Pittsburgh hotels

It's hard not to fall in love with the architecture of the North Side, and The Priory Hotel is a gem of the Deutschtown Historic District. A staple among the boutique hotels in Pittsburgh, The Priory will charm you from the moment you set eyes on this former Benedictine monastery.

The Grand Hall ballroom can host 500 people, making this one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh for larger, more lavish events. As an overnighter, though, expect solitude in the suites and guestrooms, each adorned with elegant decor.

Sit on the Victorian porch, warm yourself by the sitting room’s fire, or relax in the serene garden. The Priory is hands down one of the most unique hotels in Pittsburgh and one of my favourite places to appreciate the city’s historic architecture.

As far as luxury hotels in Pittsburgh go, Omni William Penn Hotel is high on my list. One reason I consider it one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh is because it’s right next to Mellon Square. This lively city landmark hosts concerts, farmers' markets, and more.

However, any time is a great time to stay at the Omni William Penn Hotel. The on-site Terrace Room restaurant deserves the rave reviews it gets (you can’t go wrong with the William Penn breakfast potatoes), while The Tap Room reminds me of the old-school Italian tap room my grandfather used to drink at in the suburb of Norwood.

What’s more, I can’t get enough of each room’s furnishings. From the cherry wood to the gorgeous mouldings, the Omni William Penn Hotel is one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh for glamorous vintage vibes.

When it comes to top-rated hotels in Pittsburgh, the Residence Inn by Marriott on the North Shore is a home run. Well, I suppose it’d technically be a foul ball, as this hotel sits behind the home plate of PNC Park. Either way, its grand slam location makes it one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh for baseball fans.

While you might not see the Pirate Parrot mascot in the lobby (or the Pirate Pierogies, for that matter), you will find a free hot breakfast, fitness centre, and indoor pool.

I really like the full kitchens and living rooms in the suites; they’re cozy to return to after a chilly fall day exploring the city. And you don’t have to venture far to see the city’s sights, with the Museum of Illusions and the Andy Warhol Museum within walking distance.

I rang in my 21st birthday at Rivers Casino, and I can see why so many people spend the night at The Landing Hotel. The casino is fantastic, but you don’t have to win big to feel lucky in a Deluxe King Suite here.

One of the best hotels in Pittsburgh, I’ll never tire of the skyline views, just as you won’t take for granted having Acrisure Stadium right next door. If you’re not a Steelers fan, the Carnegie Science Center (another of my childhood faves) is another neighbouring spot.

When it comes to the amenities of this North Shore hotel, free live music at the Drum Bar sets The Landing Hotel apart. Since I lived there, Pittsburgh has become a huge cycle city, and The Landing Hotel also has instant access to the Three Rivers Heritage Trail.

Slick, stylish, and showcasing one of Steel City’s most iconic buildings, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco is one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh that blends new and old. Vibrant colours fill this Beaux Arts-style building, and you can admire the rest of the ‘Burgh’s architectural wonders from the rooftop biergarten.

I love that you can choose between Essential and Premium Suites. If I’m working remotely, the oversized desk with an ergonomic chair found in Premium rooms really makes a difference.

The Kimpton Hotel Monaco was a new arrival on the scene years after I left, but I’ve got to admit its location lets me walk down memory lane. It’s an 11-minute drive from the National Aviary, one of my favourite places in the city, and less than 2 kilometres from PNC Park, which I insist you visit by walking across the Roberto Clemente Bridge, like I did so many times as a kid.

If I’m visiting Pittsburgh during hockey season, then I’m hitting up a Penguins game. Drury Plaza Hotel Pittsburgh Downtown is one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh for Pens fans, as you can walk from your room to the PPG Paints Arena in less than 15 minutes. Spacious King and Queen Suites have plenty of room to get ready for the game. And, between you and me, the free 5:30 pm Kickback is a great way to prepare for a night of hockey.

Drury Plaza Hotel keeps the good times rolling with its 4th District restaurant that’s open long after the final puck drop. Its warm berry galette, molten chocolate lava cake and root beer float are a hat trick of desserts that help you celebrate a Penguins victory—or soothe a loss.

As someone who grew up on the westside of Pittsburgh, I understand why you may scratch your head when one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh is closer to the airport than the city centre. But believe me, Drury Inn & Suites more than earns its reputation as one of the top-rated hotels in Pittsburgh.

I’m one to snack all day and night, which is why I love that Drury Inn & Suites has a free breakfast, appetizers and drinks in the evening and free popcorn and soda around the clock.

Walk off all of those extra calories right across the street at Settlers Cabin Park, home to hiking trails, a wave pool and the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Once you’re tired out, retreat to your King Suite and take a snooze on the pull-out sleeper sofa.

Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown is in the Strip District, which has been one of the “it” places in the ‘Burgh since long before I lived there. The free parking alone makes this one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh for anyone who loves perusing food stalls, bar hopping and shopping for fresh groceries.

The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and fitness centre for staying active no matter the weather. Take in city views from your guestroom or suite. And if you see a larger-than-life ketchup bottle, that’s perfectly normal—Hampton Inn & Suites has the Senator John Heinz History Center as its neighbour.

And this is no slight to the free breakfast on offer at the hotel, but if I’m staying in the Strip District, I’m walking to Deluca’s Diner for chicken and waffles. It’d be a crime not to.

I drove past this former YMCA building countless times as a kid, and it’s wonderful to see the historic building repurposed as The Maverick by Kasa. Expect a younger crowd thanks to the hotel’s virtual front desk and self-service check-in.

Room sizes range from two- to four-person suites, perfect for a comfortable stay, but not so tempting as to keep you indoors throughout your vacation. Don’t sweat it that there’s no restaurant on the lower floor, either; simply walk a few blocks to Primanti Bros. and taste their famous stuffed sandwiches.

Better yet, bring whatever food you grab back to the hotel’s shared lobby lounge and mingle with other guests.

At first glance, the SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Bakery Square may seem farther than ideal from the city centre. But trust me, this is one of the best hotels in Pittsburgh for eastside activities. Studio suites are the perfect size for couples, solo travellers or families with young children.

During the winter months, the indoor parking garage means not having to wheel your luggage through slushy streets. Hopefully you’re visiting in the warmer months, though; the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium and the Frick Museum (two of my childhood favourites) are only minutes away from the hotel. They’re fantastic places to visit in the spring and fall.

No matter when you stay, I recommend taking advantage of the delicious restaurants nearby and complimentary access to the LA Fitness next door.