Winter Wonderland Destinations in Pittsburgh, United States

Pittsburgh, United States, Pittsburgh, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Winter Wonderland Destinations

Winter Wonderland Destinations in Pittsburgh, United States

1. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Experience indoor tropical paradise transformed into a winter wonderland.
  • Unique Tropical Display: Only place in Pittsburgh where you can see snowflakes amidst tropical plants.
  • Holiday Lights and Decorations: Over half a million lights illuminating the garden for a magical atmosphere.
  • Special Events: Enjoy seasonal events like 'Butterfly Forest' and 'Orchid Show.'

2. Highmark First Night Pittsburgh

Celebrate the New Year with a dazzling display of lights, music, and performances.
  • Giant Lighted Snowflakes: Massive light installations create an immersive winter experience.
  • Live Music and Performances: Local artists showcase their talents throughout the event.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Fun activities like ice sculpting, face painting, and more for kids.

3. Point State Park

Ice skate on the picturesque riverfront at Point State Park.
  • Historic Backdrop: Skate in front of Pittsburgh's iconic tri-point fountain and historic buildings.
  • Ice Rink: Natural ice rink with skate rentals available.
  • Food and Drinks: Enjoy hot cocoa, snacks, and warm beverages while you skate.

4. Schenley Park

Winter hike or cross-country ski through Schenley Park's snow-covered trails.
  • Extensive Trail System: Over 14 miles of trails for various skill levels.
  • Natural Beauty: Enjoy the tranquil beauty of Pittsburgh's largest city park in winter.
  • Sledding Hills: Find popular sledding hills throughout the park for family fun.

5. Kennywood Park's Winterfest

Ride festive holiday rides and enjoy Christmas lights at Kennywood Park.
  • Holiday-Themed Rides: Select rides decorated for the season, including the Jack Rabbit.
  • Santa's Workshop: Meet Santa Claus and his reindeer in a cozy workshop setting.
  • Holiday Shows: Enjoy holiday performances throughout the park during Winterfest.

6. Fort Duquesne and Fort Pitt Museums

Learn about Pittsburgh's winter history at Fort Duquesne and Fort Pitt Museums.
  • Historical Artifacts: Discover artifacts and exhibits showcasing the region's winter past.
  • Guided Tours: Join knowledgeable guides for in-depth exploration of the forts.
  • Holiday Programs: Participate in special holiday programs and events during winter.

7. Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village

Step back in time to explore a prehistoric site and historic village.
  • Prehistoric Site: Explore over 18,000 years of human history at the oldest known inhabited site in PA.
  • Historic Village: Experience daily life in an early American village set in a winter landscape.
  • Guided Tours: Join expert guides for educational and engaging tours of the sites.

8. Mount Washington Light Up Night

Celebrate the holiday season with a nighttime parade and festive lights on Mount Washington.
  • Parade: Watch as local schools, organizations, and floats pass by.
  • Light Displays: Enjoy over a million lights illuminating the neighborhood's houses.
  • Fireworks Show: End the evening with an impressive fireworks display over the city skyline.

9. Santa's Forest of Lights

Drive through a dazzling display of holiday lights and Christmas scenes.
  • 1.5 Mile Drive-Through: Take a leisurely drive through over 600 illuminated displays.
  • Animated Scenes: Enjoy animated scenes set to festive music for added fun.
  • Warm Drinks and Treats: Stop by the concession stand for hot cocoa, cookies, and more.

10. The Mattress Factory's Site Specific Installations

View site-specific art installations created for the winter season.
  • Site-Specific Art: Artists create unique pieces that engage with the museum's historic Victorian home.
  • Holiday Decorations: Enjoy festive decorations throughout the museum during winter.
  • Guided Tours: Join knowledgeable guides for an in-depth exploration of the installations.

11. The Warhol Museum's Winter Programming

Experience Andy Warhol-themed exhibits and holiday programs at The Warhol Museum.
  • Exhibits: Discover Warhol's work through various wintertime exhibitions.
  • Holiday Decorations: Enjoy festive decorations inspired by Warhol throughout the museum.
  • Special Events: Participate in holiday-themed workshops, film screenings, and more.

12. Pennsylvania Macadam Trail Snowshoeing

Snowshoe along the Pennsylnvania Macadam Trail for a winter adventure.
  • Scenic Trail: Explore this historic trail with stunning views of Pittsburgh.
  • Snowshoe Rentals: Rent snowshoes at local sporting goods stores or outdoor outfitters.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for winter wildlife like deer, foxes, and eagles.

13. Dave & Buster's Winter Wonderland

Play arcade games, eat delicious food, and enjoy winter-themed events at Dave & Buster's.
  • Arcade Games: Compete in a variety of games for fun and prizes.
  • Food and Drinks: Enjoy delicious food and beverages from the extensive menu.
  • Holiday Decorations: Experience festive decorations throughout the restaurant.

14. Overly's Tavern Winter Wonderland

Celebrate winter at Overly's Tavern with holiday music, decorations, and festive drinks.
  • Live Music: Enjoy live music performances by local artists.
  • Holiday Decorations: Experience the warm and welcoming holiday atmosphere.
  • Festive Drinks: Sip on seasonal cocktails, beers, and ciders.

15. The National Aviary's WinterLight Festival

Explore the National Aviary at night during their WinterLight Festival.
  • Luminous Avian Displays: See over 50 illuminated avian sculptures throughout the park.
  • Live Music and Performances: Enjoy live music, performances, and storytelling during your visit.
  • Holiday Food and Drinks: Savor holiday-themed foods and beverages while exploring the aviary.