Pittsburgh has been voted as one of the most liveable cities in America thanks to a huge cultural and creative focus and ever-burgeoning music, culinary, and art scene.
With the city’s influx of new bars, restaurants, and hotels and the neighborhood of East Liberty & Lawrenceville recently being voted the coolest neighborhood’s in the whole of America has transformed itself into a vibrant cultural and artistic hub but with still more than a handful of evidence of its industrial past.
In such a hipster’s paradise, you know they’ll have some equally creative places to stay. From quirky boutique inns to grand, modern and trendy, here are the best cool and unique hotels to stay in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (in no particular order)…
1. The Industrialist Hotel, Pittsburgh, Autograph Collection – a trendy upscale and sophisticated pet-friendly hotel in a great downtown location
This stylish boutique hotel in a renovated historic 1902 building near Market Square is close to major sights and destinations like The Strip, The Point, the theater and cultural district and the PPG arena, plus local businesses and restaurants.
Many original building features like high ceilings and large windows, many of which look out over the Monongahela river, are preserved and add a touch of graciousness.
Elegant design combining modern style with touches of Golden Age glamor like brass fixtures and plush furnishings makes the rooms inviting and comfortable. There’s a state-of-the-art fitness center, a social lounge, and The Rebel Room, serving creative cocktails and American fare.
- To book, check prices or availability for The Industrialist Hotel, Pittsburgh, Autograph Collection
2. Hotel Indigo – a fun and creative boutique hotel in the East Liberty neighborhood perfect for partying Millennials and Gen Z’s
This carefully restored boutique hotel is situated in the heart of the lively East Liberty neighbourhood and offers design touches and decor that reflects the eclectic nature of the communities heritage.
At the 4-star exceptionally rated Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty, bedrooms are spacious and refined with plush linens, spa-inspired showers and leather bedsteads, while marble bathrooms with oversized shows cubicles add a touch of decadence.
Wallaces Whiskey Room and Kitchen serves up a wide and varied menu of seasonal dishes as well as an excellent selection of local wines and beers that can be enjoyed indoors or out on the terrace area. The cool Pittsburgh hotel also offers a 24-hour onsite fitness center.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Indigo Pittsburgh East Liberty
3. The Priory – a former monastery turned into a chic, unique and beautiful upscale boutique hotel
Situated in a former monastery, this unique Pittsburgh hotel can be found in the Deutschtown Historic District, and the highly rated The Priory is just a mile away from downtown Pittsburgh itself.
With elegant 19th-century style interiors, the communal spaces are filled with Edwardian-era antiques that accent the building’s remarkable architectural and interior design features, while bedrooms are modern and comfortable with all the luxury conveniences you could wish for.
The Victorian Garden courtyard offers a peaceful respite from the busy city streets and continental breakfast can be enjoyed at the hotel every day. There is also a small, friendly bar in the lobby area and an onsite fitness centre.
- To book, check prices or availability for The Priory Pittsburgh
4. Kimpton Hotel Monaco – a hip, Instagrammable and plush boutique design hotel located in a 1903 beaux-arts–style building
In an original Beaux Arts building located across the street from Mellon Square Park, the 4-star exceptionally rated Kimpton Hotel Monaco is set close to the Cultural District with its art galleries, restaurants and shops.
Offering plush accommodation, the interiors are vibrant and whimsical, with usual pieces of art and sculpture at every turn.
Bedrooms at the creative Pittsburgh hotel are decadent with oversized velvet headboards, ornate furnishings and quality textiles, whilst bathrooms are cool and contemporary with tubs and showers.
The Commoner is a tavern-style restaurant offering modern American food, while the Biergarten is a rooftop bar serving up lite bites and cold beers, that also offers a daily wine-tasting hour for guests to mingle and enjoy.
- To book, check prices or availability for Kimpton Hotel Monaco
5. Traveler’s Rest Hotel – a funky and historic 19th-century hotel set in the former headquarters of an iron manufacturer
It’s quite fitting that this quirky hotel in Pittsburgh’s South Side should be housed in an 1884 building that used to be the headquarters for one of the largest wrought iron manufacturers in the world. It’s been updated to add all modern comforts, with private bedrooms and bathrooms and shared kitchen and living space.
It’s near the start of the GAP biking trail and all the sights and destinations downtown. There’s a special biking garage for guests to use, and bike rentals are available nearby.
Partnerships with local artists and coffee suppliers make this a showcase for their best products, which also serve as great conversation pieces with your friendly and interesting fellow guests and the hosts. All supplies you need to whip up an awesome breakfast are available in the kitchen, and there are tons of bars and restaurants nearby.
