Are you looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other in Pittsburgh, PA? Look no further! This steel city has many fun and exciting experiences to offer couples. From exploring cultural attractions to indulging in the city’s delicious cuisine and rooftop adult libations, Pittsburgh has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll look closely at 13 fun things to do in Pittsburgh for couples, that I shared with my husband of 32 years.

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1. Wander Phipps Conservatory
Take a stroll through Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a Victorian greenhouse with a variety of exotic plants from around the world. It is an excellent spot for couples to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beauty of nature. It is my favorite Pittsburgh attraction, and my husband loved every minute of it, too.

“A green oasis in the middle of Pittsburgh’s vibrant Oakland neighborhood,” Phipps has been a world-class 15-acre attraction since 1893. Its 23 gardens are more than enough to keep your senses mesmerized for hours upon end. This elegant glass conservatory structure and historical landmark could easily be transported to Europe and fit in perfectly.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden plant collections include bonsai, orchids, ferns, desert plants, palms, outdoor gardens, natives, and fruits/spices. Besides having a spectacular array of plants and flowers, the property is littered, and I use that word in a good way, with amazing artworks, sculptures, fountains, and world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly’s glassworks.
It’s one of my favorite places in the country to enjoy his eye-catching pieces.
Phipps also has special exhibitions like the Flowers Meet Fashion: Inspired by Billy Porter, Pittsburgh native and Kinky Boots star, as shown in my Youtube video below.
Regular admission is $21.95 or $19.95 for seniors (over 62) and students over 18. Those receiving EBT benefits pay $3 per person for up to four people. See the website for qualifications.
Why not enjoy a lovely lunch from the Cafe Phipps? My hubby and I sat down for a hummus platter snack between wandering the exhibits.

2. Visit the Warhol Museum
Stop by the Andy Warhol Museum, one of the city’s most famous art attractions. Couples can admire Pittsburgh’s most famous resident’s art pieces, learn about his life and legacy, and participate in interactive exhibits that explore Warhol’s influence on 20th-century art.
You may know him from the Campbell’s soup can prints and pop art, but there is so much more.

This venue holds the most extensive Warhol collection, with seven floors and an underground of rotating items. Check the calendar of events for gallery talks and performances.
Andy Warhol Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with Fridays open until 10 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays. Tickets are $25 for adults and $13 for children over 3. Take advantage of the fascinating Warhol gift shop, full of masterfully curated goods.

3. Eat at Burgatory
For a unique dining experience, head to Burgatory Bar, a local chain known for its decadent burgers, shakes, and craft cocktails. I discovered this Pittsburgh gem about six years ago, and it may have been the first place I had what others call a freak shake: those giant milkshakes with loads of toppings.
You and your partner can indulge in gourmet burgers made with never-frozen beef and topped with delicious cheeses, homemade sauces, and fresh toppings. My fave is the Piggy Butter & Jelly, with white American cheese, candied bacon, peanut butter, and habanero jelly.
Great day in the morning; pair that yummy burger with a Strawberry Basil Shag, and this combo ought to be illegal!

4. Stay at the TRYP
Treat yourself and your partner to a luxurious boutique stay at the TYRP Hotel in the trendy Lawrenceville neighborhood, named “The Coolest Neighborhood in America” by TIME and Money Magazines. The chic and modern accommodations in the historic Washington Education Center building are perfect for couples looking to unwind and relax after a busy day of exploring the city.

It was our first time staying at a TRYP property, and we enjoyed everything about it, including the unique original art that reflects the integrity of the building’s industrial history. The hotel’s location is fantastic, the staff was friendly and efficient, and the small rooms had high ceilings, great views, and posh features.
Be sure to ride up to the Over Eden rooftop bar and restaurant, perfect for a sunset cocktail or citywide views. The hotel has valet parking only, at $25 per day, and pets are welcome here.

I was hosted by Visit Pittsburgh for my hotel accommodations, some meals, and attraction tickets. As with all posts on this site, all opinions and reviews are 100% my own and unbiased.
5. Grab Lunch at Walter’s BBQ
Walter’s BBQ Southern Kitchen offers some of the city’s best Southern comfort food. And when this Southerner read the menu, I knew I had to try it. Smart move!
Couples can indulge in tender meats, savory sides, and homemade desserts that are off-the-hook yummy and spend time in the dog-friendly courtyard setting with lots of yard games. Start with an order of Chips and Queso, so good you can’t eat just one.
Then, move on to the main course, meats fresh from the smoker, ranging from smoked chicken and pulled pork to brisket and ribs.

Pair your meat with lip-smacking good side dishes, like the 10/10 collard greens and Mac & cheese. I suggest a slice of creamed corn and bell pepper cornbread to accompany your platter. It was so darned good.
Besides smoked meats, Walters BBQ has Chicken and Waffles, a Fried Chicken Platter, loaded baked potatoes, and a humongous salad. Come for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 AM to 3 PM. Walter’s BBQ is closed on Tuesdays.

6. Stroll through Pittsburgh’s Strip District
Take a romantic walk through Pittsburgh’s iconic Strip District, a bustling neighborhood on the Allegheny River known for its sidewalk vendors, produce stands, and ethnic grocers, is one of the fun things to do in Pittsburgh for couples. This is an ideal spot for couples to stroll hand in hand, take in the sights, and enjoy the local culture.

