Vibrant Neighborhoods of Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is an old city that was once known as an industrial center. Centered around the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers, Pittsburgh today is an up-and-coming city that attracts a diverse population.

With several major universities in the city, including Duquesne University, University of Pittsburgh, and Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh has a large student and university-based population that keeps the city young, vibrant, and on the cutting edge of urban life in the United States.

If you are visiting Pittsburgh, you will probably want to visit all the usual tourist sites, but if you have a little extra time, consider touring some of Pittsburgh's historic, dynamic neighborhoods.

The Strip District is, especially during the summer months, one of Pittsburgh's must-see neighborhoods. Originally an industrial warehouse district where goods were stored, shipped, and received by boat and train, the Strip District today is interesting for its cultural value.

A historical relic of Pittsburgh's past, tourists can visit the Strip District to see old buildings and other remnants of a time gone by. Far from being dilapidated, however, many of the Strip District's industrial buildings have been renovated into classy apartment buildings.

Best of all, the Strip District has a vibrant collection of street vendors, ethnic markets, art galleries, theaters, and other cultural attractions, making the neighborhood essential for any visitor.

Across the rivers from central Pittsburgh to the south is the charming Mount Washington neighborhood. Mount Washington is home to several attractions that make Pittsburgh famous. Nestled high in the hills, tourists can visit Mount Washington for a stunning view of the two rivers, their famous bridges, and Pittsburgh's famous skyline.

Oakland, which is sometimes divided into smaller neighborhoods, is home to Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh (known to students and locals as Pitt).

Those wanting to travel a little further afield from downtown Pittsburgh can head three miles to the northeast to visit the neighborhood of Bloomfield. Bloomfield is a perfect stop for those tourists who want a taste of old world Pittsburgh.

Fascinating architecture and a bustling Italian-American community make Bloomfield famous, but Bloomfield's appeal extends to its diverse population, unique character, and neighborhood pride.

If you are feeling a little more adventurous on your trip to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania you may want to consider visiting the well-known Hill District. This neighborhood has a high concentration of African-Americans and was once a major center of African-American culture.

Recent initiatives to improve the neighborhood have revitalized nightclubs, and the district is also home to Duquesne University, a prestigious Catholic university. Some areas of the Hill District have above-average crime rates, so plan your trip to this neighborhood carefully!