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City Cast Pittsburgh

Francesca Dabecco

Laura Tsutsui

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

A crossword puzzle all about Pittsburgh news and fun facts. 

Can You Fill Out This Pittsburgh Crossword Puzzle?

Try This Pittsburgh Crossword Puzzle

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

Pittsburgh, Explained

Crafts aren’t just for kids – they can be wonderful 

. Whether you’re an established crocheter or knitter or just starting to get hooked, look no further than your local yarn shop. Now’s the perfect time to plan a visit because we're at the start of the 

Shops are hosting special pop-ups and giving away prizes throughout the crawl! Get started by picking up a Yarn Crawl Passport (which you can find at any of these shops), and collecting stamps from every spot you visit.

Keep in mind: Most of the store hours vary day to day, so check online before you make the trip. Some have 

This fiber craft store offers supplies and classes that get into specific techniques and skills, like Tunisian crochet, tapestry weaving, and how to use a drum carder. The Craft Room also hosts events, including a crafting happy hour every Wednesday.

On Oakmont’s main drag just east of Pittsburgh, you’ll run into this cozy space that hosts Open Stitch Group every Tuesday and Thursday. 

 they carry, including a few local PA ones!

This shop sells yarns of all colors and weights, along with tools for crocheting and knitting. It's run by a mother daughter-duo and hosts classes and meet ups every week.

Find yarn, knitting needles, and other tools at this shop that feels more like a cozy 

 than a store. In addition to beginner walk-in classes, it’s also hosting a 

 where knitters can gather on a regular basis to work on the same project (and troubleshoot if things get tricky).

This space north of Pittsburgh has yarns and, as its name suggests, bits and bobs like crochet hooks, knitting needles, stitch counters, buttons and more. The shop hosts open craft-time on Fridays and Sundays, and runs a 

 series to connect makers with fellow artists, designers, and industry professionals. It just celebrated five years in business!

If you’re handier with a needle and thread, then a visit to 

 is in order. The Morningside shop sells notions (needles and other tools and accessories) and a variety of fabrics. (I’m eyeing some colorful options to make baby blankets for the new parents in my life. How 

 which hosts sewing and quilting classes for adults and children.

 in Point Breeze which accepts donated materials of all kinds: yarn, paper, fabric, and more. You may have to make the craft fit the medium, but the challenge can be part of the fun!

The best yarn shops in Pittsburgh

Feeling Crafty? Check Out These Pittsburgh Yarn Shops

Find the best of everything that Pittsburgh has to offer.

Pittsburgh’s Best

Pittsburgh's Best

Allegheny County has identified 11 cases of 

 (so far), and reports of the parasite running rampant in other states might give you pause when it comes to eating fresh fruits and vegetables; the parasitic infection has been linked to uncooked produce. Fear not: we’ve compiled our favorite places to grab cooked veggie dishes around town so you can indulge — and get your fiber in — without fear of getting sick.

There’s lots to love at this seasonally-focused North Side space, but I’m going to call out 

. Topped with ricotta, almonds, and brown sage butter? 😍 Chef’s kiss.

, and the szparagi (asparagus in white pepper and smoked onion sauce) is going to satisfy. The entire menu is vegan, and changes regularly so there’s lots for veggie-lovers to enjoy.

, is sure to hit alongside baby bok choy with black mushrooms and mapo tofu. Find Chengdu Gourmet – and many other amazing Chinese restaurants – in Squirrel Hill. Just make sure you’ve got water on hand; like much Sichuan food, some dishes bring a spicy kick.

 plus the Guanciale & Leek Pie, and you’ve got yourself a full meal with leftovers from this Mt. Lebanon pizzeria.

Order the Italian Greens & Beans and Caramelized Onion & Goat Cheese Tart with your wine and call it a day at 

 in Robinson. Now's the time to go: they’re celebrating their fifth anniversary tomorrow night with live entertainment, complimentary wine tastings, and giveaways throughout the evening!

Pittsburgh Veggie Plates

 What veggie plates are you craving?

5 Cooked Veggie Dishes To Try in Pittsburgh Right Now

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

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

, 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

 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

Jill Terner

Summer has arrived, and with it, pool season! We’re lucky enough to have 16 city pools open this year. To help you decide which pool(s) to visit, we’ve tapped “

” to share the ideal swimming experience 

If you've never visited a Pittsburgh pool before, 

 for how to get the most bang for your buck on pool tags and more tips for a fun day in the sun.

 There’s not an Aquarius who doesn’t think their sign is the best, so it’s fitting that they would most enjoy the “Patrick Mahomes of Pools” in Highland Park.

 Pisces’ whimsical and romantic nature should place them in the Perry Hilltop fortress, surrounded by nature and serenity, like at Riverview pool.

 Competitive, active Aries can play water polo and soak in the vibes of the Hill District at Ammon pool!

 Practical yet loving, Tauruses should take a dip at Ream where they can enjoy a view of the community garden in Mt. Washington.

For the Gemini twins, we offer two pools on two sides of town (Bloomfield and Ormsby in South Side), with similar social and urban vibes that are anything but boring.

 Family and friend-centric Cancer belong where you can wade into the shallow end with the kiddos and also chat by the diving wall with BFFs. This charming community space in Greenfield feels like a home away from home.

 (take your pick!): Leos don’t swim with plebes.

Virgos tend to shy away from center stage, and they can do that while enjoying a dip at this off-the-beaten-path gem. Perfectionist Virgos will also love the clean locker rooms at this South Hills neighborhood find.

The accessibility of this pool will appeal to Librans’ love of fairness and access for all. A love of the outdoors is also satisfied by the proximity to Schenley Park!

Passionate Scorpio loves the punk vibes at the West Penn pool in Polish Hill, especially during Skullfest.

