Where in the World is LVC?: Pittsburgh Pride

Hi! I’m Sarah, the LVC’s Content and Communications Manager. As a former Pittsburgh tour guide, I’d like to take you on a walk through the City of Neighborhoods, where urban living intermingles with Rust Belt authenticity, and an entire culture of young bohemians is waiting to add you to the scene!

Terrible Towels, Excellent Restaurants, and All in the Biggest Little City in America!

Like I used to tell tourists, there are THOUSANDS of reasons to visit Pittsburgh! (Though, we’ll admit, the weather doesn’t crack the list; bring a heavy coat and a pair of rain boots.)

With 50 museums, countless thrift and resale shops, dozens of hiking, biking, walking, or water trails, and a strong arts culture, there’s something here for everyone. Even better? The locals will be more than happy to offer you some reccomendations.

Pittsburgh is remarkably friendly city, with almost a quarter of the population being between the ages of 20-29. Pittsburgh city limits is home to 29 major colleges and universities, which draw in students from all over the globe.

Pittsburgh is also often ranked as one of the safest places in the U.S. for LGBTQIA+ individuals, with several of our neighborhoods affectionately rebranded as “Gay-borhoods and They-borhoods”.

Welcome to the City of Neighborhoods!

With NINETY vibrant neighborhoods, each offering its own unique perspective on Pittsburgh’s history and culture, we couldn’t possibly list them all here. But, if you’re looking for a “jumping off” place, here’s the short list I would start with:

  • Oakland: In many ways, the heart of the city, Oakland is home to the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University. It’s overwhelmingly college-aged population makes for bustling energy (and a lot of places to eat and drink!)
  • Lawrenceville: THE go-to place for those looking to access the local arts and music scene. Lawrenceville is what you make of it; coffee shops, galleries, and thrift stores abound and standing out means fitting in.
  • North Shore: Home to the Steelers and Pirates, the North Shore is the “tourism center” of Pittsburgh. Great restaurants, fun bars, and home to the Rivers Casino.
  • Southside: With more bars-per-capita than any other place in the U.S. (take that, Las Vegas!), the Southside is a bastion of nightclubs, dive bars, and greasy-spoon diners. Less than $10 can get you the best plate of sausage-and-biscuits this side of the Mason-Dixon. (Guy Fieri thinks so, too!)
  • Bloomfield: Affectionately known as Pittsburgh’s Little Italy, Bloomfield has an unexpected edge. Home to some of the best bookstores and gay bars in the city!
  • The Strip District: The Strip is more of an open air market than a neighborhood. Get some fresh mozzarella at Pennsylvania Macaroni Co. or buy some handmade clothing at one of the many knick knack and import shops.
  • Squirrel Hill: Boasting some of the most stunning architecture in Pittsburgh, this green and grand neighborhood is half families and half students.
  • Mount Washington: Take the inclines up from the river to walk down Grandview Avenue and see the city in all it’s glory! (Grandview is NOT just a name, it’s a descriptor.)

We’re #1! (No, Really. People Voted.)

  • Pittsburgh was ranked the #6 best place to travel IN THE WORLD in 2025 via LonelyPlanet.
  • Pittsburgh was named the #5 best destination for 2025 in the world via VinePair.
  • Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens was voted the #7 best botanical garden in the nation via USA Today’s 10Best.
  • The Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival was voted the #8 best renaissance festival in the nation via USA Today’s 10Best.
  • The ‘Burgh Bits & Bites Food Tour was voted the #8 best food tour in the nation via USA Today’s 10Best.
  • The Andy Warhol Museum was voted the #10 best art museum festival in the nation via USA Today’s 10Best.
  • The Great Allegheny Passage was voted the #10 best recreational trail in the nation via USA Today’s 10Best.