's Battlefield History Center depicting the wounding of General Braddock. The scene is set in a dense forest with soldiers in red uniforms and others in civilian clothing, amidst chaos and battle. In the center, a figure presumed to be General Braddock is being attended to, showing the tense and urgent moments on the battlefield. The artwork captures the intensity and drama of the historical event it represents. — A painting of “The Battle of the Monongahela” on display at Braddock’s Battlefield History Center in Allegheny County.

In the 19th and early 20th century, Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities in Allegheny County became the world’s largest steel producing region.

The Rivers of Steel Industrial Tour of the Carrie Blast Furnaces takes approximately two hours. — The Rivers of Steel Industrial Tour at Carrie Furnace in Allegheny County.

Today healthcare, education, and tech-related businesses make up the core of Allegheny County’s economy.

An interior view of the Cathedral of Learning at the University of Pittsburgh featuring the grand Gothic architecture. The photo shows a spacious hall with high arched ceilings, ornate hanging chandeliers, and tall stained glass windows. Two large banners hang from the ceiling, one reads "Here, progress" and the other "is always in progress", flanking the central pathway. People are walking through the hall, some in groups and some alone. The warm lighting from the chandeliers casts a welcoming glow over the stone interior. — Inside the Cathedral of Learning at the University of Pittsburgh.

From museums and historic sites to ballparks and zoos, here are 26 of the best things to see and do in Allegheny County.

Simply click on the blue text links on the map above or in the descriptions below to read more in-depth information about each destination.

There are an estimated 400 Amur tigers remaining n the world today. — Amur tiger at the Pittsburgh Zoo.

1. Braddock’s Battlefield History Center

Braddock’s Battlefield History Center, located in North Braddock, just east of downtown Pittsburgh, serves as a poignant reminder of one of the early and significant battles in American history.

A four-photo collage of Braddock's Battlefield History Center near Pittsburgh, featuring the building's exterior with its name on the facade, an indoor display of a historical battle scene diorama, a brass cannon exhibit, and a case of rusted artifacts from the Battle of the Monongahela. Each image captures a different aspect of the museum's offerings, from its architecture to the detailed presentations of historical artifacts. — Scenes from Braddock’s Battlefield History Center in Allegheny County.

The center preserves and interprets the historical significance of the 1775 Battle of the Monongahela (also known as Braddock’s Defeat), with the museum being located on a portion of the former battlefield itself.

A historical marker titled "Braddock's Defeat" at Braddock's Battlefield History Center near Pittsburgh. The sign is dated July 9, 1755, and recounts General Braddock's British forces being ambushed and defeated by French and Indians within the present limits of Braddock and North Braddock. In the background, there is a statue on a pedestal and a residential area with bare trees and a cloudy sky. — Braddock’s Defeat historical marker near the museum.

2. The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History

Two museums housed in one grand building, the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History offer an experience that’s both enlightening and thoroughly enjoyable, whether you’re a lifelong learner, a family with curious kids, or just looking for a unique way to spend the day in Pittsburgh.

A collage of four diverse exhibits at the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, Pittsburgh, PA. Top left: Visitors admire a vibrant, intricate wall mural. Top right: A display of dinosaur skeletons in a lifelike habitat. Bottom left: A dark room filled with illuminated cases of minerals and gems. Bottom right: A large, detailed religious painting set against a bold red wall. — Scenes from the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History

One admission fee grants you access to both museums, a world where art, science, and history converge in the most fascinating way.

The entrance to the Hall of African Wildlife at the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History in Pittsburgh, PA, featuring a realistic diorama with two large crocodiles. One crocodile is dramatically suspended mid-air above the water, while the other is positioned below on a riverbank, surrounded by detailed vegetation. This dynamic display showcases the natural behavior and habitat of African crocodiles. The exhibition space is marked by a curved wall with the hall's name prominently displayed, inviting visitors to explore further. — Hall of African Wildlife at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.

3. The Carrie Blast Furnaces

The Carrie Blast Furnaces were in operation from 1884 until 1982, turning iron ore into purified, molten iron which was then used as an ingredient in the steel-making process.

Exploring the Carrie Blast Furnaces on the Rivers of Steel Tour. — Touring the Carrie Blast Furnaces with Rivers of Steel.

