1. Can You Solve This Protracted Mystery?
The ’Burgh has its fair share of quirky sights, but the case of the mysterious protractors may top the list.
Protractors have been found throughout the city, glued to the sides of trashcans, gates, doors, walls, and wherever else these math class staples pop up. There are literally hundreds of them around the city.
No one knows who is doing this or why, but it is an intriguing treasure hunt.
2. Put Traffic In Your Rear View Mirror With These Secret Byways
No one likes traffic, and there is plenty of it in the ’Burgh. But, thankfully, there are shortcuts.
This
list breaks it down, from Squirrel Hill to South Side, Shadyside to the Strip, South Side Flats to Mount Washington, and more.
There’s even a sly Super Mario reference involved.
3. This Pittsburgh Secret Houses All Manor Of Frights
The Trundle Manor is an early 20th century property that’s home to all things spooky and creepy. Put on by the Secret Society of Odd Acquisition by appointment only, this place has decades-old taxidermy, cringe-worthy medical devices, jarred animals, and more on display for your inquisitive pleasure.
And the best part about this twisted world? Nothing is fake—well, except the beloved Uncle Trundle.
4. If You Love Greasy Eats, There’s No Finer Diner
Gab & Eat in Carnegie is the type of greasy spoon you love whether you grew up eating here or just discovered it.
Come here for breakfast to eat the homemade sausage with your eggs—or go all out and get the mixed grill.
5. This Theater Is Ready For its Close-Up
The Hollywood Theater in Dormont is an independent gem that was built in the 1920s. This theater shows old, new, and local movies—but the best part is that it’s BYOB. Be sure to watch from the balcony.
6. We’ve Got This Cryptic Garden’s Number
Set in Carnegie Mellon, on the roof of the Posner Center, the Kraus Campo is an outdoor art installation that features a garden and large sculpture. The sculpture is covered in black and white tiles inscribed with numbers, and it sits in the midst of a labyrinth.
Does it all have a deeper meaning? That’s just one of many things you can ponder while relaxing here.
7. Drink In The Past At This Historical Hole In The Wall
The Park House on the North Side is within walking distance to the stadiums and was the first bar in the city to get a license. Yet—thankfully—it’s still fairly under the radar.
Brick walls and a tin ceiling make this place feel like a classic watering hole, and crushed peanut shells on the floor add to its lived-in atmosphere. But 50 microbrews and craft beers keep this place fresh.
8. Pittsburgh Gets Literal When It Comes To Food For Thought
Conflict Kitchen isn’t your typical restaurant. This take out eatery only serves up food from countries that are in conflict with the U.S., and rotates its menu every few months to focus on one country at a time.
Conflict Kitchen then hosts events to discuss the issues, culture, and politics of that country with informed subjects at the helm. It’s all done in the hopes to spur conversations, and hopefully, a greater understanding.
Past menus have included Cuba, with interviews on the embargo, and Iran, with discussions on women’s rights.
9. Leave Your World Behind For This One
Randyland is the type of place you imagined as a kid, a place of bright colors and gardens and whimsy. When Randy Gilson came to this Northside neighborhood 30 years ago, he used creativity to slowly revive the downtrodden streets, and eventually created a world inclusive of eight parks, hundreds of gardens, and buildings awash in street art. It stretches for about 30 blocks.
10. This Vinyl Shop Is Off The Chain And Off The Record
While you may not be shuffling around record stores much these days, an exception must be made for Jerry’s Records in Squirrel Hill.
Hey, if “Rolling Stone” says you’re among the best record stores in the country, you’re worth an afternoon visit.
11. Party Animals Takes On A Whole New Meaning
If you like beer, and you like the zoo, the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium combines them for what’s called a “Zoo Brew.” Sample beers in your own take-home mug while you’re here.
Did we miss anything? Tell us your favorite secret spot in Pittsburgh? Tell us in the comments below!
