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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 piloted a general aviation aircraft from New Jersey to Pittsburgh for his son's volleyball tournament, transforming a six-hour drive into a 2.5-hour flight.
  • Allegheny County Airport (KAGC) is highlighted as Pittsburgh's most convenient and historically significant general aviation access point, boasting an original art deco terminal and proximity to city attractions.
  • Pittsburgh is depicted as a stunning destination with unique geography (three rivers, inclines/funiculars), rich history, diverse architecture, a vibrant cultural scene (Andy Warhol Museum), and easily walkable sports venues.
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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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