Today the Rivers of Steel nonprofit group puts on tours, workshops, exhibitions, and festivals at the Carrie Blast Furnaces, to promote tourism and economic development in the region, as well as preserving the site itself.

Rivers of Steel tour guide explaining the history of the Carrie Deer.

4. Cathedral of Learning

Standing 42 stories tall, the Cathedral of Learning is the focal point of the University of Pittsburgh’s main campus, located in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh.

An image of the Cathedral of Learning at the University of Pittsburgh, a tall, Gothic Revival skyscraper under a blue sky with scattered clouds. In the foreground is a large, historic cannon displayed on a concrete base with cannonballs stacked at its base, situated on a well-manicured lawn. Traffic is visible on the adjacent road, including a red bus among the cars. The scene suggests a clear day with the bare trees indicating either late fall or winter. — The Cathedral of Learning is said to be the tallest educational building in the Western Hemisphere and the second-tallest university building in the world.

The lobby, spanning from the first to the third floors, features an expansive Gothic-style Commons Room, which serves as a study space for general use.

An interior view of the Cathedral of Learning's Commons Room at the University of Pittsburgh. The Gothic architecture is characterized by tall stone arches, ribbed vaults, and hanging chandeliers. The room is filled with wooden tables and chairs where students are seated, some studying and some using laptops. The atmosphere is studious and serene, lit by warm artificial light, contrasting with the daylight filtering through the stained glass windows. The high ceiling and stone columns add to the grandeur of the space. — Commons Room in the Cathedral of Learning.

Visitors can take a free elevator ride to the 36th floor to check out expansive views of Pittsburgh in all directions.

A sunset view over the Oakland neighborhood from the Cathedral of Learning in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The photo captures the dense urban landscape with a mix of modern and traditional buildings, bustling streets, and a radiant orange sky fading into twilight. The city lights begin to punctuate the evening as the day ends, highlighting the vibrancy of the area. — Sunset over Pittsburgh as viewed from the Cathedral of Learning.

Guided tours of the Cathedral of Learning are also available for a small fee and can be scheduled at THIS LINK.

A view of Saint Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania from the Cathedral of Learning at Pitt. The cathedral displays intricate Gothic Revival architecture with pointed arches and towering spires. The building is nestled among the urban landscape of the city, surrounded by residential buildings, trees, and streets with cars. The foreground shows a modern building with a glass facade that contrasts with the historical and ornate design of the cathedral. The photo captures the blending of architectural styles in an urban setting. — A view of Saint Paul Cathedral from the Cathedral of Learning.

5. The Duquesne Incline

Opened on May 20, 1877, the Duquesne Incline in Pittsburgh continues to charm both locals and tourists with its authentic wooden cable car rides up and down the side of Mount Washington.

A front view of the Duquesne Incline in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with its track ascending a lush green hillside. At the base is the red station house, and at the top, the incline meets a neighborhood with varied architecture, including modern high-rise buildings and traditional houses. The incline provides a unique transportation link between the riverfront at the bottom and the residential area atop the hill. The Allegheny River is visible in the foreground, reflecting the sky and greenery. — View of the Duquesne Incline from Point State Park.

Cars travel at 6 m.p.h. up the 30.5 degree track, which covers 400 feet of elevation change.

A view of the Duquesne Incline ascending Mount Washington in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The incline railway is set against a lush green hillside, with the city's architecture, including a prominent multi-tiered building, in the background. A bright red "IRON CITY BEER" sign adds a splash of color to the urban landscape. The scene is captured on a sunny day with clear skies. — The Duquesne Incline travels on 794 feet of track.

The view from the top of the incline has been voted one of the top ten sites in the world for viewing a cityscape by USA Today.

A twilight view of downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from Mount Washington. The skyline is illuminated with lights from various buildings, and the iconic yellow Fort Duquesne Bridge spans across the Allegheny River. A red Duquesne Incline cable car is in the foreground, providing a historic mode of transportation up the steep hill. The Point State Park fountain is visible at the confluence of the rivers, and boats can be seen on the water. The city is alive with urban activity, and the sky is transitioning from blue to shades of pink and purple as night approaches. — View from the top of the Duquesne Incline.

6. Fall Run Falls

Fall Run Falls in Allegheny County has the distinction of being the largest waterfall near downtown Pittsburgh!

Fall Run Falls in Shaler Township Pennsylvania. — The author at Fall Run Falls in Shaler Township, just 7 miles north of downtown Pittsburgh.

