
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.