Fans of the arts might say that Northern Virginians are pretty lucky. Many of us are within minutes of the nation’s capital, with its multitude of museums, galleries, musical theater performances, and more, and we’re all within a few hours driving of other vibrant arts communities like New York City and Philadelphia. But if you’re looking for a new adventure in what could be considered an under-appreciated arts town, consider a trip to Pittsburgh.
In recent years, Pittsburgh has been recognized as one of America’s top cities for arts vibrancy as well as one of the biggest spenders when it comes to arts and culture. Once an industrial hub, today, Pittsburgh boasts countless architectural jewels, thousands of artworks by world-famous artists, a rich community of local makers, and more.
Ready to pack your bags? Here a few places to visit in Pittsburgh if you’re an art lover.
The Andy Warhol Museum
Here’s a fun fact: pop art icon Andy Warhol is in fact a Pittsburgh native. So, of course, no trip to Pittsburgh is complete without a visit to the museum that not only bears his name, but also holds the largest collection of his artworks. 117 Sandusky St.
Carnegie Museum of Art
Visitors to the Carnegie Museum of Art could easily spend several days perusing the vast collection of over 34,000 works of art, architecture, photography, and design that date between the 19th century and the present. The museum is also home to more than 70,000 images by Pittsburgh photographer Charles “Teenie” Harris, whose work encapsulates one of the most detailed and intimate records of Black life in America between 1935 and 1975. 4400 Forbes Ave.
The Frick Pittsburgh
Located on the estate of Henry Clay Frick about 20 minutes east of Downtown Pittsburgh, the museum boasts a world-class collection of European art and Chinese porcelain. The 5.5-acre property is also home to the Frick family’s French château-style mansion, the Car and Carriage Museum, an active greenhouse, and lush gardens. 7227 Reynolds St.
Mattress Factory
If you’re looking for something a little less traditional and little more eclectic, check out the Mattress Factory, a contemporary art museum on Pittsburgh’s North Side featuring artists working in-residence to create site-specific installations that let you become fully immersed in its room-sized exhibits. 500 Sampsonia Way
Public Art
Even just walking around Downtown Pittsburgh can seem like you’re strolling through an outdoor museum, thanks to the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, which for over 35 years has worked to make the Steel City a place where arts can flourish. From artistic bike racks and an artist-designed water fountain to the interactive Cell Phone Disco, you don’t have to go far to find something worthy of admiring for a few minutes. Downtown Pittsburgh
The Industrialist Hotel
If you want to fully embrace Pittsburgh’s art scene, consider staying at The Industrialist Hotel, a 124-room boutique hotel that opened in May 2021 in the city’s iconic, 18-story Arrott Building. Originally built in 1902, the Arrott Building was once owned by “The Bathtub King of Pittsburgh” and designed by a celebrated young architect of the day, Frederick J. Osterling. The historic façade is a piece of art itself while the modernized interior is a nod to Pittsburgh’s past with themes of smoke and molten metal juxtaposed with the building’s original marble walls, ornate ceilings, and arched windows. And if you want to unleash your inner artist, The Industrialist Hotel even offers a “Maker’s Menu” in its second-floor lounge where guests can enjoy craft cocktails while creating DIY projects developed by local Pittsburgh artisans, such as local blacksmith Barefoot Forge and Borealis Candle Co. 405 Wood St.
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