Tips for Attending Conventions in Pittsburgh

Shot of David L Lawrence Convention Center and surrounding area, a popular destination for conventions in Pittsburgh | Pizza Parma

Welcome to Pittsburgh! We’re so glad you’re here! Our bustling downtown area plays host to a lot of conferences and conventions throughout the year and that means a lot of guests like you. If you’ve never attended conventions in Pittsburgh before, a little info before you arrive can go a long way. Here are few simple tips to ensure you have a stress-free and enjoyable trip to “The Burgh.”

Find the Perfect Place to Stay for Conventions in Pittsburgh

There’s no shortage of hotels in Downtown Pittsburgh, all within easy walking distance of popular convention locations such as the David L. Lawrence Convention Center and Wyndham Grand Hotel. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, or just want to try something a little different, try branching out to other areas of town that are readily accessible by ride sharing apps and public transportation. 

The Northside is a great option for out-of-towners looking to see a unique side of Pittsburgh. Although across the Allegheny River, Pittsburgh’s north side neighborhoods are easily accessible via our T System, city buses, or even a relatively short walk. Venturing out of Downtown often means cheaper hotel rates, too. 

Plan Your Transportation in Advance

Speaking of transportation, it’s a great idea to figure out how you’re going to get to your downtown conference site before you head out the door. Finding your way around “the Burgh” can be a little confusing sometimes—even if you’ve lived here your whole life! Take a few minutes to figure out the best way to get where you need to be. Pittsburgh offers many convenient bus routes, most of which head straight downtown. The T even has a free fare zone to help you save a little extra cash. 

If you plan on using a ride sharing app, it’s not a bad idea to book your trip in advance. A lot of Pittsburghers use these apps for their everyday commute and finding an available driver can be tricky during peak rush hours. If you’re driving your own car, make sure you have GPS. Navigating Pittsburgh’s downtown streets without it is not for the faint of heart. 

Leave Time for All the Fun Things to Do in Downtown Pittsburgh

We hear it all the time. Visitors are always surprised to discover just how much there is to do in Downtown Pittsburgh. When your day at the conference or convention is over, make sure to save a little time to take in some of these easy activities:

Visit Point State Park

No trip to Pittsburgh is complete with a walk to the confluence where three rivers meet. This beautiful park offers panoramic views of Downtown as well as the Southside and Northside

Take in a show or concert in the Cultural District

World class orchestras, ballets, and theaters await along Penn and Liberty Avenues in Downtown Pittsburgh. The perfect ending to your day at the conference. 

Check out Pittsburgh’s exciting nightlife

You won’t have to look far for a good bar in Pittsburgh. From fancy hotels to neighborhood haunts, Pittsburgh has a watering hole for everyone’s style. 

Explore the other 89 neighborhoods in Pittsburgh

Every neighborhood within the city, to not mention all of the townships and boroughs throughout the region, all have their own unique personality. Want to see what the college scene is like? Head up to Oakland? Looking for good shopping and a stroll through a quaint neighborhood? Be sure to check out Shadyside. 

Call Pizza Parma After All Your Conventions in Pittsburgh

No matter how you spend your time in Pittsburgh, finish your day with the best pizza in downtown Pittsburgh. With a wide delivery range and an extensive menu, we’ll make sure you visit Pittsburgh over and over again—even if you don’t have another convention. Check out our menu today!