I have only been in Pittsburgh for 4 months, but this is now my home! I stayed in the city during the Thanksgiving break and explored my new home.

If you’re staying “home” for the holidays, or have family visiting during the next few weeks, below I put together a friendly list of (some) things with holiday spirit to enjoy around the city.

1. Phipps Holiday Magic Lights

https://www.phipps.conservatory.org/calendar/detail/holiday-magic

Admission is free with CMU Student ID when buying in person, but I’d recommend to pay and get the timed tickets online. It’s a popular attraction. In my experience 5 pm-7 pm was the busiest time. Phipps is open until 11 pm through January 6. I won’t post many photos as to not spoil the views, but you should definitely check it out for yourself. 🙂

2. MassMutual Pittsburgh Ice Rink at PPG Place

http://www.ppgplace.com/directory/the-rink/

Whether you’re there to ice skate or just gaze at the beautiful tree, it’s a great place to be.

3. Market Square Peoples Gas Holiday Market

http://downtownpittsburghholidays.com/peoples-gas-holiday-market/

And once you’ve walked all around the beautiful tree, head across the street to the Market Square to do some holiday shopping. You might even be lucky enough to find a matryoshka (Russian nesting doll) with your favorite character.

4. Point State Park

https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/PointStatePark/Pages/default.aspx 

Point State Park is just a short walk from the Market Square. While the fountain might be off during the cold weather, it is still a nice walk decorated with lit up snowflakes. Just make sure to bring your gloves and hats, the windchill at the river crossings is frosty.

5. Deutschtown

http://deutschtown.org

Since you’re already heading North, just cross the river into Deutschtown. I did not stop to feast, but I hear good things about Max’s Allegheny Tavern.

6. Allegheny Square and Allegheny Commons Park

https://www.pittsburghparks.org/projects/allegheny-commons

I love Allegheny. It’s still very Pittsburgh, but somehow different. I also love the view of downtown from the Allegheny Commons Park. I’ll summarize and say, just explore the neighborhood and walk around, there are many pretty streets and houses.

7. Pittsburgh Cultural District

https://trustarts.org/calendar

And if you’re feeling a bit fancy, dress up and splurge on a ticket to Broadway or another show that peaks your interest. I went to see Anastasia a couple of weeks ago at the Benedum Theatre and already have an eye on a few upcoming shows.