Located a mere 7 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, Fall Run Falls is a beautiful 18 foot tall waterfall tucked away in a nature park that is surrounded on all sides by housing developments.

Observation areas near Fall Run Falls outside Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. — Observation areas near Fall Run Falls.

7. The Fort Pitt Museum

The Fort Pitt Museum is renowned for its in-depth portrayal of pivotal moments in the region’s history, including a significant focus on the French and Indian War.

A photo collage from the Fort Pitt Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, featuring (from top left to bottom right): the museum entrance with an American flag and cannon, the interior with exhibits and a cannon on display, an informational panel about the significance of the land, and a sculpture of two historical figures in discussion. — Scenes from the Fort Pitt Museum.

Built on the site of the original Fort Pitt, this 12,000-square-foot facility is a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits related to the formative years of Pittsburgh, helping visitors unravel the intricate tapestry of the city’s past.

A detailed diorama at the Fort Pitt Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, depicting the historical Fort Pitt complex with its multiple buildings, defensive walls, and surrounding landscape, including representations of the rivers and boats from the period. — Fort Pitt diorama at the museum.

8. The Fountain of Youth

The Fountain of Youth really does exist, and you can find it in a public park just north of Pittsburgh!

The Fountain of Youth in North Park, north of PIttsburgh. — The Fountain of Youth is a historic spring house in Allegheny County.

Built in the 1930’s, this historic spring house has been abandoned as a source of water, but the Fountain of Youth is still a great photo-op and roadside attraction in North Park, Allegheny County.

The Fountain of Youth at Allegheny County's North Park, just outside Pittsburgh. — The Fountain of Youth at Allegheny County’s North Park.

9. The Gateway Clipper Fleet

The Gateway Clipper Fleet, based in Pittsburgh’s Station Square, cruises the city’s three rivers: the Monongahela, Allegheny, and Ohio.

An image capturing the Gateway Clipper, a blue and white paddle steamer, on the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The boat is in the foreground, with the city's iconic yellow Fort Duquesne Bridge arching overhead. In the background, the green hills of Mount Washington and residential buildings are visible, along with the "IRON CITY BEER" sign. The evening light gives a warm hue to the scene, with a clear sky above and a few people visible walking along the riverbank.

The Gateway Clipper Fleet provides a variety of cruise experiences, including sightseeing tours and dinner cruises.

A view of the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania skyline featuring the iconic yellow Roberto Clemente Bridge in the foreground. The K&L Gates Center is prominent among the array of downtown buildings. The Allegheny River is in the foreground, reflecting the bridge and parts of the cityscape. The sky is blue with scattered clouds on a bright, sunny day. — View from a Gateway Clipper sightseeing cruise.

Naturally, the gift shop at the dock is well-stocked of pirate-themed souvenirs.

A young child dressed in pirate attire stands on a boat, with the Pittsburgh skyline in the background. She wears a black pirate hat with a skull and crossbones, heart-shaped red sunglasses, and is holding a toy golden goblet. She's smiling and seems to be enjoying her time on the boat, possibly on a sightseeing tour or a themed cruise. The cityscape includes prominent buildings like the cylindrical structure of the Westin hotel, the distinct triangular top of PPG Place, and the vibrant red beams of a nearby bridge. — If you take your kids on a sightseeing excursion, prepare to buy pirate-themed souvenirs.

The fleet is said to be the largest inland riverboat fleet in the United States.

A night view of the Pittsburgh skyline and a Gateway Clipper boat on the Allegheny River. The city lights reflect on the water surface, with prominent buildings such as the UPMC, PNC, and Highmark buildings illuminated against the dark sky. The scene captures the vibrant urban atmosphere along the waterfront. — The Three Rivers Queen on a nighttime excursion.

10. The Heinz History Center

The Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh is the largest history museum in Pennsylvania!

Exploring the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.

The museum includes six floors of permanent and changing exhibitions that tell the story of western Pennsylvania.

There are six floors of exhibits at the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. — There are six floors of exhibits at the Heinz History Center.

The museum is named after the late U.S. Senator H. John Heinz III, great-grandson of the founder of the H. J. Heinz Company.

Statue of H.J. Heinz at the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. — Statue of H.J. Heinz.

11. Kennywood

Kennywood, a Pittsburgh tradition over a century old, offers classic midway attractions, seven rollercoasters, and a 12-ride Kiddieland.

