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Pittsburgh Offers Steel, Coal, Culture, and Much More

A flying visit to the Pennsylvania city had languished on the travel wish list for decades until last year.

Downtown skyline and vintage incline in Pittsburgh at sunset. [Adobe Stock]
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Key Takeaways:

  • The author and his son flew their general aviation aircraft to Pittsburgh for a youth volleyball tournament, completing the 2.5-hour trip significantly faster than driving.
  • They chose Allegheny County Airport (KAGC) for its convenience as a general aviation hub, being close to downtown Pittsburgh and boasting a historic art deco terminal.
  • Pittsburgh is highlighted as a compelling destination with unique geography (inclines, three rivers), rich history, diverse architecture, walkable sports venues, and cultural attractions like the Andy Warhol Museum.
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A visit to Pittsburgh had languished on my travel wish list for decades until I finally made the trip last year, thanks to the Steel City Freeze. The Freeze is an annual youth volleyball tournament and February tradition in which my son, Ben, and his club team participate.

Our visit was almost perfect, with exciting matches, great competition, and enough spare time to enjoy some of the city’s attractions. The only downside was the drive, which took about six hours from our home in New Jersey. As we crept on a congested section of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, I glanced at Ben and said, “Let’s fly next time.”

Jonathan Welsh

Jonathan Welsh is Lead Editor of Aviation Consumer and a private pilot who worked as a reporter, editor and columnist with the Wall Street Journal for 21 years, mostly covering the auto industry. His passion for aviation began in childhood with balsa-wood gliders his aunt would buy for him at the corner store. Follow Jonathan on Twitter @JonathanWelsh4

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