Things To Do
Cathedral of Learning
One of the most iconic buildings in Pittsburgh and the centerpiece of Pitt’s campus. The Cathedral of Learning is 42 stories tall and is one of the tallest educational buildings in the world. Inside, you’ll find the Nationality Rooms, which are classrooms decorated to represent different cultures from around the world. They’re beautiful and worth walking through. Even just standing outside and looking up at it is impressive, but if you have time, go in and explore! The Cathedral of Learning (or "Cathy" as Pitt students call it) is our favorite building on campus and where we spent a lot of time studying. It feels like Hogwarts inside!
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Phipps is a gorgeous glasshouse full of plants, flowers, and seasonal exhibits. It’s right next to Schenley Park, so you can make a whole afternoon out of it. The rooms are stunning year-round and if you like taking pictures, this is one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Pittsburgh.
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
This museum has one of the best dinosaur collections in the country, along with gems, minerals, and cultural exhibits. If you love dinosaurs, it’s a must-see. Plus, it’s connected to the Carnegie Museum of Art, so you get two museums in one visit. We went on our second date here!
Mattress Factory Contemporary Art Museum
The Mattress Factory is Dani's favorite museum! If you’re into modern art or just want to experience something really different, the Mattress Factory is the place to go. It’s full of large, immersive art installations where you literally walk through the art. Even if you’re not a big “museum person,” this one is fun and memorable. This was another location of one of our early dates.
Strip District
This neighborhood is full of markets, food stalls, restaurants, and shops. It’s a great place to wander around, try local food, grab coffee, or pick up Pittsburgh-themed gifts. On weekends, it’s especially lively, with street vendors and lots of energy. We particularly love Wholey's Market. Every time we're in Pittsburgh we go there and stock up on spices.
The Waterfront
A big outdoor shopping and dining complex along the river. There are lots of restaurants, a movie theater, and stores. Clark and I went on our first date to the AMC theater here to see Spiderman: No Way Home!
Schenley Park
Right near Pitt’s campus, this huge park is beautiful to walk through and has great views of the city. You can walk, hike, or just relax on the lawns. It’s especially nice if you want some fresh air in between all the wedding festivities. This is where we hung our locks from when we were dating and when we got engaged. We'll be adding a new one at the wedding!
Duquesne Incline
One of the coolest (and most Pittsburgh) things you can do. The Duquesne Incline is a historic cable car that takes you up the side of Mount Washington. At the top, you’ll get one of the best views of the Pittsburgh skyline. It's perfect for photos.
Point State Park Fountain
This park sits right at the tip of Pittsburgh where the three rivers meet. The giant fountain there is one of the city’s landmarks, and it’s a great spot for a walk, taking photos, or just relaxing by the water. This is where we would watch fireworks on the Fourth of July!
Carmella's Plates & Pints
Carmella's is our absolute favorite restaurant in Pittsburgh! It's a cozy spot in the South Side with creative comfort food and fun cocktails. It’s great for dinner and drinks in a lively part of the city.
The Yard
If you love grilled cheese, this is your place. The Yard makes gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches with all kinds of toppings, plus good drinks and a casual vibe. This is another one of our favorites!
Pamela's Diner
A Pittsburgh breakfast classic! Pamela’s is famous for their thin, crepe-style pancakes and diner-style breakfasts. It’s worth going just for the pancakes alone. Every time we are in Oakland we come here for breakfast!
Viva Los Tacos
Delicious, freshly made tacos and Mexican food right in Oakland. Perfect for a quick, casual bite near campus. Their frozen margs were a staple of our undergrad!
Hemingway's Cafe
A Pitt staple. It’s a pub-style spot with food, drinks, and a laid-back vibe. A fun place to grab a drink if you’re hanging out in Oakland. This is where we took Dani for her 21st birthday!
Dave & Andy's Homemade Ice Cream
Dave & Andy’s makes their own ice cream in-house, and their waffle cones are hand-rolled. It has been a favorite for years. This is another spot we always come back to when we're in town.
Heinz Memorial Chapel
This is the Ceremony Location.
Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum
This is the reception location.