Kennywood Park near Pittsburgh is one of the 10 best amusement parks in Pennsylvania. — Kennywood Park near Pittsburgh.

12. The Living Dead Museum

The Living Dead Museum pays tribute to Pittsburgh filmmaker George Romero and the series of zombie movies he created, starting with the horror classic Night of the Living Dead in 1967.

Scenes from the Living Dead Museum.

Featuring movie props and memorabilia as well as numerous interpretive exhibits, the museum is not merely a repository of relics, but a journey through the evolution of horror film history itself.

A hallway within the Living Dead Museum lined with framed horror movie posters and black and white photographs on white walls. The posters include iconic images from 'Night of the Living Dead' and 'Land of the Dead'. The hallway is carpeted in grey, and the ceiling has square fluorescent lights. This corridor serves as a tribute to the Living Dead series and the work of George Romero, creating an immersive atmosphere for museum visitors. — Movie posters at the Living Dead Museum in the Monroeville Mall.

13. The Mister Rogers Statue

Mister Rogers, whose show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” was produced at WQED’s studios in Pittsburgh, was a familiar presence in the lives of generations of Americans.

A bronze statue of Fred Rogers from the television show "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" seated in a casual pose, holding a sneaker in one hand. The statue is set against an archway within a stone structure. In the background, there's a clear blue sky with wispy clouds and the silhouette of Pittsburgh's Heinz Field stadium is partially visible. The artwork captures the warmth and friendliness associated with the beloved TV personality. — The Mister Rogers Statue was unveiled in 2009.

The Mister Rogers Statue, commissioned by Cordelia May — a Mellon heiress, philanthropist, and friend of Fred Rogers, was unveiled on Pittsburgh’s North Shore in 2009.

A commemorative plaque dedicated to Cordelia S. May, featuring a brief biography and her contributions to philanthropy. There's a photograph of Cordelia May smiling, dressed in a red coat, kneeling beside a black and white dog. The text mentions her establishment of the Laurel Foundation in 1951 and the Colcom Foundation in 1996 to support culture, environment, and community initiatives. The plaque highlights her lifetime of personal philanthropy and anonymous contributions that reflect her respect for traditional principles and individual responsibility. The logos for Colcom Foundation and Laurel Foundation, along with their websites, are displayed at the bottom. — Philanthropist Cordelia May commissioned the Mister Rogers statue.

Most people refer to it simply as the “Mister Rogers statue,” but its formal title, “Tribute to Children,” highlights the influence Rogers had on the youth of Pittsburgh.

A plaque commemorating Fred McFeely Rogers, featuring his biography and contributions to children's television. It includes a photograph of Fred Rogers in a red sweater, changing into sneakers, set against a backdrop of his show's set. The text recounts his role as the creator, host, writer, composer, and puppeteer of "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" from 1968-2008, noting his blend of music composition, television production, and ministry to address children's concerns. Rogers received four Emmys, was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and received over 40 honorary degrees. His legacy is described as an icon of children's television symbolizing compassion, kindness, and commitment to children's well-being. — Mister Rogers passed away in 2003 after battling stomach cancer.

Given Mister Rogers’ reputation as a swimmer, the statue’s riverside setting is particularly apt.

A view from behind the statue of Fred Rogers, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The statue overlooks the Allegheny River with a backdrop of the cityscape, including the Fort Duquesne Bridge. The scene is framed by a large, circular concrete arch and green foliage from overhead trees. The sky is overcast, providing soft lighting over the tranquil setting. — “Tribute to Children” was built on a pier abandoned after the demolition of the Manchester Bridge.

Today, the Mister Rogers statue stands as a sentinel over the city, attracting visitors from Pittsburgh and beyond.

A view from behind the statue of Fred Rogers at the North Shore of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, looking out towards the city skyline during sunrise or sunset. The statue sits contemplatively on a bench, facing the Allegheny River with the downtown skyline in the distance, including the distinctive PPG Place and other skyscrapers. The Fort Duquesne Bridge is visible to the left. The sky is painted with soft hues of pink and blue, reflecting on the calm river water. — The 3.5-ton statue measures 10 feet, 10 inches tall.

14. The National Aviary

Nestled in the historic North Side of Pittsburgh, the National Aviary is America’s largest independent, indoor zoo dedicated to birds.

