Travel Lens

20 Incredibly Beautiful Places In Pittsburgh, PA

  • Updated 2024/12/27

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, often referred to as the “City of Bridges,” boasts a unique topography that blends urban life with beautiful riverfronts and steep hills. Known for its steel industry history, vibrant cultural scene, and numerous bridges, Pittsburgh offers countless opportunities for stunning photography. Here are the 20 most Instagrammable places in Pittsburgh that showcase the dynamic spirit and scenic beauty of the city.

Mount Washington Overlook

For a breathtaking panoramic view of Pittsburgh’s skyline, the Mount Washington Overlook is unparalleled. Day or night, the vista of the cityscape, rivers, and bridges is iconic.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
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This historic botanical garden offers lush, vibrant scenes inside its Victorian greenhouse and outdoor gardens, making it perfect for nature and architecture photography.

Andy Warhol Museum

Dedicated to the Pittsburgh-born pop art icon, Andy Warhol, this museum not only features fascinating art inside but also has a visually striking exterior.

The Strip District

The Strip District
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A buzzing, historic market district by day, the Strip is filled with colorful murals, street vendors, and unique shops that offer a gritty yet vibrant backdrop for urban photography.

Point State Park

Located at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers, this park provides stunning views of the waterways and the city skyline, especially with its famous fountain at the forefront.

Duquesne Incline

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Ride this historic cable car for a picturesque ascent up Mount Washington, with opportunities to capture the unique mechanics of the incline and the city sprawled below.

Cathedral of Learning

Cathedral of Learning
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Located on the University of Pittsburgh campus, this Gothic Revival skyscraper is not only breathtaking from the outside but also features elaborately themed international classrooms inside.

Heinz Field

Capture the spirit of Pittsburgh with a shot of Heinz Field, especially dramatic during a Steelers game when the stadium is filled with fans.

Schenley Park

Schenley Park pittsburgh
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This extensive park is known for its beautiful trails, charming bridges, and the picturesque Panther Hollow Lake, perfect for natural and peaceful shots.

Allegheny County Courthouse

This stunning piece of architecture by H.H. Richardson provides a powerful and historical backdrop, with its stone façade and intricate detailing.

Roberto Clemente Bridge

Roberto Clemente Bridge
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One of the many photogenic bridges in Pittsburgh, it stands out for its distinctive yellow color and is especially photogenic during baseball season when it’s often closed to vehicle traffic for Pirates games.

Randyland

Visit Randyland to see one of the most colorful and whimsical art installations in Pittsburgh, created by local artist Randy Gilson.

The Mattress Factory

This contemporary art museum in Pittsburgh’s North Side is known for its room-sized installations, which provide unique and immersive visual experiences.

Pittsburgh Opera

Housed in a converted historic warehouse in the Strip District, the Pittsburgh Opera offers a chance to photograph both its intriguing exterior and elegant interior.

North Shore Riverfront Park

North Shore Riverfront Park
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Ideal for both city and nature shots, this park offers fantastic views of the skyline across the river, especially striking at sunset.

Market Square

Located in downtown Pittsburgh, Market Square is lively with cafes and shops and is particularly vibrant during seasonal markets and events.

Homewood Cemetery

Homewood Cemetery pittsburgh
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For a more serene and contemplative photography setting, the rolling hills and historic graves of Homewood Cemetery are beautifully peaceful.

Frick Park

The largest of Pittsburgh’s regional parks, Frick Park features extensive trails, lush woodlands, and the charming Frick Environmental Center.

Mexican War Streets

Mexican War Streets
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This historic neighborhood is known for its beautifully restored row houses, quaint streets, and creative flair, ideal for architectural and street photography.

The Three Rivers Heritage Trail

Spanning along Pittsburgh’s rivers, this trail offers diverse views, including urban settings, industrial remnants, and natural beauty, ideal for capturing Pittsburgh’s essence from various perspectives.

Conclusion

Pittsburgh’s mix of industrial heritage, modern culture, and natural beauty provides endless opportunities for photographers to explore and capture stunning visuals. Whether you’re drawn to urban architecture, scenic vistas, or cultural landmarks, Pittsburgh offers a rich palette of photogenic locations that reflect the city’s unique character and charm.

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