David Letterman has his nightly Top 1o lists. SportsCenter has its daily Top 10 plays from the sports world. And the Over the Hills and Far Away blog has its own version of the Top 10. Today's OTHAFA Top 10 is all about this blogger's favorite city -- Pittsburgh.
Check out the Top 10 List of What Not to Miss on a visit to the 'Burgh:1. PNC Park -- This stunning gem on the Allegheny River is the home of the perpetually pitiful Pittsburgh Pirates, who hardly deserve to play in such an amazing facility. PNC was called one of the "top ten places to watch the game" by author Jay Ahjua and has also been named one of America's 7 Best Ballparks. So next time you're in the 'Burgh be sure to stop by its ballpark for a game, concert or other event.
2. The Riverwalk -- It may seem like a simple sidewalk adjacent to the Allegeny, but the Riverwalk is so much more. It serves as a pathway to PNC Park, the Steelers' Heinz Field and numerous restaraunts and office buildings. It also serves as an excellent walking and biking trail for outdoors enthusiasts. Perhaps most importantly it provides stunning views of the city skyline.
3. The Waterfront -- Located just outside of the city in Homestead, PA the Waterfront is the site of a former U.S. Steel Plant that has been transformed into a modern day shopping mecca. The steel plant closed its doors in 1987 and twelve years later the Waterfront shopping complex opened. In addition to the stores, the open hearth stacks from the steel plant remain in homage to the site's former occupant.
4. Station Square -- This 52 acre riverfront complex is located on the shore of the Monongahela river. At the heart of the complex is Bessemer Court, which is home to a magnificent fountain, as well as shops and eateries. Here you can shop, eat, party, walk the scenic riverside path or take a voyage on one of the Gateway Clipper boats.
5. The Inclines -- For unforgettable views of the skyline, take a voyage on one of the city's two remaining inclines. The 'Burgh was formerly home to fifteen inclines, but today only the Duquesne and Monongahela inclines remain. Access the Monongahela across the street from the Station Square complex and the Duquesne from West Carson street.
6. Pamela's Diner -- The diner became nationally recognized when President Obama ate pancakes there on a campaign stop and later invited the owners to cook at a White House event. There are six locations in the region so be sure to stop by one of them and enjoy a delectable breakfast.
7. The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium -- I may be slightly biased, but the 'Burgh's Zoo truly seems like one of the best in the country. Highlights include the polar bear exhibit, Kids Kingdom and the high-tech aquarium.
8. The Cultural District -- Located downtown, this region is home to the city's theaters. From plays to musicals to ballets to operas there's something for everyone. Theaters include the Benedum, O'Reilly, Pittsburgh Public Theater and more.
9. Fallingwater -- As a Pittsburgher, I'm ashamed to admit that I've never visited this architectural wonder. It's certainly on my personal list of places to visit, and it should be on yours too. Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece is located just 50 miles southeast of the city in Fayette County.
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0. Heinz History Center -- Just one of the city's many museums, this one has the distinction of being the largest museum in the state. Located in the Strip District, the museum is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and is also home to the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum. It's certainly a must-see for history buffs visiting the 'Burgh!
This is just a sampling of the many wonderful sights in the 'Burgh! Check out
visitpittsburgh.com for more info on my favorite city!
One of my favorite places in Pittsburgh is Pamela's Diner. The pancakes...crepes...home fries...ahhh it's all so good! If you have never been there, you need to go! Right now! Drop everything and go to Pamela's! Ok, you probably can't do that, but you really should make plans to stop by Pamela's for breakfast or lunch sometime soon. There are six locations in the Pittsburgh area so I'm sure you can find one close to you!