 Bustling up on Brookline’s Pioneer Ave, you’ll find Moore pool which speaks to Sags’ extroverted nature. There’s plenty of space to swim away if you accidentally put your foot in your mouth.

While Sue Murray pool may have needed some TLC, its historic vibes in the Allegheny Center will appeal to Capricorn’s love of tradition and historical aesthetics.

Pittsburgh pools are open. Find a swimming hole that aligns with your astrological aura.

Find Your Pittsburgh Pool Based on Your Astrological Sign

Your Ideal Pittsburgh Pool Experience Based on Your Astrological Sign

 fan of dinosaurs, and it all traces back to Diplodocus carnegii — the massive, long-necked sauropod discovered in an excavation funded by steel mogul Andrew Carnegie in 1899. A life-size statue of the dinosaur, nicknamed “Dippy,” sits outside the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and a reconstruction of its skeleton is displayed inside the museum.

The discoveries still continue today! A paleontologist with the museum recently co-led a team who found a 

 in China — Jian changmaensis. This feathery creature is similar to a velociraptor and lived more than 120 million years ago. Researchers found part of a shoulder and forelimb, which they believe will help them learn more about how birds evolved to fly.

You can see a replica of this fossil at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and have more dino-mite fun this summer at the events below ⬇️

DinoFest at Carnegie Museum of Natural History

 and prehistoric life on June 13. Visitors can interact with museum scientists, explore active research, and discover how fossils help us understand Earth’s history. Don’t miss the PaleoLab talks to learn about how the museum cares for the fossils on display.

, from dragonflies to Triceratops, across the garden’s 65 acres of stunning green space. The installation is created by artist Dale Lewis and made from recycled metal and found objects. Be sure to see the shiny pterodactyl on your way in and look for her nest and babies hidden in the gardens! It’s on display through Oct. 31.

Check out over 30 giant creatures from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods 

 throughout the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. The display runs until September 7 and includes photo opportunities, fossil dig pits, and more activities.

Have you ever noticed the colorful dinosaur sculptures placed all over Pittsburgh? The Carnegie Museum of National History led a public art project in 2003 called 

, and you can still see some of these figures around town. I wrote about how you can take a DIY tour in my book, “

100 Things To Do in Pittsburgh Before You Die

.” One of my favorites is the Ketchupsaurus at PPG Place!

See these prehistoric creatures at Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, and more in summer 2026.

4 Roaring Dinosaur Events in Pittsburgh This Summer

4 Ways To Have Dino-mite Fun This Summer in Pittsburgh

Paint the town rainbow! Don’t miss the annual 

 June 6 and 7 in Allegheny Commons Park and 

 on June 7. There’s nothing quite like seeing a sea of color flow through the city — all in celebration of love and equal rights. The parade starts in the Strip District, goes through Downtown, and ends on the North Side at the Pride Festival in Allegheny Commons Park. Check out vendors, organizations, performances, and more.

For more pride, look no further than your own (or nearby) neighborhood! There are additional celebrations in 

Find all sorts of handmade arts and crafts at the 

, the Arts Landing in the Cultural District, June 5-7 and 11-14. Expect to see hundreds of arts and crafts vendors and a variety of live music performances, from rock to alternative hip hop to pop-folk. (

.) Don’t miss Pittsburgh’s art-rock troupe Squonk turn Arts Landing into a “kinetic, music-filled playground.”

What’s better than popcorn under the stars? Pittsburgh has a new 

 in the Strip District. Lounge in a sling chair, put on headphones, and snack on treats at The Stacks at 3 Crossings — every fourth weekend of the month, May through October. Or, bring your blanket and get cozy on the lawn for free movie screenings in 

Experience Pittsburgh from a new perspective at Bike Pittsburgh’s annual 

 event June 28. Miles of city streets will be shut down to cars and open for residents to walk, run, bike, skate, and roll. There will also be free fitness workshops, kids’ biking classes, local food vendors, and more family-friendly activities. 

Find Treasures at Mexican War Streets Yard Sale

. Not only can you find secondhand gems, but it’s a chance to see inside historic rowhouses and charming courtyards. Fuel up at my favorite coffee shop, 

Pittsburgh has a new 21+ night festival happening every weekend this summer! Starting June 20, East Carson Street will transform into one of Pittsburgh’s biggest outdoor nightlife destinations with live music, cocktails, vendors, and more entertainment. 

Celebrate the Warhol Bridge’s 100th Birthday

Hang out with City Cast Pittsburgh! We’re joining Allegheny County for an afternoon of music, food, games, and art to celebrate the Andy Warhol Bridge’s 100th Birthday on June 27. 

Make more plans for June! Tune into the City Cast Pittsburgh podcast to hear 

June 2026 in Pittsburgh: Three Rivers Arts Festival, Pride celebrations, Mexican War Streets yard sale, South Side Street Festival, and more.

things to do

Try This Pittsburgh Crossword Puzzle

Feeling Crafty? Check Out These Pittsburgh Yarn Shops

5 Cooked Veggie Dishes To Try in Pittsburgh Right Now

Latest articles

Try This Pittsburgh Crossword Puzzle

Feeling Crafty? Check Out These Pittsburgh Yarn Shops

5 Cooked Veggie Dishes To Try in Pittsburgh Right Now

Get To Know Morningside

Our Favorite Spa Treatments in Pittsburgh

7 Things To Do in Pittsburgh in July 2026

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

Latest articles

Get To Know Morningside

Our Favorite Spa Treatments in Pittsburgh

7 Things To Do in Pittsburgh in July 2026

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

Your Ideal Pittsburgh Pool Experience Based on Your Astrological Sign

4 Ways To Have Dino-mite Fun This Summer in Pittsburgh

7 Things To Do in Pittsburgh in June 2026