Must-See Art: Warhol, Murals & More

A Pittsburgh Itinerary for the Arts Lover

While Pittsburgh is probably best known as the birthplace of Andy Warhol among arts lovers—and trust us when we say there’s no shortage of love for his iconic art—our city also has deep roots to one of the great composers of the mid-century, a prolific lifestyle photographer, magnificent muralists and so many more.

Here are just a few ways to take in Pittsburgh’s unique and diverse arts scene. But be ready to stay longer, because these jam-packed days are just the beginning of a true arts adventure around the Burgh.

Carnegie Museum of Art

DAY 1: Carnegie Museums in Oakland

The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History are nestled together in the heart of Oakland, making it easy to make a day of the two stops.

One of the must-see exhibits is the Teenie Harris Archive. Charles “Teenie” Harris was a photographer for the Pittsburgh Courier, one of the pre-eminent Black news weeklies in America. He traveled the alleys, workplaces, nightclubs and ballparks of Pittsburgh, shooting backstage with Dizzy Gillespie and Lena Horne, in the dugout with Josh Gibson and Satchel Paige and on the streets of the Hill District and Homewood-Brushton.

You can check out thousands of pieces from his robust collection of work at the Carnegie Museum of Art (CMOA), while gaining a glimpse into what life was like for Pittsburgh’s Black community throughout the mid-20th Century.

While visiting CMOA, you can also see works by Pittsburgh-born impressionist Mary Cassatt or take in the Pittsburgh Satellite Reef, a colorful crocheted reef and community project that brings attention to the effects of global warming.

Carnegie Museum of Natural Hsitory

At the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, stand next to Mesozoic and real dinosaur fossils. You’ll also want to be sure to see the sparkling gemstones in the Wertz Gallery of Gems and Jewelry. The stunning necklaces, diamonds and innovative designs will definitely leave a lasting impression.

When you’re finished touring, plan for a meal at the Café Carnegie. Here, you can sip on local brews and nosh on their curated menu, including wild mushroom and chicken gnocchi or butternut squash soup. Don’t forget to snag a souvenir at one of the gift shops!

Murals of Maxo Vanka

DAY 2: Making the Most of Pittsburgh's Murals

There are a few ways to take in Pittsburgh’s many, eye-catching murals across the city. One unique option is to visit St. Nicholas Croatian Catholic Church in Millvale, where artist Maxo Vanka painted 25 moving murals. While rooted in biblical imagery, each mural tells a deeper story about American industry, war, immigration and social justice.

In the mood for a walking tour? Pittsburgh’s city streets are adorned in hundreds of beautiful outdoor murals. One fan-favorite includes the show-stopping likeness of Pittsburgh Pirates' legend Roberto Clemente in Lawrenceville, painted on the side of the Clemente Museum. Make sure to book a tour of the museum ahead of time, it’s a must-see. Located inside of an old fire house, this museum is filled with unique baseball artifacts and memorabilia. It’s also home to Engine House 25 Wines, so you can sip while you take in all the museum has to offer.

Mac Miller mural outside of ID Labs

Pop culture aficionados can catch Mac Miller on the side of ID Labs in Etna where he recorded, or look for one of artist Jeremy Raymer’s many murals featuring iconic pop culture figures such as Magneto, Homer Simpson, Andy Warhol and more.

Once you’re done, finish out the day at Iron Born Pizza in Millvale. While their deep dish pies with a crispy, cheesy crust are inspired by Detroit, they’ve become a true Pittsburgh staple. Grist House brewery is a short walk down the street for some post-pizza local brews.

The Pop District

DAY 3: Exploring the Cultural and Pop Districts

No visit to Pittsburgh is complete without visiting our Andy Warhol Museum on Pittsburgh’s Northside. It’s one of the most comprehensive single-artist museums in the world and largest in North America. You can take in Brillo boxes, Campbell’s soup cans and explore interactive pieces, such as his “Silver Clouds.” And make sure you’re prepared to take selfies in the museum’s colorful Pop District, featuring colorful public art work.

When you’re done, the North Shore is just a quick pass over the 9th Street Bridge to downtown’s Cultural District. While art can be found in many of Pittsburgh’s 90 neighborhoods, you’ll find the densest concentration here. It’s where you’ll find Heinz Hall, home of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, as well as the Benedum Center, O’Reilly Theater, Byham Theater and more—all within the span of just a few blocks.

Liberty Magic

You’ll also want to check out Liberty Magic, a truly one-of-a-kind speakeasy-style venue that features magic shows. Book a spot to see one of their resident magicians and sip cocktails along with some sleight of hand. In the same corridor, you can explore multiple galleries, including Wood Street Galleries, an urban art space housed above one of the city’s light rail stations and showcases interactive art involving film, robotics and media installations.

When you’re done exploring, make sure to book a table at Meat & Potatoes, one of the staple dining venues of the Cultural District. Not only is it conveniently located no matter which venue you’re off to, the food is delicious enough to steal the evening.

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