A photo collage featuring four different birds from the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA. Top left: A Victoria crowned pigeon with elaborate feather crest. Top right: Two affectionate Hyacinth Macaws perched on a branch. Bottom left: A Toco Toucan with a large, colorful bill. Bottom right: A Steller's Sea Eagle with sharp yellow beak and intense gaze. The diverse avian life represents the variety of species housed at the aviary. — Scenes from the National Aviary in Pittsburgh.

The aviary is home to over 500 birds representing more than 150 species, including many that are rare or endangered.

A close-up image of a large condor at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, PA, showcasing its impressive grey and brown plumage and the distinctive skin texture on its head and neck. The condor is standing among rocks and wood chips, indicative of its enclosure designed to mimic a natural habitat. — A juvenile Andean Condor at the National Aviary.

15. Phipps Conservatory

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens spans 15 acres, featuring a 14-room glasshouse and 23 unique gardens.

A collage showcasing the holiday splendor of Phipps Conservatory's Winter Flower Show and Light Garden, featuring a radiant indoor Christmas tree, the conservatory's glowing facade at night, oversized colorful light bulbs in the outdoor garden, and a beautifully lit pathway leading through a winter landscape. — Scenes from Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

The Phipps Conservatory’s Holiday Flower and Light Show is a Pittsburgh Christmastime tradition that transforms the already stunning botanical gardens into a winter fairy tale.

A stunning indoor Christmas tree composed of blue lights cascading down in tiered chandelier-like formations, set against the backdrop of the Phipps Conservatory's glass roof. The tree is surrounded by lush hanging plants and the reflective surface of water below, creating a serene and enchanting scene at the Holiday Magic Winter Flower Show and Light Garden. — Phipps Conservatory’s Holiday Flower and Light Show is a Pittsburgh Christmastime tradition.

16. The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium

The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium is both the largest zoo and the largest aquarium in Pennsylvania.

Exploring the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. — Scenes from the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.

First opened on June 14, 1898, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is now home to more than 8,000 animals representing over 600 species.

The Masai giraffe is the tallest land mammal on Earth.

17. PNC Park

Many baseball fans consider PNC Park one of the best baseball stadiums in America, with its stunning views of the Pittsburgh skyline and Allegheny River as well as it’s natural grass playing surface and retro design.

A vibrant view from inside PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, during a baseball game. The field is immaculately maintained with the downtown skyline, including distinctive buildings like the UPMC, creating a dramatic backdrop beyond the outfield. The Roberto Clemente Bridge is visible, spanning the Allegheny River. The park is filled with fans, and the scoreboard displays a player at bat. The evening sky is tinged with warm hues from the setting sun. — The views at PNC Park are some of the best in baseball.

The stadium opened in 2001 and can seat 38,747 people for baseball.

Honus Wagner, who played for the Pirates from 1900-1917, was one of the first five inductees into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

PNC Park has been the venue for various events, such as the 2006 Major League Baseball All-Star Game and a wide array of concerts.

A view of PNC Park from across the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The home of the Pittsburgh Pirates is recognizable by its large scoreboard and light towers. The stadium's open design allows a glimpse inside to the seating areas. It's a clear day with fluffy clouds in the blue sky, and the river in the foreground reflects the park and has a few small boats and kayakers enjoying the water. — PNC Park along the Allegheny River.

Several tributes to former Pirate Roberto Clemente are incorporated into the ballpark and its immediate vicinity, and the nearby Sixth Street Bridge was renamed in his honor.

A photograph captured at dusk featuring the Roberto Clemente Bridge in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In the foreground, a large yellow numeral '21' sculpture stands prominently, with a smaller '33' sculpture in the background. The bridge, also painted yellow, spans the Allegheny River and leads to the city skyline, which is lit up against the fading light of the sky showing hues of pink, blue, and orange. The water reflects the bridge and city lights, adding to the serene evening atmosphere. — Roberto Clemente wore number 21 because his full name of Roberto Clemente Walker had that many letters.

18. Point State Park

Point State Park is located at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers, which merge to form the Ohio River.

The Fort Duquesne Bridge to the left of Point State Park and the Fort Pitt Bridge to the right.

The park commemorates the strategic and historic heritage of the Forks of the Ohio during America’s early colonial period.

