When to Visit Pittsburgh

With affordable prices and lively events, Pittsburgh can be a prime vacation destination. The most popular times to visit are spring for its pleasant weather, and fall for the changing leaves.

Business travel peaks during these times, and prices tend to reflect the increase in visitors. Summer is also a busy time to go, because schools are on vacation and major festivals take place. The least popular time to go is the winter, due to cold and unpredictable weather. However, prices are lower and those who enjoy winter activities find this to be the ideal time to visit.

• high season: April to October
• low season: December to February
• shoulder season: March, November

Weather Information

Pittsburgh experiences four diverse seasons. Summers can get hot, with an average high temperature of 83 degrees. Fall brings warm days, with highs averaging 64 degrees, though temperatures drop at night. High temperatures in winter average 39 degrees, but freezing temperatures are common. Snowstorms may occur in the city, and snow accumulation can be expected. Spring sees sunny and cool days, with average highs of 61 degrees, and occasional showers.

Crowd Information

Pittsburgh gets busy during the summer festival season, with major annual events such as the Three Rivers Arts Festival in June and the Three Rivers Regatta in July. First Night on New Year's Eve and Pittsburgh Steelers football games also attract large crowds.

Closure Information

Hotels, shops, and restaurants remain open throughout the year. However, museums and some attractions may close on Mondays.

When to Save

Hotels are the least expensive in the winter (usually January and February), when many properties offer discounted "Cabin Fever" rates. Spring and fall tend to be more expensive times to visit than the summer or winter, because more conventions and business meetings come to town.

Information provided by the Greater Pittsburgh Convention & Visitors Bureau.