Article by Vacation Insider

As the former hub of the American steel industry, “vacation” may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Pittsburgh, but set all your prejudices and preconceived notions about “Steel City” aside – because not only is it one of America’s 10 cleanest cities, but it’s a great place for an affordable, fun-filled vacation. And with an array of comfortable, budget-friendly http://www.marriott.com/city/pittsburgh-hotels””>Pittsburgh hotels and plenty of attractions that are easy on your wallet, these days it’s one of the best vacation destinations around!From the obvious tourist hotspots, like the Carnegie Mellon Museums of Pittsburgh to some of the best-kept secrets in the city, there are a host of fun, entertaining bargains to be found in this cosmopolitan city. Here are just a few ideas to help get your vacation off to a great start:

• Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh. Explore everything from art to archaeology, science to soup cans atCarnegie’s collection of Pittsburgh museums (the Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of NaturalHistory, Carnegie Science Center, and The Andy Warhol Museum). Dating back more than 100 years, thiscultural institution has helped millions explore their own definition of beauty, discover fascinatingtheories and take a look back in time. If you would like to see what this unique collection of museumshas in store for you, head over to 4400 Forbes Avenue and check out the Museum of Art and the NaturalHistory Museum, take a trip to the Science Center at One Allegheny Avenue or discover the art of AndyWarhol at 117 Sandusky Street. Admission prices vary. • Pittsburgh Pirates. Head to PNC Park to see America’s favorite pastime unfold before you. With prices for home games starting at just $ 8, this is one of the most affordable places to watch a game in the entire league. If, after the game, you still haven’t gotten your fill of sports fun, head over to The Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum to check out one-of-a-kind artifacts and interactive exhibits celebrating the region’s rich tradition of sports. Admission to the museum is $ 10 for adults and $ 5 for children ages 4-17.• Bike the Heritage Trail. For just $ 10 a year you can join the community bike program at Friends of the Riverfront and spend as much time as you like riding the 37-mile Three Rivers Heritage Trail, which takes you along both shores of the Allegheny, Mononghahela and Ohio rivers. If you’ve brought along a backpack or messenger bag, pack a lunch and stop to enjoy a meal along the banks of one of the rivers and watch as people from all over the world hike, cycle and float by. Best of all, if you’re in town for a few days or a frequent traveler, you can use your annual membership to take a bike out anytime you’re in town.• The National Aviary. Explore America’s only indoor, non-profit aviary. Conveniently located near many Pittsburgh hotels, this one-of-a-kind location features more than 600 birds from around the world, including many species that are rarely found in other zoos or aviaries, such as White-tailed Trogons, Scarlet-headed Blackbirds and Blue-winged Mountain Tanagers. Some of the aviary’s most-popular residents include Benito the Hyacinth Macaw and his roommate Killer (a Green-winged Macaw), who are both trained, and perform at occasional educational exhibitions. For some hands-on fun, the aviary also features several interactive exhibits, like the new Penguin Point and Lories & Friends – which allows guests to hand-feed some of the aviary’s birds. Admission is $ 10 for adults, $ 9 for seniors, $ 8.50 for children ages 2 and up, and free for those younger than 2.• Kennywood. At more than 110 years old, this amusement park is a landmark location beloved by millions. And although it’s one of the country’s oldest parks, its rides and games are all about modern, thrill-a-minute fun for kids of all ages. Featuring death-defying SwingShot and heart-racing Pitt Fall, plus fun-filled water rides, classic racing rides, carousels and kiddie rides, you can spend a carefree day playing like a kid. Admission varies from $ 9.99 to $ 33.99 depending upon age and desired pass.

With so many activities and Pittsburgh hotels to choose from, no matter what your reason for staying at Marriott, we can help you find great things to do – and give you a comfortable, relaxing place to unwind after a long day. For more entertaining and budget-friendly ways to enjoy “Steel City,” just visit the Concierge at one of Marriott’s hotels.

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