An educational exhibit panel at the Fort Pitt Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, explaining the historical significance of 'The Forks of the Ohio,' also known as 'the Point.' It describes the area as one of the most strategic in North America for controlling access to the Ohio and Mississippi rivers and its role in cultural exchange, military affairs, and the growth of Pittsburgh. — The Forks of the Ohio was a strategically important spot early in American history.

The Great Lawn, as the name implies, is a large, grassy open space at the heart of Point State Park.

Looking across the Great Lawn towards the fountain at Point State Park in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. — Looking across the Great Lawn towards the fountain.

A concrete tracery marking the original outline of Fort Duquesne, built by the French in 1754 and subsequently destroyed by the French in 1758, so that it would not fall into British hands.

The concrete tracery marking the original outline of Fort Duquesne at Point State Park in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. — The concrete tracery marking the original outline of Fort Duquesne.

19. PPG Place

PPG Place is a 5.5 acre office complex that has been hailed by architectural critics as “the crown jewel of Pittsburgh’s skyline.”

A towering Christmas tree adorned with multicolored lights stands at the center of an ice-skating rink at PPG Place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Skaters enjoy the winter activity under the open sky, surrounded by the distinctive glass architecture of the high-rise buildings, reflecting the cloudy sky above. The festive atmosphere is accentuated by the large star topping the tree, and the scene captures a quintessential holiday spirit in an urban setting. — PPG Place resembles a castle made of glass.

Located in the heart of downtown, adjacent to historic Market Square, the complex consists of six shimmering glass office buildings.

A large, brightly lit Christmas tree adorned with multicolored lights and a shining star on top stands at the center of an ice-skating rink at PPG Place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Skaters enjoy the rink, surrounded by the city's nighttime architecture and glowing windows. The festive atmosphere is underscored by the clear night sky. — Six buildings of varying heights make up PPG Place.

The Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company, precursor to PPG Industries, was America’s first commercially successful plate glass maker.

A historical marker in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, detailing the history of the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company. The plaque is set against an urban backdrop with modern buildings and pedestrians. It states that the company was the first commercially successful U.S. plate glass maker, founded in 1883, and became PPG Industries in 1968. The company's first plant was at Creighton, and its office was located a half block east of the marker on Fourth Avenue. — Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company historical marker.

The UPMC Rink at PPG Place is an especially popular destination around Christmastime.

Ice skaters glide around a rink at PPG Place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a towering Christmas tree illuminated in segments of red, green, and gold lights. The tree's sparkling white star topper shines brightly against the dark night sky. Surrounding skyscrapers with lit windows and architectural details form a dramatic backdrop, reflecting the festive lights and vibrant energy of the holiday season. — UPMC Rink at PPG Place.

20. Randyland

Pittsburgh’s North Side is home to a vibrant roadside attraction that explodes with color and creativity: Randyland!

Collage of four images showcasing the eclectic and vibrant atmosphere of Randyland in Pittsburgh, featuring the artist Randy, colorful murals, whimsical art installations, and a multitude of playful objects. — *Randy Gilson transforms everyday discarded items into upcycled art with his boundless imagination.*

It’s not a park, not a museum, but a living, breathing mixed-media art installation created by the one and only Randy Gilson.

Colorful signs with inspirational quotes and the history of Randy Gilson at Randyland in Pittsburgh, adorned with vibrant painted flowers. — Randy’s bio.

Every exterior inch of Randy’s home and workshop, from the walls to the fences, is adorned with recycled treasures and found-object art.

Whimsical entrance to Randyland on Jacksonia Street, Pittsburgh, adorned with colorful toys, signs, and recycled art installations. — *Recycled treasures and found-object art.*

21. Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum is renowned as the largest memorial in the United States devoted exclusively to celebrating the valor of all branches of military veterans and service personnel.

A photo collage from the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum in Pittsburgh, PA. The top-left photo shows the museum's majestic facade with a wide staircase leading to its columned entrance and a large dome atop. The top-right image provides an interior view of a long hallway lined with glass cases displaying military memorabilia. The bottom-left close-up showcases a World War II exhibit with a poster reading "War in the Pacific - Avenge December 7" and various military uniforms. The bottom-right picture captures an olive green vintage military jeep displayed against a background of wooden signs with directions to various military bases around the world. — Scenes from the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum.

For enthusiasts of military history, the museum’s collection of extraordinary artifacts and memorabilia provides an insight into the experiences of American service personnel throughout all of America’s conflicts, from the Civil War to modern times.

