As a midpoint between Chicago and New York City, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is a common stop for people taking the train to and from the Northeast. The Pittsburgh Amtrak station is located on Liberty Avenue on the edge of downtown. Pittsburgh's downtown is known for its department stores and lively theater district, but it also offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities.
Kayaking
Pittsburgh's three rivers are an ideal place for kayaks and canoes. Organizations like Kayak Pittsburgh and Venture Outdoors offer kayak rentals on the Allegheny River. The organizations offer group paddle events of varying difficulty. If you feel like doing your own thing, pass on the group paddles and head off to explore the rivers on your own. Kayak Pittsburgh is located under the 6th Street Bridge on the North Shore. Coming from the Amtrak station, you'll have to cross the bridge and take the staircase down to the river.
Riverfront
Walking and biking along Pittsburgh's riverfront are popular activities in the city. Allegheny Riverfront Park is the trail closest to the Amtrak station. Walk along the river and take in Pittsburgh's impressive skyline. Peer across the river at the many attractions on the North Side, including Heinz Field, PNC Park, and new residential riverfront communities.
Downtown parks
Downtown Pittsburgh contains several small parks and one big one, Point State Park. Point State Park is 36 acres of recreational space situated right where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers meet to form the Ohio. Toss a frisbee on the lawn, see the city's signature fountain or visit the Fort Pitt Museum to learn about the site's historic significance during the French and Indian War.
Downtown plazas
Market Square is a shopping and dining center located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh. During the summer, the square's farmers market offers a wide selection of fresh, healthy produce every Thursday. Market Square is also home to the city's newest YMCA fitness center. When winter rolls around, you can go ice skating on a large ice skating rink built around the city's giant Christmas tree in nearby PPG Place.
Sports
Pittsburgh has a rich sports history. The Steelers, Pirates and Penguins have combined for more than a dozen championships, and the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum captures them all. Interactive exhibits allow you to try to throw a perfect pass or play a hole at the famed Oakmont golf course. The museum is just a short walk from the Amtrak station, so if you're a sports fan you'll want to check it out.
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