Of course, fireworks are a fun way to spend your Independence day, but what else is out there?! We’ve got you covered! Check out this list we’ve compiled of 10 Fun Things To Do In Pittsburgh On The 4th of July!
1. Dinner Cruise with Gateway Clipper
Celebrate the 4th in style when you hop on board the Gateway Clipper’s “Duchess” riverboat! This trip boards at 6:30 and rides until 10:00, giving you the best possible seat to view the amazing fireworks presented by the EQT Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta! And with a menu that includes sliced baked ham, chicken breast, and penne pasta, what more could you ask for? Tickets are $70 per person and can be purchased here!
2. The Wheel of Lights
Everybody heads to the Point to watch the fireworks, but this year, you have extra reason to…a Ferris Wheel! Standing at 90 feet tall, the Wheel of Lights is decorated in 12 different LED patterns and boasts 16 multi-passenger, gondola style carriages. For only $5, you can take a 10 minute ride and look out over the city from the top of this incredible attraction! Don’t worry if you can’t make it on the 4th! The Wheel will be in Pittsburgh until next Sunday!
3. American Flag Folding Ceremonies
What would our country be without the soldiers who fought and continue to fight for it? Honor our heroes this year by attending and taking part in the flag folding ceremony at noon in the Senator John Heinz History Center. Join veterans and guests by helping to unfurl a 36 foot American flag and sing along to our country’s national anthem. The ceremony is a great way to celebrate this holiday and is included in regular museum admission!
4. Stars N’ Stripes National BMX Race
Head to the South Park BMX racetrack this weekend to partake in the all of the thrills that racing has to offer! Watch as professionals from all over the world as well as the nation’s fastest amateur riders compete in the Stars N’ Stripes National Series for championship titles! This event is sure to put an extra bit of adrenaline in your 4th of July weekend!
5. The Air Force National Heritage Band
After you ride the Wheel of Lights, stick around the Point to check out some music! Performing on the OneMain Financial Stage, The United States Air Force Heritage of America Band from the Langley Air Force Base in Virginia is set to wow music lovers starting at 8:00! Be sure to stop by for a dose of patriotism and an incredible performance!
6. Fourth at the Fort
Stand with pride and sing along as Point Park University graduate Patrick Steven Bovo honors America with a glorious rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner”. The Fort Pitt Musesum’s “Fourth at the Fort” ceremony will also include live history demonstrations and a flag raising featuring a 13-star, 36-foot flag, portraying the same pattern that reigned over Fort Pitt…more than 200 years ago! The ceremony starts at 11 a.m.!
7. Pittsburgh Pirates VS. Cleveland Indians
It’s America’s past-time, so why not take in a baseball game?! The Pittsburgh Pirates are hosting the Cleveland Indians this Saturday at PNC Park. The game starts at 4:05, but there’s also going to be a block party! Enjoy live entertainment, food, and beer! You can even stop by the Leinenkugel Bar and meet Pirates Alumni Bruce Kison! Sounds like a grand slam!
8. Brentwood Firecracker 5k
Brentwood is hosting their 32nd annual Firecracker 5k race on the 4th! Beginning at Brentwood Towne Square Area at 9 a.m., the race includes door prizes, cash prizes for the top finishers, and refreshments! Strap on your sneakers and get registered now! You can work hard during the race and definitely play hard after (it’s tradition for runners to enjoy a beer post-race)!
9. Kennywood’s Celebrate America
Chow down on some Potato Patch fries and race to the roller coasters this weekend for Kennywood’s Celebrate America event! With a hot-dog eating contest, a dog race, and more, you’re sure to have a blast! Fireworks will take place in the evening (weather permitting). Members of the military will also receive an additional 50% off of admission prices! Let’s go!
10. Rooftop Beers
Nothing says “holiday” like a couple of friends and a few cold beers! Hotel Monaco’s Biergarten offers both! The rooftop bar is set nine stories above the street and allows for a beautiful view of the city. Enjoy a large selection of German beers as you take in the fireworks! We think this is the perfect way to end your celebration! Cheers to America!
