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City Cast Pittsburgh

Kevin Gavin

Are you a Pittsburgh news junkie? Or better yet, a vintage Olympics fan?

 to find out how well you know this week's news. We'll shout out perfect scores next week in the Hey Pittsburgh newsletter!

Pittsburgh has a long history of sports excellence. (

Amanda Hicks at Clearview FCU

Have you looked at your bank account recently and wondered why your savings aren't growing? You aren't alone. We know that setting money aside each month has become more challenging for everyone. It isn't just about willpower, either. There are real economic forces at play making it harder for you to get ahead.

Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward overcoming them. Let's explore why saving feels so difficult right now, and how we can help you regain control.

One of the biggest hurdles we all face is the steady increase in everyday costs. Groceries, rent, utilities, and transportation have all become significantly more expensive. Because these are not optional expenses, even small increases across multiple categories add up quickly. When more of your income goes toward essentials, you naturally have less left to put into a savings account.

At the same time, wages aren't always keeping pace with inflation. Even when you receive a raise at work, it might not fully offset your rising living costs. This dynamic creates a frustrating feeling of constantly trying to catch up, where higher expenses quickly absorb any financial progress you make.

Managing your finances today means navigating a constant stream of decisions. Do you cook dinner after a long day, or tap your phone for delivery? Keep that subscription, or let it go? Click “buy now,” or hold off?

Each choice may seem small, but over time, they add up — not only in dollars, but also in mental energy. When you’re stretched thin or running on empty, it’s natural to lean into what feels easiest in the moment. But those quick, convenient decisions can quietly chip away at your ability to save.

By understanding how our mental energy shapes financial habits, we can take steps to make mindful choices that better align with our goals. Even small habits, like planning a few meals ahead or regularly reviewing subscriptions, can help take some of that pressure off your day-to-day decisions.

Because of these pressures, we often see a common tendency to delay saving until things feel more stable. You might tell yourself that you will start saving when things calm down, or when you finally have a little more room in your budget.

The problem is that expenses often stay high, or new unexpected costs appear. That perfect moment keeps getting pushed further out. This creates a cycle where building your savings always feels just out of reach. Even setting aside a small, consistent amount now can help break that cycle.

Here’s the good news: saving doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Taking small, consistent steps can still make a massive difference in your financial life. Giving your savings a clear purpose, like building a modest emergency cushion or preparing for planned expenses, makes it much easier to stay committed.

You don't have to navigate these economic hurdles alone. Clearview’s 

 are here to guide you. With their support, you can create a personalized strategy that helps you overcome any challenges and empowers you to achieve your goals. One step at a time, we can build a brighter, more secure financial future together.

Why it’s so hard to save right now

Tips and tricks for living your best Pittsburgh life, by locals, for locals.

Pittsburgh Life Hacks

Francesca Dabecco

Put on your helmet, and let’s ride! Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a newbie to biking in the Burgh, we’ve got tips to 

Mark your calendar for these upcoming rides and events ⬇️

 gives you a sweet incentive to make it to each checkpoint: donuts! Pedal along bike lanes and trails throughout the city and snag treats from Paddy Cake Bakery, Pigeon Bagels, Sidecar, and Baked True North.

, stopping at a few breweries along the way. You’ll start at Millvale Riverfront Park and roll along the trail toward the city. The event is a part of their Battles to Bikes program for local veterans.

, then meet up at the Frick Environmental Center afterwards for a community picnic. There will be hot dogs with all of the fixings (vegan available!), icy treats, and good company. The ride is a fundraiser for BikePGH, and if you raise $100, you can get a special picnic blanket.

Have a chill ride with friends or race to win some cool prizes at 

. The ride starts and ends at 3 Rivers Outdoors Co. in Regent Square, and all proceeds go toward 

, a volunteer-run nonprofit that helps Pittsburghers get, repair, and maintain bikes.

 is dedicated to breaking down barriers to bicycling. Join the group for a beginner-friendly group ride along the riverfront trail, or get some more miles in with a steady, long climb from Point State Park to the top of Riverview Park.

, starting at Allegheny Commons Park on the North Side. All experience levels are welcome at this charity ride for BikePGH. There will be beer, NA beverages, music, and food trucks at the finish line.

Experience Pittsburgh from a new perspective at BikePGH's’s annual 

 event series, where miles of city streets are shut down to cars and open for residents to walk, run, bike, skate, and roll through. Stay tuned for details.

Pedal in Pittsburgh at group bicycle rides, races, and special events featuring tasty treats.

The Best Group Rides and Biking Events in Pittsburgh This Summer

7 Summer Biking Events in Pittsburgh, From Group Rides to Races

Find the best of everything that Pittsburgh has to offer.

