PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Pittsburgh has been named the world's top travel destination in a new publication by National Geographic.
Andrew Nelson's “Here Not There” explores 100 unexpected travel destinations, including Pittsburgh. The region's tourism agency, VisitPittsburgh, says the book bucks the growing trend of “destination suckers” and offers travelers an alternative to overcrowded, expensive and predictable hotspots. .
Pittsburgh is presented as a San Francisco alternative, a “hilly tech town” with steep neighborhoods, waterfront views, and tech startups. The burg even has its own Oakland.
“For those who've never been, Pittsburgh is a revelation. Like San Francisco, it's a combination of an advanced technology sector and one of the oldest, most community-oriented 19th-century neighborhoods. And, of course, the hills.” Nelson said in a press release from VisitPittsburgh.
San Francisco is known for its steep streets, and with a 37% grade, Canton Avenue in Pittsburgh's Beachview neighborhood actually holds the title of steepest street in the country. But it's not just the hills. This article also lists must-see attractions such as the Carnegie Museum and Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden.
Visit Pittsburgh said the award speaks to the “exciting energy” surrounding travel in the Steel City.
“It is a great honor to have Pittsburgh featured in such a respected travel publication,” said VisitPittsburgh President and CEO Jerad Bashar. “We have worked hard to position Pittsburgh as a destination that surprises and delights visitors, and this designation demonstrates our destination's ability to do just that. Tucked away in the heart of the city, Pittsburgh is the place where technology meets rec. Warhol meets whiskey and there are many unexpected adventures.”
At VisitPittsburgh's annual meeting last week, the agency said: The region attracted more than $6.4 billion In 2023.
