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City Cast Pittsburgh

Kevin Gavin

 July is National Ice Cream Month, so we’re testing your knowledge on some local frozen treats.

How much do yinz know about local ice cream lore? (Francesca Dabecco / City Cast Pittsburgh)

Francesca Dabecco

⏪ Looking for a previous Pittsburgh crossword? Find it here:

A crossword puzzle all about Pittsburgh news and fun facts. 

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What Pittsburghers have been wondering. We break down why things in Pittsburgh are the way they are and how they work.

Pittsburgh, Explained

Morningside’s quaint, residential streets are sandwiched between Highland Park and Stanton Heights and stretch along the Allegheny River. When I stopped by the local coffee shop, there was a bevy of older men smoking cigars and sipping their morning brew. I asked if they’re regulars and one responded: “We come here every day and talk about things that happened 50 years ago.”

 is a sweet little shop on Chislett Street that serves coffee, tea, and smoothies alongside breakfast and lunch bites like quiche, crumpets, and salads. Don’t pass on their desserts like the honey corn cake.

Want a fun spot to watch a World Cup game? Head to 

 on Morningside Avenue, named after the legendary 

 of the 1950s-1970s. This unpretentious bar is great for craft beers, “sammitches,” wings … and feeding your soccer obsession. Televisions line the wall so everyone has a great view, and the energy is unmatched as you’re standing shoulder to shoulder with fellow fans.

Whether you’re looking for patterns, supplies, or textiles, 

 offers a variety of materials to meet your sewing needs. Follow their 

 to stay up to date on offers like scissor sharpening and other services. Want to sew but don’t know how? Take a class with 

And while you can’t buy chocolates on site, 

 is based in Morningside, and their classic-meets-adventurous flavors make the perfect gift for any occasion. Head to their 

Grab coffee at Kafair, take a sewing class, watch a soccer game, and more in Pittsburgh's Morningside.

Get To Know Morningside Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Get To Know Morningside

Everything to know about Pittsburgh neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

Pittsburgh Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

City Cast Pittsburgh Staff

Have you done any self care lately? We’ve got tips on our favorite Pittsburgh spa treatments below ⬇️

This is a small practice with just one massage therapist — Charlotte — and I have nothing but glowing reviews for them! Their space is so cozy, and Charlotte checked in with me throughout the session to make sure everything felt great. Take your pick from therapeutic, hot stones, or a pregnancy massage, or try a seasonal herbal bodywork treatment. Plus, Interwoven Wellness has a sliding scale for therapeutic massages, so if the $100 base price is too high for you, consider the $60-$90 option.

 with food from brothmonger. What could be better than unwinding with one of my favorite restaurants in Pittsburgh?

The head spa and blow dry bar offers scalp treatments, hair growth programs, and luxury blowouts. I went for 

, which comes with a scalp analysis, aromatherapy, light massages, and a classic dry and style. There's a small fee for thick or long hair like mine, and it's worth being honest so the stylist can treat you right. They'll also help you capture your experience (like before and after photos) if you're into that — the vibes are extremely social media friendly, and the halo hair washing situation feels as fun as it looks. They also offer bevvies before your service and while you get your style.

halotherapy room at Victory Float Lounge’s

 Sewickley location, aka “the salt room.” I imagine it’s like embracing your inner lizard in the best way.

With hot tubs, cold plunges, and several types of saunas, this wellness studio lets you choose your own 

. The sisters who run the space offer guidance to help you get the most out of your experience, but you're free to rotate through at whatever pace and in whatever order feels best to you. I especially loved the steam sauna, which instantly relieved the tension and soreness in my muscles. Drop in for an individual session, become a member, or check out 

. Getting wrapped in a cocoon of warm mud or exfoliated with a "frothy minty-lime lathering sugar scrub"? Sign me up!

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop to try all kinds of treatments, head to 

, located right along the Ohio River. I’m a regular here (but honestly, not as regular as I’d like to be!). Relax with a customized massage, alleviate muscle tension with cupping, improve circulation with acupuncture, find natural remedies with an herbal consult, and more. 

 to find a practitioner that best fits you, and be on the lookout for some exciting new offerings. On my last visit, staff said they’ll soon be adding float tanks!

. (Yes, it’s the same place, but I can’t hype them up enough.) If you’re nervous about needles or not sure about the cost, this is a more accessible and affordable option. Multiple patients are treated at the same time in a comfortable setting for a lower cost.