- To book, check prices or availability for Traveler’s Rest Hotel
6. Renaissance Pittsburgh – a hip, stylish and elegant hotel located in the downtown historic Fulton Building
This is a refined, upscale hotel set in the historic Fulton Building with views out over the Allegheny River. Located at the heart of the Cultural District, the 4-star exceptionally Renaissance Pittsburgh combines contemporary style with a grand historical ambience.
Bedrooms are elegant and sleek with huge beds, luxurious linens, opulent furnishings and stunning river views of the downtown Pittsburgh skyline, whilst bathrooms are just as upmarket with marble fittings and walk-in showers.
The Braddock’s Pittsburgh Brasserie offers classic French comfort food, or visitors can eat classic American fare and drink great whisky at Braddock’s Street Side Grill. There is also a gym on-site.
- To book, check prices or availability for Renaissance Pittsburgh
7. Morning Glory Inn – cute, quirky and unique accommodation housed in a historic Victorian townhouse
Housed in a Victorian townhouse that dates back as far as 1862, the highly rated Morning Glory Inn is a South Side B&B that offers a quiet and quaint place to stay. Uniquely decorated throughout, the Morning Glory Inn is just a 10-minute walk from the major shopping centres and close to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail.
Bedrooms are filled with homely touches and antique furnishings and offer private en-suite bathrooms, some with clawfoot bathtubs.
The Italianate-style quirky Pittsburgh accommodation on offer is incredibly cosy and the hotel is just a block away from the Historic District, and close to numerous restaurants, jazz and blues clubs and a wide variety of famous retail outlets.
- To book, check prices or availability for Morning Glory Inn
8. The Oaklander Hotel, Autograph Collection – an elegant and contemporary hotel that offers great amenities including a library
Pittsburgh is known for its educational institutions as well as its industrial past, and the Oaklander Hotel puts you close to both.
Located in this historic district near the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, Carlow University, UPMC and museums and cultural spaces, the sleek, modern hotel is full of both convenience and character. Friendly staff and services like valet parking make it easier to get through your busy days.
The well-designed rooms combine the best of classic and contemporary style, and the corner rooms have truly spectacular views. Don’t forget to try the craft cocktails and local beer at Spirits & Tales brasserie along with some truly delicious bites.
- To book, check prices or availability for The Oaklander Hotel, Autograph Collection
9. Mansions on Fifth – a charming vintage-chic boutique hotel housed in an impressive historic mansion
An unusual and unique Pittsburgh boutique hotel oozing with elegance and sophistication in opulent surroundings. Offering a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of the busy Pittsburgh streets, the 4-star exceptionally rated Mansions On Fifth is close to the Phipps Conservatory and Carnegie Natural History Museum.
Bedrooms are upscale and beautifully designed with quality dark wood furnishings, plush recliners and sumptuous beddings, whilst bathrooms offer high-quality fixtures and fittings.
The stunning historic building is also home to the Oak Room Pub that offers a full parade of single malt scotches, craft bourbons and distinctive Irish whiskies. The Oak Room also features a revolving roster of speciality cocktails and excellent quality pub grub.
- To book, check prices or availability for Pittsburgh boutique hotel
10. Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton – a cool and trendy modern hotel housed in a redbrick building dating from 1924
With a name recalling Pittsburgh’s working-class past and a downtown location close to The Point, the universities, Market Square, PNC Park, the Duquesne Incline and the David Lawrence Convention Center, the Joinery Hotel offers travelers an authentic city experience.
You’ll find all you need in the rooms and suites with a 42-inch TV, Bluetooth charging station, sleek workspace, refrigerator and coffee maker.
There’s a fitness center and an outdoor rooftop terrace with views of the Ohio river. Guests love the library and lounge where you can hang out and listen to albums, and the Offering Table in the lobby with snacks and drinks all day. The hotel offers EV charging and bike rentals for sightseeing.
- To book, check prices or availability for Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton
11. AC Hotel by Marriott Pittsburgh Downtown – a modern and laid-back place to stay in Pittsburgh Downtown with Insta-worhty views
This sleek, chic hotel located between downtown and The Strip is convenient to all the business, arts, entertainment and dining destinations as well as the river walk and sporting events.
The standout rooftop bar Level 7 Pittsburgh with its 360-degree city views is the place to try out the offerings from small batch distillers, local brewers and single vineyard labels for which the city is becoming known.
The rooms have clean, functional lines and soothing neutral decor, wood floors and views of the river and railway bridge from the floor-to- ceiling windows.
The AC Kitchen serves European-style breakfast every morning with fresh croissants, prosciutto, cheese, and fresh fruit, and there’s a fully equipped fitness center for guests.
- To book, check prices or availability for AC Hotel by Marriott Pittsburgh Downtown
12. Etage Executive Living – a polished and stylish apartment hotel that offers stunning city views from a rooftop terrace
When you want to get the pulse of the city, Etage Executive Living in Market Square in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh lets you experience it like a native.
