PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Pittsburgh has been named one of the world's top tourist destinations in a new National Geographic publication.
“Here, Not There” by Andrew Nelson explores 100 unexpected travel destinations, including Pittsburgh. VisitPittsburgh, the region's tourism agency, says the book highlights the growing trend of “destination dupes,” offering travelers alternatives to crowded, expensive and predictable hot spots.
As a “hilly tech city” with steep neighborhoods, water views and tech start-ups, Pittsburgh is touted as an alternative to San Francisco. The Burgh even has its own Oakland.
“For those who haven't yet been, Pittsburgh is a revelation: like San Francisco, it's a mix of cutting-edge tech sectors mixed with some of the most historic and community-driven 19th century neighborhoods that “And, of course, hills,” Nelson said in a VisitPittsburgh press release.
San Francisco is known for its steep streets, but with a 37% grade, Canton Avenue in Pittsburgh's Beechview neighborhood actually holds the title of steepest street in the country. But it's not just the hills: the article also features must-see attractions like the Carnegie Museums and the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden.
VisitPittsburgh said the distinction speaks to the “exciting energy” around travel in the Steel City.
“What an incredible honor to have Pittsburgh featured in such a highly regarded travel publication,” said Jerad Bachar, President and CEO of VisitPittsburgh. “We have worked hard to position Pittsburgh as a travel destination that will surprise and delight visitors, and this designation demonstrates our destination's ability to do just that. Nestled in the heart of the East Coast, Pittsburgh is a place where technology meets leisure, Warhol meets whiskey and unexpected adventures abound. »
At VisitPittsburgh's annual meeting last week, the agency said the region raised more than $6.4 billion in 2023.