— Senior newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco

More Spa Ideas Here!

Relax with a full body massage, get a head spa treatment, or sink into a hot tub at these Pittsburgh self-care spots.

The Best Spa Treatments and and Self Care Experiences in Pittsburgh

Our Favorite Spa Treatments in Pittsburgh

Find the best of everything that Pittsburgh has to offer.

Pittsburgh’s Best

Pittsburgh's Best

, with an extra day and expanded footprint stretching from two sister bridges to the new Arts Landing, Market Square, and PPG Plaza. Enjoy pickled food, participate in Dill-cathlon Games, and shop from local vendors, July 16-19. New this year: Play a game of pickleball on freshly-painted courts at Arts Landing.

From emerging local talent to regional headliners, the 

 brings together community and good tunes at a free, three-day celebration, July 10-12. Check out music, food, artists, and more in Pittsburgh’s historic East Allegheny neighborhood. Psst! Here are more 

Honor Pittsburgh’s Legacy for America 250

, so it’s no surprise that Pittsburgh will go big for America 250 celebrations on the Fourth of July. Here’s 

 — like a Ferris Wheel ride, free live music, an art exhibit, and more.

Shop Local at The Great Pittsburgh Book Crawl

 — nine straight days of book shopping, July 18-26. Grab your passport at any participating store, and get stamps to win raffle prizes. It’s the perfect excuse to explore some of Pittsburgh’s 

More book fun: Brighton Heights is hosting a 

, “100 Things To Do in Pittsburgh Before You Die.”

Glitterbox Theater in West Homestead is celebrating the Monongahela River and its lore with a 

 for all ages July 18. There will be showings of local short films, a live jazz performance, a circus play zone, soul line dancing, airbrush art, live wrestling, and 

Celebrate the hardworking goats who help tackle the parks’ invasive plants with a day of family-friendly fun at 

 July 25. Enjoy live music, craft vendors, goat yoga, food trucks, and children’s activities like make-and-take your own teacup fairy garden. All of the funds go to ecological restoration efforts.

Take a Mental Health Break at ‘Speak Your Truth’

 will take over Allentown July 25 for a full day of arts and mental health events on the hilltop. Check out punk shows from local bands, small business vendors, a mental health matinee, and more. After all, treating and living with mental health issues takes the same type of DIY, gritty spirit as punk rock music.

July in Pittsburgh: Northside Music Festival, Picklesburgh, Great Pittsburgh Book Crawl, Goat Fest, and more.

The Best Events in Pittsburgh in July 2026

7 Things To Do in Pittsburgh in July 2026

America’s 250th birthday is a huge milestone for Pittsburgh. Our region was a crucial site during the French and Indian War, which set the stage for the American Revolution. Later, our city’s industrial, medical, and technological advances helped to shape the country.

Celebrate Pittsburgh’s pivotal role at these events that educate, entertain, and inspire.

‘We Hold These Truths’: American Potluck

RealTime Arts invites guests into local living rooms for short, original plays, followed by potluck-style meals and guided conversations about food, health, and American identity. Get to know your neighbors, your city, and your country from new angles at these Equitable Dinners, scheduled for 

The Heinz History Center is showing an art display focused on freedom, equality, justice, and opportunity. It’s a unique mix of watercolor, portraiture, sculpture, and cartoons. See which beloved Pittsburghers you can spot in the works, like environmentalist Rachel Carson, public television icon Fred Rogers, and civil rights activist Daisy Lampkin. 

 outside of their normal stage at Heinz Hall. Catch an evening of American classics at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall, an outdoor concert and drone show at Hartwood Acres, and more.

Learn about Western PA’s critical role in the American Revolution with 

, the Fort Pitt Museum, and Fort Pitt Block House on the Fourth of July. There will be costumed re-enactors, a flag-raising ceremony, cannon firings, martial music, and hands-on family fun throughout the site.

Art Rooney Avenue on the North Side, July 1- 5

. Take in the city skyline and three rivers from high above. 50% of ticket sales benefit Veterans Leadership Program. It’s a fun way to honor veterans and celebrate the popular amusement ride designed by Pittsburgh engineer George Ferris Jr. in 1893.

Looking for fireworks? Have a blast at these Fourth of July 

Fireworks, an American potluck, freedom-inspired art, Ferris Wheel rides, and more ways to celebrate American 250 in Pittsburgh.