Located near The Point where the Allegheny and Ohio rivers meet, it’s convenient to points of interest like Frick Park, Acrisure Stadium and PPG Paints Arena, as well as all cultural, educational and business destinations.
There are great city views in all directions, especially from the penthouse suite and the rooftop which has a basketball court and social activities area. Accommodations range from spacious studios to 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, all beautifully furnished and fully equipped. There’s a full gym, and a range of restaurants, shopping and bars just out the door.
- To book, check prices or availability for Etage Executive Living
13. Distrikt Hotel – a cool, funky, fun and upbeat modern hotel
On the south edge of the theatre district, the 5-star Districkt Hotel is a funky and uber-chic hotel, housed in a former Salvation Army Building built in 1924. Bedrooms are sleek and comfortable with leather headboards, monochrome linens and fantastic urban views, whilst bathrooms are hyper-trendy with concrete floors and metro tiles combined with marble worktops.
The hip and funky Pittsburgh hotel is also home to The Whale restaurant specialising in local dishes and a farm-to-table focused menu, as well as not one but two bars serving up local Pittsburgh beer, craft cocktails and a broad wine selection.
The Evangeline coffee and juice den is also on hand to keep you going with light bites and coffee all day long.
- To book, check prices or availability for Districkt Hotel Pittsburgh
14. Omni William Hotel – a beautiful upscale boutique hotel and celebrity haunt housed in a historic building
A sleek and sophisticated hotel dating as far back as 1916 and located in the downtown Business District, close to Union Station. Having recently undergone a multi-million-dollar renovation, the 4-star highly rated Omni William Hotel now offers unparalleled luxury and outstanding customer service.
Bedrooms come complete with grand, colonial-style furnishings, plush linens, and marble bathrooms, while the communal areas are traditional and lavish.
The trendsetting Pittsburgh hotel also offers a choice of 7 different bars and eateries that will provide you with everything from award-winning fine dining through to freshly brewed coffees and bagels. The hotel also has its very own fitness center.
- To book, check prices or availability for Omni William Hotel
15. The Fairmount Hotel – chic hotel in Pittsburgh’s cultural and dining hub
Close to Point State Park, this downtown hotel offers upscale accommodation in plush surroundings. From the wood-panelled walls and oversized light fixtures in the lobby area through to the leather sofas and velvet seats in the bar area, every inch of the 4-star exceptionally rated The Fairmount Hotel is immaculately styled and well executed.
Bedrooms at this chic and sassy Pittsburgh hotel are sleek and contemporary with huge beds and crisp white linens, while bathrooms offer designer fixtures including both a shower and bath.
The Flr.2 restaurant serves up modern American musings, while Andy’s Wine Bar offers cool cocktails. A delight!
- To book, check prices or availability for The Fairmount Hotel
16. Cambria Hotel – a trendy and modern all-suite hotel close to local attractions
The official hotel of the Pittsburgh Penguins, the highly rated Cambria Hotel has been completely renovated to offer visitors sophisticated, contemporary accommodation in an excellent downtown location.
Combining high-tech amenities with classic comfort, bedrooms are well sized and modern with quality linens and upscale furnishings, while the bathrooms are uber-cool with walk-in showers and luxury fittings.
The Social Circle™ bistro offers a unique menu and the bar has an extensive selection of wines, beers and whiskies. There is also a dedicated fitness area and an indoor pool for guests to enjoy free of charge.
- To book, check prices or availability for Cambria Hotel Pittsburgh
17. Cozy Pittsburgh Home with King Beds – a cute, trendy and charming holiday home that is the perfect home away from home
A cozy retreat in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, this typical Pittsburgh townhouse has been lovingly renovated and furnished. It’s close to the T station and the bus stop, and near all educational and cultural institutions like the University of Pittsburgh, the Andy Warhol Museum, David L. Lawrence Convention Center and PNC Park.
The house encapsulates the best of city living with an inviting living room with green velvet seating and contrasting throw pillows, and well-designed dining area.
Along with the carefully chosen lighting and artwork, it all feels like you’re visiting a friend with rather good taste and a flair for decorating. The fully equipped kitchen has all the appliances you might need, including a dishwasher, microwave, washing machine, fridge and oven.
Guests can make themselves at home in the four bedrooms with king sized beds and flat screen TV, and enjoy the fenced-in patio and garden. When you don’t feel like cooking, there’s a wide selection of restaurants and bars to sample Pittsburgh’s famous hipster culture.
- To book, check prices or availability for Cozy Pittsburgh Home with King Beds
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My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my rescued Greek street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Laos, California and the surreally beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.