Pittsburgh’s Best

Pittsburgh's Best

Ever wonder what your favorite house on the block looks like inside? Or do you catch yourself peeking through the fence to spot gorgeous flowers in your neighbor’s yard?

Now’s your time to be nebby! Explore Pittsburgh homes, gardens, and more on walking tours this summer.

will take you inside uniquely restored homes, repurposed lofts, and green spaces — each with a distinct style. Get to know the stories of each dwelling through personal art collections, family heirlooms, and memorabilia.

Step inside the botanical oasis at Grow Pittsburgh’s 

 in Wilkinsburg. The certified organic farm and greenhouse provides plants to urban farmers, schools, community gardeners, and home growers throughout the community. After the tour, stick around for a barbecue and social hour.

Want a tour with a performance? Get inspired by historical Pittsburgh legends on a 

 in Lawrenceville. Prime Stage Theatre actors will resurrect the stories of locals buried in one of Pittsburgh’s largest and oldest burial grounds.

See how residents grow vegetables, fruit trees, and pollinator-friendly flowers throughout private gardens 

. Then join the community for a picnic and party afterwards with food, entertainment, and activities for all ages.

Take in the sweet smells and sights of the gardens throughout this North Hills suburb. Previous stops on 

 featured prairie gardens with native perennials, peaceful ponds, water features, and stone landscaping.

Want to know what Pittsburgh looked like during its steel industry days? Get a glimpse of our region’s industrial past on a 

 — stretching between Rankin and Swissvale and towering 92 feet above the Monongahela River. The furnaces, built in 1884, are a remnant of the U.S. Steel Homestead Steel Works and a rare example of both 20th century steel dominance and pre-World War II iron-making technology.

Hartwood Acres Sculpture Garden Audio Tour

Visitors to this magnificent 629-acre park — originally a county estate for an equestrian family — can take a 

 of the Carol R. Brown Sculpture Garden. Learn about Pittsburgh’s industrial past while touring 14 large displays. Bring your headphones, and find a QR code at each stop!

Mosey through brick-lined streets, turn-of-the-century Victorian homes, and dreamy gardens on this 

. You’ll be stunned by the intricate woodwork, stained-glass windows, tall ceilings, and manicured gardens in Pittsburgh’s largest historic district.

Open doors to beautifully restored rowhouses on this 

 on the North Side. Attendees will be awed by stonework hearths, gorgeous wood floors, charming courtyards, and verdant community gardens.

 — from the homes on Judges Row to the iconic Allegheny Observatory. Last year’s tour started at Riverview Park, and featured craft beer samples from local breweries at stops throughout the tour.

Be your best nebby self and explore lush gardens, historic homes, and magnificent parks on these summer tours.

Explore Pittsburgh on Summer Home and Garden Tours 2025

10 Summer Home, Garden, and Neighborhood Tours in Pittsburgh

Whether you want a solo relaxing day or festivities for you and all of your friends, here are our tips for planning the best birthday in the Burgh.

There is so much art and history to explore in Pittsburgh. Get a glimpse of our region’s industrial past at the Carrie Blast Furnaces along the Monongahela River. 

 offers tours where you can learn about the landmark’s iron-making legacy or see how the site has been transformed with art.

Want more than just an elegant birthday dinner? Explore the flavors of an entire neighborhood with a 

. Choose from spots like the Strip District, Lawrenceville, South Side, Oakland, Allegheny West, and Brookline.

Trivia buff? Discover fun facts about Pittsburgh from an expert guide at 

. Tours take place in Downtown and go between one and two miles. Learn about the whiskey rebellion while tasting cocktail samples, see a spooky side of the city with nighttime ghost tours, or explore iconic buildings on a family-friendly outing.

If you love inventive food made with fresh ingredients, splurge on a prix fixe dinner at 

 in Garfield. Each small plate is paired with wine and cocktails or NA drinks, crafted to perfection. Look around the communal table, and you’ll be amazed by all of Spork's food lab tools, from a koji incubator to a dehydrator.

 hosts farm-to-table meals by a rotating lineup of impressive local chefs. All of the dinners are made with ingredients grown on the Carrick farm and enjoyed just a skip away from the crop fields and pollinator gardens. They always sell out fast, so plan ahead for your next occasion.

Want an excuse to dress up? Put on your best threads to step inside a fairytale at 

 in Coraopolis, a cottage-style restaurant located inside of a castle. Hyeholde always serves full-course dinners, but look out for special events like summer picnics and literature-inspired meals.

