Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories

Pittsburgh , United States

Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories

Active

(2 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our smartphone-guided tour brings the facts and stories behind Pittsburgh to life because we've taken the same stops and sights we share with our friends and families when they come to town and created an interactive web-based tour for you!

Read the stories behind the city, answer questions to reveal fun facts, and experience what makes this city incredible! Purchase your tour and then navigate to our website to enter your access code and launch the tour. You can either start immediately or create an account and come back when you are ready to explore.

Please note that you and your group read the tour aloud to one another - there is no audio functionality at this time.

Available options

Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories

What's included

Easy-to-use web interface

Family friendly stops and questions

24/7 support by phone or email

Detailed itinerary

Pittsburgh is the eastern anchor of the Rust Belt, and while that term may have derided the industry that formed this city it is now undergoing a resurgence and being reclaimed by residents. Learn about the growth of this city to become a powerhouse of institutions that defined America.

If PPG Plaza is a modern castle of glass then Market Square is its historic town square. We'll take a couple of stops here to learn about the city's origins and vibrant cityscape before proceeding onward. There might even be an ice cream recommendation.

Stop 3

Pocket parks aren't a Pittsburgh invention but with an odd triangular downtown they abound here. We'll pause in one to examine a mosaic globe and discuss some of the reach that Pittsburgh's influence has had on the world over the years.

Stop 4

This building, like many of the older structures in Pittsburgh, is not what it seems. Imagine it as a bustling department store, filled to the brim with everything you could possibly need. What you probably can't imagine are the before their time pensions, vacation time, and benefits that employees here got - learn more about the pioneers of the labor movement.

Stop 5

Urban redevelopment is a perennial topic in cities, the Gateway district here in Pittsburgh was one of the first attempts back in the 1950s and '60s that showcases what was en vogue then. This place has some hidden secrets, though - join us to uncover the artistry and mystery behind these steel monoliths.

Standing at the Fort Pitt Museum, you can imagine the origins to Pittsburgh right here are the confluence of armies, colonization, and expansionist dreams. Life, however, was much more mundane in the old 'Pittsborough" - we'll tell you all about it outside this museum dedicated to that past.

Stop 7

We'll take a couple of stops in Point State Park as denoted below to look at the incredible views of other amazing Pittsburgh destinations at the meeting of three rivers - one of the most incredible parks anywhere in America.

Stop 8 Pass by

While we won't walk here - the view from the top of the incline is only rivaled by that of it! Pittsburgh has some odd transportation habits - the hills necessitated the building of vertical railways - only today supplanted by autonomous vehicle testing - we'll explain, we promise.

Stop 9 Pass by

Pittsburgh is sometimes known as the land of Black and Gold for one reason - this football team. With historic records and charismatic players, they have defined American football for generations.

We end our tour at the start of the Ohio River - stretching hundreds of miles in front of you just like Pittsburgh's future having reinvented its economy and cemented a place as a leading American city.

Available languages

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

5★

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The fountain at the center of PPG Plaza.

Important notes

Thank you for your purchase! Your access code is DEFHY4. Please follow the steps below to validate and start your tour.

1. Navigate to https://wanderingtours.com/go
2. Enter the above code (DEFHY4) in the 'Access Code' box
3. Click 'Go'

Note, you may enter the code to validate your tour at any time prior to starting. You will be prompted to create an account, which can be used to retrieve your tour at another time or on another device.

About Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, nestled in western Pennsylvania, is a city renowned for its rich industrial history and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its numerous bridges, world-class museums, and stunning views of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers, Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Phipps Conservatory is a historic botanical garden featuring a variety of plant collections, seasonal exhibits, and beautiful glasshouses. It is a must-visit for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate ($19.95 for adults)

Carnegie Museum of Art

The Carnegie Museum of Art is one of the oldest and most respected art museums in the United States. It houses a diverse collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate ($24.95 for adults)

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is home to a wide variety of animals, including rare and endangered species. The aquarium section features marine life from around the world.

Nature 3-4 hours Moderate ($22.95 for adults)

Mount Washington

Mount Washington offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pittsburgh skyline and the three rivers. The Duquesne and Monongahela Incline railways provide easy access to the top.

Scenic View 1-2 hours Free (Incline rides cost around $6.50 round trip)

Andy Warhol Museum

The Andy Warhol Museum is the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist. It houses an extensive collection of Warhol's artworks, including paintings, prints, and films.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate ($20 for adults)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Primanti Brothers Sandwich

A classic Pittsburgh sandwich featuring Italian bread, meat, cheese, tomatoes, and fries.

Lunch/Dinner Can be customized for vegetarian and vegan options

Pierogies

Polish dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat, often served with toppings like onions and sour cream.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Kanzler

A traditional German dish featuring slow-roasted pork shoulder, sauerkraut, and dumplings.

Dinner Contains pork

Clam Chowder in a Bread Bowl

A hearty New England-style clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and gluten

Popular Activities

Whitewater rafting Hiking Kayaking Cycling Rock climbing Spa treatments Picnicking Reading in a park

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The peak season offers pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The city is lively with various events and attractions in full swing.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Pittsburgh is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Pittsburgh International Airport • 20 miles (32 km) from downtown

By train

Pittsburgh Union Station

By bus

Pittsburgh Intermodal Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transportation in Pittsburgh. It is affordable and covers most major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Oakland North Shore Shadyside Lawrenceville

Day trips

Fallinwater

40 miles (64 km) • Full day

Fallingwater is a renowned architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, nestled in the Laurel Highlands. It is a must-visit for architecture and design enthusiasts.

Idlewild Park

35 miles (56 km) • Full day

Idlewild Park is a family-friendly amusement park featuring a variety of rides, shows, and attractions. It is a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers.

McConnell's Mill State Park

45 miles (72 km) • Half day

McConnell's Mill State Park is a beautiful natural area featuring hiking trails, a historic gristmill, and scenic views. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Festivals

Three Rivers Arts Festival • Early June (10 days) Pittsburgh Marathon • Early May Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts • Late September to Early October

Pro tips

Visit the Duquesne Incline for stunning views of the city skyline and rivers
Explore the Strip District for fresh produce, meats, and specialty foods
Take a stroll through Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens for a peaceful and scenic experience
Visit the Andy Warhol Museum to learn about the iconic artist and his impact on pop culture
Try a Primanti Brothers sandwich, a Pittsburgh classic featuring Italian bread, meat, cheese, tomatoes, and fries