A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Pittsburghers know a little something about stairs. That’s not surprising, of course, considering we live in a city with more than 712 sets of stairs. That’s a whole lot of stairs. Among them, you’ll find plenty of stairways that will lead to unexpected, amazing places. Here are six magical stairways in Pittsburgh that will lead you to unforgettable places.
1. Randyland – 1501 Arch Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Discover perhaps the most vibrant, creative home in all of Pittsburgh in the Mexican War Streets Neighborhood. Randyland, the creation of local artist Randy Gilson, attractions visitors from all over the Burgh and beyond. Stop by for a stroll up the stairs, to admire the artistic masterpiece, and maybe even meet Gilson himself.
2. Phipps Conservatory – 1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
A pair of winding stairways lead to the entrance of Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. Once inside the enchanting gardens, you'll ascend another staircase that leads to rooms filled with seasonal flowers, plants, and an assortment of exhibits. Explore the tropical forest, the beehive, and the Japanese gardens.
3. Renaissance Hotel – 107 6th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Enter a world of elegance when you visit the Renaissance Hotel, complete with sweeping stairways that look as though they belong in a Hollywood movie. The award-winning hotel boasts unforgettable views of the river and the North Shore. (The second photo is taken from one of the hotel's luxurious rooms.)
Ascend or descend breathtakingly beautiful staircases at Heinz Hall. The regal theater, and the home of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, has been a favorite since the early 1970's. Perhaps the showcase of the Cultural District, the neighborhood also lays claim to the Byham Theater, the Benedum Center, and the August Wilson Center.
5. The Cathedral of Learning – 4200 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260
Catch sight of the majestic Cathedral of Learning from all over Pittsburgh. Once inside, you'll discover intricate staircases. The Cathedral of Learning attracts tourists as well as students. The Nationality Rooms, for example, provide visitors with a glimpse inside different countries - from Africa to Ukraine.
Schenley Park promises scenic beauty all year around. Its various staircases lead to sweeping views of Pittsburgh, playgrounds, park benches, a shimmering pool in the summer, and an ice skating rink in the winter. The 456 acre park also offers plenty of picturesque hiking trails to explore all year long.
Do you have any favorite stairways in Pittsburgh? Once you’ve visited these magical stairways in Pittsburgh, check out these 10 unforgettable attractions in the Burgh.