Host Megan Harris recommends bringing the meal to you by booking a private chef, like friend of the City Cast Pittsburgh podcast 

Level up your knowledge as you celebrate another year under your belt. Learn how to make ravioli, tortellini, and more pasta shapes with 

 in Swissvale, or find more tasty how-to’s with our list of the 

 in Wilkinsburg, which offers tutorials in sewing, watercolor painting, knitting, woodworking, and more. Or, get fired up with a pottery class at the 

 in Highland Park or a Make-It-Now session at the 

 in Friendship. (Tip: Union Project hosts adult birthday parties!)

On my list: For my birthday this year, I want to take an antique printing press workshop with local stationery maker 

 in Lawrenceville. I’ve been a fan of Lindsay’s art for years, and I’d love to make a unique memento to mark my special day.

Invest in yourself and opt for a luxurious spa experience. I’m a big fan of 

 in Chateau, which offers a variety of massages, light therapy, acupuncture, and more.

If you’re feeling adventurous, dip into a float tank at 

 in Lawrenceville or Sewickley. The tank cuts off all external stimuli, and the water perfectly matches your body temperature, ensuring you come out of the session feeling refreshed.

Want to meditate but can’t figure out how? Try sound healing at 

 in Castle Shannon. The tones of Tibetan bowls, gongs, and drums will calm your mind. Check out their massage menu, too.

 in Garfield are always stellar. Choose from menu staples like the chocolate hazelnut cake with espresso-rum syrup, or vanilla-chiffon cake with amaretto syrup and almond pastry cream.

Want treats for your whole birthday week? Order an assorted box of bonbons from 

Producer Sophia Lo recommends celebrating with three cakes: a local favorite, one you want to try, and a homemade goodie baked by a friend.

Step under the lights and star in your own game show at the 

 in Millvale. You and all of your pals will be laughing through games like Survey Shoutout and Wheel of Winners.

Challenge your friends to a casual game or a full-on tournament at 

 in Fox Chapel. With their self-serve beer and wine system, you can play and pour at your own pace.

’s 86-seat boutique movie theater in Lawrenceville for a grand birthday screening. You can even treat your guests to the popcorn bar and customize the marquee outside.

Pack a cooler, s’mores supplies, and your best hiking shoes for a weekend in the woods. Whether you want a glamping experience (like these 

 in Hocking Hills, Ohio) or a cheap campsite where you and all of your friends can pitch a tent, there’s a nearby destination for your outdoor party. 

 from Marcus Shoffner, founder of the Outdoor Inclusion Coalition.

Executive producer Mallory Falk has heard great things about the 

, if you want to rent out a large, beautiful space in the Laurel Highlands.

If your birthday is during the warmer months, you’re in luck! There are lots of ways to have a peaceful (and adventurous!) 

. Check out kayak excursions with Venture Outdoors; rent a pontoon boat for the day; eat alfresco at restaurants with the best water views; or hang out on Riverlife’s floating barge on the North Shore (returning for the season on my birthday, May 22!)

Okay, so your favorite band isn’t in town on your birthday … that doesn’t mean you can’t get down with some good music. Pittsburgh has a ton of awesome small venues that support local acts, like 

. Check their calendars — you might have the best night and find something new for your playlist.

What’s even better? When live music can come with an incredible dinner. Nearly every night of the week, you can enjoy 

 in Downtown. Their seasonal menu is perfect for sharing and has a bunch of options for vegetarians.

10. Buy Yourself Something Nice (& Local!)

Get something you can treasure for years to come. I love sporting accessories made by Pittsburghers, like jewelry by 

; her dainty ceramic designs are so chic and charming. Or sustainable clothing by 

; their gender-neutral jackets are made from recycled quilts, and they’re reversible! I’ve also had my eyes on unique leather goods by 

, like wallets, crossbody bags, and belts.

Take a guided tour, learn a new skill, have a spa day, or play games with friends on your next birthday in Pittsburgh.

Where To Celebrate Your Birthday in Pittsburgh

10 Ways To Celebrate Your Birthday in Pittsburgh

Ready to do your civic duty? Allegheny County’s primary election is next 

If you're voting at a new polling place or in PA for the first time, you may need to provide an 

. If you are a returning voter, you don’t need an ID.

If you’re voting by mail, your application for a mail-in or absentee ballot must be received by the 

 by 5 p.m. May 12. Once you receive and complete your ballot, it must be 

Send your ballot through USPS or drop it off at 

Want to make sure your ballot was received? 

Reminder: PA is one of just eight states with a 

, meaning only registered Democrats and Republicans get to vote in their respective parties’ spring primaries. Independents and third-party voters can, however, vote on ballot measures.

, state Senate, state House, U.S. Congress, and more.

