Strip District
Don't be fooled by the name.
The Strip, as it's called, is foodie heaven and as authentic as it is fun. Locals love it for its low, low prices and tremendous selections. The one-half square mile shopping district is chock full of ethnic grocers, produce stands, meat and fish markets and sidewalk vendors. Breathe deep because you won't want to escape the splendid aromas of fresh-roasted coffee or just-baked bread. Bordering Downtown, this neighborhood is pure Pittsburgh.
5 Must-Dos
- Voted the top history museum in the country by USA Today for three years in a row, the Heinz History Center is a must-visit while in the Strip District. Home to the Franco Harris Sports Museum, the History Center is Pennsylvania’s largest history museum where you can see Smithsonian artifacts daily throughout six floors of engaging exhibitions, perfect for visitors of all ages.
- It’s fishier than it sounds in a good way. Even if seafood isn’t your speed, Wholey’s is a must-stop in the Strip. For those who do like seafood, it’s an excursion filled with community, plus you can get sushi from Andy (if you know, you know). If you don’t like seafood, no worries – still stop at Wholey’s just to take a picture with Rachael the Pig, an iconic 550-pound bronze piggy bank that collections donations all year for Homeless Children’s Education Fund.
- The Terminal in The Strip District, an expansive five-block-long former produce terminal at the heart of the Strip District neighborhood, is home to a robust calendar of year-round events and a curated collection of retailers, experiences and dining options!
- Primanti’s, a Steel City staple, kicked off its presence in the Strip District and has been engrained in Pittsburgh’s culture ever since. And the original location is still on that side street right off of Smallman Street. Stop in for an iconic sandwich loaded with coleslaw, French fries, and tomatoes – and be sure to say hi to Toni!
- If there’s one thing the Strip has plenty of, it’s diners. Going to this neighborhood bright and early for a home cooked meal is an excursion that’s worth treating yourself to. Stop at Pamela’s, DeLuca’s, or Kelly O’s for a breakfast that will start your day right.
The Name
"The Strip," as locals call it, is just that – a narrow strip (one-half mile) of land between the Allegheny River and a mountain of a hill.
One More Thing
After building his first factory in the Strip District in 1871, George Westinghouse not only invented air brakes and AC current, but introduced paid vacations and half-days off on Saturdays.