You could easily spend hours between the well-stocked Italian pantries and markets, sidewalk cafes, Steeler Nation clothing, souvenirs, and memorabilia. The stroll is even better with a hot cup of coffee from a street vendor or a bag of Pittsburgh Popcorn’s Cheddar & Caramel Mix.
A few stores I try to take advantage of and support the local economy are Penn Mac, Stamoolis Bros., Mon Aimee Chocolat (my favorite candy shop in the country!), and Penzey’s Spices. Most businesses are closed by 4 or 5 each day, so time your visit accordingly. Saturday mornings are off the charts, bustling and fun.

7. Ride the Duquesne Incline
Take a romantic ride on the historic Duquesne Incline, a funicular railway (wooden rail cars) that offers stunning views of the city skyline. The incline’s observation deck is a magnificent spot for a romantic photoshoot, and couples can also enjoy a walk around the nearby Mount Washington neighborhood.
The incline is open 365 days a year and has operated since 1877. Round-trip fares are $5 for adults. Exact fare is required upon arrival; credit cards are not accepted, and there are no advance ticket sales or reservations.

8. See a Steelers Football Game
If you and your partner share a love for sports, don’t miss the chance to see a Pittsburgh Steelers football game at Acrisure Stadium. You’ll experience the thrill of a live NFL game while cheering on the city’s and my favorite team. Bring your black and gold, or pick something up in The Strip or at the game to show your loyalties.

Fun Facts: The Pittsburgh Steelers are the oldest franchise in the AFC, founded in 1933. Their fan base is referred to as Steeler Nation. The Steelers became the first team to win six Super Bowls and are now tied with the New England Patriots.
9. Share Breakfast at Kelly O’s
Find the Kelly O’s Diner closest to you (three locations in the Burg) and enjoy a tasty meal before you start your day. We went to the one in the Strip District, probably the busiest, but the crew was quick and efficient, so the wait was short.
While their claim to fame is likely Triple D (Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives), their staying power is the attentive service and absolutely delicious food. French toast, omelets, Benedicts, corned beef hash, and biscuits & gravy are staples on the menu, but a few not-so-usual other choices include a grilled cinnamon roll, the Pittsburgh Benedict (pierogis and kielbasa), and raisin French toast.
I picked perfectly with the grilled biscuits & homemade gravy, which was chock full of sausage and served with two eggs cooked your way and home fries or shredded potatoes. Kelly O’s biscuits are the Holy Grail.

10. Hop on the Nostaligic Rides at Kennywood
Southeast of Pittsburgh is the “America’s Finest Traditional Amusement Park,” Kennywood, in West Mifflin, PA. Open since 1898, you can’t help but have a great time experiencing a retro theme park that still packs a powerful punch. Enjoy the rides, games, carnival-like attractions, colossal model train displays, and shows.
Partake in the yummy park foods, such as deep-fried cheesecake, Potato Patch fries, and Primanti Bros sandwiches.
Thrill rides you and your significant other might enjoy are Phantom’s Revenge and Thunderbolt (both rated intense), SwingShot, and Spinvasion, a new park offering. Don’t miss a stroll through Steeler’s Country.
Special events at Kennywood include Phantom Fall Fest and Holiday Lights, with tickets running $34.99 online. Download Kennywood’s accessibility guide here. Enter Gate A for free parking and Gate B for $20 preferred parking.
11. Admire the Art Scene
Pittsburgh has had a thriving art scene for as long as I can remember. You’ll find incredible murals throughout town and even more cutting-edge pieces in some of the suburbs. I loved stumbling upon these artistic and colorful stairs at 18th Street Passage.

Eddie and I asked our Uber driver to incorporate a few of the best murals in town on one of our rides, which was just a small addition to our fee. Seeing more of Downtown Pittsburgh’s artistic neighborhoods was a lot of fun.

12. Explore the National Aviary
Admire over 500 birds from around the world at the National Aviary, including eagles, owls, and penguins. Couples can stroll through the scenic indoor exhibits and sign up for interactive experiences like bird feedings and close-up encounters.
Birds you might expect to see at the National Aviary include condors, parrots, flamingos, eagles, owls, motmot, ibis, and the picturesque and colorful beautiful fruit-dove. Take advantage of going through the tropical rainforest, where many photogenic birds roam freely, namely Victoria Crowned Pigeons.
Conservation and education are vital ingredients for this successful attraction, and you are guaranteed to come out with more knowledge than you had going in. If you can afford the splurge, try one of the up close and personal animal encounters (falcon, owl, penguin, sloth) for a unique experience.
Tickets are $17.95 for adults and $14.95 for children over two. Watch for the National Aviary’s RAD Days on Sunday and Monday, October 1 and 2, 2023, when admission is free. For an extra $5, the free-flight Habitat Heroes bird show on the roof is sensational. I highly recommend it.

13. Share Condado Tacos
Finally, head to Condado Tacos for a fun and delicious meal. With an energetic atmosphere, this local chain offers a wide range of taco options, including vegetarian and vegan options, as well as a build-your-own-taco menu. Share a variety of tacos with your partner and indulge in a margarita or two.

I found happiness in a creamy horchata and the Three Buds appetizer (choice of three dips —five kinds of queso, Mexican street corn, four guac, and three salsas — and house-made chips to share).
A rice and black bean chorizo bowl was perfect for the main course. You can top it how you want from a list of a dozen or more choices. The pineapple and tomatillo sauces are off the hook! My hubby went with street tacos and rice.
Happy hour prices include $5 house margs and $1 off all draft beer, plus lots more, on weekdays from 4 to 6 PM.

Pittsburgh: Guaranteed to Satisfy
As you can see, there’s no shortage of fun things for couples to do in Pittsburgh, PA, and we didn’t even get into the larger-than-life nightlife scene. From exploring cultural attractions to indulging in the city’s delicious cuisine, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Start planning your trip to Steel City today!

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