Spring Break is near but perhaps you need an escape even sooner. So we’re giving you the week to prepare, not to mention how easy we’ve made it for you! THREE short hours from Gambier, you’ll find everything you could possibly want for a quick weekend getaway. From unique museums to a plethora of shopping options, Pittsburgh has a lot to offer every Kenyon collegiette! Below are the top ten places for a quintessential Pittsburgh experience; feel free to comment if you have any Pittsburgh-related questions, and I’ll answer them as soon as possible!
Spring is right around the corner, but Phipps Conservatory provides a flower-filled environment throughout the year. With a brand new Center for Sustainable Landscapes, a tulip-filled Spring flower show opening on March 9th, and a slew of indoor and outdoor activities perfect for any Pittsburgh visitor, Phipps is the place to be. Admission is $14, and parking on Sundays is free!
Lovingly referred to as the Warhol, the Andy Warhol Museum is conveniently located and offers awesome exhibits year-round. Even if you aren’t a fan of Warhol as an artist, some aspect of the seven unique, art-filled floors of the museum will surely catch your eye. Admission is $10 with a college ID.
Looking for a picturesque spot to take a photo of your fun weekend adventures in Pittsburgh? The views of the city from Mt. Washington are undeniably fantastic, and you can access the outlook platforms by car or by incline! Keep in mind that you pay for inclines in exact change, though, so don’t forget your quarters.
The Porch is an adorable new restaurant near Schenley Park, so you can quickly stop by to grab a bite while you’re exploring the city. The modern exterior doesn’t hint at the non-traditional serving style, such as the choice to add your own mix of spices to the pizza and drink from cute mason jars. This unusual combination lies near the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Carnegie Museum of History, and Phipps Conservatory, so it’s super convenient.
Fun shops and unique restaurants line Walnut Street, which is in the hip Shady Side area. While parking isn’t always easy, I always think that hanging out on Walnut Street is worth it! If you stop by, be sure to check out Prantl’s Bakery, the Four Winds Gallery, and the Shadyside Variety Store!
Ross Park Mall will satisfy all of your shopping needs in one location. From Sephora to Madewell, Ross Park Mall has nearly 160 stores; it’s a refreshing change from browsing in Mt. Vernon, especially since you can find all of the stores in one location. It’s north of the city, too, so you’ll get a chance to see yet another area of the Burgh.
If the weather is nice, Schenley Park is a great place to walk around after the three-hour drive or in preparation for driving back to Ohio. With tennis courts, a soccer field, a track, a golf course, a disk golf course, and a few nice gravel trails, Schenley Park also happens to be a less than five-minute drive from Phipps and The Porch. The University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University are also in this vicinity, so you’ll get a taste for college life in Pittsburgh while you’re at it.
Forbes and Murray, two avenues that cross in the midst of a neighborhood by the name of Squirrel Hill, are a great place to explore on foot. With a few different options for shaved ice or frozen yogurt, such as Rita’s and Razzy Fresh, a branch of the Carnegie Library system, and plenty of stores like the Avalon Exchange and Little’s Shoes, Forbes and Murray are perfect for capturing the bustle of Pittsburghers on the weekend.
For something a little bit different, the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium is an ideal spot for animal lovers. With over 4000 animals, ticket prices range from $10-14, depending on what time of year you choose to visit. The zoo and aquarium are also nestled on a large hill, so you’ll be sure to get your workout in at the same time.
If you’re planning your activities in advance, check out The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. It’s your #1 source for finding a show, concert, gallery exhibit, or cultural activity, many of which are located in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh. There’s always something going on during the weekends, especially at the O’Reilly Theater and the Benedum.