How To Celebrate American 250 in Pittsburgh

5 Ways To Mark America 250 in Pittsburgh

The rivers that flow through Pittsburgh are what make our city so spectacular. Here are seven ways to soak up their beauty this summer:

 near the David L. Lawrence Convention Center is equipped with a fleet of kayaks and an accessible launch area for renters with disabilities. Book a two-hour solo or tandem kayak rental through their 

 program or take an excursion, like sunrise and sunset paddling. Want to go with a group of friends or coworkers? Check out Venture Outdoors’ kayaking option for 10+ people.

🛟 Check Out RiverLife’s ‘Shore Thing’

Take in the city skyline and riverfront breeze from RiverLife’s 4,500-square-foot floating platform, Shore Thing. The barge sits between the Clemente and Warhol bridges and is “

.” The hub has art supplies, a floating library, cards, and boardgames. Plus, you can catch special events like DJ nights, live music, yoga flows, and other workout classes.

Immerse yourself in scenic views and Pittsburgh history while cruising on a 

 sightseeing tour. The boat boards at Station Square on the Monongahela River, then carries you along the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers while a captain points out interesting landmarks and shares local lore along the way. Look for special cruises with 

, a tropical-themed bar on the river. Make it a daycation or plan a special evening on the water for Zambelli fireworks nights. The boat can pick you up along the North Shore Trail or at the marina at Station Square.

 for a full day of relaxing on the water. Pittsburgh Boat Rental’s 18-foot boats can fit up to 10 people, with a deck area for sunbathing, shaded seating, and a bluetooth stereo for cruising with your favorite tunes.

. You can book anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours, and roam between the McKees Rocks Bridge on the Ohio, the Hot Metal Bridge on the Monongahela, and the 40th Street Bridge on the Allegheny.

 on the North Shore, sit on a deck overlooking the water at 

 on Washington’s Landing, or enjoy an evening of family fun during 

 at Allegheny RiverTrail Park in Aspinwall. The series features craft beer from Trace Brewing, food trucks, and live local music. Don’t forget a blanket or camp chair!

Take your own bike or rent some wheels from 

. Catch stunning city views no matter what side of the river you’re on — and don’t forget to stop and admire 

 along the way. The path connects to the 

, which can take you all the way to Washington D.C.

Take in the Allegheny, Ohio, and Monongahela Rivers through kayak rentals, sightseeing cruises, riverfront dining, and more.

The Best Pittsburgh River and Riverfront Activities

7 Ways to Enjoy Pittsburgh’s Rivers This Summer

Juneteenth, short for “June Nineteenth,” is considered our 

 — a national holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in 1865. Every year, Pittsburgh marks this historic day with a Grand Jubilee Parade, live music, and more cultural events across the city.

Here’s how to celebrate Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day” and “Emancipation Day,” in Pittsburgh 

 at Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall

 A Juneteenth Youth Fashion & Arts Showcase at Velum Fermentation

Celebrate Juneteenth in Pittsburgh with rollerskating, live music, the Grand Jubilee Parade, dance parties, a community garden day, and more.

The Best Juneteenth Events in Pittsburgh 2026

How to Celebrate Juneteenth in Pittsburgh 2026

Laura Tsutsui

 with these Pittsburgh shops, rentals, and repair services.

Visit this small, scrappy shop on East Ohio Street for a used bike or tune up. The shop runs a membership program that includes discounts, free stand use, and more. Want to learn to work on your own bike? Organize a group lesson or request a private session. Call ahead at 412-586-5410 to schedule.

Find new bikes, parts and accessories, car racks, clothing, and more at this shop on Forbes Avenue. Already have a ride? They also do bicycle repairs, from 

. Browse the impressive catalog on their site (including e-bikes!) before you stop in.

Did you know that this North Side spot is the world’s largest bicycle museum and bike shop? It has a collection of 6,000 new and vintage bikes — including some once owned by famous riders like Pee-wee Herman. You can buy, rent, and repair bicycles here, but it’s also completely free to visit and explore!

What started as a hobby for steelworker Steve Kraynick in the 1940s is now a staple Pittsburgh bike store and repair shop. Every year, volunteers with the shop’s “Bikes Before Christmas” program repair hundreds of donated bicycles for local families.

Do it yourself! This collective is a community space where you can learn basic bike repair through volunteering and get store credit in return. The Collective also sells fully-built bikes and everything you need to assemble or repair your own bike. Visit during shop hours to use the tools on hand, purchase parts and ask questions. Want to learn? 

