Best Springtime Activities in Pittsburgh

If you are just visiting for the first time or you’re local yinzer, springtime in Pittsburgh offers a delightful array of activities and attractions to enjoy that you may not have been expecting. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply soaking in the beauty of the season, the burgh centainly has you covered in all three! Here are some top things to do in Pittsburgh during spring:

1. Pittsburgh Wine Festival: Held this year Friday May 31st from 6pm-10pm, the Pittsburgh Wine Festival brings together wineries from around the world for tastings, seminars, and culinary experiences. It’s a fantastic opportunity to discover new wines and indulge in gourmet delights. The 2024 even is located at Rivers casino where you can park for free! Have fun trying a vast array of wines and even purchase any that you really like as bottles will be available for sale as well. Find tickets here.
2. Three Rivers Arts Festival: After recovering from the Wine festival and that nasty next day wine headache, right around the corner is the Three Rivers art festival in Downtown Pittsburgh. This years arts festival takes place May 31st to June 9th which means 10 days of absolutely free all you can take art and music. Specifically this festival showcases a vibrant mix of visual arts, live music performances, and interactive activities. Explore booths featuring local and national artists, enjoy outdoor concerts, and participate in hands-on workshops. Some of the local musical line ups include the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Los Lonely Boys, Doom Flamingo, Say She She, and many more!!
3. Pittsburgh Fringe Festival: Celebrate performing arts and independent theater at the Pittsburgh Fringe Festival, held this year from April 18-27th. This festival features a diverse lineup of experimental performances, including theater, dance, comedy, and more, at various venues throughout the city. Find out more here.
4. Pittsburgh VegFest: VegFest celebrates plant-based living and sustainable practices with food vendors, cooking demonstrations, speakers, and activities promoting healthy and compassionate lifestyles. This event usually takes place Saturday August 10th in the Northside and is perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone curious about plant-based cuisine. This event is run by a non profit and free to attend. Check out more here.
5. Millvale Music Festival: Venture just outside Pittsburgh to Millvale for the Millvale Music Festival, a community-driven event featuring live music across multiple stages. Discover local bands and musicians while exploring the historically rich streets of Millvale. Don’t forget to indulge in endless food trucks and live comedy while you’re there. My personal favorite local spot to hit being The Grist House, enjoy a nice local brewery, scenic views, and live music all at the same place! Find out more.
6. Explore Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Embrace the beauty of spring blooms at Phipps Conservatory, where you can wander through themed gardens, vibrant flower displays, and lush greenhouses. Don’t miss the seasonal flower shows that highlight the best of springtime flora. Spring flower show this year is hosted Sunday April 14th and earth day celebration on the 21st.
7. Visit the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium: Spend a day surrounded by nature and wildlife at the Pittsburgh Zoo, which comes alive with baby animals and seasonal activities during spring. Explore exhibits featuring animals from around the world and enjoy educational programs for all ages. Check out a line up of great spring events that the Pittsburgh Zoo has to offer here.
8. Stroll along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail: Take advantage of pleasant spring weather by walking, jogging, or biking along Pittsburgh’s scenic riverfront trails. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail offers picturesque views of the city skyline, bridges, and riverbanks. You won’t be disappointed with the views on this trail, especially combined with the smell of spring flowers along your ride.
9. Attend a Pirates Baseball Game: Catching a Pittsburgh Pirates game at PNC Park is a most attend springtime activity especially with the updated venues in the Park and not to mention the Pirates great start to the season. New on the menu this year is the “Renegade Hot Dog”. This one is fun… a footlong hot dog topped with pulled pork, caramelized onions, pickles, and you yinzers guess it.. Perogies! Join the enthusiastic crowd, enjoy classic ballpark snacks, and cheer on the home team against the backdrop of the Allegheny River.
10. Explore the Strip District: Wander through the bustling Strip District, known for its vast mix of ethnic markets, specialty food shops, and artisanal boutiques. Newly added Asian cuisine market Novo Asian food hall is something new to try this year in the Burgh with a great selection of warm meals and dessert. Sample local delicacies, shop for unique gifts, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
11. Enjoy Outdoor Dining and Patio Season: As temperatures warm up, Pittsburgh’s restaurants and cafes open their outdoor patios. Indulge in al fresco dining along trendy streets like Walnut Street in Shadyside or Carson Street on the South Side. My personal favorite outdoor eating experience being Big Sewickly Creek Brewery that boasts an amazing outdoor section nestled right by their scenic creek.
12. Take a Day Trip to Fallingwater: Drive out to Fallingwater, Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece nestled in the Laurel Highlands. Tour this iconic house built over a waterfall and revel in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Find out more about Fallingwater here.

These activities offer just a glimpse into the many ways to enjoy Pittsburgh during the spring season. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, sports fan, art lover, or foodie, Pittsburgh’s vibrant culture and outdoor offerings make it a fantastic destination to explore during this beautiful time of year.