10 Underrated Places In Pittsburgh To Take An Out-Of-Towner

Pittsburgh has so much to offer Pittsburghers and visitors that most people could spend months, or even years, in the Burgh without seeing and doing everything. If you're planning to show visitors around the city, consider adding these 10 underrated places in Pittsburgh to the itinerary.

1. Conflict Kitchen

Those who know about Conflict Kitchen often praise it for both its delicious food and its purpose. The take-out only restaurant in Oakland serves popular dishes from countries with which the United States is currently in conflict. However, Conflict Kitchen focuses only on one country at a time, offering authentic dishes and literature on the country as well as hosting special events focused on the featured country.

2. Trundle Manor

Most people want to avoid tourist traps but Trundle Manor, a self-described tourist trap in Swissvale, deserves the title of one of the most unique houses in the Pittsburgh area. Built in 1910, the manor currently serves as museum of the weird with taxidermy, specimens in jars, and odd weapons among the public collection. Don't worry about paying a standard admission fee. Instead, bring a donation of money, old medical devices, or anything creepy you think the owners might enjoy. Advance reservations are required.

3. Row House Cinema

Row House Cinema in Lawrenceville promises a unique, intimate theater experience. The single-screen theater features a theme each week then shows films relating to that theme. Upcoming themes include The Star Trek 50th Anniversary, which runs from September 2 through the 8. Thursdays are discount day at the Row House Cinema and you may just earn a discount if you wear a really amazing costume related to that week's theme.

4. Pittsburgh Glass Center

Choose between a viewing or an interactive experience - or opt for both - at the Pittsburgh Glass Center. The Glass Center welcomes visitors to explore the exhibitions of artists at the critically acclaimed Hodge Gallery and to watch artists at work. Visitors can also create their own artwork by joining a workshop or an ongoing class at the Glass Center's state-of-the-art studio.

5. The Mattress Factory

Explore the world of contemporary art at the Mattress Factory, which features experimental labs and artwork from artists in residence. Visitors can also channel their inner artist by attending one of the museum's many events aimed at children, families, teens, and the community as a whole.

6. Double Wide Grill

Ensure your out-of-towner's itinerary includes a visit to the vibrant South Side and, in particular, the colorful Double Wide Grill, a traditional barbecue restaurant that offers dishes for everyone, including carnivores, vegetarians, and vegans. The Double Wide Grill serves lunch and dinner daily and brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

7. Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Sometimes we Pittsburghers take all the city has to offer for granted. An underrated gem right in Oakland, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History delivers a fun, educational experience. The museum's popular dinosaur exhibit features skeletons with 75 percent of authentic fossils. Other exhibits include the Hillman Hall of Minerals and Gems, Wertz Gallery Jewelry and Gems, and the PaleoLab.

8. Millie's Homemade Ice Cream

Sometimes nothing hits the spot like delicious, homemade ice cream, especially on a hot summer afternoon. Millie's Homemade Ice Cream on South Highland Avenue, open daily at noon, features seasonal favorites made with the freshest ingredients. Popular current flavors include the best chocolate, blueberry sorbet, salted caramel, and Ella's almond butter and honey.

9. Riverview Park

Riverview Park offers so much to do that you can easily spend a day and an evening at the North Side park. Stroll along one of the scenic walking trails. Go swimming. Watch the kids play at the playground. Let your dog play in the dog park. Enjoy horseback riding. Or, visit the Allegheny Observatory, a private research center that welcomes visitors one evening a week from April through October for a tour and the opportunity to use the telescope to view the nighttime sky.

10. The Monongahela Incline

Most people automatically think of the Duquesne Incline when they think of sliding up the side of Mount Washington for spectacular views. But, the Monongahela Incline is just as impressive, although most certainly underrated. Dating back to 1870, the Monongahela Incline has earned distinction as the oldest continuously operating incline in America.

Surprise your out-of-town visitors with trips to these underrated places in Pittsburgh. And, if you're looking for more to do, add these 12 absolutely amazing places to visit in Pittsburgh.