For the Enthusiastic Explorers

You can always find something new in our city. Between 90 distinct city neighborhoods and over 85,000 students studying across 10 colleges and universities, Pittsburgh is a dynamic hub for the rigorous demands of student life.

Carnegie Mellon is located in Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood, close to the surrounding neighborhoods of Squirrel Hill and Shadyside. Students need only swipe their ID to gain access to a network of public transportation that will take them anywhere in the city. Your student ID also provides access to many of Pittsburgh's prominent cultural institutions, including:

• The Andy Warhol Museum
• August Wilson African American Cultural Center
• Carnegie Museum of Art
• Carnegie Museum of Natural History
• Carnegie Science Center & Highmark SportsWorks
• Kelly Strayhorn Theater
• Mattress Factory
• The National Aviary
• Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
• Senator John Heinz History Center

If You’re into the Outdoors

The Steel City has become known for its green living. Pittsburgh has 1,700 acres of city parks, is bike-friendly and has more trees per square mile than any other U.S. city. The city also has one of the world’s largest concentrations of certified "green" buildings, including the Phipps Conservatory.

You don’t have to go very far to find a green space: Schenley Park runs adjacent to our campus. Its 456 leafy acres are ideal for a stroll, study time or relaxation. Just keep your eyes peeled for speeding carbon fiber torpedoes, as the elevation change in Schenley Park offers a grand stage for Carnegie Mellon's annual Buggy Race.

Take a walk or bike ride in Point State Park at the nexus of Pittsburgh's three rivers in the heart of downtown. Point State Park is a waypoint for trails and bike lanes in all directions, including the Great Allegheny Passage that goes all the way to Washington, D.C.

Thrill seekers can visit Kennywood Park, named among the best theme parks in the nation for its old-fashioned atmosphere and big-league roller coasters. As winter chills the air, take the bus downtown and test your ice skating skills on the 2,000 square foot outdoor rink at PPG Plaza.

If You're Wild About Culture

Just because you want to stay indoors doesn't mean you can't go out! There are plenty of ways to see the city without lacing up your hiking boots. 

If you're looking for culture, Pittsburgh has a treasure trove of options, including a night at the opera, a concert from the city's symphony orchestra or a show in Pittsburgh's Cultural District. You can also cozy up with a book from the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, a system that attracts over 2.9 million visitors a year. Its main branch features gorgeous Beaux-Arts architecture and is a short walk from campus. 

If You're Serious About Playing Games

Kickback is stacked with pinball machines, Games Unlimited offers a wide selection of board and tabletop games, and Arsenal Bowling and Swissvale Bowl-A-Rama(opens in new window) will let you knock down pins to your heart's content. If you're looking for something more high-octane, axe-throwing at Lumberjaxes or skateboarding at Swissvale's Switch and Signal might be more your forte.

Pittsburgh Staples  

• Carmi Soul Food(opens in new window)(opens in new window) - Originally a small community catering business, this South Side restaurant is now one of the best soul food spots in the city. 
• MadMex - This So-Cal Mexican spot opened its first location in Oakland and is making its way across the country.
• Nancy's Revival - Nancy's East End Diner was a classic Wilkinsburg diner for decades. The revitalized location keeps the tradition going with locally sourced ingredients.  
• Pamela's Diner - This diner is famous for super-thin, crepe-like pancakes.
• Primanti Bros - Pittsburgh works hard, so this original sandwich shop throws your fries right on top of your sandwich for your convenience. Check out the original location in the Strip District.

Hot Spots 

• Apteka - Get your veggie on! Apteka has some of the most inventive vegan cuisine in the city. 
• DiAnoia's - A must if you're visiting the Strip District, this Italian restaurant executes the essentials perfectly. The gnocchi, cacio e pepe and branzino are all fantastic.
• Con Alma(opens in new window)(opens in new window)- Enjoy live jazz, a Latin-inspired menu and the soulful ambience of this downtown staple. Reservations highly recommended.
• Noodlehead - A student favorite famous for their Thai street-style cuisine, Noodlehead is also conveniently located next to the perennially popular Millie's Homemade Ice Cream.

 Take Out and Quick Bites

• Shadobeni(opens in new window)(opens in new window) - The North Side boasts some impressive take-out spots, but this traditional Trinidadian restaurant's especially good if you're looking for some delicious vegan food. Their bowls, roti, and plantains are all top notch.
• El Burro - If you have a party to feed and a hankering for burritos, look no further. El Burro is famous for their taco trays and burrito platters, but they also have an extensive vegan and vegetarian menu. A new location in Regent Square now joins the original restaurant in the North Side.
• Showcase BBQ - People come from all over the city to visit this Homewood barbeque establishment specializing in both pork and turkey ribs.  

Coffee, Tea and Something Sweet 

• California Coffee Bar - Named for Brighton Heights' California Ave. business district, California Coffee Bar is true Pittsburgh. Their build-your-own breakfast sandwiches are served all day and rival any in the city.
• Coffee Tree Roasters - A true student hangout, you can curl up and relax in one of several locations in Oakland, Shadyside and Squirrel Hill.
• Everyday Cafe - This Homewood coffee shop with a cause offers space for community and connection along with breakfast, lunch and a great cup of coffee.
• Espresso a Mano - This quaint espresso bar is in the fast-rising Lawrenceville neighborhood of Pittsburgh.
• Prantl's Bakery - In 2018, Food Network named its burnt almond torte the best cake in Pennsylvania. Sorry, funnel cake!