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Explore Pittsburgh: Top Recommendations from Local Geo-Institute Members

Welcome to Pittsburgh! While attending Geo-Structures 2024, make the most of your visit with these must-see attractions, curated by local Geo-Institute members. From scenic views to cultural landmarks, here’s a list of recommendations to enhance your experience in the city of bridges.

Sebastian Lobo-Guerrero Ph.D., P.E., D.GE.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer / Laboratory Manager, American Geotechnical & Environmental Services, Inc.:

  • Eat at Primanti Brothers in Market Square or the Strip District: Visit the original spot and enjoy your fries right in the middle of your sandwich! Make sure to grab a Steel City bottle for the full experience. Primanti Bros. Market Square
  • Take the Incline to Mount Washington: Take in the most amazing view Pittsburgh has to offer. Make sure to take a selfie with the Pittsburgh skyline and see how many buildings you recognize from Hollywood movies. Monongahela Incline
  • Visit the Statue of Roberto Clemente at PNC Park: Stop by the Pittsburgh Pirates stadium, pay tribute to the legendary player, and grab a classic Pirates hat—there's nothing cooler than the iconic black cap with the "P" symbolizing the Keystone State. PNC Park
  • Ride on the Legendary Gateway Clipper: Explore Pittsburgh’s three rivers and downtown from the water on this legendary boat. It's one of the country’s best architectural tours, offering stunning views of the city. Gateway Clipper Fleet
  • Visit Point State Park: This historic park at the confluence of Pittsburgh’s three rivers marks the location of the original Fort Pitt. Capture a selfie with the City of Bridges in the background and take in Pennsylvania’s most famous fountain. Point State Park

Bonus: Visit the University of Pittsburgh! Step back in time at the Cathedral of Learning and explore the Nationality Rooms, where you can see how classrooms around the world looked in the early 1900s. While you’re there, snap a picture with Roc the Panther, rub its nose for good luck, and if interested, contact Sebastian for a tour of the Geotech program! University of Pittsburgh

Taylor DaCanal, M.S.C.E., P.E.

Geotechnical Engineer,American Geotechnical & Environmental Services, Inc.:

  • Go for a walk/run along Pittsburgh’s River Trails: Explore Pittsburgh’s three rivers and get your cardio in by navigating the large network of trails along the Monongahela, Allegheny, and Ohio Rivers. Trail Map
  • Rent a Bike from Pittsburgh POGOH: Rent a bike from any of the many POGOH stations around Pittsburgh and see the city on wheels. Stop at one of Pittsburgh’s great breweries for a refreshing drink to finish your ride. POGOH Bike Rental | Pittsburgh Breweries
  • Visit the Andy Warhol Museum: Check out the museum dedicated to one of Pittsburgh’s most famous artists, and browse the gift shop for unique Pittsburgh souvenirs. Andy Warhol Museum
  • Visit Market Square: Explore downtown Pittsburgh and stop at Market Square for a meal at any of the great restaurants in The Square. Market Square Guide
  • Grab an ice cream cone from Millie’s: Celebrate a great conference with a treat from one of Pittsburgh’s favorite ice cream shops. Be sure to sample all their fun fall flavors! Millie’s Ice Cream

Shirley Tang, M.S.C.E., P.E.

Geotechnical Project Engineer, American Geotechnical & Environmental Services, Inc.:

  • Heinz History Center in the Strip District: Explore six floors of awesome exhibits on Pittsburgh and Western PA history, including original set pieces from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood and an 11-foot Heinz ketchup bottle sculpture! Heinz History Center
  • Visit the Free Art Galleries Downtown: Check out contemporary art exhibitions in different media at galleries like SPACE, 707 Penn, and 820 Liberty. Pittsburgh Art Galleries
  • Explore the Strip District: Stroll through this vibrant shopping district filled with food markets, coffee roasters, and Pittsburgh memorabilia vendors. Strip District Guide
  • National Aviary: Home to over 500 birds from 150+ species, the National Aviary is the largest in the U.S. and the only one with honorary “National” status. Daily interactive activities include encounters with penguins, falcons, or owls! National Aviary
  • Shiloh Street on Mt. Washington: Take the Monongahela Incline up to Mt. Washington, then head to Shiloh Street to explore its fantastic restaurants and coffee spots. Upper Station – Shiloh Street

We hope these insider tips from our Pittsburgh-based Geo-Institute members help you make the most of your time at Geo-Structures 2024. Enjoy discovering Pittsburgh!

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