Join a volunteer night Mondays and Wednesdays.

Take a guided tour of Pittsburgh, go on your own adventure, or book a group experience at this shop on First Avenue along the Monongahela River. Want something more long term? They also do used bike sales and repairs.

This full-service bike shop offers a range of services, from flat tire fixes to complete overhauls. They also service e-bikes, which are gaining popularity with daily commuters who 

From wheels to chains, this Butler Street spot has everything you need for, as they put it, “two-wheeled freedom machine.” Need help finding parts for repairs? The staff is super helpful and can guide you to the right gear.

If you want to discover Pittsburgh’s trails or go on a long trip through the Great Allegheny Passage, Bike the Burgh offers rentals for all the gear you need. Or, you can take an urban tour with one of their expert guides for $49.

Want to ride a Fern Hollow Bicycle on the new Fern Hollow Bridge? Get a new or used bike, an electric ride, accessories, a tune-up, or a larger repair at this S. Trenton Avenue shop.

This full-service bike shop will give you a basic tune-up or full restoration, polish your old parts, or make you a custom bike with one of their vintage frames. They have 

Need a good look before you test ride? Thick Bikes has a full inventory of new and used bikes on their website. Stop in for a bike repair, special flat fix clinic event, or — if you’re brave — try to balance on one of their unicycles! Join them Friday evenings at the South Side River Trail below Hofbrauhaus from 7-9 p.m through July.

Leading this shop is the former manager at ramp designer at 

 to the Burgh. Shop bikes, frames, merch and more online or at the store’s brick-and-mortar. You can even 

Service your bike, or get a new ride at these Pittsburgh shops.

Pittsburgh's Best Bike Shops

Where To Buy, Rent, or Tune Up a Bike in Pittsburgh

July is National Ice Cream Month, so we’re testing your knowledge on some local frozen treats.

Pop Quiz: Pittsburgh Ice Cream History

How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh’s Ice Cream History?

The latest on the hottest places to eat, drink, socialize, and talk about in Pittsburgh.

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Pittsburgh. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Pittsburgh Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Sensitive bellies don’t have to miss out on this sweet summer treat! I sampled a selection of vegan flavors from local shops to bring you my picks for the creamiest plant-based scoops Pittsburgh has to offer.

This Butler Street shop serves ice cream from Penn State’s famous on-campus creamery, made through their Department of Food and Science. So it makes sense that they’ve totally mastered vegan ice cream, too. They use a blend of milks — like coconut, oat, and almond — and the texture is superior to all other vegan ice creams I've tried! Plus, the flavors are always standouts. My go-to is the pistachio, but I’ve also devoured blueberry lavender, dulce de leche, strawberry PopTarts, blueberry pancake, and Oreo peanut butter fudge.

Leona’s is already super friendly to customers with dietary restrictions — all of their dairy ice cream is lactose free, making it easier to digest. But did you know that they have delicious non-dairy ice cream too? I tried the coffee flavor made with coconut milk for an afternoon pick-me-up. It was so smooth and the perfect amount of sweet. Stop by the Garfield shop for a scoop or one of their famous ice cream sandwiches. (I’m eyeing up the black sesame ice cream on salted tahini chocolate chunk cookies.)

Imagine my surprise when I walked into Posman Books to find an ice cream stand with some of the most interesting flavors like coconut caramel chip, coconut pandan, grasshopper (mint) made with cashew milk, and chocolate chunk. I tried the coconut mango sticky rice and it had delightful little surprises of mochi swirled throughout! It’s the perfect treat to enjoy while window shopping in the Strip.

📍Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, West View, Robinson & 

Bruster’s has chains all across the country, but it started in Bridgewater in Beaver County. I’ve sampled flavors at a few locations, but somehow the oatmilk-based scoops from their truck are always better — with unique flavors like black raspberry chocolate chip, cold brew, peanut butter Oreo, and raspberry truffle. You can find me going back for seconds at 

This family-run shop is known for small-batch scoops and ice cream sandwiches made with Better Maid donuts — and they always have a couple of really tasty vegan gelato flavors, like peanut butter and chocolate coconut. They’re made with almond milk, which I was skeptical of at first — sometimes the texture isn’t quite right — but I was pleased to be proven wrong! The peanut butter was shockingly creamy, and I’d stand in the long line to get a cone again and again.