Display case at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum in Pittsburgh, PA, featuring artifacts from the Battlefield of Gettysburg. The collection includes military caps, a bugle, a leather satchel, and a small wooden chest, among other items. Each piece is accompanied by descriptive text providing historical context. The reflections of the museum's windows can be seen in the glass casing. — Civil War memorabilia from the Battle of Gettysburg.

22. The Tour-Ed Coal Mine and Museum

Located 20 minutes north of downtown Pittsburgh, the Tour-Ed Coal Mine and Museum features both an underground trip into a real coal mine, and a museum of mining-related artifacts on the surface.

Exploring the Tour-Ed Coal Mine and Museum in Tarentum Pennsylvania. — Scenes from the Tour-Ed Coal MIne and Museum.

The highlight of a visit to the Tour-Ed Coal Mine is the chance to go underground – a half-mile underground to be precise!

View from inside the mine car as you descend below the Earth's surface. — View from inside the mine car as you descend below the Earth’s surface.

23. Western PA Model Railroad Museum

Located in Gibsonia (Allegheny County), the Western PA Model Railroad Museum is dedicated to preserving the railroading history of western PA through the use of a massive HO scale model train layout, said to be one of the largest in the United States.

Exploring the Western Pennsylvania Model Railroad Museum in Gibsonia PA. — Scenes from the Western Pennsylvania Model Railroad Museum.

Each year, between mid-November and mid-January, the museum holds an annual holiday train show entitled “A Railroad Journey in Miniature”, where visitors can come and enjoy 2 floors worth of model train layouts and railroading memorabilia.

A vibrant and colorful miniature train layout at the Western PA Model Railroad Museum, bustling with activity. The layout includes multiple train tracks, various model trains, and a range of detailed buildings and landscapes, creating a lively small-town scene. In the background, a visitor leans over a railing to get a closer look at the exhibit. The walls are adorned with framed pictures and shelves displaying train memorabilia, adding to the rich atmosphere of the museum. The scene is a testament to the hobby of model railroading and its ability to capture the imagination. — A vibrant and colorful Christmas train layout at the Western PA Model Railroad Museum.

24. Westinghouse Atom Smasher

The abandoned Westinghouse Atom Smasher is an iconic relic from the dawn of the atomic age in the United States.

Rubble is all that remains of the base of the Westinghouse Atom Smasher in Forest Hills, PA. — The abandoned Westinghouse Atom Smasher in Allegheny County.

For almost 80 years, the Westinghouse Atom Smasher was a landmark in Forest Hills, a suburb of Pittsburgh roughly 10 miles east of downtown.

The Westinghouse Atom Smasher prior to demolition in 2015.

According to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the Westinghouse Atom Smasher “made possible precise measurements of nuclear reactions and provided valuable research experience for the company’s pioneering work in nuclear power.“

Westinghouse Atom Smasher historic marker near the main gate to the former research lab.

25. The Henry Clay Frick Estate

The Henry Clay Frick estate offers a glimpse into the lavish Gilded Age lifestyle of one of Pittsburgh’s wealthiest families in the late 19th century.

A photo collage from the Henry Clay Frick estate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, featuring five distinct scenes: 1) The Victorian-style Clayton mansion with a vibrant yellow forsythia in the foreground against a backdrop of leafless trees and a cloudy sky. 2) The estate's historic landmark plaque for Clayton, detailing its construction and renovation dates. 3) The glass-paneled greenhouse surrounded by budding garden beds. 4) An exhibit inside the Car and Carriage Museum, showcasing a bright red vintage car with polished headlights. 5) A colorful outdoor sculpture of a woman dressed in blue, with multiple blue hands raised above her head holding candles and a portrait of a smiling woman’s face at the top, set against the backdrop of the estate's classical architecture. — Scenes from the Henry Clay Frick estate.

The estate is a testament to the life and times of Henry Clay Frick, a titan in the Pittsburgh steel industry, and whos aggressive business tactics played a significant role in the infamous 1892 Homestead strike.

Portrait of Henry Clay Frick. — Henry Clay Frick (public domain image).

Today, the estate stands not only as a monument to American industrialism and wealth but also as a witness to the era’s tumultuous labor relations.