See exactly what’s on your ballot by entering your municipality, ward, and district into 

Elections can’t run smoothly without volunteers at each polling place. Help set up, check in voters, and assist with equipment by 

. Extra perk: You can make $150-$175 for your day of work.

7 Ideas To Make Voting Better in PA

How well do our elections actually work? Here are 

seven ways PA could improve its voting process

, from opening our primaries to making Election Day a holiday.

What to know before you vote in Allegheny County’s primary election on May 19.

Your Guide To Voting in the 2026 Primary Election in Allegheny County

Pittsburgh's Guide To Voting in the 2026 Primaries

Where did Mister Rogers raise his family?

What neighborhood has the second-tallest education building in the world?

This neighborhood has a popular overlook perched more than 700 feet above the Ohio River, offering a unique view of Downtown.

Pittsburgh's only public indoor pool, Oliver Bath House, just reopened after years of renovations. Where can you find it?

Famous actor Jeff Goldblum grew up in this Pittsburgh neighborhood.

This neighborhood has a ceramics studio located inside of an old church

Which Pittsburgh neighborhood has the steepest street in the U.S.?

This borough is surrounded on all sides by city neighborhoods

How well do you know Pittsburgh neighborhoods and the surrounding areas? Take our quiz to find out!

Pop Quiz: Fun Facts About Pittsburgh Neighborhoods

Think You Know Pittsburgh Neighborhoods? Take This Quiz

People, places, and scenes from Pittsburgh's past.

Pittsburgh History

It’s music festival season! Whether you’re into jazz, rock, punk, or folk, Pittsburgh has an event for you. Mark your calendar ⬇️

Groove to the sounds of brass bands and global street music at 

 in Schenley Park. This music fest has all of the best vibes of a community picnic or block party but with top notch tunes. It’s free and volunteer-run. Give a donation if you can!

Over 350 musical acts are set to perform across 32 stages at 

. The event is free and within a walkable .6 miles. Plus, there’s other entertainment like comedians and street performers. Check out acts at venues big and small, from Mr. Smalls to Grist House Brewery.

 with performances by six artists, food trucks, and vendors at 222 Ormsby Ave. in Mt. Oliver. All proceeds go toward the main event in September — a 

 dedicated to mental health and suicide prevention.

In addition to hundreds of arts and crafts vendors, you can enjoy live music at the 

 — now at a new location at Arts Landing in the Cultural District. At no charge, enjoy a mix of local and touring artist performances, from rock to alternative hip hop to pop-folk.

Pride Month just got even more fun! Shop from craft vendors and hear music from 

 at Allegheny City Brewing in East Allegheny. It will be a day of good vibes, fresh brews, and community camaraderie. All admission proceeds benefit Hugh Lane Wellness Foundation.

 at South Park Amphitheater and Hartwood Acres Park Amphitheater, from jazz and rock to soul and funk. The first concert is June 5 at South Park. Hear some tunes, and grab a drink from on-site food trucks like Black Dog Winery or Hop Farm Brewing Company.

 always includes cultural events, small business vendors, and performances celebrating the history and heritage of Black music in America. Mark your calendar to see 

 will rock out along the creek in Frick Park Hollow. Look forward to local artists, tasty food, environmental activities, guided walks, and more. The event, hosted by WQED icon Rick Sebak, celebrates Upstream Pittsburgh’s 25th anniversary. (Learn how Upstream takes care of our waterways and 

Grab your lawn chair! You’ll want to snag a spot in Schenley Plaza for WYEP’s Summer Music Festival. This free, outdoor concert is a fun day for the whole family. 

 of indie, pop rock, and alternative artists ready to jam out in Oakland.

From emerging local talent to regional headliners, the 

 brings together community and good tunes for a free, three-day celebration. Check out music, food, artists, and more in Pittsburgh’s historic East Allegheny neighborhood. Stay tuned for the lineup.

What’s better than enjoying a crisp beer and good music? 

 — a two-day event at Pittsburgh Brewing Co. in Creighton — will feature dozens of artists in genres like blues, rock, Americana, country, and jazz. It all benefits Autism Pittsburgh and Band Together Pittsburgh.

Forbes Avenue and Market Square will be filled with good vibes at 

. It’s less of a concert and more of a block party. Check out art, food, drink vendors, and music from legendary groups and up-and-coming artists.

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center brings world-renowned artists to Pittsburgh’s stage every year at the 

. The multi-day event is a great way to honor our city’s impressive 

 on June 23 at a fundraiser for the festival.

Punk returns to Pittsburgh! Four Chord Musical Festival will 

It’s music festival season! Whether you’re into jazz, rock, punk, or folk, Pittsburgh has an event for you.

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Kevin Gavin

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