Get to Know the Strip District

Written by Jen Irwin

The Strip District is a vibrant mix of culture, shopping, music, bars, eateries, and everything in between. Located in walking distance of downtown, it’s the essential experience while visiting or living in the city. Here’s a list of our favorite things about the Strip.
A melting pot of culture: The Strip is the best spot for international shopping in the Burgh. As you walk through the streets, you’ll pass by grocery stores, restaurants and specialty shops representing different ethnicities from all over the globe. Your senses will be delighted with food smells like chicken on a stick from Sam Bok Asian Specialty Storeor the fragrance of freshly baked bread from Mancini’s. 
People Watching: Grab an outdoor table and take in the scenery. The crowds are as eclectic as the merchandise that’s sold in the shops. There’s entertainment on every corner. You’ll hear accordions, guitars and singing. You’ll see people dancing the polka, friends catching up and tourists enjoying the sights. 
Good Eats: Satisfy your sweet tooth at Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop with nostalgic candy, or Klavon’s, a full-service ice cream parlor that will make you feel like you stepped into a time machine. Craving a salty snack? The Pittsburgh Popcorn Company plays with new flavors daily, you never know what variety you will find. Hungry for lunch or dinner, Roland’s is a must, they have some of the best seafood in the city. If you want to make your own meal, stop by Wholey’s for butchered meats and seafoods or the Pennsylvania Macaroni Company for cheese and pasta.
Pittsburgh everywhere: The Strip is your destination for all things black and gold. The stands that line Penn Avenue have all the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and Pitt merchandise you could ever want.  
It’s Always Happy Hour: Several wineries, breweries and distilleries call the Strip home. More and more pop up regularly, adding nightlife to the area again. Wigle Whiskey offers tours on Saturdays, and you can have dinner or cocktails in their dining room before or after. 1700 Penn Ave is home to Helltown Brewing Taproom and the PA Libations Wine Shop. This is a newer spot with a beautiful beer garden and hosts events like live music, trivia nights and wine tasting.
There’s something for everyone in the Strip. Don’t miss out on this authentic Pittsburgh experience!

• Best time to go: Early in the morning, the crowds are bustling and the Strip is home to some of the best breakfast spots in town, including Pamela’s Diner (the crepe pancakes are to die for). Strolling through the strip in the winter is the best, the energy that football season brings to the air is unmatched. 
• Best place to treat yourself: Peace, Love and Little Donuts serves up old-fashioned cake donuts that are created as you order.
• Best Place to Park: Parking can be challenging so the earlier you go, the better. There’s metered parking on the streets and several lots to choose from. 
• Best Selfie Spots: Newly installed photo ops displayed at the renovated produce terminal and Passageway.