A stately view of the Henry Clay Frick estate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, showcasing the mansion’s elegant architectural details. The Victorian-style mansion features a combination of stone and stucco façades, ornate window frames, a grand enclosed porch with decorative railings, and multiple chimneys. The steeply pitched roofs are adorned with patterned shingles and finials, complementing the historical design. Leafless trees frame the scene, and the mansion is set against a backdrop of partly cloudy skies, highlighting its status as a preserved historical landmark. — Tours of Clayton, the Henry Clay Frick mansion, are available Tuesday-Sunday.

26. The Remnants of Historic Forbes Field

Forbes Field, constructed in 1909, was the one-time home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Steelers, Homestead Grays, and Pitt Panthers.

The collage presents a multifaceted view of Forbes Field's storied past through five images. An aerial black and white photo reveals the expansive stadium once surrounded by a dense neighborhood, capturing its glory days. Standing testament to time is the remnants of the outfield wall, with the distance "436 FT" boldly marked, juxtaposed against the current backdrop of the neighborhood. An informative historical marker offers a brief history of Forbes Field, commemorating its innovation in stadium design and the legendary sports moments it hosted, including its ultimate destruction by fire in 1972. In homage to the field's legacy, the original home plate is preserved and displayed underfoot, protected beneath a transparent cover for posterity. A statue of a baseball player, caught in a dynamic throw, serves as a vibrant tribute to the athletes who played there, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the Pittsburgh Pirates and their historic games. Together, these elements weave a visual story of celebration and remembrance, bridging the gap between Forbes Field's celebrated past and its physical traces that linger today. — Some of the remnants of Forbes Field in Pittsburgh.

It witnessed numerous historic moments, including Bill Mazeroski’s Game 7 World Series-winning homer in 1960.

Silhouetted against a striking sunrise sky with scattered clouds, a bronze statue captures the dynamic motion of baseball player Bill Mazeroski in mid-run, right arm trailing and left leg lifted high. The player is depicted wearing a period uniform and cap, suggesting a connection to the historic era of Forbes Field. In the background, the Pittsburgh skyline rises, blending modern buildings with the timeless spirit of the game. The statue is poised in front of a red brick wall that bears the distance marker "406 FT," echoing the outfield wall distance at Forbes Field. — The original section of the wall cleared by Bill Mazeroski’s Game 7 World Series-winning homer in 1960 was relocated to PNC Park.

Although Forbes Field was demolished in 1972, parts of its structure linger, making it an interesting pilgrimage for baseball fans and history enthusiasts alike.

A present-day photograph of the remaining portion of the outfield wall from historic Forbes Field in Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood. The red brick wall stands tall, with the distances marked in white paint showing "457 FT" to the left and "436 FT" to the right, indicating the original dimensions of the ballpark. In front of the wall is a paved walkway with benches and a street lamp, offering a place for visitors to sit and reflect. A plaque for the Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business is also visible, indicating the site's proximity to the current University of Pittsburgh campus. This preserved piece of the wall serves as a tangible connection to the storied past of the Pittsburgh Pirates and the games once played within the now-vanished stadium. — *The site of the original Forbes Field is a spot worth visiting for die-hard baseball fans.*

So there you have it – 26 of the best things to see and do in Allegheny County, PA!

A sunrise view of the Pittsburgh skyline with the Roberto Clemente Bridge in the foreground. The bridge is reflected perfectly in the calm waters of the Allegheny River. The sky is a mix of warm and cool tones, indicating early morning light, and the city's buildings are illuminated by the rising sun. The scene captures the peacefulness of the city at dawn. — The Roberto Clemente Bridge in Pittsburgh.

Nearby Attractions

5 Must-See Attractions in Butler County is your guide to some of the best things to see and do in Allegheny County’s neighbor to the north.

Visiting the Mars Flying Saucer in Butler County Pennsylvania. — Scenes from Butler County.

21 Must-See Attractions in Westmoreland County is your guide to some of the best things to see and do in Allegheny County’s neighbor to the east.

A collection of four photos depicting attractions in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. Top left: A large historic cannon displayed outside with the Fort Ligonier museum entrance in the background. Top right: A whimsical, large book-shaped mural with a fairy tale theme, inviting visitors to walk through to a park. Bottom left: A person stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking a stunning autumn forest vista. Bottom right: A lineup of colorful kayaks and canoes on the grassy shore of a tranquil lake with a dock in the background. — Scenes from Westmoreland County.

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