📍Oakland, Downtown, Lawrenceville, Shadyside & 

No matter what corner of Pittsburgh you’re in, there’s likely a Millie’s chain nearby, serving seasonal flavors in their signature homemade waffle cone. You can grab a scoop of vegan flavors like mango, mint chip, and brownie batter from a scoop shop — or find them in the freezer aisle at some Giant Eagle locations. Tip: Are you a snowbird? They now have 

You can find this Ohio-based ice cream in grocery stores or stop by their scoop shops in Bakery Square and SouthSide Works. Try Jeni’s vegan flavors like cold brew with coconut cream, banana cream pudding, caramel pecan sticky buns, and lemon bar. I went for the Texas sheet cake, a super rich and decadent flavor made for chocolate fiends like me! Tip: this is a great spot for a late-night treat. They don’t close until 12 a.m.!

Sensitive bellies don't have to miss out on this sweet summer treat. Try these dairy-free ice creams in Pittsburgh.

Where To Get The Best Vegan Ice Cream in Pittsburgh

The Best Non-Dairy Ice Cream in Pittsburgh

Whether you’re craving dippy eggs and home fries or a towering stack of pancakes, there's a spot in the city for you. We’re dishing on the meals worth waking up for on the 

 — and sharing a few of our best brunch tips ⬇️

Head to this South Hills gem on Saturday or Sunday for Greek twists on breakfast classics: like French toast made with sweet Easter bread or a Croque Madame stacked with rosemary ham, gruyere cheese, and béchamel. Order pastries for the table like Loukoumades (Greek honey puffs). Tip: Check out the cute patio outside, perfect for sunny days with sunny-side up eggs. — 

Francesca Dabecco, senior newsletter editor

Nosh on all-you-can-eat classics, plus roasted veggies, carved meats, fresh doughnuts, cold salads, and more inside the ornately-restored former home of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station on the South Side. Brunch is served Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Don’t skip the cocktails and coffee. You definitely want a reservation. — 

Heinz might be king in Pittsburgh, but the banana ketchup on the Spam n'at is the perfect sweet and tangy complement to the rice and meat. Brunch isn't just for Sundays here; there are rotating specials during their weekday hours. The breakfast egg rolls, lumpia, hash browns, and home fries are all fried to perfection — so bring friends to share them all. Bonus points for having a bagel with pork roll on the menu, which makes my New Jersey heart so happy! — 

Grab a window seat in this cozy, sunlit spot on a Sunday and enjoy a fresh bagel with horseradish and dill schmear or a perfectly spicy shakshuka. If you like a little booze with your brunch, order from the impressive seasonal cocktail menu. On my last visit, I tried their “curry me banana” with cold brew concentrate, coffee liqueur and banana-curry foam. It was the ideal brunch beverage! — 

Dig In to More of Our Favorites! 💗

Whether you’re craving dippy eggs and home fries or a towering stack of pancakes, there’s a Pittsburgh brunch spot for you.

The Best Brunch Spots in Pittsburgh

4 Pittsburgh Brunches We Don’t Want To Live Without

Want to try some of the best bites and bevs in the Burgh? Save room for these spring food and drink events, from food truck festivals to taste test contests.

📍St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Oakland

Celebrate this 64-year tradition with music, dancing, and of course, 

 like gyros, spanakopita, baklava, and moussaka. (

Stop into businesses along Forbes and Murray Avenues to try 15 different wines at this 

. You can stroll (and sip) at your own pace!

Join Humane Action Pennsylvania to explore our city’s 

. All week long, participating restaurants will offer discounts and specials. (I’m keeping my eyes peeled for what Chef Michael Godlewski is cooking up at 

, contestants compete to see who can make the best strawberry pretzel-inspired treat while raising money for a nonprofit of their choice. Tickets are $15 to taste test and vote on your favorites.

Enjoy brews and bites with proceeds benefiting nine parks through the Allegheny County Parks Foundation. There will be a kids fun zone, raffle baskets, live local music, and more at this 10th annual celebration. 

 while tasting specialty cheeses and desserts, browsing craft vendors, and grooving to live acoustic sets. The $27 ticket gets you a festival-branded glass and all the wine you can drink.

📍 Hollywood Casino at the Meadows, Washington

Mark your calendar for Vegan Restaurant Week, Strawberry Pretzel Standoff, Pittsburgh Pizza Olympics, and more.

Food & Drink

How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh’s Ice Cream History?

Kevin Gavin

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